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Top destinations to rent a car in Australia

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Sydney

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What you need to know for your Australia car rental

These Australia insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: .

Reasons to book a car rental in Australia

Renting a car in Australia offers travelers the freedom to explore the country at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This is especially beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. For instance, visiting iconic sites like the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay in Sydney or the breathtaking Uluru can be seamlessly integrated into your itinerary. Having a car allows you to visit these attractions without the constraints of public transportation schedules. Additionally, you can explore vibrant cities such as Melbourne, known for its cultural landmarks, or the Gold Coast, famous for its stunning beaches and amusement parks, with ease. The distance between these key destinations is manageable, making a rental car a practical choice for your trip. Overall, renting a car in Australia enhances your travel experience by providing convenience, flexibility, and the opportunity to enjoy the country's diverse landscapes and attractions on your own terms.

Most popular car rentals in Australia

  • Midsize SUV: This option accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers ample room for everyone and their luggage, allowing for a comfortable ride while exploring Australia’s attractions at your leisure.
  • Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the Compact car can fit up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it nimble and fuel-efficient, enabling you to easily navigate through urban environments while still enjoying the flexibility of a rental car.
  • Standard SUV: This vehicle is designed to comfortably accommodate 5 travelers along with space for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it a great choice for couples, families, or groups. The Standard SUV provides a balance of space and maneuverability, allowing you to enjoy both city driving and scenic routes with ease.

Where to stay in Australia

  • Sydney: A vibrant metropolis, Sydney offers travelers a rich cultural experience. Located near iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, you can immerse yourself in theater and music concerts. Enjoy the scenic views at Circular Quay, and take advantage of nearby restaurants and bars to unwind after a day of exploration. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant.
  • Melbourne: Known for its family-friendly and business-themed atmosphere, Melbourne is home to prominent landmarks such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground and historic Collins Street. The city boasts a variety of shopping centers and arena entertainment facilities, making it ideal for both leisure and work visits. St Kilda Beach offers a relaxing escape nearby, especially during the summer months when the beach scene comes alive.
  • Gold Coast: A bustling city renowned for its family and beach experiences, Gold Coast is perfect for those seeking fun in the sun. Attractions like Warner Bros. Movie World and Dreamworld provide entertainment for all ages, while beautiful beaches such as Kirra Beach are perfect for a day of relaxation. With numerous shopping centers and dining options, Gold Coast is a great destination at any time of the year, especially during the warmer months.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Australia

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak 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 rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may incur higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle options—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This option is usually the most economical. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in these 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 extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  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 required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in Australia

The best time to rent a car in Australia is May, as prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June also offers good value, with similar pricing and average demand. Following these months, prices and demand become more moderate during August and September. However, December tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices. January and February also see increased demand and costs, making them less favorable for rental.

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