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Is Renting with Roof Racks Worth It Here?

February 2, 2026 / 1932 / Travel Guide
Is Renting with Roof Racks Worth It Here?

You’re planning a trip and staring at all the gear you need to take. The rental car is booked, but now you’re wondering whether you should add roof racks to the booking.

It’s not as straightforward as it seems. Sometimes, roof racks are exactly what you need. Other times, they’re an unnecessary expense and hassle when there’s a simpler solution.

Let’s work out which situation you’re actually in.

Who Actually Needs Roof Racks

If you’re heading to the Gold Coast with surfboards, we can stop here. You need roof racks. End of discussion. A 6-foot board and a sedan don’t mix, even if you fold down the passenger seat and get creative. All that happens is your mate squashed in the back, copes with fibreglass in the ribs for three hours down the M1. Roof racks fix this completely. Boards go up top, everyone sits like normal humans, sorted.

Cyclists face the same thing. Planning rides through the Dandenongs? Coastal tracks around Noosa? Trying to fit two or three bikes inside a car is a nightmare. Wheels sticking out everywhere, pedals scratching the upholstery, someone’s nice Trek getting dinged. On the roof, they sit secure, and nobody has to perform acrobatics to get in the car.

Then you’ve got the camping mob. Victoria’s high country for a long weekend. Queensland hinterland for a week. You need tents, swags, eskies, camp chairs, and that portable BBQ your mate refuses to leave behind. Suddenly, the back seat looks like you’ve ransacked a BCF store. A roof box gives you breathing room. Everything fits, people can actually sit comfortably, and you’re not unpacking half your gear just to grab lunch.

What ties all this together? You’re hauling stuff that’s awkward and bulky. The kind of gear that doesn’t care how big your car is because it simply won’t fit inside properly, full stop.

Roof Racks or Bigger Car: Which Actually Works

Here’s where most people get stuck. You need more space, but should you add roof racks to a sedan or just hire a bigger vehicle?

  • When Roof Racks are the Smarter Choice:


You’re transporting long, awkward items like surfboards, kayaks, or bikes. An SUV won’t help here. A Kia Carnival has a massive boot, but it still can’t swallow three longboards. Roof racks are built for this exact problem.

You want to maximise passenger comfort. Four adults going away for a long weekend need their space. Roof racks keep luggage out of the cabin, so nobody’s wedged against camping gear for the entire M1 drive.

  • When a Bigger Vehicle Makes More Sense:


You’re packing standard camping gear and suitcases. Sleeping bags, tents, eskies, the usual holiday stuff. All of that fits way better inside an SUV or people mover. You don’t need to climb on the car every time you want to grab something. Rain doesn’t matter. Open the boot, throw your gear in, close it, done.

You’re doing serious kilometres. Fuel costs with roof racks add up faster than you think. Sometimes the bigger car actually costs less overall.

You value convenience over everything else. Loading roof racks takes practice. You need to check the straps regularly. There are height limits to remember. A bigger boot? Open, load, close, done.

What Roof Racks Actually Cost You

The daily hire fee is just the beginning. There’s a whole fuel consumption issue that catches people completely off guard.

Empty roof racks increase drag. You’re driving Melbourne to Lorne, or up the Pacific Highway to Byron Bay, and those bars on your roof are costing you 5% to 8% more in fuel. Load them up with gear, and that jumps to 12% to 20% worse economy.

Let’s put real numbers on this. A week-long trip covering 1500 kilometres. With loaded roof racks, you’re looking at an extra sixty to a hundred dollars in fuel, depending on current petrol prices. That’s on top of the twenty-odd dollars per day to hire the racks themselves.

Compare that to upgrading from a sedan to an SUV. You might pay an extra twenty to thirty dollars per day for the vehicle, sure. But the fuel penalty is way less, and you’ve got more space, better comfort, and zero faff with loading gear on the roof.

Then there’s the noise factor. Wind whistling through the roof bars at 110 clicks gets annoying. Some people don’t mind it. For others, an hour out of Melbourne and they’re ready to rip the racks off themselves.

Common Mistakes People Make with Roof Racks

  • Forgetting about height clearance.


Your rental sedan is about 1.5 metres tall. Stick roof racks and a cargo box on there, now you’re close to two metres. Pull into a Westfield car park with 1.8 metre clearance, and you’ll be on the phone to the rental company explaining the damage. Happens way more often than people admit.

  • Leaving racks on when empty.


You’ve dropped the bikes at your trail, now you’re heading into town for lunch with empty roof racks, creating drag and burning extra fuel. Most racks take five minutes to remove. Just do it.

  • Ignoring insurance gaps.


Some rental policies specifically exclude roof rack damage or slug you with higher excess fees. Scrape a cargo box on a low branch or damage the mounting points, and you might be covering the full repair cost. Worth checking before you sign.

  • Overloading the racks.


Most have weight limits of around 50 to 75 kilograms. People assume they can pile anything up there. You can’t. Too much weight affects handling, especially in wind or tight corners. It’s also genuinely dangerous.

  • Not testing before committing to a long drive.


That whistle at highway speed might seem minor in the car park. Six hours up the Hume Highway, it’ll drive you mental. If the noise bothers you, swap to a bigger vehicle before you’re too far gone.

When You’re Better Off Without Them

Short city trips around Melbourne or Brisbane don’t need roof racks. A few days getting around with normal luggage? Not worth it. Multi-level car parks become a headache. Tight streets are harder to navigate. Underground parking makes you nervous. All because you’ve got stuff on the roof you didn’t really need.

Airport transfers where you’re moving between accommodations. Your suitcases fit in the boot. Why add complexity?

Budget-conscious travellers watching every dollar. That 8% to 20% fuel penalty over two weeks adds up. It could easily hit a hundred dollars or more. If you’re keeping track of costs, run the numbers properly. Sometimes that slightly bigger vehicle ends up cheaper once fuel is included.

For the first timers who haven’t used roof racks before. There’s a bit of a learning curve to loading and securing everything properly. If the trip is already stressful enough, why add another thing to worry about? Nothing wrong with keeping it simple.

The Real Decision

Here’s the honest test. Lay everything out that you’re taking on this trip. Actually, spread it on the floor and look at it. 

Would it genuinely not fit in an SUV or a people mover? Because if a Kia Sportage or Toyota Kluger would handle it comfortably, that’s probably your answer, unless you specifically need roof racks for boards or bikes.

Roof racks work brilliantly for certain gear. Surfboards, kayaks, bikes, rooftop tents. Things that are bulky and awkward but not super heavy. For standard luggage and camping equipment, internal space is almost always more practical. It’s weatherproof, easily accessible, doesn’t hammer your fuel economy, and you don’t need to scale the car to load and unload.

At Cheaper Car Rentals, we keep things straightforward. We’ve got vehicles ranging from compact cars through to SUVs and eight-seater vans, which means you can usually find something that fits your gear without needing roof racks at all.

All our rentals include 200 kilometres free per day and RACV roadside assistance. If you genuinely need roof racks for a specific purpose, give us a ring, and we’ll talk through what actually makes sense for your trip rather than just adding extras to your bill.

We’ve been doing this since 1981 and have seen every possible gear combination people try to squeeze into cars. Sometimes, roof racks are absolutely the right call. Often, they’re not necessary at all. We’ll tell you straight which one applies to your situation.

Make a reservation and talk to us about what you’re actually carrying. We’ll sort out whether you need roof racks or just a bigger boot.

What No One Tells You About Car Pickup Delays

February 2, 2026 / 1936 / Travel Guide

Imagine this: you step off the plane, grab your luggage, and head straight to the rental counter. Your booking confirmation is ready. Everything should be smooth. Then the agent looks up with that apologetic smile and says your car needs another 45 minutes.

Suddenly, your beach lunch reservation is in jeopardy. The kids are getting cranky. Your whole carefully planned day starts falling apart. This is a situation which, while not a common occurence still happens frequently.

Why Delays Actually Happen

Rental companies don’t advertise this, but delays happen all the time. More than you’d think. And it’s not because they’re trying to ruin your day.

Think about Melbourne Airport on a random Tuesday in January. School holidays are wrapping up. Some family from Sydney was meant to drop their SUV off at 10 AM. They hit traffic on the M1 and didn’t roll in until midday. Now that the car needs a proper clean, someone has to check it over for dings and scratches, and it needs fuel. All before you can have it at your 12:30 booking.

Oh, and that other SUV they had lined up for you? Still at the mechanic getting a busted taillight fixed. What looked simple on their computer system two days ago is now a scramble. Here’s what actually causes most pickup delays:

Someone before you ran late.

This is the big one. Late returns mess up the whole day. That car can’t just get handed to you covered in someone else’s chip crumbs with the fuel light on. It needs work. Every hour late on the return is an hour late for your pickup.

Everyone books at the last second now.

You can reserve a car on your phone while you’re literally walking through the airport. Great for convenience, terrible for planning. When fifty people all do this on a long weekend, rental places run out of cars fast.

Cars break.

Not often, but it happens. A minor bingle in the car park. A warning light that won’t go off. Yesterday, that vehicle was fine. Today, it’s not available, and they’re shuffling their whole fleet around trying to find you something else.

Not enough staff.

Peak season, everyone wants to travel, but rental companies struggle to find people to work the counters. Fewer staff means longer waits, even when there are twenty cars sitting in the lot with keys ready to go.

The Fine Print Nobody Reads

Your booking confirmation looks straightforward. You picked dates, chose a car, and paid. What it doesn’t clearly explain:

“Vehicle type subject to availability” means they might give you something different. “Estimated pickup time” carries no guarantee. “Similar or better vehicle” is defined by them, not you. Most companies offer no compensation for delays under a certain threshold.

The terms and conditions run pages long. Even if you read them, the actual handling of delays often differs from what’s written.

What Delays Really Cost You

Look, it’s not about the hour you lose standing at a counter. It’s everything that hour triggers.

That lunch booking at the beachside cafe in Mornington? Gone. Your family is sitting at home waiting for you? They’re starting to worry. The coastal drive you mapped out to catch the sunset? You’ll be lucky to see twilight now.

To the rental company, this is Tuesday. Another small hiccup in their day. To you, it’s wrecking plans you’ve thought about for weeks or even months.

How to Avoid the Worst of It

Book directly if you can. Those comparison websites look great on price, but when something goes sideways, you’re ping ponging between the booking platform and the actual rental desk. Nobody wants to take responsibility. One company, one phone number, one person to yell at if needed.

  • Pick weird times for pickup.


Everyone rocks up between 7 and 9 in the morning, at lunch, or after work. Go at 10:30 AM or 3 PM instead. Shorter queues, more staff actually paying attention to you, and less chaos overall.

  • Sign up for their loyalty thing. 


Yeah, even if you only rent twice a year. Takes two minutes online, costs nothing, and suddenly you’ve got an express lane, and someone might actually remember your name.

  • Ring them the day before.


Not email. Actually, call the branch where you’re picking up. “Is my car definitely there?” If they’re going to stuff you around, better to know now than when you’re standing there with your luggage.

  • Know your Plan B.


Which other companies are at that airport? Could you push your schedule back an hour if you had to? Just having options in your head makes the stress way more manageable.

  • Screenshot everything.


Your booking confirmation, the email saying what time to arrive, even the texts you send asking where your car is. Sounds paranoid until you need to fight for a refund later.

Tips When You Are Standing There with No Car

So, you’ve arrived, and your car isn’t there. The person behind the counter has perfected the sympathetic head tilt but isn’t actually helping.

Don’t lose your temper. Tempting, but it won’t speed anything up. Instead, pin them down with actual questions. Why is it delayed? Not “there’s been a delay”, but what specifically happened. When will it actually be ready? Not “soon” but a real time. What can you do for me right now to fix this? And yeah, ask if there’s any compensation on the table.

If the front desk person keeps giving you corporate speak and no answers, ask for their manager. Sometimes the supervisors can actually make decisions instead of just reading from a script.

Thirty minutes late? Start asking about discounts or upgrades. They won’t offer. You have to ask. Some companies have policies about this; they just hope you don’t know about them.

At some point, you’ve got to weigh up whether waiting is worth it. Two hours stuck at the airport when there’s another rental company fifty metres away with cars available? Cut your losses. Your time matters more than loyalty to a booking that’s already stuffed.

Why Choose Independent Operators

Big international chains have sophisticated systems and huge fleets. They also have rigid corporate structures. When something goes wrong, the counter staff often cannot deviate from policy, no matter how reasonable your request.

Independent operators work differently. Smaller companies can solve problems faster because decisions get made on the spot, not escalated through corporate bureaucracy.

Call them directly, and you talk to people with authority to help immediately. Need a vehicle urgently? They can shuffle their fleet. Running late with a return? A quick phone call usually sorts it out without penalties.

This isn’t just all talk. Smaller independent companies simply have more flexibility to handle unexpected situations, which matters enormously when you’re dealing with delays.

Delays Worth Fighting

It’s not always the company’s fault either that there are delays happening with your ride, still, there are some delays which deserve pushback. Others, however, you can just accept.

  • Push back on these: 


Delays over one hour with no warning or explanation. Being charged for time you couldn’t use the vehicle. Getting downgraded to a smaller car without compensation. Poor communication or dishonesty about timing.

  • Let these go:


Short delays under 30 minutes for cleaning or prep. Delays from genuine emergencies or safety issues. Situations where they upgrade you for free. Problems clearly outside their control, like extreme weather.

