One-Way Car Rental from Colon to Panama City | Compare Prices & Fees

Home One-way Car Rentals Colon to Panama City

Can I rent a car from Colon to Panama City?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Colon to Panama City. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for PA residents

Documents required for international visitors

Form of ID: A valid physical Switzerland or Panama national photo ID.
Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Some policies may require two credit cards.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 19 and 99 years. Young drivers aged 19-25 may incur additional fees, such as CHF 19.03 per day (capped at CHF 190.26) or CHF 19.9 per day, depending on the policy.

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year. Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
Form of ID: A valid passport.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Some policies may require two credit cards.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 19 and 99 years. Young drivers aged 19-25 may incur additional fees, such as CHF 19.03 per day (capped at CHF 190.26) or CHF 19.9 per day, depending on the policy.

How much does renting a car from Colon to Panama City cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 93-US$ 96	US$ 80	US$ 106-US$ 115	Solo travelers, couples
Large	US$ 102	US$ 80	US$ 134	Families, comfort seeker
SUV	US$ 100-US$ 276	US$ 80	US$ 127-US$ 656	Large groups, long drivers
Van	US$ 140	US$ 80	US$ 247-US$ 279	Large families, groups
Pickup Truck	US$ 118	US$ 80	US$ 183	Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration：

One-Way Fee: Expect to pay an additional fee for leaving the car at a different location than the pickup point.
Cross-Border Restrictions: Verify if your rental agreement allows crossing into neighboring countries, specifically in case of international routes.
Vehicle Availability: Availability might vary based on the vehicle type and route. Ensure booking well in advance.
Flexible Booking Options: Choose a booking plan that allows date and location flexibility to avoid any last-minute surcharges.
Drop-off Station Navigation: Familiarize yourself with the drop-off location to efficiently complete your journey.

Smart Planning Tips:

Plan Fuel Stops: Research gas stations along the route to avoid running low on fuel in unfamiliar areas.
Understand Insurance Coverage: Ensure that the insurance applies along the entire route, especially in international transfers.
Account for Driving Time: Include buffer times in your schedule for road conditions or unexpected delays.
Inspect Rental Vehicle: Check for any damages before starting your trip, as this can prevent disputes during drop-off.
Keep Maps Handy: Have digital or physical maps in case of poor GPS or cellular connectivity.
Refueling Policies: Understand the rental company's fuel refill policies to avoid penalty charges.

Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

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Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

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Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling

Parking

Tolls

Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car just before returning to avoid extra charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Ensure the fuel level matches the level at the time of pickup.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost in Panama City is approximately $4.00 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and avoid rapid acceleration.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to improve mileage.

Use air conditioning sparingly to reduce fuel consumption.

Colon Parking

Parking in Colon is often available near the port area.

Rates typically range from $2 to $5 per hour.

Consider using secured parking facilities for added safety.

Panama City Parking

Public parking lots are widely available in Panama City.

Rates can vary between $1 and $3 per hour depending on location.

Use parking garages near major attractions for convenience.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia

SpotHero

EasyPark

Tolls and FasTrak

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Toll Payment Options

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Featured Road Routes Around Colon and Panama City:

Colon to Panama City via Highway 1

Scenic Route 1 hour 30 minutes

Travel along the primary highway connecting Colon to Panama City while enjoying views of the surrounding terrain.

Gatun Locks , San Miguelito district , Panama Canal Visitor Center

Colon to Panama City via Park Scenic Byway

Nature Route 2 hours

This route takes a meandering path through lush greenery, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.

Gatun Lake , Soberania National Park , Gamboa town

Coastal Route from Colon to Panama City

Coastal Drive 2 hours 15 minutes

Experience views of the coastline as you drive south from Colon to Panama City.

Portobelo , Colon Free Zone , Bridge of the Americas

Other Notable Road Trips in the Area:

Panama Canal Excursion

2 hours from Colon

Visit the iconic Panama Canal and learn about its impressive engineering and history.

Historic Portobelo Trip

1 hour from Colon

Explore the charming historic town of Portobelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Escape to Taboga Island

45 minutes drive to ferry terminal + ferry ride

Take a ferry to Taboga Island, known for its beaches and vibrant flora.

Rainforest Adventure

30 minutes from Panama City

Experience the natural wonders of the rainforest at Ancon Hill and Metropolitan Natural Park.

Road Trip Planning Tips:

Choose the Right Vehicle: Opt for a car suitable for the route and the number of passengers to ensure comfort and practicality.

Fuel Up in Advance: Plan your journey with fuel stops in mind as not all routes have frequent gas stations.

Understand Rental Fees: Be aware of added one-way rental fees or mileage limitations when planning your itinerary.

Plan Key Stops: Identify essential stops and reserves for attractions you plan to visit along the route.

Ensure Safety First: Follow local driving regulations and be sure to have roadside assistance contact information at hand.

Check Weather Conditions: Verify weather updates to anticipate any changes that might affect your planned route.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Below are some reliable rental companies offering one-way rental services between Colon and Panama City.

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
Budget Car Rental	$$	High	Extensive	Competitive pricing , Comprehensive roadside assistance , User-friendly online booking
Hertz	$$$	Very high	Excellent	Luxury and economy vehicles , Flexible rental plans , Priority Gold Member service
Avis	$$$	Extensive	Wide-reaching	Reward benefits for frequent users , Convenient locations , Modern fleet with multiple choices
Localiza Rent a Car	$	Moderate	Regional	Affordable pricing plans , Good customer service , Localized presence for tailored needs

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Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:

Pricing Considerations

Base rental rate per day
One-way drop-off fees
Additional driver charges
Insurance costs
Fuel policy and potential charges

Vehicle Selection

Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
Fuel efficiency for long drives
Comfort features for highway driving
Navigation and entertainment systems
Vehicle condition and mileage

Company Reliability

Customer service reputation
Transparency in fees and policies
Roadside assistance coverage
Cancellation and modification policies
Reviews from other one-way renters

Key Information About Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Most car rental centers in Colon and Panama City operate from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but hours may vary by location.

Rental Locations:

Rental locations are typically situated near central city areas or transport hubs for easy access.

Shuttle Services:

Many companies provide complimentary shuttle services from major bus terminals or airports to their rental centers.

Payment Options:

Credit cards, debit cards, and some mobile payment solutions are widely accepted at rental counters.

Pro Tips for Enrique Adolfo Jimenez Airport(ONX) Car Rentals

Check availability for one-way rentals in advance, as demand for such services can impact availability and pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation do I need to rent a car for a one-way journey between Colon and Panama City?

To rent a car for this journey, you will need a valid driver's license, a passport or an official ID if you're from Central America, and a credit card in your name for the deposit. Be sure to also bring your reservation confirmation if applicable.

Are there any additional fees for one-way car rentals between Colon and Panama City?

Yes, additional fees might apply for one-way rentals. These fees cover the cost of returning the vehicle back to the original location if necessary. These costs can vary depending on the rental company, so ensure to check the terms during booking.

Is there a particular time of day that is better for picking up or dropping off a car in Colon or Panama City?

It is generally better to pick up and drop off during standard business hours, as this can minimize waiting times and ensure that staff are available to assist you. Always confirm the working hours of your rental location beforehand.

Can I choose the type of vehicle I want for the journey?

Yes, most car rental companies offer a range of vehicle types to suit different needs. You can typically select from categories such as compact, sedan, SUV, or minivan during booking.

What is the distance between Colon and Panama City, and how much time should I allow for the journey?

The distance is approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles), and the journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Plan ahead to accommodate unforeseen delays.

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