Car Rental Preston

These Preston insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 13, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Preston

Renting a car in Preston provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and beyond at your own pace. This suburb of Melbourne is well-positioned for sightseeing, allowing you to easily visit key attractions such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Melbourne Museum, both located just 5 miles away. If you're looking for a city experience, Collins Street is a mere 6 miles from Preston, offering a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploration. A rental car is particularly convenient for families, as it allows for easy luggage management and space for all travel gear. You can also venture into nearby neighborhoods like Thornbury, just 1 mile away, or the bustling Melbourne Central Business District, which is a short drive from Preston. Whether you're interested in cultural experiences or family-friendly activities, having a car ensures you can create flexible travel plans tailored to your needs. With a rental car, you can navigate effortlessly and make the most of your visit to Preston and the surrounding attractions.

Most popular car rentals in and around Preston

• Midsize SUV: This car type is perfect for travelers looking for a blend of space and comfort. Accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups. With its versatility, you can comfortably navigate around Preston while enjoying the flexibility to explore various attractions at your own pace.
• Compact: If you’re traveling solo or with a partner, the Compact car is a fantastic choice. This option also accommodates up to 5 travelers and holds up to 3 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples or small families. Its smaller size can be advantageous for city driving and parking, giving you the freedom to explore Preston and its surroundings without feeling restricted.
• Fullsize: For those needing extra space, the Fullsize car is an excellent option. It comfortably fits up to 5 travelers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it ideal for families or groups with more luggage. This car type provides ample room and is suitable for longer trips around Preston, ensuring everyone travels in comfort while enjoying flexible travel plans.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Preston

• Europcar: Europcar is a top choice for travelers in Preston, offering 3 rental locations with the nearest just 4 miles away. Known for providing a range of vehicles, the most popular options include Midsize SUVs and Compacts. Customers appreciate the convenience and flexibility that Europcar offers, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental features a location 5 miles away from Preston and specializes in Midsize and Fullsize SUVs. Travelers often choose Thrifty for its competitive pricing and reliable service, ensuring a seamless rental experience. The option to rent larger SUVs makes it a great fit for families or groups looking to travel comfortably.
• Sixt: Sixt stands out in the Preston area with 5 rental locations, providing easy access for travelers. The Midsize and Standard SUVs are among the most booked vehicles, catering to those who prioritize space and comfort. Sixt is known for its well-maintained fleet and convenient pickup options, making it an excellent choice for exploring the surrounding attractions.

Where to stay around Preston

• Preston: Situated in the heart of Melbourne, Preston offers a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of culture and city life. You’ll find a variety of dining options, including local restaurants and wineries. The area is conveniently close to iconic Melbourne attractions such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where you can immerse yourself in sports culture.
• Thornbury: Located just 1 mile from Preston, Thornbury is a charming suburb known for its shopping centers and local eateries. This neighborhood features historic buildings and streets that add to its appeal. Don't miss the nearby Melbourne Museum for a family-friendly experience, and enjoy some sweet treats at local cafes.
• Melbourne Central Business District: About 5 miles away from Preston, the Central Business District is a bustling hub for travelers seeking a city-themed experience. You can explore shopping malls and enjoy a variety of restaurants and wineries. Key highlights include Melbourne Park and the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground, both perfect for sports and cultural enthusiasts.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Preston

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer fun, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to find the ideal choice for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals 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 categories—such as SUVs or premium options—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can be acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only 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. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek 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 and around Preston

The best value period to rent a car in and around Preston is May, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. June and July also offer slightly low prices with moderate demand, making them good options for car rentals. In contrast, December tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand and prices. January and February also see increased demand, contributing to higher rental costs during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
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	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
August	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
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	Moderately High	Slightly High