The Honest Truth

Car pickup delays frustrate everyone. They happen more than they should, and although the industry has improved, it still isn’t perfect. Your best protection against it is realistic expectations, smart planning, and choosing companies that put customer service first. Cheaper Car Rentals can be just what you need.

We’ve been in this business since 1981 and have encountered pretty much every delay scenario imaginable. We believe that honesty and flexibility matter more than corporate efficiency, and thus, while we won’t promise zero delays because that would be dishonest. We will promise clear communication, real solutions when problems happen, and respect for your time. Ready for straightforward car hire without the usual airport hassles? Make a reservation with Cheaper Car Rentals today.

Why Car Rental Prices Skyrocket Every Season? How to Outsmart Them?

December 3, 2025 / 1925 / Travel Guide
Why Car Rental Prices Skyrocket Every Season How to Outsmart Them

Being on the road is magical! With windows down, your favourite playlist humming, new places to see, people to meet, and memories to make, planning a trip is undoubtedly exciting!

Imagine not having to juggle bus schedules on your trip. Or not dragging luggage across stations or squeezing into crowded rideshares. Car rentals can do that! With a car rental, you can achieve a smooth, flexible, and genuinely enjoyable adventure.

Explore the Landscape on Your Own Terms

Planning a trip involves many dynamic parts. However, a rental car eliminates much of your headache by removing the need to coordinate multiple transfers. Thus, you can confidently map out your itinerary, knowing your ride will always be ready and waiting.

In short, a rental car makes your journey a part of the adventure rather than an obstacle. It serves as an effortless, dependable, and ideal solution for travellers seeking a smoother, more predictable travel flow.

Why Car Rental Prices Change

At times, the price of a car rental doubles overnight. One week, you browse affordable deals, and the following week, every SUV, compact car, and people mover is either sold out or sky-high in price. And it is one of the biggest frustrations for travellers, both locals and tourists. Indeed, it feels unfair, random, and confusing. The “invisible seasons” include:

  • Long-weekend season
  • Wedding & event season
  • School holiday season
  • Tourist peak season
  • Rainy or storm season
  • Festival season
  • Fuel price changes
  • Economic seasons
  • Fleet availability


Rental companies adjust pricing dynamically. The time of the year you book a car rental plays a significant role in pricing. Seasonal timing creates a huge rift between a bargain and a budget blowout. You save more the earlier you understand seasonal patterns.

High Season vs Low Season: What You Need to Know

Australia’s travel habits follow a predictable rhythm:

High Season

Summer holidays (December-January), long weekends, Easter break, mid-year school holidays, and public holidays.

  • Prices almost always increase
  • Larger cars and SUVs sell out fast
  • Vehicle choice becomes limited
  • Last-minute bookings cost significantly more


Low Season

May-June (except for school holidays), late August-November.

  • Better car selection
  • Cheaper rates
  • Opportunity for upgrades
  • More flexible terms


Knowing how each season behaves helps you plan and stretch your budget further.

Best Times of the Year to Book and Save

Summer (December to February) is the Peak Demand with Higher Prices

Australians hit the road most in summer. Think about Christmas gatherings, family holidays, beach trips, and road adventures. And this is the most expensive time to rent a car.

Tips to Save:

  • You should book 4-6 weeks in advance for the best choice of vehicles.
  • Prices spike between Christmas and New Year. You should avoid pickup and drop off during this time.
  • Secure larger vehicles, like SUVs, vans, or 7-8 seaters, as early as possible.
  • You can avoid seasonal surcharges by choosing off-airport pickup locations.
  • Weekly rates are usually cheaper than three or four separate days. It’s better to rent for a whole week.


Autumn (March to May) is Great for the Weather & Offers Better Prices

Autumn is the time when holidaymakers are few, families are back to school, and even the temperature is ideal for travelling. Thus, it is widely considered one of the best seasons for rental fleet availability and lower prices.

Tips to Save:

  • After the long March weekend, shoulder-season discounts begin. Grab them!
  • If you’re planning your trip around Easter, it is better to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
  • For longer journeys, a fuel-efficient model is ideal


Winters (June to August) are the Cheapest Months for Many Locations

Winters are incredibly affordable. During this time, tourist traffic drops, especially in urban and coastal areas. You can enjoy some of the lowest prices of the year while offering more flexibility for last-minute bookings. Moreover, you can also benefit from the frequent promotions and specials.

Tips to Save:

  • Opt for weekday rentals rather than weekend rentals. The former would be cheaper for you.
  • A safe, well-maintained vehicle would be ideal for travelling in colder regions. You should get SUVs or all-wheel drives for greater stability.
  • Avoid the school holiday periods in July.


Spring (September to November) Offers the Perfect Balance of Price & Availability

Spring offers mild weather. Since families are not yet in summer-season mode, savvy travellers score excellent deals. The prices remain reasonable during spring, while the vehicles are readily available. You can enjoy pre-summer promotions.

Tips to Save:

  • Book 2-3 weeks in advance for the best rates.
  • Go for a newer, fuel-efficient model if you’re going on a long road trip.

The Right Fleet for Different Seasons

Different seasons demand different types of cars. Rental companies usually have a vast fleet, including small hatchbacks, SUVs, vans, and even premium vehicles. Choose the right vehicle for your seasonal needs.

In Summer 

 In Winter  

In Autumn & Spring  
  • Larger SUVs  
  • Air-conditioned comfort  
  • Higher luggage capacity  
  • Safe, stable vehicles 
  • Larger space for winter gear  
  • Better traction  
  • Fuel-efficient cars  
  • Compact options for city and regional travel  
  • Comfortable sedans for weekend escapes 

Innovative Strategies to Save Even More

Season matters! However, these strategies work year-round to keep costs low.

  • Book Early


Prices shoot up during busy periods such as New Year’s, Christmas, Easter, long weekends, and school holidays. Early bookings almost always give you better prices. As the date approaches, prices rise on demand. Plan ahead to avoid shockingly high prices.

  • Avoid Airport Pickups


Airport pickups are infamous for their booming surcharges. If you choose a nearby city location, you can save up to 20 per cent, or even more. Go for premium vehicles if style and comfort are your priority.

  • Choose the Right Vehicle


Pick a car that fits your purpose, helps cut fuel expenses and rental fees. Small cars are ideal for quick trips, commuting, and city driving. For comfort and fuel saving, medium sedans provide the perfect balance.

  • Travel on Weekdays


Mondays through Thursdays are commonly cheaper than holidays or weekends. If you’ve planned regional trips or are going on a family road trip, SUVs are the most affordable and convenient option.

  • Check Fuel Policies


Some car rental services offer unlimited kilometres with their Utes and vans. Such deals save a lot, as you can travel farther while carrying your equipment or goods. The “return full” options are almost always better than pre-paid fuel options.

