Car Rentals in Portsmouth, USA

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Top Rental Car Deals in Portsmouth

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Portsmouth car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Portsmouth

Renting a car in Portsmouth offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking romantic experiences, as a rental car accommodates luggage and ensures comfortable travel. With a vehicle, you can easily access key attractions such as the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Portsmouth City Park, both located within the city. Additionally, the Chrysler Museum of Art is just 3 km away, providing an excellent opportunity for cultural exploration.

A car also allows you to venture to nearby destinations like Norfolk, which is only 2 km from Portsmouth, where you can visit the Virginia Port Authority and the USS Wisconsin BB-64. The neighbourhood of Churchland, featuring Town Point Park, is within easy reach as well. For a slightly longer drive, Chesapeake is 8 km away, offering attractions like Chesapeake City Park and Lake Drummond. Overall, renting a car enhances your experience in Portsmouth by providing convenience and the ability to tailor your travel plans to your interests.

Where to stay in and around Portsmouth

  • Norfolk: Located 2 km from Portsmouth, Norfolk is ideal for families and couples seeking outdoor and romantic experiences. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Virginia Port Authority and the Norfolk Botanical Garden, perfect for a leisurely day out. Enjoy the beautiful boardwalk and access to various restaurants and wineries for a delightful dining experience.
  • Chesapeake: Situated 8 km from Portsmouth, Chesapeake offers a charming blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly options. Key highlights include Chesapeake City Park and Lake Drummond, both offering stunning scenery and opportunities for relaxation. The nearby shopping centres and wineries provide excellent options for food and drink, making it a convenient spot to stay.
  • Churchland: This neighbourhood is located around Portsmouth and is perfect for those seeking a city-themed atmosphere with family-friendly activities. Churchland features attractions such as Town Point Park and the Virginia Port Authority, which provide opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. There are also local shopping centres and distilleries nearby, ensuring a pleasant stay in the area.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and are 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 types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to 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 typically the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but it could be worth the extra cost for the convenience it offers.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to rent a car.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
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Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Portsmouth?
Motoring around Portsmouth doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg, with daily hire car prices starting at just within the past seven days.
Can I hire a car from Norfolk Intl. Airport (ORF)?
With Thrifty Car Rental and Alamo just a quick commute from Norfolk Intl. Airport (ORF), getting off the plane and onto the open road is quick and easy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Portsmouth car reservation?
We get that plans change at short notice. That's why a large number of reservations allow for a refund if you cancel six hours prior to collecting the car. Your cancellation policy should have all the details you need. If you can't see the answer there, our Customer Service Portal is always available.
What types of cars can I rent in Portsmouth?
Most visitors go for economy cars in Portsmouth. Drivers love them because they're good on fuel and affordable. Plus, their smaller size makes them ideal for cruising around cities, where streets are busy and parking can be challenging. But your options don't end there. Compacts, mid-size and full-size cars are up for grabs too. Whether you're hanging around Portsmouth or headed beyond, we'll have a set of wheels that suits your style.
Where can I go on a road trip from Portsmouth?
Portsmouth offers adventures galore, but don't limit yourself to just the one place. Arrange a set of wheels and take to the road to see what's in the wider region. Here are a few ideas:
  • Richmond is about 80 miles from Portsmouth. Famous attractions like Richmond International Raceway deserve a place on your must-see list while you're in town.
  • Why not check out the wonders of Williamsburg too? Top sights here include Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Williamsburg is roughly 40 miles from Portsmouth.
  • Great Falls Park is 160 miles from Portsmouth and is one of the region's most scenic nature spots. Go for a walk around and enjoy the fresh air.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Portsmouth with Expedia?
Scoring an amazing deal on your Portsmouth rental car is a breeze with Expedia. Choose your preferred ride, add in a few more details and compare the offers from top brands. Why not add flights and hotels to your booking? You'll get access to terrific discounts when you combine your bookings into a package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Portsmouth?
You need to be 21 and over to get behind the wheel of a rental car in Portsmouth. Take note that young drivers may only be able to rent from a few car classes, such as economy, compact and medium size. Higher age limits generally apply for specialty and premium vehicles. Many companies will also charge a fee for young renters. Look up the rules before booking and factor any surcharge into your travel budget.
What do you need to rent a car in Portsmouth?
You'll need to present your driver's license and a credit card at the hire counter. Prior to pick-up, check with your hire provider whether other documentation is needed. For example, you may also need to show proof of insurance.
What is the cheapest car hire in Portsmouth?
and were the cheapest daily rates for car rentals in Portsmouth within the past seven days. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Portsmouth?
Head to our long-term car hire deals page, enter your preferences and then reserve your ideal ride. Whether you're staying put in Portsmouth or road-tripping about, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at an incredible rate.
Where can I find a Portsmouth hire car if I am younger than 25?
If you're a younger driver looking for a hire car in Portsmouth, you'll need to check the terms and conditions of the hire companies you're interested in. Some may hire to drivers under 25, some may not. There may be additional costs if you're between 21 and 24 years of age. To escape any unwanted surprises at the hire desk, make sure you know what those charges are if they apply to you.
Can I drive in Portsmouth with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license from the United States, you might need to organise an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your country of residence before hiring a car. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S, be aware that you'll also have to show your current driver's license and your passport or other forms of identification. Lastly, your credit card used to hire the car must match the name on your driver's license and passport in order to confirm your hire. Other things you should know about hired cars in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 or older in many states in order to hire a car, although in some places the minimum age is 21. We recommend checking local regulations, as well as with the hired car company before you go to understand additional terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Don't forget to read the fine print before you leave the lot so you can avoid any unnecessary charges. When hiring a car in the U.S, you typically can't cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, drive onto ferries or traverse rough terrain with your hire vehicle. Please read the details before booking!
Why should I rent a Portsmouth car with Expedia?
With multiple car rental companies to select from in Portsmouth, Expedia makes it easy to find the perfect set of wheels. And when you combine your rental vehicle, hotel and flights into a package, you can save even more on your entire Portsmouth escape. From affordable economy models to full-size sedans and more, Expedia will put you in the driver's seat of your next unforgettable adventure. Plus, when you sign up for our One Key™ rewards programme, you can earn OneKeyCash™* and spend it on eligible hotels, flights, car rentals and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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