How to find a cheap car hire deal in Panama City
Searching for a cheap rental car in Panama City? With prices averaging Rs34,662 a day, you're on the road to big savings. Whether you're after an economy ride, a large SUV, or anything in between, we compare all the best offers to get you more for your money.
Daily rental prices in Panama City start from just Rs18,842.
For longer trips, pick up a weekly rental from Rs81,384 and make room for more adventures.
If you want to get the timing right, book about one week ahead to score the best price on a Panama City car hire.
Get behind the wheel with Hertz, Enterprise or Avis. They're some of the most popular providers in the city.
Whether you book with Hertz or another supplier, be sure to check the coverage on your Panama City car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid add-on.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to pick up a bargain if the provider needs to shift cars between sites. Discover the best available rates by clicking 'Return car to a different location.'
Save money on fuel by picking a vehicle that has a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up the car with a full tank and drop it off full, so you only pay for what you use.
Want to explore more without stressing about the number of miles you cover? Find rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and go as far as you like without the extra costs.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best value with this company, with average prices at Rs36,524 a day.
Offering daily rates of around Rs41,826, this provider comes in next.
The third option won't stretch your budget either. You'll pay roughly Rs44,167 a day with this supplier.
Want a car that's the reliable option for most getaways? The Compact rental category comes in as the leading choice for travellers visiting Panama City.
Flying to Panama City? Think about an airport pick-up
Kick off your Panama City trip quicker by booking a car hire at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. The city centre is about 32 kilometres away from this airport, which is a drive of around 30 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Panama City
Small: These cheap rental cars in Panama City may be small in size, but they're big on what matters. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, fuel efficient, and a match made in heaven for city driving.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, this is the kind of rental even Goldilocks wouldn't second-guess. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of fuel efficiency and interior space and are popular with small families and couples.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this Panama City car hire category. Also known as full-size, their bigger engines are built to perform. The extra space and comfort make them a top choice for groups of friends and families.
SUV: When adventure's on your mind, an SUV's made for the moment. It's your ultimate road trip companion, ready for backroads, highways, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also offer extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Featuring commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Panama City is built to handle heavier loads and bigger groups. They're roomy, hardworking, and ready for whatever task you throw at it.
Insurance and optional extras
Adding excess insurance to your Panama City car hire lets you drive with confidence. It protects you from paying a big excess fee in case of theft or a collision. Insurance policies aren't the same across all rental providers, so always compare your options.
Take your ride to the next level with nifty extras like mobile Wi-Fi or a reverse camera. They can make your journey easier and more relaxed when you rent a car in Panama City.
Good to know
Generally, you have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the United States. Being younger isn't always a deal-breaker — just expect some extra fees or restrictions. Check the suppliers' terms and conditions before booking.
If you're going away with the kids, check if you need to add a car seat to your Panama City car hire reservation. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to ride.
You'll likely be asked for these three things when picking up your rental car: a valid driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card with enough funds for the security deposit. Debit cards are generally not accepted. Your booking will show the full list of what's required.
Driving in the United States can seem unfamiliar if it's your first time. Keep in mind you'll need to stick to the right side of the road.
Local speed limits are often about 40kph through built-up areas and around 110kph on highways. Always check the posted signs, as limits may vary.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% applies in the United States. The only guaranteed way to stay safe to drive is to avoid alcohol completely.
Aim to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a smoother run. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and excursions. Pay with your card when you can, and keep a little cash when electronic payments aren't possible.
The language most commonly used in this country is English.
Best hotels in Panama City for drivers
Spend less time worrying about where to park and more time relaxing at Holiday Inn Panama City. Around 3 kilometres from central Panama City, it comes with accessible parking, room service and express check-out.
Courtyard by Marriott Panama City makes things simpler with parking and features like Wi-Fi and multilingual staff. It's roughly 5 kilometres from the city centre.
Browse the selection of hotels in Panama City for even more choice. Use the 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' and 'Valet parking' filters to find the perfect fit. You can also apply the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to narrow it down to EV-friendly stays.
After you've found a car hire deal in Panama City and your hotel, it's time to plan where to go first. Dolphin Tours, Cruisin Tikis Panama City Beach and Gulf Coast Aquarium, Inc give you a real taste of the city.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Panama City
Around 97 kilometres west of central Panama City, Wright should feature on your itinerary. Head straight for can't-miss sights like Shops at Wright Plaza and Vintage Barn.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fort Walton Beach and Wyndham Garden Fort Walton Beach Destin are reliable accommodation options with parking in Wright.
Alternatively, collect your cheap car hire in Panama City and drive about 97 kilometres west to Fort Walton Beach. Featuring Okaloosa Island Beach Access Four and Okaloosa Island, its attractions speak for themselves.
Fort Walton Beach has some good places to stay including La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fort Walton Beach and Wyndham Garden Fort Walton Beach Destin. Both give you somewhere to leave your car while you're here.
There's plenty of road left if you're up for more. Take off to Mobile, around 241 kilometres west of Panama City. From USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park to Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Centre, it makes for a well-rounded adventure.
The only thing left to do now is hit the pillow. Quality Inn Downtown Historic District and Holiday Inn Mobile-Dwtn/Hist. District have room for both you and your wheels while visiting Mobile.
