Panama City Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Panama City

Renting a car in Panama City offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace while managing your luggage easily. This flexibility is ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the diverse attractions in and around the city. You can visit the Panama City Marina for outdoor adventures and beach experiences, or take a short drive to St. Andrews State Park, located 8 km away, for stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Families can enjoy Oakland Terrace Park within the city, which is perfect for a day out. Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations such as Lower Grand Lagoon, 9 km away, where you can discover beautiful beaches and attractions like Ripley's Believe It or Not. Upper Grand Lagoon, just 8 km from Panama City, features Capt. Anderson's Marina and Thomas Drive, while Callaway, located within the area, offers easy access to St. Andrews State Park and the Panama City Marina. Overall, having a car enhances your travel experience, catering to city explorers, beach lovers, and families alike.

Most popular car rentals in Panama City

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for those travelling in groups of up to 5. With ample space for up to 3 large suitcases, it is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a comfortable and versatile vehicle. This option provides the freedom to explore Panama City at your own pace, making it perfect for your adventures.
• Standard SUV: If you’re seeking a blend of comfort and practicality, the Standard SUV is an excellent option. Accommodating 5 travellers and offering space for up to 2 medium suitcases, it is well-suited for couples, families, or groups. This vehicle type allows you to manage your luggage easily while enjoying the flexibility to explore the area with ease.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is ideal for larger families or groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it a popular choice for those needing extra space for luggage while enjoying their journey around Panama City. With this option, you can travel comfortably without compromising on storage.

Top rated car suppliers in Panama City

• Budget: With 1 rental location in the area of Panama City, Budget is a popular choice for travellers seeking value. Known for its affordability, Budget offers a selection of vehicles that cater to the needs of families and groups, with the Mini Van and Midsize SUV being among the most booked options. This supplier is ideal for those looking to manage their luggage easily while enjoying the flexibility of exploring Panama City at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise, also featuring 1 rental location in Panama City, is well-regarded for its premium offerings. The most booked vehicle from this supplier is the Premium car, which appeals to those seeking a more luxurious driving experience. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Enterprise provides a convenient option for travellers wanting to make the most of their time in and around Panama City, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable rental experience.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car operates 1 rental location in Panama City, making it a convenient choice for visitors. The supplier is particularly known for its Compact SUV, which is perfect for navigating city streets and exploring nearby attractions. With a reputation for good service and competitive pricing, Dollar Rent A Car allows travellers to enjoy the freedom of a rental car while experiencing the sights and sounds of Panama City.

Where to stay in and around Panama City

• Lower Grand Lagoon: Located 9 km away from Panama City, Lower Grand Lagoon is a vibrant neighbourhood ideal for a city-themed, beach, and family experience. Visitors can enjoy nearby attractions such as the beautiful Panama City Beaches and the adventurous St. Andrews State Park. The area also features a shopping centre and recreational areas, making it perfect for leisure activities. For food and drinks, there are options including wineries and breweries, providing a delightful culinary experience after a day of exploration.
• Upper Grand Lagoon: Situated 8 km from Panama City, Upper Grand Lagoon is a charming village that offers a mix of outdoor and beach experiences. Key points of interest include Capt. Anderson's Marina for adventure lovers and the scenic St. Andrews State Park, ideal for outdoor activities. The vicinity also boasts recreational areas and shopping centres, catering to various interests. Visitors can enjoy local food and drink options, including wineries and breweries, enhancing their stay with delightful flavours from the region.
• Callaway: Nestled in the Panama City area, Callaway is a village popular for its outdoor, family, and city-themed experiences. It is conveniently close to the picturesque St. Andrews State Park and the Panama City Marina, both perfect for outdoor adventures. The neighbourhood features recreational areas and shopping centres that cater to diverse interests. Visitors can indulge in local cuisine at various restaurants and wineries, making it a great spot for families looking to enjoy both relaxation and adventure.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Panama City

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you find the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a suitable compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure to return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Panama City

The best time to rent a car in Panama City is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately high. Following these months, April and May offer average pricing with steady demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, characterised by slightly high prices and moderately low demand. June also sees slightly high prices but lower demand, making it a quieter option. Meanwhile, August experiences similar pricing trends with average demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
February	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
March	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
April	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	81.1°F (27.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
July	82.6°F (28.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
August	82.8°F (28.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
October	72.0°F (22.2°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low