Best Car Rental Companies in Australia

Driving is often the preferred choice by tourists and locals when venturing into Australia’s remote areas. Renting a car in Australia provides the freedom and flexibility to fully immerse yourself in these spectacular landscapes at your own pace.

Driving allows you to encounter unique wildlife and the raw beauty of nature firsthand. That’s why car rentals in Australia offer various options for every travel plan, from one-way rentals to long-term car rental deals. So whether you plan to stay in the city or go out in the wild, finding the best car rental will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey in the Land Down Under.

Australia offers a wide range of vehicle options for car rentals to suit different needs and preferences. When choosing the right vehicle type for your trip, consider these factors:

• Compact Cars or Sedans. For solo travelers or couples, these are a popular choice. Compact cars are fuel-efficient, easy to navigate, and perfect for city driving. They are also suitable for short road trips and offer ample trunk space for luggage.
  
• SUVs and Minivans. These are great options for traveling with a larger group or your family. SUVs provide more space for passengers and luggage, making them ideal for long road trips or exploring rugged terrain. On the other hand, Minivans offer extra seating capacity and ample legroom, ensuring everyone can travel comfortably.
  
• Luxury Cars and Convertibles. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, they are available for rental. These vehicles offer premium features, stylish interiors, and a smooth driving experience. They are perfect for special occasions or travelers wanting to make a statement during their trip.
  
• 4×4 Vehicles or Campervans. These are excellent choices for adventurers who want to explore Australia’s off-road destinations. 4×4 vehicles are designed to handle rough terrains and provide the necessary power and traction for off-road adventures. Campervans combine transportation and accommodation for a unique and flexible travel experience.

In addition to these popular vehicle types, many rental companies offer specialty vehicles such as sports cars, motorcycles, and even motorhomes. These options cater to travelers with specific preferences or unique travel plans.

Before you explore Australia by car, understand the requirements for driving with an IDP. Here are the key things you need to know:

• International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP, or International Driving Permit, translates your driver’s license into multiple languages and is recognized by many countries worldwide. An International Driving Permit for Australia is a document that verifies the validity of your existing license from your home country. To obtain one, you must apply for one in your home country before traveling to Australia.
  
• IDP Application Process: To apply for one, you must provide a completed application form, a valid driver’s license, two passport-sized photos, and the required fee. The process and requirements may vary depending on your home country. Always check with your local automobile association or relevant government office for instructions.
  
• You can also apply for an IDP online through the International Drivers Association. It is accepted in over 150 countries and only takes as fast as 8 minutes to process.
  
• Driving in Australia. Once you have your IDP, you can legally drive in Australia. The IDP does not replace your original license but acts as an official translation. Note that the IDP is only valid when used with your original license.
  
• Duration of Validity. The validity of your IDP in Australia depends on the duration of your stay. If you are a temporary visitor, your IDP will generally be valid for the same time as your visa or 12 months, whichever is shorter. If you plan to stay longer, you might need an Australian driver’s license following the appropriate state or territory laws.
  
• Insurance Coverage. Keeping yourself protected from financial and legal troubles while traveling is important. Some rental agencies may require a specific level of coverage or additional insurance. It’s advisable to contact the rental company to clarify their specific requirements.

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One of the most important traffic rules to remember is that Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road. This can be a significant adjustment if you’re from a country where driving is done on the right-hand side.

If you’re not accustomed to left-hand side driving, take extra care and remain vigilant. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the Australian roadways safely:

Driving on the left-hand side of the road means that the driver’s seat is on the vehicle’s right side. All controls, such as the gear stick and indicators, are configured accordingly.

Additionally, traffic flows in a clockwise direction around roundabouts.

• Familiarize yourself with the rules. Before hitting the road, familiarize yourself with the Australian road rules. Understanding speed limits, road signage, and right-of-way will help ensure a smooth and safe driving experience.
  
• Practice beforehand. If possible, get some practice driving on the left-hand side before arriving in Australia. You may be able to find driving schools or rental companies in your home country that provide vehicles with right-hand drive.
  
• Be cautious at intersections. Pay special attention when turning or crossing at intersections, as your instincts may still be attuned to driving on the right-hand side. Take your time, look in all directions, and double-check before proceeding.
  
• Use the inner lane on roundabouts. When approaching a roundabout, remember that traffic flows in a clockwise direction. If you’re unsure which lane to take, always go for the inner lane. This will help ensure a smooth merge and prevent any confusion or accidents.
  
• Take breaks during long drives. Driving on the opposite side of the road can be mentally and physically tiring, especially during long journeys. Take regular intervals, stretch your legs, and refresh your mind. Fatigue can impair judgment and reaction times, so staying rested and alert is important.

Sharing driving responsibilities during your trip can provide convenience and flexibility. However, adding this to your rental agreement may require additional driver fees. Be sure to inquire about these costs upfront with your chosen rental company.

In terms of requirements, most rental companies will require the additional driver to meet certain criteria:

• Age Restriction. Generally, the additional driver must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver’s license. Some rental companies may require the additional driver to have held a license for a minimum period, typically one or two years.
  
• Young Driver Surcharge. Take note that some rental companies may also charge a fee for drivers under the age of 25. This surcharge is a separate fee due to the increased risk associated with younger drivers. If you’re considering adding a young driver to the rental agreement, inquire about any additional fees or requirements that may apply.
  
• Additional Driver Fee. Some rental agencies may also charge a fee for additional drivers. To add one, the primary renter and the additional driver must be present at pickup time. The additional driver will need to provide a valid driver’s license. Sometimes, they may also need to present a credit card for authorization.

When deciding on a car rental, one of the key factors to consider is the mileage allowance and the cost of one-way rentals:

Unlimited Mileage Option

Many car rental companies offer the option of unlimited mileage, so you can drive as much as you want without worrying about racking up extra costs. This is great if you want to explore multiple destinations during your trip, and the distance between these places is wide across the country.

Extra Cost for One-Way Rentals

A one-way rental can be a convenient option if you plan to travel from one city to another without worrying about returning to your starting point.

However, note that most car rental companies charge an extra fee for one-way rentals. This is usually higher, depending on the distance and location of your drop-off point.

Before booking a one-way rental, consider if this additional cost fits within your budget. Some rental companies may offer discounts or promotions for one-way rentals, so explore different options and compare prices to find the best deal.

As the pioneer of unlimited mileage and online check-in systems, Alamo brings its technology and clean pledge service to travelers in Australia.

• Extensive Location. From the coastal city of Darwin to the suburbs of Tullamarine, Alamo serves 23 cities across Australia.
  
• Transparency: Alamo promises no hidden fees and all-inclusive rates.
  
• Alamo Rent-A-Car App. As a technology-first company, you can take advantage of and manage all transactions through this app.

Avis is an award-winning international car rental company that has branched out in Australia and New Zealand. In 2019, it was recognized as Australian Vehicle Hire Company Of The Year by The Travel Awards and Best Car/Campervan Rental Operator in Australia by NTIA Awards.

• Avis Prestige. Beyond its fleet of commercial vehicles, Avis offers luxury cars for those looking to travel with comfort and style.
  
• Avis App. Manage your booking with the Avis App. This can also help you find the nearest petrol station, parking, and more.
  
• Flexibility. Avis allows discounted one-way rentals and long-term rentals for up to 11 months.

Budget is on a mission to let travelers enjoy Australia without spending more. In 2015, Budget Australia received the Australian Travellers Choice Award from Trip Advisor. Readers Digest frequently recognized Budget Australia with the Quality Service Gold Award (2018) and Most Trusted Car Rental Brand (2021).

• Protection. Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) is included in all Budget Australia rentals. This limits your responsibility for loss or damage to a vehicle to the standard excess amount.
  
• Promotions. Budget offers car rental specials, coupons, and discounts at select times and in various areas of Australia. Be sure to stay updated via their website.
  
• Flexibility. Budget offers one-way car hire deals at select times of the year. This applies to any model and also includes 24-hour emergency assistance.

Established 1991 in Munich, Sunnycars Australia promises carefree car rental with its all-in formula. For 30 years, this international company has established a presence in 120 countries.

• Transparency. The core of Sunny Car’s service is to provide a rental car and its related services for an all-inclusive price. This means all fees, from insurance to towing costs, are paid upfront. Some benefits include unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), theft protection, and local taxes, among others.
  
• Customization. You can request a GPS, a child car seat, or arrange a one-way rental. Whatever your needs and preferences are, Sunny Car will arrange everything for you.
  
• Flexibility. You can cancel your reservation up to one hour before the rental starts without paying cancellation fees.
  
• Sunny2Go. This platform will serve as your travel assistant. It will provide travel information, parking options, and even help you find the nearest petrol station.

Since 2009, SIXT has been fast-growing, and its Australian operations boast 163 locations and more than 16,000 vehicles. In 2021, it successfully partnered with the National Roads & Motorists’ Association (NRMA), the largest national automobile club and one of Australia’s leading car rental companies.

