Hastings Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Hastings

Renting a car in Hastings provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming suburb and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. This is particularly beneficial for families or those seeking outdoor adventures, as you can comfortably visit various attractions without the constraints of public transport.

Within Hastings, you can enjoy the Hastings Foreshore Reserve, perfect for scenic experiences. A short drive takes you to Cowes Beach, located 16 km away, where you can relax by the water. Another nearby highlight is the Pt Leo Estate Sculpture Park, situated 15 km from Hastings, ideal for family outings in an outdoor setting. Additionally, a rental car allows for convenient exploration of the Mornington Peninsula, just 7 km away, which includes attractions like Martha Cove and Dromana Beach. You can also venture to Cowes, 17 km away, and Phillip Island, 20 km away, both featuring beautiful coastal reserves. Renting a car is an excellent choice for making the most of your trip in and around Hastings.

Most popular car rentals around Hastings

• Midsize SUV: The most popular choice for travellers in Hastings, the midsize SUV comfortably accommodates up to 5 passengers and allows for the transport of up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who require extra space for luggage and enjoy the versatility that an SUV offers. With its robust build and ample room, it is an excellent option for those looking to explore the attractions around Hastings with ease.
• Compact: A favourite among solo travellers, couples, and families alike, the compact car option is designed to accommodate up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type offers a balance of comfort and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to navigate Hastings and its surroundings without the need for excessive space. Its manageable size also makes it convenient for city driving and parking.
• Economy: The economy car is a budget-friendly alternative that caters to up to 5 travellers with the capacity to hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly suitable for solo travellers or couples who want to explore Hastings without the added bulk of larger vehicles. Its fuel efficiency and compact size make it a practical choice for those looking to enjoy their travels while keeping costs down and manoeuvring easily through urban areas.

Top rated car suppliers around Hastings

• Sixt: Sixt provides an excellent option for car rental enthusiasts in Hastings, located a convenient 18 km away. Known for their friendly service, Sixt offers a selection of vehicles tailored to meet various needs, with the most booked models being the Economy SUV and Midsize SUV. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a reliable choice for travellers looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget is a fantastic option for those seeking great value in their car rental experience. Situated only 14 km from Hastings, they offer a variety of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact cars being the top choices among customers. Budget’s focus on affordability without compromising on service quality makes it a popular choice for many travellers.
• Avis: With two rental locations and the nearest just 14 km from Hastings, Avis stands out for its accessibility and range of vehicles. Midsize and Compact SUVs are the most frequently booked options, catering to families and groups who require a bit more space. Avis combines convenience with a strong selection of vehicles, ensuring that customers have a pleasant rental experience.

Where to stay around Hastings

• Cowes: Located 17 km from Hastings, Cowes is a suburb that offers an outdoor and beach experience. Visitors can enjoy activities such as karting and body treatments, along with attractions like Cowes Beach, ideal for a beach holiday. The nearby Phillip Island Coastal Reserve and Pt Leo Estate Sculpture Park provide splendid scenery and family-friendly outdoor activities. Cowes also boasts a variety of food and drink options, including wineries and sweet treats, making it a great spot to unwind.
• Phillip Island: Situated 20 km from Hastings, Phillip Island is known for its stunning outdoor scenery and adventure opportunities. Key attractions include Cowes Beach, perfect for beach lovers, and the Phillip Island Coastal Reserve that showcases the island's natural beauty. Visitors can also explore the Pt Leo Estate Sculpture Park, which offers a unique outdoor experience. Dining options abound, featuring wineries and restaurants that cater to various tastes.
• Mornington Peninsula: Only 7 km away from Hastings, Mornington Peninsula is a haven for those seeking adventure and scenic views. Popular activities include spa treatments and golf, along with attractions like Martha Cove, a marina ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Dromana Beach is another highlight, perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. The area is also known for its excellent food and drink options, including wineries and restaurants that enhance the overall experience.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and features that suit your needs. Whether you're after an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer sun, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced mix of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports; however, the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Hastings

The best value period to rent a car in and around Hastings is July, when prices tend to be lower and demand is moderately high. May and June can also offer good options, with slightly low prices and average to moderately low demand. In contrast, February is typically the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. January and October follow closely, also showing slightly high prices during those times.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low
August	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
September	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
November	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average