Canberra Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Canberra

Renting a car in and around Canberra offers valuable freedom and flexibility for exploring the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to key attractions like Lake Burley Griffin, which provides a picturesque setting for various outdoor activities, and the National Gallery of Australia, a hub for culture enthusiasts. Families will appreciate the convenience of visiting Questacon, a science museum that caters to all ages, without the hassle of public transport schedules.

Additionally, having a car allows you to explore popular neighborhoods such as Canberra City Centre, Kingston, and Braddon, each featuring unique attractions like Civic Square and the Canberra Contemporary Art Space. This flexibility is especially beneficial for families, business travellers, or those looking to immerse themselves in the city-themed experiences. With the ease of luggage management and the ability to create your own travel itinerary, renting a car ensures a comfortable and efficient way to experience the best of Canberra and its vicinity.

Most popular car rentals in Canberra

• Midsize SUV: This car option is highly popular among travellers in Canberra, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with space for 3 large suitcases. Its spacious interior makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility. With a midsize SUV, you can enjoy the freedom to explore Canberra and its surroundings with ease, all while managing your luggage effortlessly.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is another frequently booked choice for those visiting Canberra. It comfortably seats 5 travellers and offers room for 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples, families, or groups. This vehicle provides a balance of space and practicality, ensuring that your travel experience in and around Canberra is both enjoyable and flexible.
• Compact SUV: For solo travellers, couples, or small families, the compact SUV is a great option. It accommodates up to 5 passengers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for those looking to navigate Canberra’s attractions with ease while still having the necessary space for their belongings. Its compact size makes it manageable for city driving, ensuring a convenient exploration of the area.

Top rated car suppliers in Canberra

• Europcar: With 2 rental locations in the Canberra area, Europcar provides an excellent option for travellers seeking flexibility. Known for its popular Standard and Midsize vehicles, Europcar allows you to explore the attractions of Canberra at your own pace. Enjoy the convenience of managing your luggage and adjusting your itinerary seamlessly with their reliable services.
• Avis: Avis stands out with 3 rental locations in Canberra, offering travellers a diverse selection of vehicles. Their most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making it easy to navigate the region comfortably. With Avis, you can experience the freedom to explore Canberra and its surroundings, ensuring an enjoyable and hassle-free journey.
• Budget: Budget offers 2 convenient rental locations in the Canberra area, perfect for visitors looking for value. Their most popular choices include Midsize and Fullsize SUVs, ideal for families or groups. With Budget, you can enjoy economical car rentals while taking full advantage of the sights and experiences that Canberra has to offer.

Where to stay in Canberra

• Canberra City Centre: Located in the heart of Canberra, this vibrant neighborhood offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a mix of business and city-themed experiences. It's home to attractions like Civic Square, ideal for enjoying the outdoors, and Lake Burley Griffin, perfect for scenic views and romantic getaways. The National Gallery of Australia adds a cultural touch, and nearby dining options include a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient base for exploring.
• Braddon: Known for its artistic flair, Braddon features the Canberra Contemporary Art Space and is a hub for culture enthusiasts. This suburb offers a blend of family, business, and city experiences, with access to shopping centres and dining options. Lake Burley Griffin is also nearby, offering picturesque landscapes. With its trendy vibe and local eateries, Braddon is an excellent choice for those seeking a lively atmosphere.
• Queanbeyan: Situated close to Canberra, Queanbeyan provides a family-friendly environment with a range of business and city-themed activities. Visitors can explore the historic Old Parliament House and the National Gallery of Australia for a touch of culture. Lake Burley Griffin is within reach, offering scenic beauty. The suburb boasts various shopping centres and dining options, making it a practical choice for those looking to experience the surrounding area.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and specific features you need. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car to save on costs, Expedia's filters can assist you in finding 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and have a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may incur higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most cost-effective option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might 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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's simple to add rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Canberra

The best value period to rent a car in and around Canberra is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March also offers similar value, although demand tends to be high then. Following these months, April and May see average prices with low demand, making them decent options as well. Conversely, September is typically the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, while January remains busy and costly due to high demand levels.