• Wide selection. From trucks to SUVs, SIXT offers vehicles for every traveler’s needs and preferences. On top of this diverse fleet, Sixt also offers electric vehicles (EV) as the company embraces sustainable driving.
  
• Promotions. SIXT offers discounts through partnerships.
  
• SIXT App. This app lets you view all options and book and manage your reservation. This also allows flexible carsharing and ride-hailing in just a few taps.

You can count on East Coast Car Rentals for its airport car rental and car hire services across Australia’s south and east coasts. Since 1979, East Coast Car Rentals has become one of Australia’s largest independent car hire providers.

• Extensive Locations in the East and South Coasts. East Coast has service locations in 13 cities and major airport locations, including Brisbane Airport, Melbourne Airport, and
  
• Sustainable Driving. Looking for more eco-friendly options? On top of its diverse fleet, East Coast offers electric and hybrid vehicles such as Polestar 2, Cupra Born, and Kia EV6.
  
• Promotions. East Coast provides deals and discounts, such as the All Inclusive Package, Business Save Program, and Prepay & Save.

Founded in Hobert, Tasmania, Bargain Car Rentals has provided cheaper but quality alternatives to travelers for 15 years. It has service locations in 13 cities, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Devonport.

• Unlimited Mileage. Bargain Car Rentals offers unlimited mileage to most of its fleet, so you can drive without worrying about additional charges.
  
• Promotions. Bargain Car Rentals’ Booking Direct allows you to save with a 5% discount and enjoy no booking fees, free cancellations, and liability waiver options.
  
• Flexibility. Bargain Car Rentals do not charge drivers for being under 25. You can also choose to add another driver without extra charges.
  
• Long-Term Rentals. Want to extend your Australian holiday? Bargain Car Rentals allows you to rent for at least 30 days and up to a year. Benefits include 24/7 Roadside Assistance, unlimited kilometers, and free additional driver.

Redspot Car Rentals was established to close the gap in the availability of car rentals on weekends. Through persistence and building business relationships, Dan Mekler grew this into a national network of operations. Significant achievements of Redspot Car Rentals include winning the on-airport license at Sydney Airport over multinational companies in 1999.

• Extensive Location. Redspot Car Rentals covers cities and areas across Australia, such as Canberra Airport, the coastal town of Port Macquarie, and Townsville Airport.
  
• Top Dog Package. In 2005, Redspot first offered this package with an inclusive rate with 0$ damage liability. Features you might consider essential include ZERO Collision Damage Waiver Liability, Windscreen, Headlight and Tyre cover, and unlimited kilometers with no cancellation fees.
  
• Flexibility. Redspot Car Rentals offers optional extras such as child seats, GPS units, and premium roadside assistance at an additional charge.

In 2006, this boutique company was established to help travelers create memorable moments throughout their trip to Australia.

• Accessibility. Alpha Car’s stations are conveniently located near major airports. It also serves the states of Queensland, Victoria, and New South Wales.
  
• Mystery Car. Looking for some thrills? Choose this option, and Alpha Car Hire will provide you with a hatchback, sedan, or SUV from 2017 to 2019. You can also enjoy free standard liability protection, an unlimited mileage allowance, and no upfront fees.
  
• Promotions. If you want to extend your stay, you can save by booking long-term. Alpha Car Hire also offers discounts in line with occasions or festivals
  
• Flexibility. You can request a child seat, a roadside assistance package, and another authorized driver at an additional charge.

Don’t want to miss out on the iconic Opera House, Bondi Beach, or Perth’s beaches? Then consider booking a rental car with Bayswater Car Rental. This family-owned business operates in 8 locations across Sydney and Perth.

• Wide fleet selection. You can choose from Bayswater’s fleet of 3,000 new Toyota, Mitsubishi, and Hyundai models, among other brands. You are also assured of well-maintained cars with their fleet’s 4 or 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
  
• Transparency. Bayswater promises an efficient and straightforward process by being upfront in their rates and charges. They also do not charge vehicle registration recovery fees, airport concession fees, premium location fees, and credit card fees.
  
• Damage Liability. Consider getting Bayswater’s Damage Liability for only $10 per day. This allows you to not pay a cent in the event of an accident.
  
• Flexibility. Bayswater offers child seats and GPS and allows the addition of extra drivers and rental extensions.

Planning a coastal road trip, an adventure through the Outback, or exploring urban wonders? Renting a car gives you the freedom to experience all of these at your own pace. But before signing a rental agreement, take the time to research and choose from the best car rental companies to ensure a stress-free and memorable journey in Australia.

Found the perfect car provider? The next step is to look into the best car insurance in Australia for safer, worry-free trips.