Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific Car Rentals & Cheap Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

Renting a car in Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your preferences. This region is home to many key attractions, such as Circular Quay, which provides stunning harbour views, and the iconic Sydney Opera House, perfect for cultural experiences. Nature enthusiasts can visit Uluru, a remarkable rock formation that offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to discover popular destinations like Fiji, with its beautiful Port Denarau Marina and pristine beaches, as well as New Zealand, known for attractions like the Hobbiton Movie Set and the Sky Tower. Whether you are travelling solo, with family, or in a group, having your own vehicle ensures you can explore these diverse landscapes without relying on public transport schedules. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience by providing the flexibility to visit the highlights of Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific comfortably and conveniently.

Most popular car rentals in Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV offers a perfect blend of comfort and space, allowing you to explore the beautiful landscapes of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific at your own pace. Its ability to handle various terrains while providing ample luggage capacity enhances your travel experience.
• Compact: Suitable for up to 5 travellers with 3 medium suitcases, the compact car is a great choice for solo travellers, couples, or families. This type of vehicle is designed for easy manoeuvrability, which is especially beneficial in urban areas where parking may be limited. Its fuel efficiency further ensures that you can enjoy your journey without worrying too much about fuel costs.
• Fullsize SUV: Accommodating 6 travellers with the capability of holding up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize SUV is perfect for families or larger groups. It provides extra space and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those planning longer trips or wishing to travel with more luggage. The fullsize SUV combines flexibility with a robust driving experience, allowing you to navigate diverse landscapes with ease.

Where to stay in Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

• Australia: Australia offers a variety of accommodations ranging from beachfront resorts to scenic lodges. Near attractions like Circular Quay, a harbour perfect for beach and scenery holidays, you can find numerous hotels with stunning views. For outdoor enthusiasts, staying close to Uluru allows easy access to breathtaking landscapes, while families might prefer locations near popular beaches, ensuring convenient access to dining and winery experiences.
• Fiji: Fiji is renowned for its idyllic beach resorts, particularly around Port Denarau Marina, which is ideal for adventure and outdoor holidays. Many resorts provide direct access to pristine beaches like Wailoaloa Beach and Denarau Beach, perfect for relaxation. Staying at these resorts not only offers stunning views but also places you near local restaurants and bars for a vibrant dining experience.
• New Zealand: In New Zealand, consider accommodations near the Bay of Islands, an area known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Hotels and lodges in this region provide easy access to hiking trails and local wineries. For a city experience, staying near the Sky Tower allows you to explore the urban landscape while being close to shopping centres and breweries, making it a great base for both adventure and relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or a budget-friendly car, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a broader selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and are easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate with a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling choices, which are also acceptable, but ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Collecting your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge; however, 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 help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to evade additional 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 Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

The best value period to rent a car in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific is May, when both prices and demand tend to be low. Surrounding months like June also offer good value with similarly low demand. March and April are decent choices as they provide average prices and demand. However, December stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand, making it a busy time for rentals. January and February follow closely with high demand and slightly elevated prices.