Newcastle Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Newcastle

Renting a car in Newcastle offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those travelling with family, as it allows for easy luggage management and convenient travel plans. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Newcastle Beach, ideal for a relaxing beach experience, and Foreshore Park, perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. The NEX convention centre is also accessible, making it a practical choice for business travellers.

Moreover, having a car enables you to venture into nearby neighbourhoods like Merewether, where you can enjoy Merewether Beach, Nobbys Head Beach, and more. Caves Beach and Toronto are also just a drive away, offering beautiful scenery and lakeside views. The ease of having your own vehicle means you can create a personalised itinerary, exploring various outdoor and romantic experiences without the constraints of public transport. Overall, a rental car enhances your visit to Newcastle, ensuring you make the most of your journey.

Most popular car rentals in Newcastle

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for up to 5 travellers, accommodating up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families seeking a convenient and economical way to navigate Newcastle. With its manageable size, the Compact car allows for easy parking and manoeuvring, making it perfect for exploring the city’s attractions at your own pace.
• Fullsize SUV AWD: For those needing extra space, the Fullsize SUV AWD comfortably accommodates 6 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families or groups who want to travel together without sacrificing comfort. With its all-wheel drive capabilities, this SUV ensures a smooth ride while offering the versatility to handle various terrains around Newcastle.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a great fit for up to 5 travellers, providing ample room for 3 large suitcases. This car type strikes a balance between size and comfort, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Newcastle. With its spacious interior and flexibility, the Midsize SUV is well-suited for those who require both luggage capacity and comfort during their travels.

Top rated car suppliers in Newcastle

• Budget: With one rental location in Newcastle, Budget is a top choice for travellers seeking affordability and practicality. They specialise in Midsize and Compact vehicles, making it easy to navigate the city and surrounding areas. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring Newcastle at your own pace while benefitting from Budget's competitive pricing.
• Sixt: Sixt also operates one rental location in Newcastle, offering a friendly and efficient service. Their most popular vehicles include Economy and Midsize SUVs, perfect for those who desire a little extra space and comfort during their travels. With Sixt, you can expect a seamless rental experience as you explore the attractions of Newcastle and beyond.
• Hertz: With two rental locations in Newcastle, Hertz provides convenience for travellers. They offer a variety of vehicles, with Fullsize and Midsize SUVs being the most booked options. This allows you to enjoy ample room for passengers and luggage while discovering the beautiful sights of Newcastle. Hertz’s presence in multiple locations ensures easy access to your rental car.

Where to stay in Newcastle

• Newcastle City Centre: Located in the heart of Newcastle, this vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking a beach and family experience. Nearby attractions include Newcastle Beach and Merewether Beach, both ideal for a beach holiday. The city centre is also home to Newcastle City Hall, a historic landmark, and offers various food and drink options, including restaurants and wineries. This area is particularly enjoyable during the warmer months when outdoor activities are in full swing.
• Charlestown: A suburb that combines a city-themed experience with family-friendly options, Charlestown features a shopping centre and playgrounds for entertainment. Notable beaches, such as Merewether Beach and Blacksmiths Beach, are within easy reach, making it suitable for those wishing to enjoy sun and surf. Dining options, including local wineries, add to the allure of this suburb. Charlestown is an excellent choice for business travellers, especially with the NEX convention centre nearby.
• Merewether: Known for its stunning beaches and outdoor scenery, Merewether is a great spot for those who appreciate nature. Merewether Beach and Nobbys Head Beach are popular attractions, offering picturesque views and relaxing environments. This suburb features a variety of venues including theatres and playgrounds, making it family-friendly. For food and drink, there are local bars and wineries to explore, especially appealing during the warmer months when the beaches are at their best.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the ideal vehicle 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection of vehicles, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy urban areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
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 fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should any unforeseen events arise during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Newcastle

The best value period to rent a car in and around Newcastle is April, when both prices and demand are lower. March is also a decent option, though demand is slightly high. Following April, May and June maintain average prices and demand, making them reasonable choices as well. In contrast, September tends to be the most expensive month for rentals, with higher demand levels and pricing. August and October show moderately high prices with steady demand.