Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at Essendon Airport, Melbourne

Reasons to book a car hire at Melbourne Airport

Renting a car at Melbourne Airport is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the vibrant surroundings at their own pace. With a rental car, you have the freedom to manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. This is particularly beneficial for those seeking friendly people and an urban experience. You can conveniently access key attractions such as Collins Street, just 11 km away, perfect for immersing yourself in the city's bustling atmosphere. For family-friendly outdoor experiences, the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds is located only 6 km from the airport. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the Melbourne Museum, also 11 km away. Additionally, exploring the broader Melbourne area becomes effortless, with destinations like the Central Business District, featuring Melbourne Park and St Kilda Beach, just 11 km away. Nearby, Essendon Fields, less than 1 km from the airport, offers attractions like the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds. A rental car enhances your travel experience by providing the flexibility to visit these sites comfortably and conveniently.

Most popular car hires near Melbourne Airport

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those travelling with up to 5 passengers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a convenient way to navigate around Melbourne. Its smaller size makes it easier to park in urban settings while providing the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV accommodates 5 travellers along with up to 2 medium suitcases, making it a suitable choice for couples, families, or groups. This option offers a higher seating position and more space than a compact car, providing comfort during longer journeys and an enjoyable experience when travelling around the Melbourne area.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, as it can comfortably accommodate 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly advantageous for those who require extra space for luggage while still enjoying the versatility of an SUV. It allows for easy handling of your belongings while exploring the attractions around Melbourne airport with ease.

Where to stay near Melbourne Airport

• Essendon Fields: Located less than 1 km from Melbourne, VIC (MEB-Essendon), Essendon Fields offers a convenient stay for travellers. Visitors can explore local attractions such as the historic buildings and urban parks. The nearby shopping centre and mall provide ample options for dining and shopping, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of city life and family-friendly activities.
• Melbourne Central Business District: Situated 11 km away from Melbourne, the Central Business District is a vibrant hub ideal for business and city-themed experiences. Here, you can discover the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground and enjoy the bustling Collins Street, known for its shops and restaurants. This area offers a plethora of activities, including access to shopping malls and entertainment venues, making it a great place to stay for urban explorers.
• Melbourne: As a thriving metropolis, staying in Melbourne itself places you in the heart of various attractions. The city is well-known for its shopping centres and historic buildings. Explore the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground and relax at St Kilda Beach, perfect for a beach holiday. With a variety of eateries and wineries nearby, visitors can enjoy both cultural and culinary experiences.

9 tips to save on your Airport car hire near Melbourne

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually advisable to secure your MEB car hire as early as possible to access lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is ideal, particularly ahead of peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from Melbourne Airport

The best time to rent a car from Melbourne Airport is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is average. May and June also offer good value, with slightly low prices and lower demand. However, December tends to be the most expensive month due to high demand, while February and March are also busier times with higher rental rates. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
March	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
August	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
September	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High