Portland, known for its natural beauty, quirky charm, and easy-going lifestyle, is an excellent destination for tourists. Many people visiting the city are left wondering whether they should rent a car or rely on public transportation to explore the city.
In this article, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of renting a car in Portland and provide you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your trip.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Should I Rent A Car In Portland?
Yes, you should rent a car in Portland. Renting a car is a great way to see all that Portland and the surrounding area have to offer. Although the city has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and streetcars, it is not as comprehensive as it is in some other cities.
If you plan on exploring areas outside of the city or want more flexibility in your schedule, renting a car can be an excellent option. However, if you’re planning to stay in the downtown area and only visit the major tourist attractions, you may not need a car. Portland is a very walkable city, and most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Bottom line: Whether or not you should rent a car in Portland depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Portland
There are several benefits to renting a car in Portland. First and foremost, it provides more flexibility in your schedule. You won’t be tied to public transportation schedules or have to worry about finding a ride to more remote areas of the city. Renting a car also allows you to explore areas outside of Portland, such as the stunning Columbia River Gorge or the Oregon coast. These areas are not easily accessible by public transportation, so renting a car is the best way to see them. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, a rental car can be more comfortable and convenient than public transportation.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Portland provides flexibility, allows you to explore outside the city, and can be more comfortable for groups and those with a lot of luggage.
The Cons Of Renting A Car In Portland
While there are benefits to renting a car in Portland, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Portland has some of the highest car rental rates in the country, and you may also have to pay for parking at your hotel or other attractions.
Portland is also known for its traffic congestion, especially during rush hour. If you’re not used to driving in heavy traffic, it can be stressful and time-consuming.
Additionally, parking can be a challenge in the city, especially in the downtown area. Another disadvantage of renting a car in Portland is that it may not be the most environmentally friendly option. Portland is a very eco-conscious city, and many people choose to get around by bike or public transportation.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Portland can be expensive, stressful, and not the most environmentally friendly option.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Portland Airport?
Yes, it’s usually best to rent a car at the airport. The airport has a wide range of rental car companies, and you can usually find better rates there than you would at a rental car location in the city.
Additionally, renting a car at the airport is more convenient, as you can pick up your car right after you land and drop it off before you depart.
Bottom line: Renting a car at the airport in Portland is usually the best option for convenience and cost.
The Cheapest Way To Rent A Car In Portland
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to rent a car in Portland, there are a few things you can do to save money:
- Compare rental car prices: Use websites like Expedia, Kayak, or Rentalcars.com to compare rental car prices from different companies. Be sure to factor in any additional fees, such as taxes, insurance, or drop-off charges.
- Rent a smaller car: Larger cars and SUVs are usually more expensive to rent than smaller cars. If you don’t need the extra space, consider renting a compact or economy car.
- Use discount codes: Check with your credit card company or other memberships, such as AAA or AARP, to see if they offer rental car discounts or promotional codes.
Bottom line: To save money on renting a car in Portland, compare prices, choose a smaller car, and use discount codes or memberships.
Rent A Car In Portland
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Portland:
- Alamo: starts at $63 per day
- Avis: starts at $53 per day
- Budget: starts at $53 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $63 per day
- Hertz: starts at $53 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $41 per day
- Dollar: starts at $41 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $50 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.35 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Portland can range from affordable to expensive depending on the rental company you choose. Gas prices are cheaper compared to Seattle, with an average of $3.35 per gallon, making it a more cost-effective option for exploring the city and beyond.
Tips For Driving In Portland
If you’re planning to drive in Portland, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be cautious of cyclists: Portland is known for being a bike-friendly city, so be cautious of cyclists on the road and give them plenty of space.
- Prepare for rainy weather: Portland can be rainy, so make sure to check the forecast and pack appropriate clothing and gear.
- Watch for pedestrians: Like Seattle, Portland is also a pedestrian-friendly city, so be aware of crosswalks and pedestrians.
- Plan for traffic: Portland can have traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, so plan your route and schedule accordingly.
- Be mindful of parking: Parking can be limited in some areas of Portland, so be sure to read signs and follow parking regulations to avoid tickets or towing.
Bottom line: To have a smooth driving experience in Portland, be cautious of cyclists, prepare for rain, watch for pedestrians, plan for traffic, and be mindful of parking regulations.
Rental Car Tips For Portland
If you’re planning to rent a car in Portland, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Check for tolls: Some highways around Portland have tolls, so be sure to check your route and have cash or a toll pass ready if necessary.
- Consider gas prices: Gas prices in Portland can vary, so factor this into your budget when renting a car.
- Inspect the car: Before leaving the rental lot, inspect the car for any existing damage and report it to the rental company to avoid being charged for it later.
Bottom line: To have a smooth rental car experience in Portland, check for tolls, consider gas prices, and inspect the car for damage before leaving the rental lot.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, whether you’re driving in Seattle or Portland, there are several factors to keep in mind to have a safe and stress-free experience. Both cities have unique characteristics that require drivers to be cautious and prepared. When renting a car, it’s important to consider factors such as weather, tolls, gas prices, and car inspection. For both cities, following traffic rules, being aware of pedestrians, and using GPS or maps to navigate can make a big difference in your driving experience. By keeping these tips in mind, drivers can confidently explore these beautiful cities and enjoy their time on the road.