Australia Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Australia

Renting a car in Australia is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the country at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit iconic attractions such as Circular Quay and the Sydney Opera House in Sydney, or venture out to the stunning landscapes of Uluru. The freedom to manage your luggage conveniently and create flexible travel plans enhances your overall experience.

A car hire is particularly beneficial for families or groups, allowing for comfortable travel between popular destinations like Sydney, Melbourne, and the Gold Coast. For instance, you can drive from Sydney to Melbourne, enjoying the scenic routes and stopping at places of interest along the way. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, or cultural experiences, having your own car makes it simple to access these highlights. With well-maintained roads and a variety of attractions to explore, renting a car in Australia ensures a memorable journey tailored to your interests.

Most popular car hires in Australia

• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, compact cars accommodate up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. Their smaller size makes them perfect for navigating city streets and finding parking, allowing you to explore Australia with ease and flexibility.
• Midsize SUV: Offering more space, the midsize SUV is suitable for families, couples, or small groups, comfortably seating up to 5 travellers and accommodating up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a balance of comfort and practicality, making it an excellent choice for those looking to travel longer distances while enjoying ample room for passengers and luggage.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is a great option for couples, families, or groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. It provides a higher driving position and additional space compared to compact vehicles, making it a comfortable choice for exploring diverse terrains across Australia.

Where to stay in Australia

• Sydney: A bustling metropolis perfect for travellers seeking a cultural and entertainment-themed experience. Close to iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, both are excellent for immersing in local culture. Circular Quay offers a stunning harbour view and is a short distance to family-friendly beaches and restaurants, making it ideal for a romantic getaway or family outing.
• Melbourne: This vibrant city is well-suited for family and business-themed trips, with attractions like the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Collins Street nearby. The city is also home to numerous shopping centres and entertainment venues, ensuring a busy itinerary. St Kilda Beach is not far away, providing a lovely spot for relaxation after a day of urban exploration.
• Gold Coast: A family-friendly city famed for its beautiful beaches and theme parks, Gold Coast is perfect for those looking for a beach-themed experience. Notable attractions such as Warner Bros. Movie World and Dreamworld are easily accessible, offering fun for all ages. Kirra Beach is also nearby, making it a fantastic choice for sun-seekers and families alike.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Australia

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and features that suit your needs. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain more competitive rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced option in terms of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: It is common to incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should any unforeseen issues arise during your trip. It is straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Australia

The best value period to rent a car in Australia is June, when prices are at their lowest and demand is quite low. Following June, May offers slightly low prices and moderately low demand, making it another good choice. After this, prices and demand remain moderate through July and August. However, December is the most expensive month, with high demand as holiday travel peaks, while November also sees moderately high demand and slightly low prices.