$50 Car Rental Portsmouth, RI

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What you need to know for your Portsmouth car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portsmouth

Renting a car in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to manage luggage easily and create flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Newport Bridge, located nearby, and the historic Newport Mansions, just 9 miles away. For a city experience, Thames Street is also 9 miles from Portsmouth and offers a variety of shops and dining options.

Additionally, having a car allows you to explore popular nearby destinations like Newport, 8 miles away, which features the iconic Newport Mansions and The Breakers, and Middletown, 6 miles away, known for Second Beach. Tiverton, just 3 miles from Portsmouth, offers the serene Fogland Beach Conservation Area. Whether you are traveling with family or seeking outdoor adventure, a rental car makes it easy to enjoy the scenic beauty and cultural experiences that this charming area has to offer.

Where to stay around Portsmouth

  • Newport: Located 8 miles from Portsmouth, Newport is renowned for its outdoor and beach experiences. Visitors can explore key attractions such as the historic Newport Mansions and The Breakers, both perfect for culture enthusiasts. Enjoy the scenic Thames Street for unique shopping and dining options, along with nearby beaches and event venues. Newport is an excellent choice for travelers interested in a vibrant city atmosphere combined with coastal charm.
  • Middletown: Just 6 miles from Portsmouth, Middletown offers beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Highlights include Second Beach, ideal for a relaxing beach vacation, as well as close proximity to the Newport Mansions and Thames Street. This city is perfect for those looking to enjoy family-friendly beaches and shopping areas while soaking in the natural beauty of the region.
  • Warwick: Situated 11 miles from Portsmouth, Warwick is a city that caters to families and city-themed adventures. Key points of interest include the historic Aldrich Mansion and Oakland Beach, making it suitable for beach lovers. Visitors can also explore Rocky Point State Park for outdoor activities. Warwick offers a mix of educational venues, shopping, and music concerts, making it a diverse choice for travelers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Portsmouth

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport can often incur a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Portsmouth

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Portsmouth into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Portsmouth and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Portsmouth

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Portsmouth. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Portsmouth

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $50.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$50
 
Our second best deal of the day
$52
 
Our third best deal of the day
$54
 
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Portsmouth?
You can find cheap car rentals in Portsmouth from $11 a day with Sixt's midsize suv. Sixt offers midsize SUVs starting from $11 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day. Alamo Rent A Car provides compact 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day. Compare car rental deals in Portsmouth on Expedia to find a vehicle that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
What are the best luxury car companies in Portsmouth?
For luxury car rental in Portsmouth, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car. Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars starting from $17 a day and fullsize elite SUVs starting from $26 a day. Enterprise provides premium crossovers starting from $26 a day and fullsize SUVs starting from $32 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also has premium crossovers starting from $24 a day and fullsize SUVs starting from $33 a day. These luxury vehicles offer enhanced comfort and features for a more refined travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
Can I rent a car one-way in Portsmouth?
A one-way car rental in Portsmouth is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $11 a day. This flexibility allows you to pick up your vehicle in Portsmouth and drop it off at a different location, which is convenient for exploring the wider area. Many providers offer one-way car rental in Portsmouth, making it easy to plan your itinerary without needing to return to your original pickup point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Portsmouth?
Portsmouth is well suited to round-trip rentals, with prices starting from $11 a day. Picking up and dropping off your car at the same location in Portsmouth generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, making it a cost-effective option for exploring the city and its surroundings. Many car rental suppliers in Portsmouth offer round-trip options, providing convenience and value for your trip. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
What are the best car rentals in Portsmouth?
Car rentals in Portsmouth offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, offering ease of driving. For families and groups, SUVs provide ample space for passengers and luggage, while compact and midsize cars are excellent for navigating city streets and offer good fuel efficiency. Choose a vehicle based on your group size, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

What are the best car rentals in Portsmouth for solo travelers?
Economy and compact classes are often suitable choices for solo travelers in Portsmouth—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $16 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $14 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. For longer drives, a compact SUV, starting from $12 a day, offers extra comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

What are the best car rentals in Portsmouth for couples?
The best car rentals in Portsmouth for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible for scenic drives around Portsmouth, offering a unique experience. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

What are the best car rentals in Portsmouth for families?
The best car rentals in Portsmouth for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $20 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Portsmouth. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the September-October peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. Consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Portsmouth?
Portsmouth has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt offers electric vehicles starting from $12 a day, and Enterprise provides electric options starting from $12 a day as well. Alamo Rent A Car, Avis, and Dollar Rent A Car also carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. Electric vehicles save on fuel costs, as charging is typically less expensive than gasoline. Plan charging stops for trips beyond 200 miles to ensure a smooth journey.
What is the best time to book a car in Portsmouth?
From January, prices in Portsmouth are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. September tends to be the busiest month, and September through October are peak months when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Portsmouth?
Car rentals in Portsmouth are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize SUVs and midsize 2 or 4 door cars that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door cars and compact SUVs with more space and stability for highways. Alamo Rent A Car rounds out the choices with compact 2 or 4 door cars and compact SUVs. Choose a higher-clearance SUV for varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Portsmouth.
What are good day trip destinations from Portsmouth by rental car?
For memorable day trips from Portsmouth, you have several excellent options that cater to different interests, all easily accessible with a rental car. These destinations offer a mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation:
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Just a short drive from Portsmouth, Newport is a popular destination for its historic mansions and scenic coastline. You can explore attractions like the Newport's Famous Scenic Narrated Trolley Tour, Double Mansion Tour, and Newport's Famous 10-Mile Ocean Drive Tour. A compact or midsize car, such as a midsize 2 or 4 door starting from $11 a day, is ideal for navigating Newport's charming streets and finding parking.
  • Narragansett Beach, Rhode Island: Located about 19 miles away, Narragansett Beach is a fantastic choice for families and couples seeking a relaxing day by the ocean. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes. For carrying beach gear and ensuring comfort for the whole family, a midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day, or a standard SUV, starting from $21 a day, would be a great choice.
  • Cape Cod Beaches, Massachusetts: Approximately 84 miles from Portsmouth, the Cape Cod Beaches offer another beautiful coastal escape, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This destination is excellent for longer beach days or exploring charming seaside towns. A fullsize 2 or 4 door car, starting from $14 a day, or a fullsize elite SUV, starting from $26 a day, would provide ample space and comfort for this journey.
  • Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire: For those seeking a longer scenic drive and natural beauty, Lake Winnipesaukee is about 167 miles away, taking around 3 hours to reach. This destination is perfect for nature enthusiasts and families looking for outdoor activities. A comfortable fullsize car or an SUV is recommended for the extended drive.
When planning your day trip, consider fueling up before you leave and bringing water and snacks, especially for longer drives. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can also be beneficial if your plans need to change due to weather. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Portsmouth.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Portsmouth?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Portsmouth. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Portsmouth?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Portsmouth?
Budget car rental in Portsmouth can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $50. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Portsmouth?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Portsmouth. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Portsmouth car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Portsmouth?
To rent a car in Portsmouth, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Portsmouth car rental?
If you need to cancel your Portsmouth car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Portsmouth with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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