🚘 Learn how to add a hitch or tow bar to your rental
Planning a road trip in Portugal with bikes, a trailer, or special gear? Then you may need to rent a car in Lisbon equipped with a tow bar or trailer hitch — something most standard rentals don’t include by default.
This guide explains where to rent a tow-ready car, what you can legally tow in Portugal, and what to watch for when booking.
✅ Can You Rent a Car with a Tow Bar in Lisbon?
Yes – but it’s a specialty request. Most large rental companies (e.g., Europcar, Sixt, Avis) do not offer cars with tow hitches. Instead, you’ll need to book through:
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- ✅ Local or regional rental companies
- ✅ Specialized 4×4 or utility vehicle providers
- ✅ Bike touring services or campervan agencies
🔍 Always request a tow hitch (gancho de reboque) specifically during booking.
🚲 Common Reasons for Renting a Tow-Ready Vehicle
- 🚴♂️ Carrying bikes on a rear rack
- 🛻 Towing a small trailer or camping pod
- 🚐 Hauling equipment or sports gear
- 🧳 Adding extra cargo space with a luggage platform
🛑 Portugal prohibits towing heavy trailers with standard B-category licenses over 750 kg unless specified.
🏆 Lisbon Companies Offering Cars with Tow Hitches
| Company / Service | Tow Hook Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| LusoDrive | ✅ On request | Utility vehicles & long-term rentals |
| Rent a Star | ✅ Limited fleet | Requires advance booking |
| Indie Campers | ✅ Campervans | Often include bike racks |
| Private rentals (Getaround) | ✅ Varies | Check listing descriptions carefully |
💡 Some 4x4s, pickups, or estate cars (like Dacia Duster, Renault Kangoo) may have factory tow options.
📝 What to Ask Before Booking
- Is the tow hitch included and installed?
- What is the maximum towing weight allowed?
- Can I mount a bike rack?
- Is towing covered by the insurance?
- Are there kilometer limits?
✅ Some providers include a bike rack or trailer as an extra accessory.
🛡️ Insurance & Legal Notes
- You must inform the rental agency if you plan to tow
- Make sure towing is covered by the rental contract
- Some insurance excludes non-approved accessories
- Always secure cargo properly — Portugal enforces safety checks on trailers
📍 Best Places to Use a Tow-Ready Car from Lisbon
- 🚴 Serra da Arrábida – mountain biking paradise
- 🌊 Costa Vicentina – surf gear or rooftop storage
- 🍷 Alentejo wine region – camping & vineyard tours
- 🏕️ Peneda-Gerês – outdoor gear or trailer tents
🧭 Final Tips
- ✅ Book at least 7 days in advance — tow-equipped vehicles are limited
- ✅ Check all local laws on towing before crossing into Spain
- ✅ Request photos or confirmation in writing
- ✅ Consider pickup in Lisbon city vs. airport for better local options
