Palawan Car Rentals

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El Nido

El Nido

What you need to know for your Palawan car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Palawan

Renting a car in Palawan offers you the freedom to explore this beautiful province at your own pace. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. This convenience is particularly appealing for those interested in beach and outdoor experiences, as you can visit popular attractions like El Nido Main Beach, Coron Bay, and Twin Lagoon without the hassle of public transportation. For example, you can drive to El Nido, where you’ll find stunning beaches like Nacpan Beach and Corong Corong Beach, or head to Coron, known for its breathtaking Coron Bay and the picturesque Twin Lagoon. Exploring Coron Island is also a breeze with a rental car, allowing you to visit key spots such as Kayangan Lake and Lualhati Park. Overall, having a car at your disposal enhances your ability to experience the scenery and outdoor adventures Palawan has to offer, ensuring you make the most of your trip.

Most popular car rentals in Palawan

  • Mini: This car type accommodates up to 4 travelers with space for 2 small suitcases. The Mini is ideal for solo travelers or couples looking to explore Palawan at their own pace. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through the region’s winding roads while providing a comfortable ride for shorter trips.
  • Economy: The Economy car option can comfortably fit up to 5 travelers and allows for 2 medium suitcases. This car is a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or families who wish to enjoy the sights of Palawan. With its balance of space and fuel efficiency, the Economy car offers flexibility in travel while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
  • Compact Pickup: Accommodating up to 5 travelers with the capacity for 3 medium suitcases, the Compact Pickup is perfect for adventure travelers, families, or groups. This vehicle provides ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it a versatile choice for those looking to embark on exciting journeys around Palawan. Its rugged design is suitable for various terrains, enhancing your exploration experience.

Where to stay in Palawan

  • El Nido: Known for its stunning beaches, El Nido is a vibrant city perfect for families and beach lovers. Travelers can enjoy the renowned El Nido Main Beach, Nacpan Beach, and Corong Corong Beach, all ideal for a beach vacation. The city offers shopping centers and educational venues, making it an excellent base for exploration. With a bustling atmosphere, El Nido is best visited during the dry season from November to May for optimal beach enjoyment.
  • Coron: A gem for outdoor enthusiasts, Coron is famous for its breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore attractions such as Coron Bay, Twin Lagoon, and Kayangan Lake, each offering unique outdoor and romantic experiences. The city is surrounded by beautiful beaches and educational venues, creating a balance between adventure and learning. For the best weather and outdoor activities, plan your visit during the dry months from November to May.
  • San Vicente: San Vicente invites travelers to experience its beautiful beaches and vibrant city life. Key attractions include Port Barton Beach, Cacnipa Island, and Pamaoyan Beach, all suitable for beach vacations and outdoor activities. The area also features shopping centers and access to local islands and bays, enhancing the overall experience. The best time to visit San Vicente is during the dry season from November to May, ensuring pleasant weather for beach outings.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Palawan

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to help pinpoint the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance typically allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are usually more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might be off-limits. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  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 typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Renting a car from an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
  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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance while booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek out rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Palawan

The best value period to rent a car in Palawan is July, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. June and August are also decent options, as they feature average prices and demand levels. In contrast, May tends to be the most expensive month, coupled with slightly high demand, making it less attractive for budget-conscious travelers. January to April is generally the busiest and priciest time for car rentals in the area, with demand peaking in January.

Find Palawan Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Palawan car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Palawan, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Palawan offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Palawan car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Palawan to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Palawan airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Palawan rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Palawan airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Palawan?
Car rentals for exploring Palawan are picked up at the region's main gateway, Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS). From there it's an easy drive to towns like El Nido, where rates also start from $22 a day if you pick up there, and Coron. Suppliers such as Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Palawan.
What are the best car rentals in Palawan?
Car rentals across Palawan offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental, broadly available in the region's main cities — El Nido, Coron, and Corong Corong. The most common car classes include:
  • Mini 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Standard passenger van
  • Compact pickup regular cab
  • Standard SUV
These options cater to various traveler needs, whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Palawan.

What are the best car rental companies in Palawan?
For car rentals across Palawan, well-rated providers like Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — El Nido, Coron, and Corong Corong. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) for exploring Palawan?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) for exploring Palawan. Providers including Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental operate at the airport, with rates from around $22 a day. Puerto Princesa Airport is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from El Nido to Coron.
Can I rent a car one-way in Palawan?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Palawan — pick up in one city, such as El Nido, and drop-off in another, like Coron, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $31 a day. Providers like Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Palawan?
Hybrid car rentals are available across Palawan, including in El Nido and Coron. Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental both offer hybrid options from $22 a day. Hybrid vehicles help keep fuel costs low, and planning charging stops is advisable for longer regional drives. Book a few weeks ahead as demand can be high.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Palawan?
For luxury car rentals across Palawan, Dollar Rent A Car offers standard SUV cars from $55 a day (and standard passenger vans from $38 a day), while Thrifty Car Rental also provides similar options — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like El Nido and Coron. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Palawan.
What are the best car rentals in Palawan for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Palawan, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from El Nido to Coron:
  • Dollar Rent A Car: standard SUV from $55 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 4 large suitcases
  • Thrifty Car Rental: standard passenger van from $40 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Thrifty Car Rental: compact SUV from $36 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Palawan.

What are the best car rentals in Palawan for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Palawan for solo travelers are mini and compact classes — small, easy to park, and efficient to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like El Nido and Coron:
  • Mini car, from $26 a day — fits up to 4 people and 2 small suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact SUV, from $31 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Palawan.

What are the best car rentals in Palawan for couples?
The best car rentals in Palawan for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like El Nido and Coron:
  • Compact SUV, from $31 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
  • Standard SUV, from $55 a day — fits up to 5 people and 4 large suitcases with more comfort and space for longer journeys
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for your Palawan adventure. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Palawan.

What are the closest airports to Palawan for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Palawan offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS)
  • El Nido Airport (ENI)
  • Busuanga Airport (USU)
These airports provide convenient access to different parts of the region. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Palawan by rental car?
From Palawan, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the El Nido hub include:
  • Marimegmeg Beach, El Nido, approximately 3 miles away
  • Lio Beach, El Nido, approximately 3 miles away
  • Las Cabañas Beach, El Nido, approximately 3 miles away
  • Long Beach, San Vicente, approximately 7 miles away
  • Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa, approximately 8 miles away
Consider adding an activity like the Underground River Day Trip from Puerto Princesa City. With cities like Coron also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Palawan.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Palawan?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Palawan. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Palawan?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Palawan?
Budget car rental in Palawan can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Palawan?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Palawan. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Palawan car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Palawan?
To rent a car in Palawan, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Palawan car rental?
If you need to cancel your Palawan car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

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SUV, Full Size, Economy
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