Australia Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Australia

Renting a car in Australia is a popular choice for tourists seeking freedom and flexibility while exploring this diverse country. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans, allowing you to visit key attractions at your own pace. For instance, you can take a scenic drive to Circular Quay to enjoy its beautiful harbour views, or stop by the iconic Sydney Opera House for a cultural experience. Adventure seekers can explore the stunning landscapes around Uluru, which offers breathtaking outdoor scenery.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to visit major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and the Gold Coast. In Sydney, you can see landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and relax at Circular Quay. Melbourne boasts attractions like the Melbourne Cricket Ground and St Kilda Beach. The Gold Coast is perfect for those interested in theme parks and beaches. With a car, you can easily navigate these areas, making your trip more enjoyable and efficient, regardless of whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or scenic beauty.

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: Experience a vibrant blend of culture and entertainment in Sydney, where you can explore iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the historic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Enjoy the sandy stretches of Circular Quay, perfect for a scenic holiday. The city offers an array of dining options, including restaurants, pubs, and bars, making it a great destination for a romantic getaway or a cultural excursion.
• Melbourne: Known for its dynamic atmosphere, Melbourne is ideal for families and business travellers alike. Wander down Collins Street for a taste of the city's shopping and dining scene. Don't miss the Melbourne Cricket Ground, a historic sports stadium, perfect for culture and sports enthusiasts. The city also boasts beautiful beaches and a selection of wineries for a delightful day out.
• Gold Coast: A bustling city renowned for its stunning beaches, Gold Coast is a fantastic destination for families. Visit the thrilling Warner Bros. Movie World and Dreamworld theme parks, which offer entertainment for all ages. Kirra Beach is also nearby, providing a perfect spot for relaxation. With various restaurants and wineries in the area, Gold Coast combines fun and leisure seamlessly.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Australia

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more economical to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy locations. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate 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 favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if the unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential 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.