Canberra Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Canberra

Renting a car in Canberra offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Lake Burley Griffin, where you can enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities, or the National Gallery of Australia, perfect for culture enthusiasts. Families will appreciate the convenience of visiting Questacon, a science museum that caters to all ages. Navigating around the Canberra City Centre becomes hassle-free, allowing you to experience Civic Square and its nearby attractions without the worry of public transport schedules. Additionally, neighborhoods like Kingston and Braddon, home to more cultural gems and attractions, are easily accessible by car. A rental car makes it simple to manage luggage and travel plans, whether you are on a family holiday, a business trip, or seeking a city-themed adventure. By having your own vehicle, you can create a travel itinerary that suits your needs, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience in and around Canberra.

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 Canberra, Europcar provides excellent access for travellers looking to explore the city and its surroundings. This supplier is particularly popular for its Standard and Midsize vehicles, making it an ideal choice for those needing a comfortable ride for both city driving and longer excursions. Europcar's flexible rental options allow you to manage your itinerary with ease.
• Avis: Avis stands out with 3 rental locations throughout Canberra, ensuring that you are never far from your next set of wheels. This supplier is well-regarded for its Midsize SUV and Compact SUV offerings, making it a great option for families or groups needing extra space. Avis’s presence in the area enhances your travel experience by providing convenient access to quality vehicles.
• Budget: Budget features 2 rental locations in Canberra, offering travellers a range of choices at competitive prices. Known for its Midsize and Fullsize SUV options, Budget is a fantastic choice for those seeking value without compromising on comfort. Their convenient pickup points make it easy to get on the road and start your adventure in and around Canberra.

Where to stay in Canberra

• Canberra City Centre: Experience the vibrant heart of Canberra in the City Centre. This area is ideal for families and business travellers alike, offering close access to shopping centres, education facilities, and popular local landmarks. Explore Civic Square, a modern square perfect for social gatherings, or enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Burley Griffin, great for outdoor activities. Art enthusiasts can visit the National Gallery of Australia, which showcases remarkable collections. The City Centre also features a variety of food options, including wineries and restaurants, making it a well-rounded choice for your stay.
• Braddon: Braddon is a trendy suburb that combines urban living with cultural experiences. Ideal for families and business visitors, it offers shopping centres and modern squares that enhance its appeal. Visitors can explore the Canberra Contemporary Art Space for a dose of local art or enjoy the picturesque views around Lake Burley Griffin. The area is also home to multiple dining options, including wineries, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Braddon's vibrant atmosphere makes it a noteworthy place to stay during your Canberra adventure.
• Queanbeyan: Situated close to Canberra, Queanbeyan presents a charming atmosphere for families and business travellers. The suburb offers shopping centres and sports facilities, making it a convenient base for your explorations. Discover the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin, ideal for leisurely outdoor activities, or visit the National Gallery of Australia for a cultural experience. History buffs may appreciate the Old Parliament House, which reflects the region’s rich heritage. With various restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, Queanbeyan is a pleasant area to consider for your stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or a compact car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a sensible balance of 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 premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car 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 added convenience may justify the extra 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 should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek 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 good value with similar pricing, though it sees higher demand. April and May continue this trend with average prices and low demand, making them great options as well. However, September is typically the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand remaining steady. August and December also experience higher pricing and busier conditions.

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	Average	Slightly Low
March	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
April	55.6°F (13.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
May	47.8°F (8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
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	Average	Slightly High
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	Average
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High