Car Rentals in Portland, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Portland

Renting a car in and around Portland offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, allowing easy management of luggage while providing space for travel gear. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the Portland Japanese Garden, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, all located in the heart of the city.

Moreover, a car enables easy access to nearby destinations like Beaverton, known for its Wineries of Washington County Oregon and Tualatin Hills Nature Park, as well as Tigard, featuring Summerlake City Park and Metzger Park. With a vehicle, you can enjoy a day of exploration without the constraints of public transport schedules. Portland's layout is straightforward to navigate, making it simple to reach diverse locations that cater to outdoor, family, and city-themed experiences. Overall, having a rental car enhances your trip by providing the convenience to discover everything that Portland and its vicinity have to offer.

Most popular car hires in Portland

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice among travellers in Portland, accommodating up to 5 individuals along with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking comfort and space during their journey. With a Midsize SUV, you can enjoy the flexibility to explore Portland and its surroundings at your own pace while having ample room for luggage and any additional gear you may need.
• Compact: The Compact car option is well-suited for those travelling alone, as couples, or with families, accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle type is an excellent choice for navigating the urban landscape of Portland, offering a balance of efficiency and comfort. Its smaller size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre through the city, making it a practical choice for your car hire needs.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car is another highly sought-after option in Portland, accommodating up to 5 travellers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for families or groups who require more space without compromising on comfort. Renting a Fullsize car allows you the convenience of managing larger amounts of luggage while providing a roomy interior for a more comfortable travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Portland

• Avis: With 3 rental locations within the Portland area, Avis provides a reliable option for travellers seeking flexibility. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV models, making it ideal for those who wish to explore Portland and its vicinity comfortably. Enjoy the ease of managing your luggage and adapting your itinerary as you discover the local attractions.
• Budget: Budget stands out with over 5 rental locations across Portland, offering an accessible choice for car hire. Known for excellent value, Budget’s most booked vehicles include the Midsize SUV and Standard, appealing to those looking for both comfort and affordability. With multiple pick-up points, you can conveniently start your adventure in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car has 1 rental location situated in the Portland area, providing a straightforward option for your car hire needs. This supplier is favoured for its Fullsize SUV and Midsize SUV, perfect for family trips or group outings. Alamo's commitment to customer service ensures a pleasant rental experience as you navigate Portland's scenic roads.

Where to stay in Portland

• Downtown Portland: A vibrant hub for families and business travellers alike, Downtown Portland offers a wealth of activities and venues. Within easy reach, you can explore the urban charm of Tom McCall Waterfront Park, perfect for outdoor relaxation, or delve into the fascinating exhibits at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. For those interested in culture, the Portland Japanese Garden is a serene escape. With numerous dining options nearby, including wineries and eateries, Downtown Portland provides a well-rounded experience for all visitors.
• Northeast Portland: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor appeal, Northeast Portland is another excellent option for your stay. Key attractions include The Grotto, a beautiful shrine ideal for cultural exploration, alongside the urban retreat of Tom McCall Waterfront Park and the engaging Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. The area boasts several shopping centres and entertainment venues, along with a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient base for discovering the local scene.
• Beaverton: Situated just outside Portland, Beaverton is a charming city that caters to families and business visitors. The area features attractions such as the Wineries of Washington County Oregon, perfect for those seeking a taste of local flavours. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquillity of Tualatin Hills Nature Park. With shopping centres and a range of dining options, including wineries and restaurants, Beaverton presents a welcoming environment for travellers looking to experience the best of the region.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Portland

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more economical to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to circumvent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Portland

The best value period for renting a car in and around Portland is November, when demand is low and prices are slightly low. October also offers a good opportunity, as prices remain moderate with steady demand. May can be a nice shoulder month, with slightly lower prices and average demand. In contrast, July is the most expensive month, characterised by high demand and slightly high prices, while June and August also see elevated demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High