Top End Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Compare rent a car rates in Top End from popular car rental companies

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car supplier logos

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car hire
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save 10% or more on over 1 million car hire
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers to unlock big savings

Explore Top End with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Top End, Northern Territory, AUS
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Top End, Northern Territory, AUS
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Top End, Northern Territory, AUS
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Top End, Northern Territory, AUS
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Top End
View all cars

What you need to know for your Top End car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Top End

Renting a car in the Top End allows you to explore the stunning attractions at your own pace, providing the freedom and flexibility to tailor your itinerary. With easy luggage management, you can effortlessly visit key sites such as the Darwin Waterfront, located less than 1 km away, where you can enjoy family-friendly outdoor experiences. Just 1 km from Top End, Bicentennial Park offers a great urban setting for relaxation and exploration, while Government House, also less than 1 km away, enriches your cultural experiences. A rental car enhances your ability to discover nearby destinations like Darwin, where you can visit Mindil Beach and Cullen Bay Marina, or the Darwin City Centre, featuring attractions such as Bicentennial Park and Government House. The Warf Precinct, located less than 1 km away, is another convenient area to explore, showcasing the WWII Oil Storage Tunnels alongside Bicentennial Park and Government House. Whether you are seeking adventure or leisurely sightseeing, having a car allows you to fully embrace the diverse outdoor scenery and experiences that the Top End has to offer.

Most popular car rentals around Top End

  • Midsize SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic choice for families, couples, or small groups exploring the Top End. Its spacious interior allows for comfortable travel, making it perfect for longer journeys where you may need to carry more luggage.
  • Standard SUV AWD: Suitable for up to 5 travellers and capable of holding 2 small suitcases, the Standard SUV AWD is ideal for couples, families, or groups looking for flexibility and adventure. Its all-wheel-drive capability ensures you can navigate various terrains with ease, allowing you to make the most of your trip around the Top End.
  • Compact SUV: This car option comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for 3 medium suitcases, making it a great choice for solo travellers, couples, or families. The Compact SUV provides the versatility needed for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Top End, while still being manageable in urban settings.

Top rated car suppliers around Top End

  • Europcar: With a rental location less than 1 km away from Top End, Europcar is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for its reliable service, the most booked vehicles from this supplier are Compact and Standard SUV AWD, making it an excellent option for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Top End.
  • Thrifty Car Rental: Also situated under 1 km from Top End, Thrifty Car Rental offers an efficient and customer-friendly experience. The most sought-after vehicles include Standard AWD and Economy options, catering to various travel preferences and budgets. Thrifty is ideal for those looking to manage their itinerary while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
  • Hertz: Located less than 1 km away from Top End, Hertz provides a great selection of vehicles, making it a preferred choice for many visitors. Their most popular cars include Compact and Economy models, allowing travellers to navigate the area with ease. With a focus on customer satisfaction and a straightforward rental process, Hertz is a fantastic option for your car rental needs.

Where to stay around Top End

  • Darwin: Situated in the heart of the Top End, Darwin is the ideal base for those seeking an outdoor and eco-friendly experience. With attractions such as the Darwin Waterfront and Cullen Bay Marina, visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities, shopping, and dining options. The nearby Mindil Beach offers a perfect spot for beach holidays, while Bicentennial Park and Government House enhance the cultural experience. Darwin is particularly vibrant from May to October when the weather is most pleasant.
  • Mandorah: Located 9 km from the Top End, Mandorah is an excellent choice for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. It boasts stunning scenery, with highlights including national parks and beautiful waterfalls. Mindil Beach and Cullen Bay Marina are also accessible from Mandorah, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. The area's natural beauty is best appreciated during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is ideal for exploration.
  • Darwin City Centre: As a vibrant neighbourhood within Darwin, the City Centre is perfect for those looking for an outdoor and family-friendly atmosphere. It features popular attractions such as the Darwin Waterfront and Bicentennial Park, ideal for leisurely outings. With various shopping areas and dining options, visitors can enjoy a rich culinary experience. The City Centre is also home to Government House, offering a glimpse into local history and culture. The best time to visit is during the dry season, ensuring comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Top End

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option 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. Booking early often allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in busy locations. Mid-sized cars strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most cost-effective option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra 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 help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on embarking on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Top End

The best value period to rent a car in the Top End is February, when prices are moderately low and demand is low. March also offers a similar experience with low demand and prices. As the year progresses, demand and prices tend to increase, particularly from June through August, when rentals can become moderately high and busy. July stands out as the most expensive month, attracting high demand that can drive up rental costs.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January83.5°F (28.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately Low
February83.3°F (28.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLowModerately Low
March83.5°F (28.6°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyLowModerately Low
April82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May80.6°F (27.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June77.7°F (25.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageModerately High
July77.0°F (25.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighModerately High
August78.3°F (25.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighModerately High
September82.0°F (27.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighAverage
October84.7°F (29.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November85.8°F (29.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
December85.1°F (29.5°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Information on Car Rentals

Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Economy, Luxury, Full Size
Car Rental Suppliers Available:
Today's Best Car Rental Offer:
Second Best Car Rental Deal:
Third Best Car Rental Deal:
Airport to hotel transportation:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Top End car reservation?
We all have times when plans are turned on their head. That's why we offer a full refund on the majority of rentals if you notify us a minimum of six hours in advance of the collection time. Don't forget to double-check the policy — there are some cases where it's not offered. Found nothing there? Our Customer Service Portal has more information.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Top End with Expedia?
Pick up an awesome deal with Expedia. All you have to do is choose your favorite ride, select your dates and pickup and drop-off locations, and browse offers from big-name rental suppliers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your Top End car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Top End?
In Top End, the rule is usually 21 and over. Most companies will charge extra fees for young drivers, which can vary based on the rental location. Rental agreements for young drivers may restrict certain vehicles, such as large SUVs, and require inclusive insurance to be taken out. It's always a good idea to read the fine print carefully before booking your wheels.
What do you need to rent a car in Top End?
A valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name are necessities. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? Then there's a good chance you'll also need proof of your own coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so have a thorough read of your policy.
Can I drive in Top End with my U.S. Driver's license?
You can, but if you want to be doubly sure, obtain an International Driving Permit to accompany your U.S. License. The permit features your name, driver's information and photo and is a handy additional identity document.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Top End?
Expedia makes it easy to find a quality long-term rental in Top End. Simply click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your details and compare your possibilities.
Where can I find a Top End car rental if I am younger than 25?
If you're a young driver hoping to rent a vehicle in Top End, we recommend checking the terms and conditions of the various rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under 25  some may not. There may be additional fees if you're between 21 and 24 years old. To escape any nasty surprises at the rental desk, make sure you do your research.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia