$5 Car Rental Puerto Vallarta

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Puerto Vallarta

Renting a car in Puerto Vallarta offers unmatched freedom and flexibility, allowing you to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This is particularly beneficial for families or those seeking outdoor and beach-related experiences. You can visit key attractions like the Malecon, a picturesque esplanade perfect for family outings, or head to Los Arcos, a marine park ideal for adventurous activities. The Los Muertos Pier is also easily accessible, providing scenic views and a delightful atmosphere. Beyond these attractions, a rental car allows you to explore vibrant neighborhoods such as the Romantic Zone, known for Playa de los Muertos and its lively atmosphere, or Emiliano Zapata, which features Olas Altas Beach. The Hotel Zone, with its beautiful beaches like Camarones Beach and Playa Las Glorias, is another must-see. By renting a car, you can enjoy all that Puerto Vallarta has to offer without the constraints of public transportation, making your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Puerto Vallarta

• Fullsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases—ideal for families and groups looking to travel comfortably. This car option provides ample space for luggage and passengers, making it a popular choice for those who want to explore Puerto Vallarta at their own pace.
• Midsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—perfect for couples or families who need a balance of comfort and efficiency. Midsize cars are a great option for navigating the streets of Puerto Vallarta while ensuring enough room for your belongings during your travels.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—suitable for couples, families, and groups seeking a versatile vehicle. Standard SUVs offer a higher driving position and additional space, making them a convenient choice for exploring the diverse attractions in and around Puerto Vallarta.

Top rated car suppliers in Puerto Vallarta

• Enterprise: With a rental location conveniently situated in Puerto Vallarta, Enterprise is a great choice for travelers seeking flexibility and convenience. They specialize in Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, making it easy to accommodate your luggage and travel companions. Whether you're planning a beach day or exploring local attractions, Enterprise ensures a smooth rental experience to fit your itinerary.
• Avis: Avis offers two rental locations in Puerto Vallarta, providing travelers with accessible options for their car rental needs. Their most popular vehicles include Compact Vans and Midsize SUVs, perfect for families or groups needing extra space. Avis is known for its reliable service and well-maintained fleet, allowing you to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car has two locations in Puerto Vallarta, making it easy for visitors to pick up their rental vehicles. With a focus on Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, Alamo provides spacious options for travelers looking to navigate both urban and scenic routes. Their friendly service and commitment to customer satisfaction make them a popular choice for those exploring the area.

Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta

• Romantic Zone: The Romantic Zone is a vibrant neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta, ideal for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts. Located near popular attractions like Playa de los Muertos, a beautiful beach perfect for relaxation, and the Malecon, an esplanade great for leisurely strolls, this area offers a rich blend of experiences. Explore the local markets and enjoy diverse dining options, including bars and cafes, making it suitable for both family outings and romantic evenings.
• Marina Vallarta: Known for its outdoor and sports activities, Marina Vallarta is a family-friendly neighborhood featuring attractions like Nuevo Vallarta Beach and Playa Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta, both offering stunning beach experiences. The area is also home to several golf courses and local markets. The picturesque Malecon is nearby, where families can enjoy the scenic views and vibrant atmosphere, making it a great choice for active travelers and those looking to relax by the water.
• Hotel Zone: The Hotel Zone is a prime destination for families and beach lovers, boasting easy access to Camarones Beach and Playa Las Glorias. This neighborhood is lively and full of dining options, with markets and public spaces that cater to visitors. The Malecon is just a short distance away, providing a perfect spot for outdoor activities and family fun. Its beach-oriented atmosphere makes it a great choice for travelers looking to unwind in the sun.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Puerto Vallarta

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower prices and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are fine as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Puerto Vallarta

The best time to rent a car in and around Puerto Vallarta is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. June and July also offer decent value, with average prices and demand. However, December stands out as the most expensive month, often accompanied by high demand. January and February can be busy periods as well, with slightly elevated prices and demand levels.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Puerto Vallarta

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Puerto Vallarta into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Puerto Vallarta and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Puerto Vallarta

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Puerto Vallarta. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Puerto Vallarta

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $5.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals