Ready to explore the diverse landscapes of Oregon? Use the search form above to find your ideal ride anywhere in the state. Select your pickup location (from Portland International Airport (PDX) to downtown Portland, or cities like Eugene, Bend, Medford, etc.), choose your dates, and hit “Search.” In seconds, you’ll see real-time deals from dozens of rental companies statewide, from budget-friendly compacts to spacious SUVs and vans. Booking is fast and secure, with most rentals offering “reserve now, pay later” and free cancellation if your plans change. Lock in an amazing Oregon car rental deal now, and you’ll be all set to roam from the Pacific Coast to the Cascade Mountains without hassle.
Introduction: Welcome to Oregon, a Pacific Northwest paradise of lush forests, dramatic coastlines, snowy peaks, and high desert plains. Having a rental car in the Beaver State is the key to experiencing every corner, from Portland’s quirky city streets to the winding roads of the Columbia River Gorge, the volcanic wonders of Crater Lake, and the surf-battered Oregon Coast. This page is your all-in-one guide to renting a car in Oregon. We’ve combined unbeatable rental deals with insider local tips so you can book with confidence and hit the road prepared. Whether you’re flying into PDX, planning a scenic drive to Mount Hood, or gearing up for a wine-tasting tour in the Willamette Valley, we’ll help you find the perfect car quickly, easily, and affordably. Get ready to explore Oregon on your schedule, with extra savings in your pocket.
Oregon is geographically vast and incredibly diverse, and many of its best treasures lie off the beaten path. Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover every part of the state at your own pace. Here’s why having your own set of wheels is a smart move in Oregon:
Our Oregon Car Rental Benefits
Why book your Oregon ride with AirportVanRental? We specialize in getting travelers on the road with the perfect vehicle, and we partner with all major rental brands in Oregon to deliver a smooth, affordable experience. Here are some of the benefits and guarantees we offer for Oregon car rentals:
Top Oregon Car Rental Deals
We’ve compiled some of the best Oregon rental car deals by category, with placeholder pricing (actual rates vary by date and demand). Whether you’re a solo traveler on a budget or a group needing extra space, there’s an option for you:
Economy Car $29/day Nissan Versa or Kia Rio
Budget travelers and couples. Easy to park in cities like Portland; excellent fuel economy for road trips from Portland to Eugene or quick hops around town. High availability keeps prices low (especially off-peak).
Midsize Sedan$35/day Toyota Corolla or Hyundai Elantra
Small families or groups of 3-4. A bit more room for luggage while still efficient. Great for cruising the I-5 corridor (Portland–Salem–Medford) or a comfortable drive out to the coast.
SUV (Compact/Midsize) $45/day Ford Escape or Subaru Outback
Versatile choice for up to 5 passengers. Higher ground clearance is perfect for mountain areas and snowy conditions. Popular for trips to Mt. Hood, Crater Lake, or exploring Oregon’s national forests.
Minivan $55/day Dodge Grand Caravan or Chrysler Pacifica
Larger families or groups (7-8 passengers). Plenty of cargo space for luggage and outdoor gear. Ideal for a group tour of the Oregon Coast or a multi-family vacation to Sunriver. Splitting the cost makes this very affordable per person.
Luxury / Convertible $70/day BMW 3-Series, Mercedes C-Class, or Ford Mustang Convertible
Treating yourself on vacation. Convertibles are a joy for summer drives along the coast or through the vineyards. Luxury sedans add comfort for business trips or scenic wine country cruises. Oregon’s off-peak seasons can make these surprisingly affordable.
Full-Size SUV / 4x4 $80/day Chevrolet Tahoe or Jeep Grand Cherokee
Extra capacity and power. Seats 7+ with robust AWD/4x4 capabilities. Great for winter ski trips to Mt. Bachelor or traversing gravel roads to trailheads. Also popular for one-way moves or adventures into neighboring states.
Note: “From” rates are approximate lowest daily prices in Oregon’s major locations (like PDX or downtown Portland) during low-demand periods. Prices can be higher in summer peak season (June–August) or in smaller towns with less competition. Always search with your exact dates and pickup location to see the most accurate rates for your trip.
Road Trip Ideas from Oregon
One of the greatest perks of renting a car in Oregon is the ability to embark on amazing road trips. From coastal highways to mountain loops, the state offers incredibly diverse scenery. Here are three detailed road trip ideas to inspire your travels (feel free to use these as starting points and customize as you like):
Highlights: Start in Portland and head east on I-84 into the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. In just 30 minutes, you’ll be amid towering basalt cliffs and dozens of waterfalls. Stop at Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s tallest waterfall, for a short hike to Benson Bridge (go early morning to beat the crowds). Continue to Hood River (about 60 miles from Portland), a charming town known for windsurfing and local fruit orchards, in summer, farm stands along the “Fruit Loop” offer cherries, pears, and apples. From Hood River, drive south on OR-35, climbing through forests towards Mt. Hood, the state’s highest peak. Consider a side trip to Timberline Lodge (elevation ~6,000 ft) on Mt. Hood’s slope, this historic 1930s lodge (famous from The Shining) offers year-round skiing and stunning mountain vistas. Heading back to Portland, take Hwy 26 through Government Camp (a cute ski village) and stop at Trillium Lake for a postcard-perfect view of Mt. Hood reflected in the water. Finally, descend through the Mt. Hood National Forest and suburbs to return to Portland.
