Australia is a vast country with diverse landscapes, and the best way to explore it is by car.
Whether you’re planning a road trip along the coast or want to visit the outback, hiring a car gives you the freedom and flexibility to travel at your own pace.
However, if you’re not familiar with the Australia flights, Australian road rules and driving conditions, renting a car can be a daunting task. In this blog, we’ll share some tips to help you hire a car when traveling in Australia.
1 – Choose the right car rental company
When it comes to car rental in Australia, there are many options to choose from.
You can rent a car from major international companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar or local companies like Budget, Thrifty, and Redspot.
Each company has different rates, policies, and terms and conditions, so it’s essential to do your research and compare the options.
You can also use a comparison website like Kayak or Rentalcars.com to find the best deals.
One company that we highly recommend for car hire and road trips in Australia is TravelEssence.
They offer personalized travel experiences and can help you plan your itinerary, book your accommodation, and provide local insights and recommendations.
They also have a range of quality rental cars to choose from, including 4WDs, campervans, and luxury cars.
2 – Check the insurance coverage
Car rental companies in Australia usually offer different levels of insurance coverage, including basic insurance, collision damage waiver, and comprehensive insurance.
It’s important to understand what is covered by each policy and what the excess amount is.
The excess is the amount you’ll have to pay if you’re involved in an accident or damage the car.
Some companies offer excess reduction options for an additional fee, which can lower your liability in case of an accident.
It’s also a good idea to check if your credit card or travel insurance covers car rental excess.
Some credit cards and travel insurance policies offer rental car excess insurance as a benefit, which can save you money and provide peace of mind.
3 – Familiarize yourself with the road rules
The road rules in Australia are different from those in other countries, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with them before you start driving. Some of the important rules to keep in mind include:
- Driving on the left-hand side of the road
- Wearing seat belts at all times
- Keeping to the speed limit (which is in kilometers per hour)
- Not using a mobile phone while driving
- Stopping at red lights and stop signs
- Giving way to pedestrians and cyclists
It’s also important to be aware of the wildlife on the roads, especially in rural areas.
Kangaroos and other animals can suddenly appear on the road, so it’s important to slow down and be vigilant, especially at dusk and dawn.
4 – Plan your route and stops
Australia is a vast country, and driving long distances can be tiring and challenging. Before you start your road trip, it’s essential to plan your route and stops.
Consider the driving time, distance, and road conditions, and plan to take breaks every two hours or so.
You can also use online resources like Google Maps, TripAdvisor, and Roadtrippers to plan your itinerary and find attractions and restaurants along the way.
When planning your stops, consider the time of year and weather conditions.
In the summer, temperatures can be scorching, especially in the outback, so it’s important to stay hydrated and take regular breaks.
In the winter, some roads may be closed or restricted due to snow or flooding, so it’s important to check the road conditions before you start driving.
By following these four tips for hiring a car in Australia, you can ensure that your trip is safe, enjoyable, and hassle-free.
Whether you are travelling to Australia for business or pleasure, consider Car hire and road trips in Australia with TravelEssence for the best deals and expert advice.
Luciana joined our team as a mum blogger in 2020. A dedicated mum to a lively daughter and a dog, Luna, Luciana brings authenticity and passion to every post. Her expertise in parenting and lifestyle topics offers practical, relatable advice for real-life situations.