Canberra Airport Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Canberra Airport

Renting a car at Canberra Airport offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting nearby key sites like Lake Burley Griffin, just 4 km away, perfect for outdoor and romantic experiences. You can also head to the National Gallery of Australia, located 5 km from the airport, to immerse yourself in cultural experiences, or visit Questacon, a science museum situated 6 km away, ideal for family outings.

A rental car is particularly convenient for families and business travellers, allowing for easy transportation to various destinations such as the bustling Canberra City Centre, only 6 km from the airport, where you can find Civic Square and more attractions. The nearby neighbourhood of Duntroon, just 2 km away, also features the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin and cultural hotspots. By renting a car, you can truly tailor your itinerary and explore Canberra and its attractions comfortably and efficiently.

Most popular car rentals in Canberra Airport

• Midsize: The Midsize car option is a popular choice for travellers at Canberra Airport. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal selection for couples and families. With its balance of space and manoeuvrability, this vehicle is well-suited for exploring the area while providing ample room for luggage and passengers alike.
• Standard: Similar to the Midsize option, the Standard car also accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This choice is perfect for couples and families looking for a reliable vehicle that offers comfortable seating and sufficient storage space. The Standard car provides flexibility for your travel plans while ensuring a pleasant driving experience around Canberra Airport.
• Compact: The Compact car is an excellent option for solo travellers, couples, or small families. With the ability to accommodate up to 5 travellers and store up to 3 medium suitcases, this car type is practical for those who prefer a smaller vehicle. Its size makes it easy to navigate through city streets and find parking, while still offering enough space for essential luggage. The Compact car is a great choice for those prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing passenger comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Canberra Airport

• Europcar: Europcar is a popular choice among travellers renting cars in the Canberra Airport area. With one rental location available, they provide a selection of Standard and Midsize vehicles that are frequently booked. Customers appreciate the convenience of their location and the reliability of their fleet, making it a solid option for exploring the region at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget is well-regarded for its competitive pricing and convenience, with one rental location situated in the Canberra Airport area. The most booked vehicles from Budget include Midsize and Fullsize SUVs, which are ideal for families or groups needing extra space. Travellers often commend Budget for its straightforward rental process and well-maintained vehicles.
• Sixt: Sixt offers a great selection of vehicles at its single rental location in Canberra Airport. Renowned for Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, Sixt caters to a variety of needs, whether you are looking for a compact vehicle for city driving or something larger for more comfort. Customers find Sixt a reliable choice for their car rental needs while exploring Canberra and surrounding areas.

Where to stay around Canberra Airport

• Kowen: Located 8 km from Canberra Airport, Kowen is an inviting suburb for those seeking a romantic or family-themed experience. Visitors can enjoy the nearby national park and nature reserve, perfect for outdoor adventures. Dining options include restaurants and local wineries, making it a great spot to unwind. Key attractions like Lake Burley Griffin, ideal for scenic views and outdoor activities, are easily accessible, offering a lovely escape into nature.
• Canberra City Centre: Situated 6 km from Canberra Airport, Canberra City Centre is an urban hub that caters to family, business, and city-themed experiences. This vibrant neighbourhood features shopping centres and educational establishments, ensuring a bustling atmosphere. Notable landmarks include Civic Square and the National Gallery of Australia, both enriching your cultural experience. The proximity to Lake Burley Griffin adds a touch of natural beauty, making it a well-rounded destination for travellers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Canberra Airport

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals adhere to a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in the event of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Canberra Airport

The best value period for renting a car at Canberra Airport is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is high. May and June also offer good options, as both months feature slightly low prices with low demand. In contrast, September tends to be the most expensive month, accompanied by slightly high prices and average demand. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	69.3°F (20.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
February	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
March	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	55.6°F (13.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	47.8°F (8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
June	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
July	42.1°F (5.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
August	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	48.9°F (9.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High