How to find a cheap car hire deal in Panama City
Get into the driver's seat with a cheap rental car in Panama City. With prices averaging 47 € a day, you're on the road to better value. From city cars to family movers, we'll help you pick the right ride at the right price.
November is the cheapest month to rent a car in Panama City. With average daily rates of 2 €, you're cruising toward real savings.
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding a cheap rental car in Panama City. Book about three weeks before your departure date to score the best prices.
Rent your wheels from Avis, MEX or Dollar. These are some of the most well-known providers offering car hire deals in Panama City.
Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Panama City car hire policy, whether with Avis or another supplier. Some companies offer it as a paid extra instead of including it.
Booking one-way could snag you a cheaper rate on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between sites. Simply choose 'Return car to a different location' when looking for a car for rent in Panama City.
Skip the hidden fees by choosing a car hire in Panama City with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start and end your trip with a full tank, and pay only for what you use.
Roam without limits by looking for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you like without paying more.
If your plans include jetting into Panama City, you might like to avoid the city pickup and book one of the car rentals in Tocumen International Airport instead. Also browse the car rentals in Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport and car rentals in Panama Pacifico Airport so you're ready to roll no matter where you arrive.
Compare car hire types in Panama City
Small: These cheap rental cars in Panama City may be small in size, but they live up to big expectations. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're easy to drive, light on fuel, and a match made in heaven for short trips.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this is the Goldilocks of rentals! Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of interior space and fuel efficiency and are good for small families and couples.
Large: Offering a more comfortable driving experience and extra tech features, this Panama City car hire option includes full-size cars. With roomier back seats and plenty of storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: When the urge to explore hits, an SUV's all in. It's your ultimate road trip companion, ready for highways, backroads, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and improved safety features.
Van: Choose this category of vehicle when you need a car for rent in Panama City that can handle the big jobs. Usually featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to carry more, whether that's equipment, suitcases or a bunch of your favourite people.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something to think about. If your ride is damaged, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a big excess fee. Different Panama City car hire providers have different insurance policies and coverage levels, so check the details before booking.
Travel smarter when you rent a car in Panama City by adding a few nifty extras. Think things like a GPS unit to make sure you never miss a turn, or reverse cameras that make parking feel effortless.
Good to know
Are you a younger driver? Check each company's age requirements before booking your rental in Panama. Rules can differ, and both fees and restrictions may apply. At the start of your search, uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to explore your options.
Add a car seat to your Panama City car hire reservation if you're travelling with small kids. Requirements change from one place to another, but using a child seat suited to their size, weight and age is always the safest way to go.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Panama City
Snap up a car hire deal in Panama City and then get ready to explore the city's top attractions, like Casco Viejo and Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitan). Driving may not necessarily be the best way to reach them, but you'll want to tick off these highlights before you chase the next stop.
If you need a place to stay in Panama City while touring around, consider Novotel Panama City or Riu Plaza Panamá.
Colon has to be on your itinerary if you'd like to visit Agua Clara Locks and Zona Libre De Colon. This city is about 56 kilometres north-west of central Panama City.
Reliable accommodation options in Colon include Radisson Colon 2,000 Hotel & Casino and Sand Diamond Hotel.
Add La Chorrera to your holiday plans too. Grab your cheap car hire in Panama City and drive roughly 31 kilometres west to discover highlights such as FICHO Park and Play Land Park Feria de La Chorrera.
La Chorrera has some comfy stays where you can unpack your bags, such as Hotel America - La Chorrera and Cosy & Comfy House.
Keep the momentum going and road-trip it to Pocrí, about 137 kilometres south-west of Panama City. Kick things off at Parque Llano De La Palma, then spend some time at San Juan De Dios Park.