  • Use One-Way Rentals Carefully


One-way drop-offs are convenient. Nevertheless, they come with fees sometimes. If you’re choosing one-way drop-offs, book early and even compare multiple locations.

What Travellers Often Forget, But Shouldn’t…

  • Inspect the Car Before Leaving


Before you start your ride, check the tyre condition, cleanliness, and fuel level of your car. You should also take note of dents or scratches, and if spare tyres are available.

  • Double-Check Hidden Fees


Enquire about additional drivers, late return fees, or premium location charges. Do not forget to ask if there are any under 25 surcharges.

  • Consider Travel Insurance


Accidents do happen. Proper insurance reduces your liability significantly while giving you the ultimate peace of mind.

Top Seasonal Booking Tips

Summers   Autumns   Winters   Springs  
  • Book 4-6 weeks early  
  • Avoid holiday crushes  
  • Choose vehicles before they sell out  
  • Best value vs comfort  
  • Look for promotions  
  • Great time for road trips  
  • Cheapest season for most regional areas   
  • Book early (only for snow areas)  
  • Check vehicle safety features  
  • Plan beforehand (nearly 2-3 ahead)  
  • Good balance for choice and price  
  • Excellent for longer drives  

Enjoy the Joy or Discovery with Your Family

There’s no denying that a comfortable car ride offers a shared space for conversation, naturally flowing jokes, and kids taking a peaceful nap between stops. You no longer need to worry about keeping everyone together on different routes.

Personal cars make discovering new places feel more exciting and personal. With your own car, you can find something unexpected with every turn.

To conclude, car rentals elevate your adventure experience. You experience comfort, convenience, and a little extra adventure rolled into one.

Final Thoughts

Car rentals do not need to strain your wallet unnecessarily. Strategic booking enables you to save money while enjoying comfort and reliability. You should understand the seasonal pattern, plan early, and choose the right vehicle for your needs. These would make all the difference.

For affordable short- and long-term car rentals, Cheaper Car Rentals provides affordable hire services that suit every budget. Their fleet comprises current and older model cars from trusted car manufacturing brands such as Hyundai, Nissan & MG, and Toyota. They maintain their vehicles and get them regularly serviced by a licensed vehicle mechanic.

Moreover, they offer 200km free per day and 24-hour roadside assistance.

How to Find the Best Christmas Car Rental Deals in Australia

December 3, 2025 / 1684 / Travel Guide
How to Find the Best Christmas Car Rental Deals in Australia

Christmas in Australia has a feeling all of its own. Long warm days, family gatherings, seafood lunches, road trips and last-minute gift runs. It is a time when the entire country seems to move at once. If you are planning to hire a car, you are probably already noticing how quickly prices rise once December comes around. Finding a good deal is not impossible. You just need a bit of planning and a clear idea of what you want before you start comparing options.

Before you rush to book anything, first understand why there is such a rush during the Christmas period. Cars disappear earlier than expected and the ones that remain usually cost more. With a few smart choices, you can secure a car that suits your plans without stressing over the rush.

The Great Christmas Car Grab: Why It Goes Bonkers

Let’s be honest, that mid-December to end-of-January period is the family season. The entire country seems to decide at once that it’s time to pack up and go on a road trip with the family or loved ones. This massive, sudden rush for a very small number of available cars sends the cost through the roof and makes finding something decent well into the negatives.

A little bit of planning now can help save you a stack of cash later, leaving more money for important things like seafood and beer.

What happens during car rentals in the Christmas season:

  • The prices get ridiculous: What might cost you fifty bucks a day in May can easily double or even triple over the Christmas break. It’s just how it is.
  • All the good cars vanish first: If you’re dreaming of a big comfy SUV to haul the family and all their junk, you can’t rock up a week before Christmas and expect to find one. They’ll be long gone, leaving you with a choice between a tiny buzz box or walking.
  • One-way fees will bite you on the bum: Planning on driving from Melbourne to Sydney and flying back? Brace yourself. Rental companies often slug you with a massive fee to get their car back to where it started. It can be hundreds of dollars.

Plan and Book Smart or Cry Later

This is the most important bit of advice in this whole thing. Book your car as early as you humanly can. It is that critical.

Booking early isn’t just about getting a better price, although that’s a huge part of it. It’s about having options. You get first pick of the best cars, the best deals, and the most convenient spots to pick it up from. Leaving it to the last-minute means you’re fighting for the scraps, and you’ll pay a fortune for the privilege. Think of it this way, the money you save on the car could easily pay for a few rounds of drinks on Christmas Day.

How to Pick Your Perfect Holiday Ride

Choosing the right car is about more than just how many persons you can fit on the seats. You need to think about the gear. The esky, the beach chairs, the boogie boards, the giant inflatable swan that someone thought was a brilliant idea, and of course, the mountain of presents you’ve somehow got to hide in the boot. Underestimating how much stuff you have is a classic Christmas blunder that leads to a very cramped and very stressful drive.

Be real with yourself. What are you actually doing? Are you just a couple heading to a fancy hotel in the city for a few days? Or are you a family of four embarking on a two-week camping trip along the coast? The answer changes everything. Don’t just think about the people, think about all the stuff that comes with them. Key things to consider:

  • Think about distance: Long drives feel very different in a car that is too small or too noisy. Comfort matters when you are on the road for hours.
  • Check the fuel use of the car you want: Christmas trips often involve big distances, and a fuel-efficient model can save you a surprising amount.
  • Look at how easy the car is to load and unload: Wide boots, sliding doors, or fold-down seats can make packing everything much simpler.
  • Consider the weather and terrain: City-only driving is one thing, but coastal roads, country highways or steep caravan park driveways may need something sturdier.

The Hidden Tricks: Decoding Your Rental Deal

You’ve found an amazing deal online. Ten bucks a day! What a bargain. Hang on a minute. That price you see advertised is almost never the full story. The car rental game is famous for its optional extras and sneaky fees, and that cheap daily rate can blow out to something completely different once you add everything on.

You need to calm down and read everything before making the payment. Here’s what you should especially ask for before you sign on the dotted line. Knowing these details can save you from a nasty surprise when you get the final bill:

  • Insurance Excess: What is the absolute worst-case scenario? Always check what the standard excess is. Is it a few hundred dollars or five thousand dollars? This will tell you how much risk you are really taking on.
  • Kilometre Limits: Although most rental companies charge you per kilometre, it never hurts to check if they have any limits.
  • Extra Driver Fees: Sharing the driving. Want your partner to be able to take over for a bit? That will often cost you an extra fee per day for each extra driver. Make sure you factor that into your budget.
  • Age Surcharges: The young person taxes. If you or any other driver is under the age of 25, you will almost certainly be hit with a daily surcharge. It can be a lot, so make sure you know about it before you book.

