Maine Car Rental Deals – Save Big on Your Pine Tree State Adventure

Maine’s expansive wilderness and charming seaside towns are best explored on your own schedule. From the rocky shores and lighthouses of Acadia National Park to the mountain lakes of the inland forests, having a rental car in Maine gives you the freedom to see it all. Our Maine car rental page is designed to make your trip smooth and budget-friendly. Whether you’re planning a coastal road trip for fresh lobster rolls, heading to the mountains for a ski weekend, or visiting family in small towns off the beaten path, we’ll help you find the perfect car at the perfect price. AirportVanRental connects you with top suppliers and local expertise, so you not only get a great deal, but also local driving tips to navigate Maine like a native. Let’s get you on the road in the Pine Tree State!

Maine is a large state with many attractions spread far apart. Renting a car is by far the easiest way to experience all its natural beauty and quaint towns. Here are a few key reasons having your own wheels in Maine is a smart choice:

• Access Coastal & Rural Gems: Public transportation in Maine is limited, especially outside Portland. A car lets you reach quaint fishing villages, remote beaches, and lighthouse viewpoints that buses don’t go to. Want to visit Acadia National Park, roam the Camden Hills, or see the famous Portland Head Light? With a car, you can explore these coastal gems at your leisure.
• Flexibility for Outdoor Adventures: Maine’s outdoor spots, from ski resorts at Sugarloaf to hiking trails in Baxter State Park, often lie off major highways. With a rental, you can head out early for a sunrise hike or stay late for stargazing, without worrying about tour schedules or rideshares (which can be scarce in rural areas). Pack your skis, kayak, or camping gear in the trunk and go wherever adventure calls.
• Scenic Drives Everywhere: Maine is made for road trips. Having a car means you can hop onto Route 1 for a scenic drive along the ocean, cruise the Old Canada Road (Route 201) through fall foliage, or navigate the picturesque byways around Moosehead Lake. You’ll be able to stop at overlooks, farm stands, and covered bridges whenever something catches your eye. The journey becomes just as memorable as the destination.
• Convenience and Comfort: Even within cities like Portland or Bangor, a car provides door-to-door convenience. No hauling luggage on a bus or limiting yourself to a single town. In winter, the comfort of a heated car can’t be beat when temperatures drop. And if you’re traveling as a family or group, one vehicle is often cheaper and easier than coordinating multiple train or bus tickets. Enjoy the freedom to go where you want, when you want in Maine.

Our Maine Car Rental Benefits

When you book a car in Maine with AirportVanRental, you get more than just a vehicle, you get peace of mind and great value. Here’s what sets our service apart in Maine:

• Top Brands & Local Providers: We partner with all the major car rental companies as well as trusted local agencies in Maine. This means you get a wide selection of vehicles and pickup locations. Whether you need to pick up at Portland Jetport, downtown Portland, or in Bangor, you’ll see the best options side by side on our site.
• Competitive Prices & Discounts: Saving you money is our mission. We continuously compare rates and hunt for special deals in Maine, from weekend specials to free upgrade offers. We often have exclusive discounts for our customers (like a free additional driver or GPS inclusion) that can save you even more. And with our price match guarantee, if you somehow find a lower rate for the same rental, let us know, we’ll match it.
• Transparent Pricing, No Surprises: Maine has some toll roads (more on that below) and local sales tax, but we make sure you’re informed. Our booking quotes clearly break down the estimated total including all taxes (Maine’s 5.5% tax) and any mandatory fees. You won’t get to the counter and find unexpected “facility charges” or energy surcharges, we hate those too. Planning a one-way trip out of Maine? We show any drop-off fee upfront so you can decide what’s cost-effective.
• Flexible Pick-Up & Drop-Off: Need one-way rental from Maine to another state? Many of our partners allow it, for example, pick up in Portland and drop off in Boston or Manchester, NH. We’ll highlight any one-way fees before you book. If you’re flying into PWM but leaving via another airport, we’ve got options. We aim to accommodate your itinerary. Just choose “Different Return Location” in our search.
• Free Cancellation & Book Now, Pay Later: Plans change, especially with Maine’s fickle weather. Most of our reservations come with free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up. And you usually don’t pay a dime until you pick up the car, reserve now to lock in a great rate, and if your plans shift, you can cancel without penalty. No risk, all reward.

