If you’re planning a trip to Ibiza and have already decided to book a car in Ibiza to explore the island freely, there’s one key question: when is the right time to make your reservation? Ibiza is a highly popular destination all year round, especially during spring and summer. Booking your car at the right time can help you save money and guarantee the availability of the vehicle that best suits your needs.
If you’re flying directly to the island, the easiest option is to book a car at Ibiza airport so you can pick it up as soon as you land, without wasting time or needing extra transfers.
High season: peak demand and limited availability
Ibiza’s high season runs from mid-May to early October. During these months, the island welcomes thousands of visitors each week, placing strong demand on tourism services—including car rentals. If you’re planning to visit between June and August, it’s highly recommended to book your car at least three to four weeks in advance.
This early booking gives you access to better prices and a wider selection of vehicles. The longer you wait, the fewer options you’ll have—especially for small, economical, or automatic cars, which tend to be in high demand.
Early booking Ibiza car rental is essential during peak months, particularly if you require a specific type of car like an SUV, a family-sized model, or vehicles with child seats or automatic transmission. Prices rise fast and availability drops sharply the closer you get to your travel date.
Low season: more flexibility and better rates
If you’re visiting during Ibiza’s low season (from November to March), the situation is different. The island remains beautiful and much quieter, and rental companies deal with fewer reservations. In this case, you can book car Ibiza with shorter notice—sometimes just a few days or even the day before.
However, while there’s more flexibility, rental fleets are also smaller during these months. Rental companies often reduce their vehicle availability in the off-season. So, for holidays or long weekends, it’s still smart to book in advance to ensure you get the vehicle you want.
The major advantage of low season is the pricing. You’ll often find very competitive rates and seasonal deals, including discounts for pickup and return at central offices or when you book a car at Ibiza airport.
Key factors to help you choose the right timing
Beyond the time of year, a few other factors influence when to rent a car. If you’re looking for a standard small car with no special features, you can afford to book later. But if you’re traveling with family, in a group, or need extras like GPS, baby seats, or larger luggage space, booking early is your safest bet.
Another factor is when you buy your plane tickets. Many travellers wait until their flights are confirmed to reserve their rental car, but in destinations like Ibiza, that delay can lead to higher costs or fewer vehicle options. That’s why it’s best to reserve your car rental right after booking your flight.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but in general, earlier is better. Being proactive avoids last-minute stress and ensures better conditions.
Why booking online in advance is a smart choice
Booking early not only helps with price and availability—it also lets you compare rental terms calmly. You can check what’s included in each rate (insurance, mileage, roadside assistance), read reviews, and secure your reservation with transparency.
Providers like Autos Mari offer straightforward booking processes with no hidden fees. You can complete the reservation from home and pick up your vehicle at the agreed location without delays or surprises.
Early online bookings also give you access to added perks like free cancellations, flexible changes, and the possibility of receiving an upgrade if better cars are available at the time of pickup.