Insider Hacks for an Amazing Road Trip Deal

Beyond the basics of booking early and choosing the right size car, there are a few little-known tricks that can help you get an even better deal. These are the moves that separate the beginners from the seasoned travellers.

It is about looking past the big shiny international companies and thinking a bit differently about how you rent your car. A little bit of extra research can go a long way. Check out these tips to make sure you are getting the absolute best value for your money:

  • Compare airport versus city locations: The price for picking up a car from the airport and from any other place has a massive difference; check it out before you decide.
  • Use a comparison site: Websites like the one you are on right now do all the hard work for you, comparing prices from dozens of different companies all at once. It is the easiest way to see the whole market and find the best value for money.
  • Check your memberships: Many organisations or even some unions and workplaces, have partnerships with rental companies that can get you a discount.
  • Join the loyalty program: If you rent cars even semi-regularly, signing up for the company’s loyalty program is a no-brainer. You will get member-only discounts, faster service, and the ability to bypass the dreaded hard sell at the counter.

Let’s Get You on the Road

So, there you have it. Your guide to conquering the Christmas car rental madness. Book early, choose your car wisely, and read the fine print. Do all that, and you will be cruising down the highway with your favourite carols blaring, without a care in the world. Have a cracking holiday and drive safely.

For an easy way to compare all those deals, check out Cheaper Car Rentals. We are conveniently located just 4km away from Melbourne Airport & Gold Coast Airport, allowing us to meet your needs at a competitive price. We bring together the best offers from across the country, helping you find the right car at the right price without the stress.

Smart Airport Pickup Strategies for Gold Coast Airport

November 4, 2025 / 1748 / Travel Guide
Smart Airport Pickup Strategies for Gold Coast Airport

Pickup at Gold Coast Airport during peak hours is anything but smooth sailing. The scene shows exhausted travelers pouring out of the terminal, families hugging in the chaos of traffic, cars honking non-stop, ride-share drivers looping around like hunters, and lost tourists frantically searching signs, hoping to spot their ride.

Not exactly the relaxed start (or end) to a trip anyone hopes for. A simple pickup at Gold Coast Airport becomes a logistical headache. Undoubtedly, it is a whirlwind of noise, congestion, and stress. A bit of research can transform this chaos into calm. Research the pickup zones, check the short-term parking rules, try out the GPS tracking apps, and even test a few cheeky hacks.

Why Airport Pickups Shouldn’t Feel Like a Military Operation

Dodge the stress and enjoy the moment with the right plan. Similar to any other busy terminal, Gold Coast Airport gets hectic during peak hours. Here’s how you can make your next pickup at Gold Coast Airport fast, smooth, and stress-free:

  • Know the Exact Pickup Zones


Car rentals remain a practical choice to balance your mobility needs and financial acumen.

  • The Express Pickup Zone (Best for fast pickups):This spot is located near the terminal and is free for the first 10 minutes. Thereafter, charges are applied. It is great if the passenger is already waiting when you arrive.
  • The Short-Term Parking (More forgiving):This spot is a few minutes’ walk from Arrivals. It is the perfect place to wait if you’re unsure when the passenger would be out or if you want to greet your passenger inside. Starting low, the rates increase after 10 minutes.Long-term hire reduces stress while giving reliable access to a vehicle. For people who want value without ownership, it stands as a sensible option.
  • Best Short Term Parking Sports


The multi-level car park is right next to the terminal. It is the best bet when you need to stop by to pick someone up or the flight is running late. Also, this spot is super convenient, if you want to walk in and meet your passenger at baggage claim.

Before heading out, check online for weekend or after-hours deals. If you’ve parked in the evening, you might get a discount. After 6PM, you can offer easier access and more flexibility if the airport is a bit quieter.

  • Real-Time Tracking Hacks


If your passenger has an iPhone, make it easier by asking them to share their location through iMessage or the “Find My” app. Or use a flight tracker app to track their flight or just Google the flight number for updated arrival information.

Instead of the constant “Where are you?” texts, use live location sharing to stay in sync. Follow these tips to know exactly when to leave and when to pull into the pickup zone. It eliminates all guesswork and waiting around.

  • The “Wait and Circle” Method


If you’ve showed up a bit early, do not stop in front of the terminal. Instead, it is better to hang out at a nearby shopping centre car park or seek out a quiet side street to wait. Once you get the “Just landed” or “Got my bags” text, make your move.

Plan and roll into the express pickup zone just when they’re walking out. The entire experience would be just like a smooth landing, and not a last-minute scramble.

Flashback vs. The New Zen Approach

Then: People used to show up flustered, double-parked, hazard lights blinking, nervously watching for airport staff while texting their passenger “Where are you?” every two minutes. The stress was undeniably palpable.

Now: It’s an absolutely different vibe. Park legally in a nearby spot casually with coffee in hand and track the flight on your phone. One you get the “Just landed” or “Got my bags” text, head over and glide into the pickup zone at the perfect time.

More than a smart strategy, it’s a glow-up now! You’re completely in control, calm, and collected.

Foolproof Steps to Stress-Free Pickups

  • Double-check the flight number and arrival time.
  • Track the flight live or ask your passenger to share their location.
  • Choose the best pickup spot for yourself.
  • Roll over just as your passengers are coming out.
  • Get a plan B ready, just in case the flight is delayed.

Final Thoughts: Make Every Pick up a Breeze

For professional airport pickups, the goal is more than getting from one place to another. It involves convenience, reliability, and peace of mind. Particularly, when facing a delay, it is important to pick a service that offers after-hours pickup and drop-off. With professionals, you get a text with the exact vehicle location and a lockbox code for the key.

If you’re planning a reserve ahead, choose an option that suits your timeframe (daily, long-term, etc.). To cover unexpected issues, pick available protection packages. When making a reservation online, choose from a range of vehicle types, protection plans, and know what the rental agreement requires.

Cheaper Car Rentals helps people to get on the road since 1981. They’re an independent rental company that proudly offers friendly, reliable service, and prices that suit every budget. From older models to late and current models, they offer an extensive range of vehicles that best fits your needs and wallet.

Their vehicles are regularly serviced and maintained by licensed testers. The older model cars (between 8 and 20 years old) are ideal for long-term rentals around Melbourne. Each of their rental services include free RACV roadside assistance for extra peace of mind.

Short-Term vs Long-Term Car Hire in Melbourne: How Cheaper Car Rentals Help You Save More

November 4, 2025 / 1611 / Travel Guide
Short-Term vs Long-Term Car Hire in Melbourne How Cheaper Car Rentals Help You Save More

Sorting out transport isn’t always simple. Leasing or buying a car is a big commitment, whereas daily rideshares can quickly add up to the costs. Public transport isn’t very convenient for visitors, while locals face rising costs for fuel, vehicle insurance and maintenance. With so many concerns, choosing the cheapest way to get around Melbourne can feel confusing.