Pro Tip: The Columbia Gorge has a timed-entry permit system for popular waterfall areas in peak summer months, plan ahead and obtain any needed permits online to ensure you can access spots like Multnomah Falls. Also, be prepared for changing weather: it can be misty by the waterfalls and sunny up on Mt. Hood. Pack layers, and if traveling in winter, carry tire chains, the route over Mt. Hood can get snowy (rental agencies may allow chains, just use carefully).
Highlights: This multi-day journey showcases Oregon’s volcanic wonders and high desert. From Portland, drive ~160 miles south on US-97 (or take the scenic route through Santiam Pass) to Bend, a lively outdoor recreation hub in Central Oregon. Bend offers plenty to do: visit the High Desert Museum to learn about the region, stroll through the Old Mill District, or take a detour to Smith Rock State Park (a world-class rock climbing spot with gorgeous hikes). Don’t miss Bend’s famous craft breweries for a pint. Next, head further south (~90 miles) to Crater Lake National Park, home of the deepest lake in the U.S. Crater Lake’s stunning blue water, formed in a volcanic caldera, is a must-see, drive the Rim Drive (when open, typically late June to October) for viewpoints like Watchman Overlook or hike down to the water at Cleetwood Cove. Stay overnight nearby if you can (lodging is limited, so book ahead). From Crater Lake, continue west toward Eugene via OR-58 through the emerald forests of the Cascades. Eugene is a vibrant college town (University of Oregon) where you can relax at local cafes or stroll along the Willamette River. Finally, head 110 miles back north on I-5 to Portland. You’ll have experienced everything from arid plateaus to volcanic lakes and lush valleys.
Pro Tip: Central and Southern Oregon have more extreme weather than the Willamette Valley. In summer, expect hot, dry days (carry water and sunscreen). In winter, some roads (including parts of Crater Lake’s Rim Drive) close due to snow, check park road status if traveling October through May. Fuel up whenever you can in rural areas (gas stations can be far apart). Also, keep in mind Oregon law now allows self-service gas in most counties, but in small towns you might still have an attendant, be patient as not everyone pumps their own gas yet!
Highlights: Experience the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast on this unforgettable drive. From Portland, drive 1 hour northwest on US-26 to Astoria, the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. In Astoria, tour the Columbia River Maritime Museum or climb the Astoria Column for panoramic views where the river meets the Pacific. Then head south on US-101, the famed Pacific Coast Highway. In Cannon Beach (about 25 miles south of Astoria), marvel at Haystack Rock rising from the shoreline and browse the art galleries and cafes in this quaint town. Continue along curving coastal roads to Tillamook, home to lush dairy farms and the Tillamook Creamery, stop for cheese and ice cream samples and to see their cheese-making facility. Further south, you’ll pass Cape Meares and through small fishing villages; consider a detour to Three Capes Scenic Loop for ocean vistas. In Newport (roughly 130 miles from Cannon Beach), visit the historic bayfront and the Oregon Coast Aquarium, or catch a glimpse of sea lions and NOAA research ships. From Newport, turn inland on US-20 through forests toward Corvallis and I-5, and head north about 100 miles back to Portland. Alternatively, you can continue down the coast to Florence to see the Oregon Dunes and then return inland.
Pro Tip: The coast is beautiful year-round, but weather can be fickle. Summer brings the sun and crowds, expect traffic slowdowns on US-101 in July/August and book accommodations early. Spring and fall are less crowded; you might get a mix of rain and shine. Always carry a light jacket (even summer evenings can be cool and breezy on the ocean). And watch the tide charts if you plan to explore beach areas, some beaches disappear at high tide. There are no tolls on the Oregon Coast highways, so just enjoy the open road!
Frequently Asked Questions
Good news, Oregon currently has no tolled highways like you might find in other states. Most roads, including all interstates (I-5, I-84, I-205, etc.), are free to drive. There are a couple of minor tolls on specific bridges: for example, the Hood River Bridge and Bridge of the Gods (both crossing the Columbia River into Washington) charge a small cash toll (around $2) for crossing. If by chance you drive into neighboring states, note that Washington has some electronic toll roads/bridges around Seattle, and California has a few as well. But within Oregon, you won’t need to worry about electronic toll passes like E-ZPass. If you do take a toll bridge (or any future toll roads Oregon may introduce), rental companies will typically either have you pay on the spot (for cash tolls) or bill you via your license plate (for electronic tolls), just be aware the rental company might add a small administrative fee for processing a toll bill. Bottom line: no toll pass needed for Oregon. Enjoy the scenic routes without toll booths!
