Melbourne Car Rentals

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Why You Need to Rent a Car When Traveling in Melbourne

Melbourne is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do, and renting a car offers you the flexibility and comfort to explore at your own pace. While Melbourne’s public transportation system is efficient, some of the city's best attractions are located outside the city center, making a rental car a convenient option. For example, you can easily drive to the famous Great Ocean Road, just 3 hours from the city, or head to the picturesque Yarra Valley wine region, located about 1 hour away. Moreover, taxis and ride-sharing services in Melbourne can get expensive, especially when traveling longer distances, making a rental car a cost-effective alternative.

How to Find a Cheap Car Rental Deal in Melbourne

Finding a cheap car rental deal in Melbourne is simple with Trip.com. Our platform lets you easily compare prices from major car rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and AVIS, offering a wide range of vehicles to suit every need. To save more, look out for deals with free cancellation, which provide flexibility in case your plans change. Opt for "full-to-full" fuel policies, where you return the car with a full tank, to avoid extra charges. Additionally, booking in advance is key to securing the best rates, especially during busy periods like holidays or major events. Keep an eye on our exclusive offers for up to 25% off on rentals, and enjoy further discounts if you book flights or hotels on Trip.com. Whether you're exploring the city or venturing to nearby attractions, Trip.com makes finding the perfect rental car at the best price easy and hassle-free.

All You’ll Need When Renting a Car in Melbourne

To rent a car in Melbourne, you’ll need the following documents:

• Driver’s License: You must have a valid driver’s license. If you're an international visitor, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, though some rental agencies may accept an English-translated version of your home country’s driver’s license. Be sure to check with your car rental provider beforehand.
• Minimum Age: The minimum age to rent a car in Melbourne is typically 21, though some rental companies may require you to be 25 or older for certain vehicle types. Drivers under 25 may incur an additional young driver surcharge.
• Credit Card: A valid credit card in the driver's name is required for the deposit and payment. Debit cards are usually not accepted for car rentals in Melbourne.
• Insurance: While car rental companies often include basic insurance in the rental price, it’s wise to consider additional coverage options for peace of mind, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection.
• Booking Confirmation: Ensure you have your booking confirmation and any relevant documentation with you when picking up your vehicle.

Car Hire in Melbourne: Top Tips for Driving in Australia

Driving in Melbourne and across Australia can be a great way to explore the country, but it’s essential to be prepared for the unique driving conditions. Here are some top tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience:

1. Drive on the Left: In Australia, cars drive on the left side of the road, which can be challenging for visitors used to driving on the right. Take some time to adjust to this change before hitting the road.
2. Speed Limits: Speed limits in Melbourne and throughout Australia are strictly enforced. In urban areas, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h (31 mph), while highways can have limits of 100 km/h (62 mph) or more, depending on the area. Always follow posted speed signs and adjust for weather and road conditions.
3. Roundabouts: Australia has many roundabouts, especially in urban areas. When approaching a roundabout, yield to traffic coming from the right, and make sure to signal when exiting.
4. Tolls: Some roads and bridges in Melbourne have tolls. To avoid surprises, it’s a good idea to ask your rental company about toll options. Many car rental companies offer an electronic tag for tolls, which makes payments easier and faster.
5. Parking: Melbourne has strict parking regulations, and fines for parking violations can be hefty. Look out for signs indicating whether parking is permitted or restricted in certain areas. Many parking spots require payment, so make sure to pay the correct amount and display the ticket clearly. Alternatively, use parking apps to make payment easier.
6. Alcohol Limits: Australia has strict alcohol consumption laws. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 0.05%, which is lower than many countries. Avoid drinking and driving altogether, as fines and penalties are severe.
7. Wildlife and Road Hazards: If you’re driving outside Melbourne, be aware of wildlife, especially in rural or regional areas. Kangaroos, koalas, and other animals may unexpectedly cross the road. Drive cautiously, particularly at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
8. Emergency Numbers: The emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance in Australia is 000. Keep this number handy in case of an emergency while on the road.
9. Navigating Melbourne’s Roads: Melbourne can have heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM). Plan your routes in advance, use a GPS or map, and be patient during peak times.

Child Safety Requirements in Melbourne

In Melbourne, as well as throughout Australia, child safety in vehicles is taken very seriously. Children under 7 years old must be secured in an appropriate car seat while traveling. Children up to the age of 6 must use a rear-facing car seat or a forward-facing seat with a harness, depending on their age and size. For children aged 7 to 16, a booster seat is required until they reach 145 cm (4 feet 9 inches) tall, or until they are tall enough to use the regular seat belt safely. Car rental services in Melbourne typically offer the option to hire car seats for children, but it’s important to confirm availability in advance, as some locations may not always have them in stock. Failure to comply with child seat laws can result in fines and penalties, so it’s essential to ensure your child is safely secured in the appropriate seat during your travels.

Must-Visit Places in Melbourne and Surrounding Areas

Renting a car in Melbourne gives you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings. Here are some top destinations you can drive to:

• Great Ocean Road: One of the world’s most scenic drives, stretching for 243 kilometers along the coast. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Melbourne.
• Yarra Valley: Known for its beautiful wineries and lush landscapes, located just 1 hour from Melbourne.
• Phillip Island: Famous for its penguins and beautiful beaches, about 2 hours from the city.
• Grampians National Park: Ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views, around a 3-hour drive from Melbourne.

With a rental car, you can easily plan a day trip to any of these fantastic locations.

Cost-Effective Travel with MapCode

In Melbourne, Google Maps is the most widely used navigation tool, offering real-time traffic updates, route planning, and estimated travel times to help you navigate the city efficiently. Apple Maps is also a reliable option for iOS users, providing similar features. Additionally, Melbourne has a unique system called MapCode, which allows you to pinpoint specific locations, including parking spots and landmarks, with a numeric code. This can be especially useful for tourists driving in the city, as it eliminates the need for lengthy address searches and helps you find destinations more easily.

What Is the Best Time to Rent a Car in Melbourne?

The best time to rent a car in Melbourne is typically during the off-peak season, which falls between May and September. During these months, demand for rental cars tends to be lower, and you can often find more affordable rates. If your travel dates are flexible, booking your car at least two weeks in advance can help you secure the best deals. On the other hand, December to February, which is the peak summer season, sees higher prices due to increased tourism, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. For even more savings, keep an eye out for special promotions and offers, particularly in the shoulder seasons, like March-April or October-November, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are thinner.

Why You Should Choose Trip.com for Renting a Car

Flexible Cancellation Policy, No Worries if Plans Change

On Trip.com, we show free cancellation options for car rentals in Melbourne. Book the best rental for your trip and enjoy great prices along with the flexibility to cancel if your plans change.

Car Rental and Insurance, All in One

Trip.com offers a one-stop solution for car rentals and insurance, making it easy to book both at the same time. Whether you're going on a short trip or need a long-term rental, we have a range of insurance options to fully protect your journey, so you can travel with peace of mind.

Additional Benefits:

• Flyer/Hotel Guest Exclusive Offers: Unlock exclusive car rental prices for your booked flights or hotels.
• Flexible Rentals: Plan your trip with ease using our flexible cancellation policy.
• Transport Booking Guarantee: If your flight, train, or bus is delayed or canceled, contact us for assistance with your rental car booking.
• Rapid Customer Support: Our customer support team answers your call within 30 seconds, ensuring reliable service throughout your journey.