Car hire offers a practical answer as you can choose a car rental plan to suit your needs without the responsibility of maintaining a personal car or being tied down to heavy contracts. Short-term car hire is ideal for family outings, doctor visits, or office meetings. Whereas, long-term car hire is ideal for extended holidays, work relocations or for your daily use until you buy your own car. You keep costs under control by choosing the right car hire, which lets you enjoy freedom on the road.

1. Why Short-Term Car Hire Suits Flexible Schedules

If you’re only going to use your car sometimes, say for occasions like last-minute business meetings, sudden family needs, or unplanned trips to the coast, then it isn’t practical to own a car. Here, short-term car rentals offer value, as they allow you to book only for the period you need.

Short-term car hire also suits travellers landing at Melbourne Airport who need a vehicle for a few days, which gives them control over their budget and avoids the cost of taxis or the need to wait for crowded trams.

Flexibility remains the most significant advantage. You pay only for the period used, return the vehicle once done, and avoid ongoing expenses. Short-term hire works as a reliable way to balance convenience with cost control.

2. Benefits of Long-Term Car Hire for Cost Efficiency

Choosing a long-term hire arrangement unlocks more than simple access to a car. It can reshape how you manage your expenses and daily routines. Consider these points:

  • Lower Daily Rates: Long-term hire usually comes with a reduced per-day cost compared to short-term hire. This makes it a better value for anyone needing a car for weeks or months.
  • No Maintenance Worries: Insurance and servicing are generally covered by the rental company, so you avoid surprise bills.
  • Ideal for Relocations: Professionals on temporary contracts or families settling in Melbourne can rely on long-term hire without committing to a permanent purchase.
  • Holiday Savings: Extended stays in Melbourne become simpler with a long-term car rental that removes the hassle of frequent renewals.
  • Predictable Costs: Instead of dealing with fluctuating expenses tied to car ownership, one contract for long-term car hire gives you clarity.


Long-term hire reduces stress while giving reliable access to a vehicle. For people who want value without ownership, it stands as a sensible option.

3. Comparing the True Costs of Car Ownership and Car Hire

Many people assume owning a car is always cheaper. Yet when you look closely, ownership carries a series of ongoing costs that add up quickly. Fuel, registration, insurance and regular servicing sit alongside unexpected repairs. Add in depreciation, and the actual price of ownership becomes heavy.

By contrast, car hire lets you pay a fixed amount for the period you actually need the car. No hidden costs linger once you hand back the keys. This approach can be especially valuable for people who only need cars part-time.

According to how you’re going to use your vehicle, you must cleverly make your financial choices. Occasional drivers save by hiring a car for the short term. Frequent users may lean towards long-term hire as it delivers ownership-style access without unpredictable costs.

4. Situations Where Short-Term Hire Outshines Ownership

Not every scenario calls for a permanent vehicle. Short-term car hire becomes an intelligent decision. Let’s see some examples:

  • Weekend Trips Without the Worry: A car hire gives you freedom to explore without paying for fuel, maintenance, or ongoing vehicle ownership costs.
  • Work Travel: If you visit clients infrequently, buying a car for business doesn’t make sense. Here, hiring a car when you need it will be more cost-effective.
  • Transport for Big Occasions: A reliable car hire for weddings or family celebrations ensures you arrive on time without relying on taxis.
  • Cover While Your Car’s in the Workshop: Well, car repairs can take days. Hiring a car rental for short-term keeps you mobile without interrupting your routine.


Short-term hire offers flexibility and saves you from paying for a car that’s hardly used. It’s a tool you only grab when it truly adds value.

5. Long-Term Hire as a Bridge to Permanent Ownership

Some people eventually plan to buy their own vehicle, but timing is not always correct. You may require planning for your personal car finance to afford the high cost. Here, you can use long-term car rental to bridge the gap between your current needs and future goals.

With long hire, you get full mobility without rushing into a costly purchase. You can take your time to research the market and test different vehicle styles before committing. This approach also works for international students or workers on contracts who are not ready to buy but need daily transport.

Long-term hire offers a sense of stability. You can keep the rental car for months with fixed payments that allow you to focus on your other priorities. It helps you avoid hasty financial moves and helps you to buy a car only when you really need it.

6. Tips to Get the Best Out of Car Hire in Melbourne

Making car hire work really well comes down to a bit of planning and knowing what to look for. Here are some handy tips to help you get great value and enjoy having a rental car without breaking the budget:

  • Look at different rental periods and see how longer hires often bring the daily cost down
  • Pick a car that suits what you actually need. Bigger cars use more fuel and cost more to hire
  • For a wider choice of vehicles and to secure a better deal, you must book early in peak seasons
  • To prevent additional fees, ensure you return the rental car in good condition and on time


Car rentals remain a practical choice to balance your mobility needs and financial acumen.

Conclusion

Car rental provides a flexible and cost-effective transport option for locals and visitors in Melbourne. Short-term car rentals are ideal for occasional trips and short visits, whereas long-term car hire is perfect for extended use without the hassle of car ownership.

Long and short-term car rental offers clear fixed costs, reduce maintenance worries, and help you save money. Take control of your travel costs and hit the road with confidence! Reach out to Cheaper Car Rentals and find a plan that works perfectly for you.

Understanding Car Rental Bonds at Gold Coast Airport: How Much & When You Get It Back

September 3, 2025 / 1693 / Travel Guide
Understanding Car Rental Bonds at Gold Coast Airport How Much & When You Get It Back

You deplane your flight, step onto the sun-drenched terminal and find your four wheels waiting for you – just for you, to drive at your beck and call. Travellers often rent a car at Gold Coast Airport, first to hit the Coast and then to proceed to the hinterland panoramas.

However, rental bonds often throw many people off, especially those new to driving in Australia. In this guide, we’ll demystify the bond process, decode prices and insurance nuances for readers to gain some booking wisdom. Let’s dive in.

Why is Australia’s Car Rental Bond System Popular and Unique

Landing at Gold Coast Airport and having a car hire service is ultra-convenient. With a personal car rental system, you can skip Shuttle-Ville and hit the road straight, reaching Pacific Fair or Burleigh in a flash. Your own set of wheels means flexibility and efficiency on your beach days, road-trip adventures, or merely running to the hinterland cafeteria.

There are countries where insurance covers everything, while the holds are minimal in some other countries. But that’s not the case in Australia. Here, bonds are essentially a standard security measure, a deposit held against damage, tolls, cleaning fees, or any extras you forgot to return with, such as fuel.

How Car Rentals Work at Gold Coast Airport

  • Airport and Off-Airport Transport 

Airport rentals are easy; you just need to grab your bags, head to the counter, and you’re good to go. On the other hand, off-airport places charge less, but you need to weigh the cost (both figurative and literal) of shuttles or rides into town.

