Car rental in USA Maine

Why rent a car in Maine

Maine has a long, rugged coastline and large forests, and public transport between towns is limited. Portland's Old Port is easy to explore on foot, but a car is much faster for reaching lighthouses, harbour towns like Camden, and Acadia National Park. With a rental car, you can follow the coast and stop wherever you like for lobster shacks and scenic viewpoints.

Tips for finding a cheap car rental in Maine

Looking for a cheap car rental in Maine? With EconomyBookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal in Maine, whether you pick up at Portland Airport or in Bangor. Summer and the autumn foliage season are the busiest times, so booking early may help you find better prices and more choice.

• Compare pickup locations - Select the broader city instead of a specific location to unlock more deal options, including potential off-airport savings.
• Slightly adjust pickup times and dates - Even changing your booking by an hour can reveal lower rates.
• Choose economy or compact cars - These vehicle types are usually the most budget-friendly.
• Consider both price and availability - Rental prices are often lowest 2-31 days before pickup, but booking earlier may give you a better choice of cars, especially during busy periods.
• Use free cancellation to look for a better deal - If your booking includes free cancellation, you can keep checking prices and rebook if you find a better deal.

Car rental requirements in Maine

Requirements can vary by rental supplier, but you'll generally need the following when picking up a rental car in Maine:

• Driving licence - A valid licence from your home country is generally accepted for visitors. If your licence is not in English, bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) or official translation, as some suppliers may ask for one. US drivers only need their valid state license.
• Passport or ID - International visitors should bring a valid passport. US residents can use a valid driver's license as photo ID.
• Payment card - A credit card in the main driver's name is usually required for the deposit. Accepted card types and deposit amounts vary by supplier.
• Booking voucher - Have your EconomyBookings voucher ready, either digital or printed if the supplier requires it.
• Insurance - Basic liability cover is required by state law, but what is included in the rental price varies by supplier. Check whether your booking includes liability and damage cover, and consider supplemental liability protection, especially if you don't have US car insurance.

Always check your rental terms before pickup, as licence, age, deposit, payment, and insurance requirements can vary by supplier.

Driving in Maine

Parking

In Portland, street parking is paid at meters, kiosks, or with a pay-by-phone app, and there are several public garages near the Old Port. Coastal towns can get very busy in summer, and parking may be limited and paid. In Acadia National Park, popular spots such as Cadillac Mountain may require a vehicle reservation during peak season, so check the park website before you go.

Tolls

The Maine Turnpike (I-95) between the New Hampshire border and Augusta is a toll road that accepts E-ZPass, and its payment options may change as it moves towards cashless tolling. Most other roads in Maine are toll-free. Ask your rental supplier at pickup how tolls are billed.

Road conditions & driving culture

Main highways are in good condition, but many coastal and rural roads are two-lane and can be slow in summer traffic. Moose are common in northern and western Maine, so drive carefully, especially at dawn and dusk. Winters bring snow and ice, and some remote logging roads are gravel and may not be allowed under your rental terms.

Popular road trips from Maine

Maine's coast and national parks are perfect for road trips. Popular drives from Portland include:

• Kennebunkport - approx. 40 minutes, a seaside town with beaches, boutiques, and historic homes.
• Boothbay Harbor - approx. 1-1.5 hours, a busy harbour village with boat tours and botanical gardens.
• Camden - approx. 1.5-2 hours, a picturesque harbour town with views from Mount Battie.
• Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor - approx. 3-3.5 hours, rocky coastline, mountain views, and the Park Loop Road.
• Boston - approx. 2 hours, a historic city in Massachusetts. Check your supplier's policy on travel to other states.

Final checklist before you pick up your rental car in Maine

• Bring your documents - Driving licence (plus IDP if applicable), passport or ID, booking voucher, and the payment card required by your rental supplier.
• Check your rental terms - Review the deposit, fuel policy, mileage, insurance coverage, and any additional fees before signing.
• Confirm cross-border travel - Most suppliers allow travel to neighbouring New Hampshire, but if you plan to drive into Canada (New Brunswick or Quebec), confirm permission and any extra fees in advance and bring a valid passport.
• Inspect the car - Take clear photos and videos of the vehicle before leaving and make sure any existing damage is recorded on the rental agreement.