How to Get the Best Deal on Car Rentals in Singapore

The Sweet Spot for Booking

For the best rates, aim to book your rental car 2-3 weeks in advance. This timeframe typically offers the optimal balance between availability and competitive pricing. Booking too far in advance (3+ months) or at the very last minute can result in higher prices.

Monitor Price Fluctuations

Car rental prices can fluctuate based on supply and demand. If you have time, track prices for a few days or weeks before making a reservation. Many car rental companies, including Ammeshaple, allow free cancellations, so you can book early and then rebook if you find a better rate later.

Consider Off-Peak Times

If your schedule is flexible, consider renting during off-peak seasons (February-May, September-November). Not only will prices be lower, but you'll also experience less traffic on Singapore's roads.

Right-Size Your Rental

Be realistic about your space requirements. Singapore's compact size means you don't necessarily need a large vehicle to get around comfortably. A smaller car is not only cheaper to rent but also easier to maneuver and park in Singapore's urban environment.

Consider Fuel Efficiency

Fuel in Singapore is relatively expensive, so a fuel-efficient vehicle can save you money beyond the initial rental cost. Most economy and compact cars offer excellent fuel efficiency.

Compare Car Categories

Sometimes the price difference between adjacent car categories is minimal. For just a small additional cost, you might be able to upgrade from an economy to a compact car or from a compact to a mid-size, offering better comfort and features.

Promotional Codes

Always search for promotional codes before finalizing your booking. These can be found on car rental websites, through email newsletters, or on deal-aggregating websites.

Loyalty Programs

If you rent cars frequently, join the loyalty programs offered by rental companies. Members often receive special rates, expedited service, and even free upgrades.

Package Deals

If you're also booking flights or hotels, look for package deals that include car rentals. Travel agencies and online booking platforms often offer discounts when you bundle services.

Corporate and Organizational Discounts

Check if your employer, alumni association, or professional organization has negotiated discounts with car rental companies. These corporate rates can offer substantial savings.

Check Existing Coverage

Before purchasing additional insurance from the rental company, check if your existing auto insurance policy or credit card offers rental car coverage. Many premium credit cards provide collision damage waiver (CDW) coverage when you use them to pay for your rental.

Understand the Basic Coverage

In Singapore, most rental cars come with basic third-party liability insurance included in the rental price. Understand what's already covered before adding supplementary insurance.

Consider a Package

If you do need additional coverage, insurance packages often cost less than purchasing individual coverages separately. Assess your needs and risk tolerance to determine the right level of coverage.

Airport vs. City Locations

Airport rental locations in Singapore often charge premium rates and additional fees. If you're staying in the city for a few days before needing a car, consider renting from a city location instead of the airport.

Return to the Same Location

One-way rentals (picking up at one location and returning to another) typically incur additional fees. When possible, return the car to the same location where you picked it up.

Watch the Clock

Most rental companies charge in 24-hour increments. If you return a car even an hour late, you might be charged for an extra day. Plan your return time carefully to avoid unnecessary charges.

Weekly Rates

If you need a car for 4-5 days, check if the weekly rate (usually 7 days) is a better deal. Often, the cost for a week is less than for 5 or 6 days due to special weekly pricing.

Weekend Specials

Many rental companies offer weekend specials (Friday to Monday) at reduced rates. If your trip falls over a weekend, these can offer significant savings.

Long-Term Discounts

For extended stays in Singapore, inquire about monthly rates. These can offer substantial discounts compared to daily or weekly rates for the same period.

"Full-to-Full" Is Usually Best

The most economical fuel policy is typically "full-to-full," where you receive the car with a full tank and return it with a full tank. This allows you to pay market rates for fuel rather than the premium rates rental companies charge for refueling.

Locate Nearby Gas Stations

Before returning your car, research gas stations near the return location. The closest stations to rental facilities sometimes charge premium prices, knowing customers are in a hurry to refuel before returning their cars.

Avoid Pre-Purchase Fuel Options

Rental companies may offer to sell you a full tank of gas upfront, allowing you to return the car with whatever fuel level remains. This is rarely a good deal unless you're absolutely certain you'll return the car with nearly empty tank.

Additional Driver Fees

Many rental companies charge for additional drivers. If multiple people will be driving, look for companies that offer free additional drivers or limit the number of extra drivers you register.

GPS Navigation

Rental companies often charge high daily rates for GPS devices. Instead, use your smartphone with a map app and bring or rent a phone mount for your dashboard.

Child Safety Seats

If you're traveling with children, rental companies charge substantial fees for car seats. Consider bringing your own or, for longer stays, purchasing an inexpensive one locally.

Toll Transponders

In Singapore, Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) is used for toll collection. Most rental cars come equipped with the necessary in-vehicle unit, but check the terms for any associated fees.

Document Existing Damage

Before leaving the rental lot, thoroughly inspect the car for any existing damage, no matter how minor. Take photos or videos with timestamps as evidence.

Check All Features

Verify that all features and equipment are working properly—lights, wipers, air conditioning, power windows, etc. Report any issues immediately.

Understand the Return Process

Ask about the vehicle return procedures, including after-hours options if applicable. Some companies charge extra if an agent isn't present to check in the vehicle.