How to find a cheap car hire deal in Melbourne
Cruise into adventure with a cheap rental car in Melbourne. With prices averaging R 3,439 a day, it's a wallet-friendly way to explore on your terms. From zippy compacts to power-packed SUVs, we'll match you with your ideal ride at a price that fits.
Accelerate your savings by reserving your wheels in September. With average daily rates of R 320, it's the cheapest month to rent a car in Melbourne.
It's all about timing when it comes to finding a cheap rental car in Melbourne. Book around three weeks before your departure date to land the best prices.
Get behind the wheel with Sixt, Bargain Car Rentals or East Coast. These are some of the most well-known brands offering car hire deals in Melbourne.
Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Melbourne car hire policy, whether you book with Sixt or another supplier. Some may leave it out of the standard package and offer it as an extra.
Look into getting a one-way rental. You might be able to score a good deal if the provider needs to shift vehicles between branches. Discover the best available rates for a car for rent in Melbourne by clicking 'Return car to a different location.'
Save money on fuel by picking a car hire in Melbourne with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up the car with a full tank and drop it off full, so you only pay for what you use.
Pack more into your journey by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you like without paying more.
If your itinerary has you jetting into Melbourne, you might want to avoid the city pickup and grab one of the car rentals in Melbourne Tullamarine Airport instead. Also browse the car rentals in Avalon Airport and car rentals in Essendon Airport so you're ready to roll wherever you land.
Compare car hire types in Melbourne
Small: These cheap rental cars in Melbourne may be small in size, but they come with big advantages. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, great on mileage, and a match made in heaven for city driving.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, it's the definition of just right. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of fuel efficiency and interior space and are popular with small families and couples.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this Melbourne car hire category. Also known as full-size, they have the engine size to match the journey. The extra legroom and comfort make them an excellent choice for families and groups of friends.
SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and an open view of the journey ahead in an SUV. Whether you're winding through tough terrain or cruising along smooth highways, many offer all-wheel drive to keep you steady on any road.
Van: Choose this category of vehicle when you want a car for rent in Melbourne that makes light work of heavy loads. Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, they're made to carry more, whether that's equipment, luggage or whoever's along for the ride.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your Melbourne car hire is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, it can be a real lifesaver if something goes wrong. Just remember that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you understand exactly what's included.
From GPS units to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can make all the difference. Think about which features will make your trip more comfortable when you rent a car in Melbourne.
Good to know
Younger driver? Check each provider's age requirements before booking your car hire in Australia. Rules can vary, and added fees or restrictions may apply. At the start of your search, simply uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to browse your options.
If you're travelling with kids, check if you need to add a car seat to your Melbourne car hire booking. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to travel.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Melbourne
Explore the biggest attractions in the city once you've lined up a car hire deal in Melbourne. Flinders Street Railway Station and Australian Grand Prix are classics for any first-time visitor.
When you need a place to rest your head, Ibis Melbourne Central and Space Hotel are stays that'll make you feel at home in Melbourne.
Buckle up and make tracks to Geelong. Around 64 kilometres south-west of central Melbourne, you'll find must-do sights like Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Eastern Beach Promenade.
You'll be well looked after at Admiralty Inn and Novotel Geelong, an Accor Hotel, two reliable accommodation options in Geelong.
Add Craigieburn to your holiday plans too. Grab your cheap car hire in Melbourne and drive roughly 24 kilometres north to discover highlights such as Volcano Park and Mount Ridley Lookout.
Craigieburn has some comfortable stays that make it easy to unwind, such as Comfort Heaven and Parkside House by GoodLive.
Still got fuel in the tank? Motor on to Shepparton, about 161 kilometres north of Melbourne. From Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton to Lower Goulburn National Park, it'll bring your trip to a memorable close.
Check out the room availability at Southgate or The Wyndhamere Motel Shepparton. Make one of them your base and enjoy everything Shepparton has to offer.
