Portsmouth Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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* 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 rental in and around Portsmouth

Renting a car in Portsmouth, Virginia, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and couples seeking a romantic experience. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to suit your needs.

There are numerous attractions to discover, including the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Portsmouth City Park, both conveniently located within the city. For a cultural experience, the Chrysler Museum of Art is just 3 km away. Additionally, the nearby city of Norfolk, only 2 km from Portsmouth, features popular destinations such as the Virginia Port Authority and the USS Wisconsin BB-64. The vibrant Downtown Norfolk area, also 2 km away, offers attractions like Town Point Park and Nauticus National Maritime Center. With a rental car, you can navigate these locations without the constraints of public transport, ensuring a more enjoyable and personalised trip.

Where to stay in and around Portsmouth

  • Norfolk: Located a mere 2 km from Portsmouth, Norfolk offers a delightful blend of outdoor, family, and romantic experiences. Visitors can enjoy the scenic boardwalk and explore attractions like the Virginia Port Authority, Norfolk Botanical Garden, and the USS Wisconsin BB-64 maritime museum. The area is also home to various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a great base for exploring local culture and nature.
  • Chesapeake: Situated 8 km from Portsmouth, Chesapeake is perfect for families and couples seeking outdoor adventures. Key attractions include Chesapeake City Park, Lake Drummond, and the Chesapeake Arboretum, which provide beautiful scenery and leisure activities. The local shopping centres and restaurants, along with nearby wineries, enhance the experience, ensuring plenty of options for relaxation and exploration.
  • Churchland: This charming neighbourhood around Portsmouth is ideal for those interested in a city-themed experience. With attractions like the Virginia Port Authority, USS Wisconsin BB-64, and Town Point Park, Churchland offers a mix of culture and outdoor activities. The proximity to shopping centres and local wineries makes it a convenient choice for travellers looking to enjoy both city life and tranquil parks.

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 features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more economical to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning 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 refuelling choices, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Information on Car Rentals

Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Economy, Luxury, Full Size
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Portsmouth?
The cheapest daily rate in Portsmouth was based on prices within the last seven days. Browse our impressive range of options, from economy vehicles to cruise-in-style rides.
Can I rent a car from Norfolk Intl. Airport (ORF)?
Enterprise and Alamo are within close reach of Norfolk Intl. Airport (ORF). After touching down, it won't be long before you're cruising down the road.
What happens if I need to cancel my Portsmouth car reservation?
No need to worry. You should receive a complete refund if you advise us more than six hours prior to the scheduled pickup time. Your itinerary contains details about this, and so does our Customer Service Portal. Not all prepaid bookings result in a refund though, so it's a good idea to read through the car's cancellation policy.
What types of cars can I rent in Portsmouth?
Large SUVs, cute little minis or something luxurious ... Pick up the keys to almost any kind of vehicle you like! Economy is the top rental vehicle category in Portsmouth. Zippy, with superb fuel-efficiency and a cinch to park, these wheels make touring busy city streets a joy. The best part? They're easy on the purse strings. That means you'll have more cash to spend on other things, like seeing as much of this exciting destination as you can.
Where can I go on a road trip from Portsmouth?
There's heaps to do in Portsmouth, but venture further afield and you'll find even more magic. Pick up a set of wheels and you can cruise around the greater area at your own pace. Add these awesome destinations to your travel plan:
  • Make your way to Richmond for an excellent sightseeing experience. Roughly 129 kilometres from Portsmouth, it has numerous cool sights like Richmond Raceway.
  • Next stop? Consider Rocky Mount, which is around 161 kilometres away. Rocky Mount Event Centre is one local hot spot you won't want to miss.
  • Venture into the great outdoors and appreciate the serenity at Longwood Gardens. You'll find it approximately 338 kilometres from Portsmouth.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Portsmouth with Expedia?
Browse our extensive range of car rentals, check out ratings and compare offers from top brands. In a few easy clicks, Expedia will help you find the best deal on your wheels. Got a hotel or flight booking? Add on your Portsmouth car rental and save even more.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Portsmouth?
Drivers with a valid licence aged 21 and over can rent a vehicle in Portsmouth. While some outlets may be willing to rent to drivers younger than 21, you can expect additional fees. Find out what age range the young renter fee applies to, and associated costs, before booking. Outlets also restrict the categories of cars young drivers can rent. Higher age limits apply for specialty and luxury vehicles.
What do you need to rent a car in Portsmouth?
Any rental company you choose will ask for these two things — a current driver's licence and a credit card in your name. If you decide to opt out of the provider's insurance plan, proof of other coverage may also be needed. Read your policy thoroughly so you know what to bring with you to the rental counter.
What is the cheapest car rental in Portsmouth?
Based on prices found over the past seven days, you could've taken the wheel of a rental car for just a day. The second lowest daily rate on offer in Portsmouth was . 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 rent a car for a month or longer in Portsmouth?
You can, and the good news is companies often offer lower prices the longer you rent. Explore our long-term car rental deals in Portsmouth and cruise away with a real bargain.
Where can I find a Portsmouth car rental if I am younger than 25?
This depends on the rental car companies located in Portsmouth. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found a supplier that does cater to drivers under 25, bear in mind that additional costs may apply. Conduct some research into any extra charges before you collect the car.
Can I drive in Portsmouth with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license from the United States, you may be required to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before renting a car. If you find that an IDP is required for you to drive in the U.S, be aware that you'll also have to show your current valid driver's license and your passport or other forms of ID. Lastly, the credit card used to rent the car must match the name on your driver's license and passport in order to confirm your home. Other things you should know about rental cars in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 in many states to rent a car, although in some places the minimum age is 21. We recommend checking local rules and regulations, and with the car rental company before you travel to understand additional terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Don't forget to read the fine print before you slide behind the wheel so you can avoid unnecessary fees. When renting a car in the United States, you usually can't cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, use car ferries or traverse off-road areas with your home vehicle. Please read the details before you book!

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