Australia Car Rentals

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top destinations to rent a car in Australia

CarsCars

Sydney

Sydney

What you need to know for your Australia car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Australia

Renting a car in Australia is an excellent choice for adventure seekers, road trippers, and nature lovers. With a rental car, you gain the freedom to explore attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans. You can visit iconic sites like Circular Quay, where you can enjoy scenic beach experiences, and the Sydney Opera House, a symbol of cultural significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, a drive to Uluru offers breathtaking scenery and unique rock formations. Additionally, having a rental car allows you to conveniently travel to popular destinations such as Sydney, with its bustling metropolis and landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge; the Gold Coast, known for its vibrant beaches and attractions; and the Melbourne Central Business District, featuring venues like Rod Laver Arena. This flexibility not only enhances your travel experience but also ensures you can fully embrace the outdoor and scenic beauty Australia has to offer. Whether you wish to explore the coastlines or venture into the heart of urban life, a rental car makes it all accessible and convenient.

Most popular car rentals in Australia

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle is perfect for those traveling with families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV offers a great combination of comfort and space, making it ideal for road trips through Australia's beautiful landscapes. Its versatility allows for easy luggage management while providing a comfortable ride for all passengers.
  • Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families, the compact car fits up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly suited for navigating city streets and tight parking situations, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore urban areas in Australia. Its efficiency and ease of handling make it a popular choice among renters.
  • Fullsize SUV: For families or groups of up to 6 travelers, the fullsize SUV is a fantastic option, offering room for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This vehicle provides ample space for passengers and their belongings, making it an excellent choice for longer journeys or scenic drives. Its spacious interior ensures comfort for everyone, whether you're headed to the coast or exploring the outback.

10 tips to save on your Australia car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 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 old. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just be sure to return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the cost.
  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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a simple process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional fees.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Tips for Australia car rentals in 2026

Car rental prices in Australia

Car rental prices in Australia can vary depending on the location and the type of vehicle you want to rent. The cost for car rental in Australia can add up quickly, so make sure you read the fine print before booking. If you plan to do a lot of driving, consider renting a car with unlimited mileage, which could save you money in the long run.

 

Finding some of the best deals for car rentals in Australia

To find some of the best deals on car rentals in Australia, use our search filters to sort by price, car type, and location. Look for deals labeled "Great Deal" or use the "Exclusive Offers" filter to see some of the best deals on each type of car, including economy, standard, sports, and luxury car rental in Australia. There is also a comprehensive range of budget car rental companies in Australia, such as Thrifty and Dollar. Also, consider the customer ratings of each company to ensure you're getting a good deal and a reliable car.

 

Some of the best car rental companies in Australia

Expedia partners with some of the best car rental companies in Australia, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty. Compare prices and customer ratings for each company to find the best fit for your needs. Keep in mind that rental policies can vary, so make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully before booking – many companies offer flexible cancellation, so make sure to keep an eye out for "free cancellation".

 

Some of the best places to rent a car in Australia

Popular destinations for Australia car rentals include Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, but you can also rent a car in smaller cities and towns. Another convenient option that can often be one of the best places to rent a car in Australia is at an airport, such as car rental at Brisbane airport and car rental at Perth airport, as this means you're ready to start your adventure almost as soon as you've stepped off the plane.

 

Car rental types in Australia

Through companies like Budget, Avis, and Hertz, you can rent a car in Australia for practically any occasion. For example, check out Hobart car rental if you're planning to take a tour of the island. Keep an eye out for "free cancellation" – this is important if your plans are likely to change. If you're heading to Australia for a more relaxed city break, check out premium car rental companies in Australia to find a car that will take you from A to B in style.

 

Getting a long-term or one-way car rental in Australia

If you're planning to do "the Big Lap" tour in Australia, consider renting a car for a longer period. By entering your pickup and drop-off dates, you can find great deals on long-term rentals in Australia. If you want to explore different regions of the country, such as the Great Ocean Road tour, using a one-way car rental in Australia might be the best option. Simply enter different pickup and drop-off locations to find the car for your journey, whether you're starting in Sydney and finishing in Perth, Adelaide, the Gold Coast, or exploring the Great Ocean Road.

 

Advice on renting a car in Australia as an American

If you're an American renting a car in Australia, make sure to have a valid driver's license, a credit card for the deposit, and be prepared to buy car insurance for the trip as it’s compulsory in Australia. Next, familiarize yourself with Australian road rules, which can differ from those in the US. For example, in Australia, you drive on the left-hand side of the road, and roundabouts are very common. In Melbourne, be aware of the trams – they have the right-of-way. It's also important to be aware of the speed limits, which are posted in kilometers per hour. Finally, be aware that gas prices in Australia can be quite high, especially in remote areas, so factor this into your budget when planning your trip. With these tips in mind, you'll be ready for a fantastic road trip Down Under.

 

Benefits of booking a car rental in Australia with Expedia

With a vast selection of car options and search filters to refine your search, renting a car with Expedia is one of the best ways to rent a car in Australia. Plus, you could unlock even more savings by bundling with a hotel stay or flight. Also, if you're an Expedia Rewards member, you'll earn points for future discounts on eligible car bookings. Our user-friendly search filters make it easy to find the rental car for your trip through Australia. Whether you're exploring the rugged Outback or cruising along the coast, renting a car in Australia with Expedia is the way to go. Furthermore, our search makes it easy to see the cancellation policy, many of which are flexible, giving you peace of mind.


*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Australia car reservation?
That won't be a problem. If you can cancel your prepaid rental at least six hours prior to the scheduled collection time, you'll most likely receive all of your money back. It's a good idea to read your cancellation policy as there are some exceptions. Hop on our Customer Service Portal if you still have questions.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Australia with Expedia?
Scoring the best deal on your Australia rental car is a piece of cake with Expedia. Choose your preferred car type, add some details and compare the offers across popular brands. Why not add hotels and flights to your booking? You'll get access to even more savings when you combine your bookings into a package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Australia?
Anyone with a valid driver's license 21 and above can rent a vehicle in Australia. While some companies may be willing to accommodate drivers younger than 21, a fee will be added. Find out what age range the young renter fee applies to, and the associated cost, before booking your wheels. Outlets also restrict the categories of cars young drivers can rent. Higher age limits apply for large vehicles like premium SUVs and luxury models.
What do you need to rent a car in Australia?
Before you can hop behind the wheel in Australia, you'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name. If you decline to take out the company's insurance policy, you may also have to provide proof of your own coverage. Requirements can vary, so read the contract terms and conditions before you select a rental supplier.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Australia?
Expedia makes it a snap to score a long-term car rental in Australia. Simply head to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your preferences and compare your options.
Where can I find an Australia car rental if I am younger than 25?
This will depend on the car rental companies operating in Australia. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found a supplier that does cater to drivers under the age of 25, be aware that extra costs may apply. Do some research into what those charges could be before picking up your vehicle.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Australia?
Get your road trip off to a safe start by choosing Expedia's collision protection. While there are all sorts of insurance, this is one you should have. It provides primary coverage for vandalism, accident damage and theft up to $35,000, as well as 24/7 emergency help. Don't wait until you get to the rental desk to insure your ride. Opt in to collision protection while booking your Australia ride with Expedia and save time and money.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation