East Melbourne Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around East Melbourne

Renting a car in East Melbourne provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. With easy luggage management, it is particularly convenient for families or those travelling for business. You can visit the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground, located right in East Melbourne, or drive a short distance to Collins Street, just 2 km away, where you can immerse yourself in city experiences. For a relaxing day by the sea, St Kilda Beach is only 6 km from East Melbourne, offering a great beach experience.

A rental car also makes it simple to venture into nearby destinations such as the Melbourne Central Business District, which is only 2 km away and features additional attractions like Melbourne Park. Southbank is also within reach at 3 km, where you can enjoy the Southbank Promenade. With a rental car, you have the convenience to explore these key sites without the constraints of public transport, ensuring a comfortable and personalised travel experience throughout your trip in and around East Melbourne.

Most popular car rentals around East Melbourne

• Fullsize: This spacious option accommodates up to 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. The Fullsize car is ideal for families or groups seeking comfort and ample space for luggage, making it a popular choice for those wanting to explore East Melbourne and its surroundings with ease.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for up to 5 travellers, the Midsize SUV offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate the elevated seating and versatility that SUVs provide. It’s an excellent choice for those who desire a bit more room while navigating the city and beyond.
• Compact: The Compact car is designed to accommodate 5 travellers along with up to 3 medium suitcases, making it a practical option for solo travellers, couples, or families. Its smaller size makes it ideal for city driving and parking in tighter spaces around East Melbourne, ensuring both convenience and efficiency during your trip.

Top rated car suppliers around East Melbourne

• Enterprise: With a rental location conveniently located only 1 km away from East Melbourne, Enterprise is an excellent choice for travellers seeking flexibility. This supplier is popular among customers for its Economy and Midsize vehicles, making it easy to find a car that suits your needs while exploring the area at your own pace.
• Europcar: Situated 2 km away from East Melbourne, Europcar boasts two rental locations, enhancing accessibility for travellers. Known for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, Europcar provides a great selection for those looking to explore the attractions in and around the area with comfort and space.
• Budget: With four rental locations within 2 km of East Melbourne, Budget is a popular choice for those seeking value. This supplier offers a range of Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, making it easy to find a car that fits your travel plans and budget while enjoying the convenience of multiple pick-up points.

Where to stay around East Melbourne

• East Melbourne: A charming area known for its historic buildings, East Melbourne offers a peaceful stay close to the bustling heart of the city. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, perfect for sports enthusiasts, and enjoy the local dining scene with a variety of restaurants and wineries. This neighbourhood is ideal for families and business travellers alike, offering a balance of relaxation and accessibility to city life.
• Melbourne Central Business District: Situated 2 km from East Melbourne, the Melbourne Central Business District is the hub of urban activity. With a plethora of shopping centres, dining options, and entertainment venues, it caters to city-themed experiences for tourists. Key points of interest include the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground and vibrant Collins Street, perfect for a day of exploration. This area is particularly lively during the warmer months, making it an attractive destination for visitors.
• Southbank: Located 3 km from East Melbourne, Southbank is a vibrant suburb renowned for its scenic promenade along the Yarra River. This area is filled with shopping centres, restaurants, and entertainment facilities. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the Southbank Promenade and the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground, which enhance the cultural experience. Southbank is suited for families, business travellers, and those looking for a lively atmosphere, especially during the festive seasons when events are plentiful.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around East Melbourne

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to benefit from lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars tend to be more economical to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience it offers 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 should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around East Melbourne

The best value period to rent a car in and around East Melbourne is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June also offers similar advantages with average demand and prices remaining reasonable. Moving into the late months, August stands out with its low demand and average pricing, making it another good option. However, December tends to be the most expensive month with moderately high demand, while November and January also see average prices with steady demand levels.