Melbourne Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Melbourne

Renting a car in Melbourne provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for families or those seeking business-related experiences. You can visit key attractions such as the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground, which is perfect for culture and sports experiences, and the vibrant Collins Street for a taste of city life. St Kilda Beach offers a lovely spot for beach experiences, all easily accessible with a car.

A rental car also allows for convenient exploration of popular destinations like the Melbourne Central Business District, where you can find Melbourne Park and Southbank Promenade, or venture to the scenic Mornington Peninsula. With so much to see and do, having your own vehicle ensures you can make the most of your time in Melbourne, whether you are sightseeing or attending business meetings. Enjoy the flexibility of travelling to various attractions and neighbourhoods without relying on public transport or waiting for rideshares.

Most popular car rentals in Melbourne

• Midsize SUV: This car type is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers along with their luggage, providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups, offering the comfort and flexibility needed for exploring Melbourne and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the compact car option can comfortably fit 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is well-suited for navigating the urban landscape of Melbourne, allowing for easy parking and efficient fuel consumption while still providing sufficient space for your essentials.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is versatile, accommodating 5 travellers with the capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a practical choice for families or groups needing more room for luggage, ensuring a comfortable travel experience while exploring Melbourne and its vicinity.

Top rated car suppliers in Melbourne

• Sixt: Sixt operates 20 rental locations throughout Melbourne, making it a convenient choice for travellers. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Economy SUV offerings, which are well-suited for both city driving and excursions into the surrounding areas. Customers appreciate the modern fleet and the flexibility Sixt provides, allowing for a seamless travel experience as you explore Melbourne at your own pace.
• Europcar: With over 10 rental locations in Melbourne, Europcar is another excellent option for tourists seeking reliable transportation. Their most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, catering to a variety of travel needs. Customers frequently commend Europcar for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, making it a trusted choice for those who wish to navigate the vibrant city and its scenic surroundings with ease.
• Budget: Budget stands out with 30 rental locations across Melbourne, offering a wide range of options that suit various budgets. Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles are among the most popular rentals, providing comfort and space for travellers. Many customers highlight Budget's competitive rates and convenient pickup locations, making it a practical choice for those looking to make the most of their trip while exploring the attractions of Melbourne and its vicinity.

Where to stay in Melbourne

• Melbourne Central Business District: This vibrant neighbourhood offers a mix of city, family, and business experiences. Key attractions include the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground and the lively Collins Street, both easily accessible. The area is also home to a variety of shopping centres and restaurants, ensuring you have dining options at your fingertips. The Melbourne Park stadium nearby is perfect for sports enthusiasts looking to catch a game.
• Southbank: Located along the Yarra River, Southbank provides a bustling atmosphere ideal for city, family, and business travellers. Here, you can explore the Southbank Promenade, a lively street lined with eateries and shops. The Melbourne Cricket Ground is also within reach, making it a convenient choice for sports fans. This area is rich in dining options, including wineries and restaurants, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
• Docklands: Known for its family-friendly vibe, Docklands offers a unique blend of city experiences. Attractions include the impressive St Kilda Beach and the historic Collins Street, both highlighting the area’s charm. With an abundance of shopping centres and restaurants, visitors can easily find places to unwind. The proximity to the Melbourne Cricket Ground and various sports facilities makes it an excellent choice for sports lovers seeking a lively atmosphere.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, 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, making it advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a good compromise between 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 premium models—may be restricted. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be suitable. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental vehicle at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can assist in avoiding unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Melbourne

The best value period to rent a car in and around Melbourne is June, when prices are at their lowest and demand is slightly low. May and July also offer reasonable prices with similarly low demand, making them good options for budget-conscious travellers. In contrast, December tends to be the most expensive month, with heightened demand and prices. Additionally, January sees a spike in both demand and costs, making it one of the busiest times for rentals.