  • Booking Online and at the Desk

If you wait at the counter, you may end up paying more, rushing through the fine print, and then get stung with unexpected charges or fees. On the contrary, online booking means benefiting from better prices. The latter gives you time to look over things like fuel rules, insurance, and bond details without any pressure.

What is a Rental Bond?

When you hire a car from Gold Coast Airport, you come across a rental bond. This bond is actually the rental company’s way of covering unexpected costs that might come up while the cars are in your hands. Those unexpected costs include –

  • Late returns
  • Minor damages, such as dents or scratches
  • Unpaid tolls or fines
  • Fuel top-ups (if you didn’t refill the tank)
  • Extra cleaning (if the car comes back messy or sandy)


The exact amount of this bond usually is a few hundred dollars; however, it can go up if you’re hiring a premium or larger vehicle. The full amount will come back into your account in just a few days, if there’s no unexpected cost.

Difference Between a Bond and Excess

  • Bond: The money held back by the rental company till the time you have the car. You get it back if there are no unexpected bumps!
  • Excess: The money ‘you would have to pay’ if something goes wrong, like any damage to the car or an accident. You can take care of it with insurance.


When & How is the Bond Refunded?

The bond you pay when you book your rental service is refunded once you return the vehicle and all the charges are settled. It typically takes nearly 21 business days for the bond to show up in your account.

Bond Amounts

Local car rental companies often set their expectations clearly. Mostly, they take a minimum of AUD200 as a security bond at the time of booking, which is again refunded at the end of your rental agreement. It’s a simple, fair, and transparent agreement with no surprises.

For one of the excess reduction packages, the bond amounts remain reasonable. Here’s how they break down –

Standard Cover (no daily cover):

  • Bond: AUD 500
  • Excess: AUD 5000
  • Kilometres per day: 200km


Basic Cover (AUD 13/day approximately):

  • Bond: AUD 200
  • Excess: AUD 2200
  • Kilometres per day: 300 km


Safest Cover (AUD 23/day approximately):

  • Bond: AUD 200
  • Excess: AUD 1100
  • Kilometres per day: 400 km


Premium Cover (AUD 33/day approximately):

  • Bond: AUD 200*
  • Excess: AUD 385
  • Unlimited Kilometres


For commercial vehicle front (like UTEs or vans), the bond breakdown packages look like as follows –

Standard Cover (AUD 0/day likely)

  • Bond: AUD 500
  • Excess: AUD 5000
  • Kilometres per day: 150 km


Basic Cover (around AUD 13/day likely)

  • Bond: AUD 200
  • Excess: AUD 2200
  • Kilometres per day: 250 km


Premium Cover (higher daily rate likely):

  • Bond: AUD 200
  • Excess: AUD 650
  • Kilometres per day: 300 km

Conclusion

At the day’s end, car rental bonds at Gold Coast Airport aren’t as confusing as they initially seem. Consider them as a temporary hold for unforeseen bumps or expenses during your trip, much like a security deposit. If you return the car on time, in proper condition, and with fuel topped up, the money will come back to you.

With a car rental, you get the freedom to explore the Gold Coast region properly. Online booking allows you to go through the bond and insurance options without the counter queue pressure. Thus, you can easily choose a cover that fits how far you drive and the extent of peace of mind that you want.

At Cheaper Car Rentals, we offer flexible car hire options that suit all kinds of budgets and travel requirements. Our fleet includes a mix of reliable, late-model and older vehicles that are perfect for those longer road trips. We have a range of car fleets with us including the likes of Toyota, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, and MG. So, what are you waiting for? To hire a car, give us a call today!

Can I use a debit card for the rental bond at Gold Coast Airport?

Most rental companies accept debit cards, but the bond might be higher and could take longer to be refunded. Some may also require additional ID or a credit check.

Will I be notified if the rental company withholds part of my bond?

Yes, reputable companies will notify you via email or phone, usually with a breakdown of any charges deducted from your bond.

Can I reduce the bond amount by taking extra insurance?

Yes, opting for higher levels of cover (like Premium or Safest) usually reduces both your excess and your bond amount significantly.

What happens if I return the car early – do I get my bond back quicker?

Returning the car early doesn’t always mean a faster refund, as the bond release is still processed after inspection and admin, which follows the standard timeline.

Do all car types have the same bond amount?

No – luxury cars, SUVs, and commercial vehicles often have higher bond requirements due to their higher value and increased risk of damage.

What if I get a parking fine after I return the car?

If a fine arrives after your rental ends, the rental company may deduct the fine plus an admin fee from your bond or charge your card separately.

Can I negotiate or waive the bond amount?

Not usually. The rental company sets bond policies and are rarely negotiable, but you can choose a cover level that lowers your upfront bond.

What’s the best way to ensure a complete bond refund?

Take clear photos of the car before and after the rental, return it on time, fill the tank, and avoid tolls or violations. Keep all the paperwork for your records, too!

How to Save on Car Rentals at Melbourne Airport During Peak Travel Seasons

September 2, 2025 / 1677 / Travel Guide
Cheap Car Hire Options Near Gold Coast Airport – A 2025 Guide

You’ve just landed at Melbourne Airport during the Australian Open or Christmas rush. You head over to the rental counters and see long lines, “Sold Out” signs flashing, and tired travellers scrambling for a set of keys. Not exactly the welcome you were hoping for.

Melbourne Airport is Australia’s second busiest when it comes to car rental fleet turnover. That means demand is always high and during peak seasons prices skyrocket. Renting a car here can often be one of the costliest parts of your holiday.

This guide isn’t about generic hacks. It’s about Melbourne-specific strategies and tricks that locals and smart travellers actually use to keep rental costs in check.

Understanding the Peak-Season Price Mechanics

Here’s the truth: rentals at airports almost always cost more. At Melbourne Airport, you are paying not just for the car, but also for airport concession fees and the “convenience” markup. On average, that’s 25–40% higher than what you would pay if you booked the same vehicle online.

Melbourne has a packed events calendar, which keeps demand high:

  • January: Australian Open + school holidays
  • March-April: Formula 1 Grand Prix + Easter break
  • December-January: Christmas, New Year and long summer holidays


If you are flying around those times, expect higher prices and limited car availability unless you book in advance.

Smart Booking Strategies (Beyond “Book Early”)

Yes, booking early helps—but there are a few other ways to keep costs down:

  • Book direct online – Airport walk-up prices are always higher. Online bookings lock in your car and rate.
  • Pick the right category – Smaller cars are cheaper and easier to handle around Melbourne. Don’t pay for a big SUV unless you need it.
  • Hunt for deals – Check the specials section of rental sites. Melbourne Airport pickups often have promotions.
  • Check the car carefully – Photograph scratches or dents before you drive away. It could save you a headache later.
  • Have your documents ready – Licence and booking confirmation on hand makes pickup quick and painless.