Best Maine Car Rental Deals

• Economy Car from $27/day, Example: Nissan Versa or similar. Ideal for solo travelers or couples zipping between Portland and coastal towns, sipping minimal gas as you go.
• SUV from $45/day, Example: Toyota RAV4 or similar. A mid-size SUV perfect for a family visiting Acadia or heading up to ski in the mountains, with plenty of cargo space.
• Minivan from $55/day, Example: Chrysler Pacifica or similar (7-passenger). Great for group trips, whether it’s a friends’ weekend at Moosehead Lake or a large family touring lighthouses.
• Full-Size Pickup Truck from $60/day, Example: Ford F-150 or similar. Heading into the woods or need to tow a small boat to the lake? A 4x4 truck handles Maine’s rugged camp roads with ease.

Prices vary by date and demand. “From” rates are based on recent bookings in Maine. They exclude tax and insurance, use our search to see total prices for your travel dates. Book early during summer and fall peak seasons, as vehicles can sell out in popular areas!

Driving in Maine: Tips and Local Insights

Driving in Maine is generally straightforward and very scenic, but it comes with its own set of local considerations. Here are some tips to help you drive like a Mainer and stay safe on the road:

• City vs. Country Driving: Outside of Portland and Bangor, much of Maine is rural. In cities, you’ll find some one-way streets (especially in downtown Portland’s Old Port district) and metered parking, but traffic is usually moderate. In the countryside, watch for sudden slow vehicles like tractors or logging trucks on two-lane roads. It’s common to get stuck briefly behind a truck on a winding road, be patient and pass only when it’s safe and legal.
• Watch for Wildlife: Maine is famous for its wildlife, which occasionally wanders onto roads. Deer are active around dusk and dawn year-round, and hitting one can ruin your trip (and the car). Even more notably, moose roam in northern and western Maine. Colliding with a moose is extremely dangerous (they’re huge and tall, and can end up coming through the windshield). Heed the “Moose Crossing” signs you’ll see on rural highways like Route 15 or Route 201. If driving in woodsy areas at night, use high beams when possible and stay alert. If you see a moose, brake and give it plenty of space, they often amble slowly and can be unpredictable.
• Toll Roads: Maine’s main toll road is the Maine Turnpike (I-95) which runs from the New Hampshire border up to Augusta. There are toll plazas (cash or E-ZPass accepted), for example, near York/Ogunquit, and further north around New Gloucester. Keep some cash on hand for tolls (or ask your rental company about an E-ZPass device). Unlike some states, Maine still has cash lanes at toll booths. If you accidentally drive through an E-ZPass lane without a transponder, don’t panic, you can pay the toll online within a few days to avoid the rental company’s admin fees.
• Winter Driving Cautions: Winters in Maine can be harsh. Roads in coastal areas get slushy, while inland and northern roads can be snow-packed and icy. If you’re renting in winter (December through March), consider requesting an AWD or 4WD vehicle for better traction. Rental cars in New England will have all-season tires (snow tires are not common on rentals), so drive cautiously on snow, increase your following distance, brake gently to avoid skids, and give yourself extra time. Maine does use road salt and plows frequently, so main highways are usually cleared quickly after storms. However, smaller rural roads may remain snow-covered longer. Also note: it’s a Maine law to turn on your headlights whenever windshield wipers are in use for snow or rain, it helps you see and be seen.
• Summer & Tourist Traffic: Maine’s population swells in summer, especially along the coast. Expect heavy traffic on Route 1 on summer weekends as tourists drive between beach towns and antiques shops. The approach to Acadia National Park (Bar Harbor) can also get congested in July/August, plan to arrive early to find parking. The Maine Turnpike (I-95) south of Portland can see backups on Friday afternoons (southbound leaving Maine) and Sundays (northbound returning from New Hampshire/Boston). If you’re traveling these routes, try to travel at off-peak times or consider scenic alternate routes (they might take longer but can be more enjoyable than stop-and-go on the highway).
• Speed Limits & Enforcement: Maine’s speed limits are generally 25-35 mph in towns, 55 mph on most state highways, and 70 mph on the interstate (65 mph in some stretches closer to cities). In the far north on I-95, the limit bumps to 75 mph. State and local police do enforce limits, especially in small towns where the speed drops quickly as you enter. Keep an eye out for posted signs; if you see a sign for a village or downtown area, be ready for a lower limit. Maine also uses the occasional speed camera or radar sign in urban areas, but tickets are usually issued by live officers. Bottom line: enjoy the drive and scenery, but don’t speed excessively, besides safety, you wouldn’t want a vacation souvenir in the form of a ticket.
• Parking: Outside of city centers, parking is typically easy and free. In Portland, look for municipal garages or lots if street parking is full, rates are reasonable (a few dollars per hour). Meters downtown accept coins and sometimes cards/app payments; check the signs for hours (most are free at night and on Sundays). Popular tourist sites like Old Orchard Beach or Acadia’s trailheads have their own parking areas, in peak season these fill up, so going early or later in the day helps. Also, never park where you see a “Snow Route” or plow route sign during winter storms, vehicles can be towed for snow removal access.

By staying aware and adapting to conditions, you’ll find driving in Maine to be a rewarding experience. Mainers are generally courteous drivers, and you might even get a friendly wave on the backroads. Take it slow on rough roads, enjoy the stunning views around every bend, and get ready for some of the most scenic drives in New England!

Road Trip Ideas from Maine

One of the best parts of having a car in Maine is the ability to embark on amazing road trips. Here are three itinerary ideas showcasing different sides of Maine, each one an adventure you can start right here in the Pine Tree State:

1. Coastal Maine Explorer (Southern Beaches to Acadia)
Distance: ~200 miles from Kittery up to Bar Harbor (if you follow the coastline), about 5 hours of driving total, but you’ll want 2–3 days with stops.
Route: Start at Maine’s southern tip in Kittery, then follow US Route 1 North as it winds through seaside towns. Pass through Portland, continue on Route 1 past the MidCoast (Camden/Rockland), and eventually up to Ellsworth, then hop on Route 3 to Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island (Acadia National Park).

Highlights: Begin with the southern sandy beaches: Kittery and Ogunquit (stroll the Marginal Way footpath along the cliffs). Swing through Kennebunkport to see the famous Bush estate at Walker’s Point and enjoy a lobster roll by the harbor. Portland makes a great city stop, check out the Old Port district and grab some fresh seafood. Farther north, the MidCoast offers charming towns like Boothbay Harbor (consider a whale-watching cruise) and Rockland (home to the Farnsworth Art Museum for Wyeth paintings). In Camden, drive or hike up Mount Battie for an incredible view of the harbor and islands. As you continue, don’t miss Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory near Bucksport for a panoramic view 400 feet up. Finally, arriving at Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, you can drive the Park Loop Road to see sights like Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond. Catch sunrise (or sunset) on Cadillac Mountain, it’s famously the first place to see the sunrise in the U.S. certain times of year.

Tips: Summer traffic on Route 1 can be heavy, consider traveling mid-week or early in the day to avoid bottlenecks in Wiscasset (known for its line at Red’s Eats lobster shack!). Many coastal towns have metered parking in the center, carry some quarters or download the local parking app. If you’re visiting in the fall (September-October), this coastal route is quieter and the foliage colors against the blue ocean are stunning. Some seasonal businesses close by late October, so plan stops accordingly. Also, Acadia requires advance vehicle reservations to drive up Cadillac Mountain during peak season, check the park’s website so you don’t miss out. This road trip is all about savoring Maine’s maritime charm, so take your time and enjoy the sea breeze in each little village.

2. Western Mountains & Lakes Loop
Distance: ~300 miles round-trip from Portland through the mountains and back (plan 3 days to enjoy it, though it can be driven in ~6–7 hours total driving time).
Route: From Portland, head northwest on ME-26 or ME-302 toward the White Mountain region. Make your way to Bethel (a classic mountain town near Sunday River ski resort). Continue north via ME-17 Scenic Byway through the Rangeley Lakes region. From Rangeley, loop east toward Farmington and then south back to Portland via ME-4/ME-219 or hop on I-95 for the final stretch.

Highlights: This journey takes you from sea level to Maine’s highlands. In Bethel, you’ll be at the gateway to the White Mountain National Forest, consider a detour into New Hampshire to drive Evans Notch or take the scenic route to Mt. Washington (the highest peak in the Northeast) via the Mount Washington Auto Road (if you’re up for a thrilling mountain drive!). Back in Maine, the road between Bethel and Rangeley via ME-17 is called the “Height of Land” route, you’ll see why at the overlook above Mooselookmeguntic Lake; the vista of endless forests and shimmering lakes is one of Maine’s finest. Rangeley itself is a charming lakeside town, a great spot to grab an ice cream or go for a short hike to Cascade Stream Gorge. Keep an eye out for moose along Route 16/ME-4; this area is prime moose country! If you have time, take the side road to Smalls Falls, a roadside waterfall and swimming hole. As you loop back, pass through Farmington, an idyllic college town, and perhaps stop at a local farm stand for Maine maple syrup. The drive back to Portland will lead you alongside the Androscoggin River for a bit, a nice calm contrast after the mountains.