Driving in Oregon is generally straightforward for anyone used to North American roads, but here are a few key points: • Driving Side: We drive on the right-hand side of the road, and you pass on the left. If you’re from a left-driving country, it may take a short adjustment but Oregon’s roads are well-marked. • Speed Limits: Typical freeway speed limit is 65 mph in rural areas (some eastern Oregon interstate sections allow 70 mph). Urban interstates (around Portland/Salem) often are 55–60 mph. Secondary highways range ~55 mph, and city streets are usually 20–30 mph. (Portland residential streets have a default 20 mph limit, the city lowered it for safety.) Always follow posted signs, as speed limits can change frequently on curvy roads and as you enter towns. Oregon State Police do enforce limits, especially in summer and around holidays. • Seat Belts & Phones: Oregon has a strict seat belt law, all passengers must buckle up. Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal (hands-free devices are okay for adults). Police can and will ticket for texting or holding a phone. • Right on Red: Unless a sign says otherwise, you can turn right at a red light after coming to a full stop, when it’s safe. This is common across most of the U.S. • Pedestrians & Cyclists: Oregon, and Portland in particular, is very pedestrian- and bike-friendly. Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks (marked or unmarked), it’s state law. In Portland, you’ll see a lot of cyclists; give them space and check your mirrors before turning or opening doors on downtown streets. • Winter Driving: If you’re driving in the mountains (Cascades or Eastern Oregon) in winter, be prepared for snow and ice. Some roads require traction tires or chains during snowstorms. Carry tire chains if you plan to visit places like Mt. Hood in winter (and know how to put them on, or consider renting an AWD vehicle). Oregon allows studded snow tires in winter months, so you may notice local cars with them. If your rental isn’t equipped with snow tires, just drive cautiously and slowly on snow/ice, or delay travel if conditions are severe. • Rain & Visibility: Western Oregon is rainy in fall, winter, spring… (we’re famous for it!). When it’s raining, state law requires headlights on. Roads can be slick, especially early in a storm after dry weather (oil build-up). Keep a longer following distance in rain or fog. Also note, Oregon drivers often don’t use their car horn much, a polite culture thing, except in urgent situations. Overall, Oregon roads are well-maintained and signage is good for navigation. Just stay alert for wildlife on remote roads (deer crossings), obey the rules above, and you’ll find driving here quite enjoyable.
Yes, one of the great advantages of renting a car is the ability to take road trips beyond Oregon. All the major rental companies allow travel into neighboring states like Washington, California, Idaho, and Nevada. You can even drive into Canada (British Columbia) with most rentals, although it’s best to inform the rental agent if you plan to cross the border. There is no extra charge for driving into other states; unlimited mileage covers you across state lines. If you’re dropping the car off in a different state (a one-way rental), there may be a one-way fee, but our booking system will calculate and show that in advance. For Canada, some agencies provide a Canada Non-Resident Insurance Card at pickup, let them know and they’ll supply documentation to ensure you’re properly insured up north. Just remember to bring your passport if you plan to cross into Canada! And if you’re venturing far (say a coast-to-coast drive or deep into another country like Mexico, note: rentals are generally not allowed into Mexico), always double-check the rental policy. For typical Pacific Northwest and West Coast travel, you’re free to roam. Many travelers, for example, will rent in Portland and do a circle route through Washington and back, the car will handle it no problem. Enjoy the open road across state lines!
If you receive a parking ticket or traffic citation during your rental period, you are responsible for paying it just as if it were your own car. For parking tickets, you can often pay online to the city that issued it (Portland, for example, has an online portal for parking fines). Do pay it promptly; otherwise the rental company may be notified and will charge your credit card for the fine plus an administrative fee. For speeding or traffic tickets issued by police, handle it according to the ticket’s instructions (which usually involve contacting the court in the county where the violation occurred). Again, if it’s not resolved, eventually the authorities may contact the rental car company as the vehicle’s owner, and they will pass the charge to you along with a processing fee. Also, note that Oregon has traffic cameras for red lights and speed in some areas (Portland and Beaverton notably), if you trigger one, the ticket may be mailed weeks later to the car owner (rental agency) who will then charge you. They’ll add a fee for handling that paperwork. So it’s best to drive within the law. If you do end up with a ticket and need advice on how to pay it, feel free to reach out to AirportVanRental’s support, we can help guide you through it. Safe driving!
This used to be mostly true, but not anymore! For decades, Oregon (like New Jersey) prohibited self-service gasoline. However, as of August 2023, Oregon law was changed to allow drivers to pump their own gas statewide. Now gas stations typically offer both self-serve and attendant service. In practical terms, at many stations in larger cities (Portland, Eugene, etc.), you might still encounter attendants who will come to your car, you can let them handle it (the price is the same and no tip is expected) or say you’ll pump it yourself. In rural areas or late nights, you might be on your own at the pump. If you’ve never had an attendant before, don’t worry, they’re accustomed to both locals and visitors. Just tell them “Fill it regular, please” (regular unleaded gas is fine for most rental cars) and they’ll do the rest. One quirk: at 24-hour stations, attendants may not be on duty overnight, especially outside cities, during those times, self-serve is allowed even in the few counties that usually require attendants. In summary, you can pump your gas in Oregon now, but you might not have to. Either way, this shouldn’t impact your rental car experience much, just know that if someone approaches your car at a gas station, they’re likely an employee ready to help, not some random person.