CAR RENTAL

Renting a car in Melbourne offers flexibility and convenience, whether you're visiting for business, tourism, or local travel. Here’s a comprehensive guide to car rental in Melbourne:

Major Car Rental Companies

• Avis
• Hertz
• Budget
• Europcar
• Thrifty
• Enterprise

Locations

• Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine): All major car rental companies have desks at the airport, providing easy pick-up and drop-off options for travellers.
• City Centre: Numerous rental offices are available in central Melbourne for convenient access.
• Suburbs: Locations in popular suburbs such as St Kilda, South Melbourne, and Richmond.

Types of Vehicles

• Economy Cars: Budget-friendly options for solo travellers or couples.
• SUVs and 4WDs: Suitable for families or those planning to explore off-road.
• Luxury Cars: For a premium travel experience.
• Vans and People Movers: Ideal for group travel or transporting large items.

Rental Requirements

• Age: Generally, renters must be at least 21 years old. Some companies may charge a young driver surcharge for those under 25.
• Driver's Licence: A valid driver’s licence held for at least one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) might be required for non-English licences.
• Credit Card: A credit card is usually required for the security deposit.

Booking Tips

• Early Booking: Reserve your car in advance to secure the best rates and vehicle availability.
• Compare Prices: Use comparison websites like Kayak, Skyscanner, or Rentalcars.com.
• Check for Discounts: Look for promotional offers, membership discounts (e.g., AAA), or corporate rates.
• Insurance: Consider purchasing additional insurance for peace of mind. Some travel insurance policies may cover rental cars.

Pay attention to the terms and conditions of the insurance and other additional services. For example, with some rental companies, renting a sat-nav can cost nearly as much as renting a whole car. All you need to do is bring a mobile phone holder from home and use a navigation app.

Before you set off on your journey, don't forget to check the local traffic rules.