Tips: This route is phenomenal in autumn, late September to early October brings vibrant fall foliage to the mountains and lakes (book accommodations early if you plan an overnight; leaf-peeping season is popular). In winter, parts of this loop can be snowy/icy, if you’re not used to winter mountain driving, stick to main roads or consider a vehicle with all-wheel drive. Cell service can be spotty in the wilderness stretches, so download maps offline and fill up your gas tank whenever you’re in a town (Rangeley has gas, but stations can be 30+ miles apart in these parts). Also, watch your speed on the winding roads, not just for safety, but because you won’t want to miss any scenery. This loop shows off Maine’s quiet backcountry beauty, from alpine vistas to peaceful lakeshores.

3. New England Fall Foliage Adventure (Maine to Vermont Loop)
Distance: ~500 miles looping from Portland through New Hampshire and Vermont and back, ideally a 4–5 day trip to fully appreciate each area (about 10 hours total driving).
Route: Start in Portland and drive west into New Hampshire’s White Mountains (via US-302 or NH Route 112, the Kancamagus Highway). Continue into Vermont heading toward Burlington (using I-89 north or scenic routes through the Green Mountains). From Vermont, loop back east toward Maine, perhaps through Montpelier and back to I-93 south through New Hampshire, returning to Maine via I-95. (There are several possible loops; you can’t go wrong as long as you pass through the mountain regions!).

Highlights: Experience the quintessential New England road trip, with Maine as your start and end. After enjoying Portland’s coastal charm, you’ll head to the White Mountains of NH, if it’s fall, the Kancamagus Highway (NH 112) is a must-drive for fiery red and orange foliage and covered bridges. Stop in North Conway, NH, for outlet shopping or a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad. Crossing into Vermont, the landscape shifts to rolling hills and farms. Burlington, VT on Lake Champlain is a great overnight stop, a vibrant college town with craft breweries and views of the Adirondacks across the lake. From Burlington, you could take a scenic ferry across Lake Champlain (with your car) or drive down through the Green Mountain National Forest via Route 100, often called Vermont’s most beautiful road. Pass by quaint villages like Stowe or Woodstock, VT, where white steeple churches and general stores feel like a step back in time. Looping back to Maine, you might come through Littleton, NH, then by Mount Washington again or via the lakes region of NH (Lake Winnipesaukee). Finally, arrive back in Maine perhaps through the western foothills.

Tips: This trip is especially popular in early October when fall colors peak, be prepared for lots of fellow leaf-peepers. Weekdays will be less crowded than weekends. Book lodging well in advance for September/October in mountain towns. If traveling in summer, this loop is still fantastic, you can swap leaf-peeping for activities like kayaking on Lake Champlain or hiking in the Appalachians. Crossing state lines with a rental car is no problem at all, but note that if you dip into Canada (an optional side trip from Burlington to Montreal isn’t far), you’ll need your passport and must confirm the rental car is allowed in Canada. Lastly, Vermont has few interstates in the heart of the state, enjoy the rural roads but remember that many small towns strictly enforce speed limits at 25 mph. This broad loop gives you a taste of New England’s diverse landscapes, rocky coast, high mountains, and pastoral valleys, truly a grand tour by car.

Each of these road trips showcases what’s possible when you have a car at your disposal in Maine. Whether you’re cruising along ocean vistas, conquering mountain roads, or hopping state borders for a regional adventure, your rental car unlocks the full experience. Pro tip: check out our blog or Travel Tips section for detailed guides on some of these routes, we love sharing itineraries! Now, fill up the tank, queue up a great playlist (may we suggest a little folk music for those country roads?), and enjoy the drive through scenic Maine and beyond.

Popular Maine Destinations

• Portland, Maine, Maine’s largest city and cultural hub. Great food, breweries, and a perfect starting point for coastal and inland adventures. (See our Portland, Maine Car Rental guide for deals and tips specific to Portland.)