Sure, we all know that it is great to have a private car at our disposal. But for those who don’t see a need to own one or are unwilling to bend to the whims of the COE market to have one, there will be times when it’s useful to drive one.

Car rentals used to be associated with special occasions such as weddings, or vacations abroad when it is easier to drive from place to place at your own pace. But there are several other occasions when renting a car can be useful or even necessary.

When do you need to rent a car?

1. Rent a car for those festive periods

Festive holidays like Christmas and the New Year are when we are usually out celebrating. But getting to the party venues and travelling home after all the feasting can be a real pain if you don’t own a car.

There you are, toggling between cab and private hire booking apps, trying not to pop an eyeball as you accept the exorbitant surge pricing. Even then, you end up getting the dreaded message that no cab or vehicle is available! The struggle is real.

This is when having a rental car comes in handy. Although as the sober driver among your drinking friends, you may end up having to give them a ride home.

Note: If you have been drinking, don’t drive in the first place.

2. Rent a bigger car when you have a large group

If you are travelling with a large group of people, renting a bigger vehicle is a convenient and cost-effective way of getting around. Like when you need to bring the entire brood to go visiting during Chinese New Year, Hari Raya or Deepavali. It might be cheaper and less of a hassle than trying to get multiple taxis or ride shares.

Having a large-sized SUV or an MPV also allows you to pack picnic baskets and mats, children’s bicycles and other what-nots if you’re heading for a day at the beach or exploring the many hiking trails around Singapore during the weekend or school holidays.

3. Renting a proper car for road trips

Renting a car opens up a fun way for you to explore new places and go on road trips. You can now conveniently head to that hidden corner of Singapore that promises lots of adventures, IG-worthy pictures, or for some alone time with your bae.

Or rent a car to drive up to Malaysia. Note that not all car rental companies allow this and there might be surcharges for those that do. For example, Hertz Singapore has a daily surcharge* of S$55 for all rental vehicles (S$100 if it is a BMW) being driven to Malaysia. (*GST applicable) You are not allowed to drive their rental cars into Thailand though.

It does not matter if you are traveling with a small or large group, or even by yourself. Going on a road trip requires a car with plenty of space. If you have been zipping around in a small car for your daily commute, having that extra space in a bigger rental can make for a more comfortable ride when you have more people on board.

>>READ: Kranji is worth a drive out to

4. Rent a car for running errands

So you’ve made a trip to Ikea and found yourself flat out with all that flat-packed items you didn’t know you need.

There will be such times when we need to haul a bit of a load and having a car makes transporting things so much easier. These could be taking home bulky buys, dropping off items for recycling at various collection points, moving house, or running other errands.

Other times, we may have to bring our loved ones to medical appointments. With elderly folks who may not be very mobile, a more comfortable way might be to rent a specific car type. This could be an SUV with more space or an MPV with sliding doors for easier access.

5. Rent a car to enjoy yourself!

Self-care comes in many forms. One of which is getting behind the wheel of a car and setting off no fixed destination in mind. If you enjoy driving, then this is a great stress buster.

The car can be your place of solitude away from the maddening crowd. Choose a scenic route or pick a time when there’s little traffic. Put on your favourite playlist, soak in the sights around and let the wind whip through your hair if you’re in a convertible with the top down. Release those happy hormones!

And when you’re done, return that rental without worrying about things like maintenance costs and road taxes!

6. As a temporary replacement car

People who own cars feel angsty if they can’t drive, for example, when their vehicles break down or are damaged. Not all insurance companies and workshops provide you with a replacement car if your personal vehicle is sent in for repairs. Renting a car can help you get around with your daily routine until your car is fixed. This is especially recommended if you have to leave your car at the workshop for a long time.

7. Rent to test before you buy a car

Gone for multiple test drives but still unsure if that’s the car brand model you should commit to? If you are considering buying a new car, renting a similar model can give you an idea of what it’s like to drive and live with. Do keep in mind that the car you have in mind might not be readily available for rent especially if it is a new model.

>>READ: The savvy way to test drive an SUV

8. During business travels

If you are travelling for work and need a car to get around, renting one can save you time and hassle compared to using public transportation. Getting from meetings to meetings or attending a corporate event can be stressful if you can’t get on the right bus or train, and have to wait a long time to get a taxi or ride.

Renting a car is a more reliable mode of transportation. It becomes an even better idea if you are attending the business event with your colleagues as you can share the cost of the rental car.

Many reasons to rent a car

There are many useful and practical reasons for renting a car. Some situations make renting a car almost a necessity.

There’s also nothing wrong with renting a car, such as a luxury vehicle, for the experience or to make an impression. Luxury cars are still seen as status symbols, and driving one can give you an adrenaline or ego boost if you are prepared to splurge a bit. It is also a nice experience arriving in style at a special event such as a birthday party, wedding or award ceremony.

Regardless of the reasons or occasions, it’s always a good idea to compare the costs of renting a car with the costs of alternative transportation options.  Hey, you might even find that the long-term leasing of a car makes more sense for your lifestyle.