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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Portage
Portage
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Portage
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Portage
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Portage
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Portage?
Portage is a charming city with attractions both in and around its limits. While there are public transport options, a rental car provides unmatched convenience and flexibility, particularly if you plan to explore beyond the immediate city.
Explore Regional Gems. Many of the surrounding attractions are a short drive away. A rental car lets you visit these places without being tied to bus routes or tour schedules.
Comfort and Convenience. Travelling with family, luggage, or on business? A car simplifies getting around compared to public transportation or taxis.
Cost-Effective for Groups. For families or groups, renting a car is often more economical than multiple bus or train tickets, especially for day trips outside Portage.
Independent Travel. Public transport adheres to fixed timetables, but a rental car allows you to go where you want, when you want. Enjoy a scenic drive or a spontaneous adventure with complete control over your itinerary.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Portage
Before you book a rental car in Portage, ensure you meet the minimum age (typically 21+), hold a valid driver's licence, and comprehend the rental agreement, including insurance, deposit, mileage, and fuel policies. Keep in mind that additional fees may apply for optional extras or young drivers.
Area
Approximately 11.7 square miles
Population
Around 13,000 residents
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT)
Ideal for
Exploring the surrounding region
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during morning and evening commute times
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Portage require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some providers may have a minimum age of 25 for specific vehicle types. Young driver surcharges often apply for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is necessary for all rentals. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English. Ensure you also have your passport and a credit or debit card in your name.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is generally included in rentals, with additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection available. A security deposit is usually held on the renter's credit card and refunded upon the vehicle's safe return.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary—some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies often require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or add-ons such as GPS navigation and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Portage – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $12 / €11 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Experiences higher demand, leading to price increases of 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Typically offers discounts due to lower demand
*Additional costs might be incurred for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking in advance and comparing options can help secure better deals.
How to Book a Car in Portage?
Compare prices, select the right car, and understand the rental terms to avoid surprises. Booking early ensures the best rates, especially during peak seasons. Remember to bring your licence, credit card, and ID when you pick up your rental.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison website like rentycars.com to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle requirements.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a car that meets your needs, whether it’s an economy car for city trips or an SUV for more rugged terrain.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and improved vehicle availability by booking early, particularly during peak travel periods.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Present your driver’s licence, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental vehicle.
General Information About Portage
Portage offers a blend of natural beauty and local charm. Ideal for exploring regional attractions, driving requires an understanding of local traffic patterns, parking, and access to fuel.
Portage is a friendly city known for its community spirit and proximity to natural attractions. Located conveniently, it provides a gateway to explore the wider area. While Portage itself is easily navigable, renting a car becomes invaluable if you plan to discover the surrounding parks, lakes, and smaller towns. Before embarking on your journey, familiarise yourself with local traffic regulations, fuel availability, and parking options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Silver Lake
A beautiful spot for recreation and relaxation.
Wisconsin Dells
A popular tourist destination with waterparks and attractions.
Cascade Mountain
Great for winter sports and scenic views.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Lots
Available in downtown Portage and near major attractions, these lots provide convenient parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on some streets, so check signs for time limits and rates.
Park & Ride
Consider parking outside the main areas and using local transport to reach central locations.
Gas Stations in Portage
Main Fuel Chains
Find gas stations from brands like Shell, BP, and local providers in Portage.
Refueling
Gas stations are conveniently located throughout the city and on major routes.
Use Navigation Apps
Tools like Google Maps can help you locate the nearest gas station in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Portage
Be Aware of Wildlife
Watch out for deer and other animals, especially when driving during dawn and dusk.
Check Weather Conditions
Be prepared for varying weather conditions, particularly during winter months.
Allow Extra Travel Time
Traffic can be heavier during peak tourist seasons, so plan your trips accordingly.
Support Local Businesses
Explore the local shops and restaurants to experience the authentic Portage community.
Key Transportation Hubs in Portage
Major Bus Stations
Portage Municipal Bus
Provides local bus services within the city and connections to nearby towns.
Railway Stations
Amtrak Station
Serves as a stop for Amtrak routes, providing rail connections to major cities.
Airports
Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)
Located in Madison, approximately 40 miles from Portage, offering regional and national flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Portage?
Renting a car in Portage is generally straightforward, but you'll need to meet a few key requirements to get behind the wheel. Here's what you’ll need
If you're a resident, your standard driver's licence is sufficient. International visitors may use their home-country licence for a limited period, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and additional fees may apply for those under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some companies may only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or another form of photo identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Portage as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Quick trip to Portage to see friends was perfect! Getting around with a rental car made things so easy.
David Lee
Reviewed: 03.06.2025
Efficient Portage business trip! Car rental was a breeze.
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 29.11.2024
Pretty chill vibe
Kevin Wilson
Reviewed: 02.08.2025
Portage visit was great! Seeing friends and exploring with my rental car made it easy and fun.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 17.08.2024
Portage felt so familiar, yet new! Getting around was easy, and I loved rediscovering this place after all these years.
Ashley Roberts
Reviewed: 14.12.2024
Back in Portage after ages! So much has changed. The downtown area felt a bit…sparse, but it was great to revisit.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 01.06.2025