$47 Car Rental Canberra

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Canberra

Renting a car in Canberra offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and road trippers. With a rental car, you can explore key attractions such as the modern Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial at your own pace. The convenience of managing your luggage allows for spontaneous stops and extended visits to places like the Australian National University or the vibrant Canberra City Centre, which features the National Convention Centre and Civic Square. Families and business travelers will find the ability to tailor their journeys particularly beneficial, as they can easily navigate between destinations like Barton, where Parliament House and the National Gallery of Australia await. Furthermore, a rental car enhances your experience by providing easy access to popular spots near Canberra Airport, including Lake Burley Griffin. Enjoy the flexibility of creating your own itinerary, whether it's a cultural exploration or a family outing, all while maintaining the comfort and convenience of your own vehicle. Renting a car truly enriches your travel experience in and around Canberra.

Most popular car rentals in Canberra

• Compact: The most popular choice among travelers, compact cars are well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, and small families. With enough space to accommodate 5 travelers and up to 3 medium suitcases, these vehicles offer a practical solution for those looking to navigate Canberra’s urban landscape with ease. Their smaller size also makes them ideal for city driving, allowing you to explore attractions without the hassle of parking larger vehicles.
• Fullsize SUV: Perfect for families and groups, fullsize SUVs provide ample room for up to 6 travelers along with 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is particularly appealing for those who need extra space for passengers and luggage while enjoying the freedom to explore Canberra and its surroundings. With their robust build and comfortable interiors, fullsize SUVs ensure a smooth ride, making them a great choice for longer journeys.
• Midsize SUV: Midsize SUVs strike a balance between space and maneuverability, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle type is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a versatile option that can handle both city driving and outdoor adventures. Enjoy the comfort and practicality of a midsize SUV as you travel around Canberra, providing the flexibility to manage luggage while enjoying your trip.

Top rated car suppliers in Canberra

• Europcar: Europcar features 2 rental locations throughout the Canberra area, making it a convenient choice for travelers. The most booked vehicles from this supplier are Midsize and Standard SUVs, which offer ample space and comfort for both individuals and families. Customers appreciate Europcar for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth rental experience.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With 4 rental locations in Canberra, Thrifty Car Rental is a popular option for many visitors. Travelers often choose Fullsize SUVs and Compacts from this supplier, allowing for flexibility in travel plans and ease of handling. Thrifty is recognized for its competitive pricing and friendly customer service, enhancing the overall rental experience.
• Sixt: Sixt operates 2 rental locations in the Canberra vicinity, providing travelers with convenient access to their vehicles. The most requested cars from Sixt include Midsize and Standard SUVs, which cater to various travel needs. Customers value Sixt for its modern fleet and excellent service, making it a reliable choice when exploring the Canberra area.

Where to go in Canberra

• Canberra City Centre: Nestled in the heart of Canberra, this vibrant neighborhood attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals in January, July, and September. It's an ideal spot for family, city, and business experiences. Key highlights include the Australian National University, perfect for a cultural visit, and the National Convention Centre, catering to business travelers. Don't miss Civic Square, a modern gathering place, which enhances the city vacation feel. Numerous shopping centers and educational venues also enrich your stay.
• Canberra Airport: A bustling suburb, Canberra Airport is a central hub for business, family, and city experiences. The area sees visitors peaking in January, April, and July. Key attractions include the Australian War Memorial, which offers a deep dive into culture, and Lake Burley Griffin, ideal for those seeking romance and scenic views. Parliament House, a modern civic government building, is also nearby, making it a great choice for business travelers. Shopping options abound, ensuring a convenient stay.
• Barton: Known for its family-friendly and business-centric atmosphere, Barton is a suburb that experiences peak visitor numbers in January, April, and July. Explore nearby attractions such as Parliament House, a key site for business, and the National Gallery of Australia for a cultural experience. Lake Burley Griffin is also within reach, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. With shopping malls and education venues accessible, Barton stands out as a well-rounded destination for travelers.

10 tips to save on your Canberra car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by considering vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilizing filters on Expedia can help you discover the best fit 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 reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and some vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It's simple to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Canberra

The best value period to rent a car in and around Canberra is October, which features lower prices and average demand. September also offers slightly low prices while maintaining average demand. In contrast, July is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately low demand. This is followed closely by June, which also sees slightly high prices. The rental landscape tends to be busier and pricier from December through February, with higher demand and average prices during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	69.3°F (20.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.6°F (13.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	47.8°F (8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	42.1°F (5.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
August	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
September	48.9°F (9.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Canberra

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Canberra into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Canberra and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Canberra

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Canberra. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Canberra

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $47.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals