Are you thinking of visiting Portland, Oregon? It’s a great choice, and as someone born and raised here, I still can’t get enough of this area. Below are some Portland travel tips you should know before you come here.

1. It doesn’t rain as much as you think

Portland has a reputation for being very rainy, but that’s not true. Many cities, such as Miami, get much more rain than Portland. It IS overcast for about six months, from November to April. When it rains, it’s often a sprinkle or a light drizzle that is still easy to walk around. That can be nice though, if you want to explore outside all day, you don’t have to worry as much about sun-related issues.

During the summer months (locals say after the 4th of July), it is often very sunny, and clear, with temperature stretches of several days in the 90s. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle, and a light jacket if you plan to be out late at night.

2. No Sales Tax

The whole state of Oregon doesn’t have sales tax, so feel free to shop away. And, thankfully, whatever price is labeled on items, that is the actual price.

(Remember though, under Oregon’s Bottle Bill, if you purchase a drink in metal, glass, or plastic can, you will pay a $0.10 fee on each, which is refundable when you return the empty container to a bottle drop location. We do love recycling here.)

3. You need to bring your own bags (or pay)

In 2020 Oregon banned single-use checkout bags. If you want one now, you usually have to ask and will be charged $0.05-0.10 per bag used.

Of course, the solution is to bring your own shopping bags. These options of reusable bags on Amazon will make your shopping life much easier while in Portland.

4. It’s no longer illegal to pump your gas (if you want)

As of 2023, self-serve gas pumps are available, but at least half of the stations still have to provide a service attendant to do it for you. So, take your pick. If you’ve never had anyone pump gas for you, it’s worth the experiment.

5. We keep things casual

We value dressing funky over formal, but if you don’t like either, you will be just fine. You’ll find the average person living in jeans and a t-shirt, or athleisure. Remember, Beaverton (next door to Portland) is the home of Nike.

If you plan on going to a nicer restaurant or event, you might want to bring something a little nicer. Business casual, or even nice jeans with a button-down for men, and a nicer blouse or shirt for women should be sufficient.

6. Portland is not on the coast

This fact can trip up many first-timers for a variety of reasons. Portland is about a 1.5-hour drive from the ocean.

The Columbia River is massive, and most ocean ships can make it along the river to the Port of Portland. That, along with Portland having “port” in the name, as well as being somewhat close to the ocean can end up with some confused visitors.

7. Washington is just across the river

Many people don’t realize that a whole other state borders Portland. Vancouver, Washington is technically in the greater Portland metro area and is also a great place to visit. Vancouver boasts a great Columbia river waterfront. If you are checking states off your bucket list, be sure to head up to Washington too.

8. Our transportation system is (usually) great

Tri-Met is the name of our public transportation system, and it covers the whole Portland metro area (well, except for the part in Washington state). You can seamlessly travel between cities in the area without giving it a second thought.

The MAX light rail system is one of the easiest ways to get around town, especially in many touristy parts of Portland. It has stops at the Portland airport, Washington Park (home of the Oregon Zoo, Japenese Gardens and the International Rose Test Gardens), downtown, the Convention Center and many more. What that doesn’t cover, the Portland streetcar or buses will.