Car rental in Australia

Tips for renting a car inexpensively in Australia

Looking for an affordable car rental in Australia? With Economybookings, you can compare rental providers to find bargains across the Great Southern Land. Whether you’re planning to explore the dusty Outback, lush rainforests, or buzzing cities, a quick cost comparison can save on time and money.

• Compare pickup locations — Select a broad pickup area (e.g. “Sydney” or “Cairns”) rather than a single depot to unlock more deals, including off-airport savings.
• Adjust pickup times and dates slightly — Even shifting your booking window by an hour can reveal better prices.
• Choose economy or compact cars — These vehicle types are usually have the best rates.
• Book ahead of time — School holidays, summer (Dec.-Feb.), and public holidays see rental prices surge. Booking early helps secure better prices and availability.

Tips when renting a car in Australia

• Australian cities offer public transport to connect you across CBD and inner-city areas — national parks, vineyards, beaches, and the Outback requires a vehicle.
• Book your rental car in advance for peak seasons, especially in Queensland, WA, Sydney and Tasmania.
• Check if your rental insurance covers unsealed roads, as gravel and dirt roads are common.
• Consider a 4WD or SUV for Outback travel with strong suspension and decent clearance.
• Document any scratches, worn tyres, and pre-existing damage on your Australian rental car upon pickup.

Driving tips in Australia

• Left-side driving — use the right lane to overtake.
• Roundabouts are common in Australia — give way to the right.
• Wave to signal other drivers to pass — flashing headlights can have other meanings.
• Avoid using your horn unless necessary; reserved for emergencies.
• Parking apps like EasyPark and PayStay. Australian cities enforce time limits heavily.
• Beware of clearways, red/yellow lines, school zones, and “No Stopping” signs.
• Key motorways in Australia include the Hume Highway (NSW-VIC), Bruce Highway (QLD), Pacific Highway (NSW), and Great Eastern Highway (WA).
• Popular petrol stations: BP, Ampol, United, Coles Express, 7-Eleven, Puma.
• Always carry your licence (IDP if not printed in English), rental documents, and proof of insurance.

Speed limits

Australian speed limits sit around 50km/h in cities, 80–100km/h on highways, and up to 110km/h on major freeways. Some Northern Territory highways allow 130km/h. Schools zones have strictly enforced speed limits, especially during pickup times. Fixed and mobile speed cameras operate nationwide, and road violations are fined heavily..

Road signs

Australia uses standardised road signs: speeds in km/h, road condition warnings, and hazards. Wildlife crossing signs are common througout the country, including signs for kangaroos, wombats, emus, koalas, and even cassowaries. Beware of “Floodway”, “Loose Gravel”, and “Road Train” warning signs. All signs are written in English or with easily understandable symbols.

Tolls and restricted zones

Australia has toll roads in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland — all are fully electronic and contactless. Contact your rental provider to find out how you’ll be billed for toll road usage. There are no low-emission zones, but some Australian cities have congestion zones and paid parking districts.

For those visiting Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory, or the Australian Capital Territory, there are no tolls at all. Use major highways as much as you like without the worry of a huge toll bill.

Discover Australia by car

Australia is characterised by sheer diversity — driving experiences can shift from coastal highway, to rainforest in the blink of an eye. Having your own Australian rental car lets you explore everything from alpine regions to desert landscapes.

Head for secluded lookouts and camping spots, or pack your boot with beach gear for a day of sun and sand. Whether you’re cruising along the Great Ocean Road, tasting your way through wineries, or weaving through Tasmania’s mountains, a rental car is an essential for any Australian getaway.

When to visit

Summer is perfect for beach days, but searing hot in the Outback. Winter gets chilly for southern cities like Melbourne, Hobart, and Adelaide, but perfect for Queensland trips. Spring and Autumn offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and the best road trip conditions.

Languages & Communication

English is the primary language of Australia. Indigenous placenames are becoming more common throughout the country. Beware that mobile reception in remote regions can be spotty and drop out suddenly — make sure to download all of your maps. All road signs are in English, and English speakers probably won’t face a language barrier.

Currency & Payments

Australia uses the Australian Dollar ($). Credit card and contactless payments are accepted in most petrol stations, parking meters, and restaurants. It’s handy to carry some extra cash for local farmers’ markets, small-town bakeries, remote pubs, and honesty stalls at camp sites.

Top driving routes in Australia

Each state in Australia is home to their own legendary driving routes:

• Great Ocean Road (VIC) — Dramatic coastal landscapes, rainforest, and the Twelve Apostles.
• The Blue Mountains (NSW) — Hidden waterfalls, mountain lookouts, and vast canyons.
• Margaret River (WA) — World-class vineyards, surf beaches, and limestone caves.
• Uluru (NT) — Iconic Outback landscape, Aboriginal history, and desert sunsets.
• Cape Tribulation (QLD) — Tropical rainforest, wild beaches, and crocodile sightings.
• Freycinet Peninsula (TAS) — Coastal bushland, pink granite mountains, and Wineglass Bay.
• Fleurieu Peninsula (SA) — Rolling hills, vineyards, wildlife sightings, and surf beaches.
• Tidbinbilla (ACT) — Brindabella Ranges, kangaroo sightings, native forest, and panoramic lookouts.