Easy Ways to Skip the Airport Counter Hassle

Nobody wants to spend their first hour in Melbourne waiting in line. Here’s how to cut the hassle:

  • Online check-in – Choose your car and extras before you fly, and you’re set.
  • Contactless pickup – Some companies let you go straight to the car. No counter, no queue.
  • All-inclusive packages – Bundled insurance and extras mean fewer surprises at the counter.

Common Traps That Can Cost You More

Hiring a car at Melbourne Airport sounds simple enough—but if you’re not careful, the little details can sneak up on you and end up costing far more than expected. Here are some things to watch out for:

  • Leaving it to the last minute – Airport rentals book out quickly, and prices climb the closer you get. Locking in early is nearly always cheaper.
  • Adding extras you don’t really need – Child seats, GPS, extra drivers… they all add up. Only take what you’ll actually use.
  • Overlooking the fine print – Some companies throw in extra fees like airport charges, seasonal costs, or insurance surprises. Always double-check the details.
  • Booking the first car you see – The “quick and easy” option might not suit your trip. A little time comparing options can save a lot of money.
  • Skipping the website check – You might miss info on insurance, add-ons, or rental terms if you just book on the spot. Take a minute to read through online.
  • Not knowing the fuel policy – Full-to-full is usually best. Prepaid fuel only makes sense if you’ll return the car near empty.
  • Messing up pickup and drop-off times – Even being an hour late can trigger another full day’s charge. Plan it carefully.

Think Twice About Relying on Public Transport

Melbourne’s public transport is reliable and affordable, so at first glance, it feels like the smart choice over car hire. And yes—it can save you a few dollars. But here’s the flip side:

  • Extra Transfers – Trains, trams, and buses will get you close, but often not all the way. That usually means multiple changes, which gets tiring—especially if you’re carrying luggage.
  • Limited Schedules – Need to head out early, travel late, or move during peak times? You might end up waiting longer than you’d like.
  • Less Flexibility – Public transport ties you to fixed routes and timetables. Spontaneous detours or exploring hidden spots off the main track become tricky.
  • Hidden Stress – Managing bags, finding connections, and working out new routes can turn what should be a relaxing trip into a stressful one.


So yes, public transport can be cheaper, but it often comes at the cost of comfort and freedom. Sometimes, a rental car is the smarter choice: you go where you want, when you want, with far less hassle.

Final Thoughts

Car rentals at Melbourne Airport can get expensive during busy seasons. But with the right tips, you can keep costs down. The next time you arrive in Melbourne during a peak period, you will know how to avoid the rental counter rush. Travel feels easier when you have already saved a few hundred dollars before leaving the airport.

Cheaper Car Rentals is here to provide the highest quality cars. We offer a wide range of cars that are easy to book and available for short-term and long-term rentals. With free roadside assistance on all cars, you can trust us to make your travel hassle-free. Get in touch now!

The Top 5 Winter Road Trips Across Australia That Are Actually Worth the Drive

June 25, 2025 / 1350 / Travel Guide
The Top 5 Winter Road Trips Across Australia That Are Actually Worth the Drive

Most people think winter is when Australia slows down, but that’s exactly when the country’s best-kept roads come alive with a kind of raw, untamed beauty that summer never quite touches. The sun softens, the skies stretch wider, and the crowds disappear. Suddenly, the road becomes a reason to go in the first place.

There’s something quietly electrifying about driving through winter in Australia. It’s about the way mist rolls through mountain bends. It’s how the air changes the farther inland you go. It’s fire pits, frost-bitten windscreens, rain hitting the roof of your rental, and that odd silence between playlists where you realise this was exactly what you needed.

Let’s talk about the five road trips that give you stories worth retelling and memories that feel like they happened in another lifetime.

Take the High Road on Victoria’s Alpine Loop

This is Victoria’s answer to the European Alps without needing a passport. The Great Alpine Road connects Wangaratta to Metung, twisting through Bright and Mount Hotham with some of the most unexpected winter scenery in the country.

Why It’s Unforgettable

  • Bright feels like a town that’s figured out how to live fully in the cold. Its bakeries, woodfire restaurants, and chestnut farms all work better when it’s under 10°C.
  • The drive up Mount Hotham is reason enough. Hairpin bends, no guardrails in some parts, and visibility that changes minute to minute.
  • By the time you descend into Metung, you’ll feel like you’ve dropped into an entirely different country. That shift alone makes the whole drive cinematic.

Tip:

Go midweek if possible. The roads are emptier, which matters on a mountain drive like this. Look for a rental with strong grip and automatic hill descent control if you’re unfamiliar with alpine conditions. Pack a power bank too. Phone coverage cuts out in spots.

Drive Through Deep Time in Far North Queensland

This isn’t about palm trees and cocktails. The Daintree is older than the Amazon, and this drive forces you to reckon with a kind of ancient world that hasn’t evolved for your convenience.

What Most People Miss Entirely

  • You’re not just visiting the Daintree. You’re entering a living museum of evolution. The plants haven’t changed in 180 million years. And winter is when it’s dry enough to really walk through it without distraction.
  • The Atherton Tablelands are quiet in a way most people don’t know how to handle at first. It’s a reminder that not all beauty is loud.
  • Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays in winter are stripped of tourist noise. That’s when the reef colours feel almost illegal.

Tip:

Rent a vehicle that you won’t mind getting a little muddy. This isn’t an influencer trip. It’s a real one. Also, pack reef-safe sunscreen and waterproof bags for your gear. You’ll stop more than you planned.

Chase Colour and Silence Along WA’s Coral Coast

This is the road that exposes how wild Western Australia really is. If you commit, the Coral Coast hands you blue like you’ve never seen and red soil that stays with your tyres and your memory.

What Most People Miss

  • Coral Bay’s reef is so close you can literally walk into it. And winter’s lower tides make it more visible.
  • Exmouth’s coastal shelf is where reef and desert touch. That tension between marine life and arid cliffs creates something you can’t unsee.
  • The route isn’t about attractions. It’s about transitions. Each town shifts the mood, the sky, and even the accents.

Tip:

Fuel stops between Carnarvon and Exmouth are sparse. Fill up before leaving each town, not after you’ve checked the gauge. Carry a printed itinerary in case reception drops, and book accommodation in advance. Winter is whale shark season.

Follow the Frost Along the Snowy Mountains Highway

This is a drive through Australia’s quieter side of winter, where you’ll go from gumtrees to snowfields in a matter of hours, and silence often speaks louder than scenery.

What Makes It Timeless

  • Yarrangobilly Caves has a naturally heated pool outside, where you can watch steam rise as snow surrounds you.
  • Kiandra and Adaminaby feel untouched, places that have held onto their cold, old magic.
  • Cooma makes a soft landing spot, with local pubs, proper fires, and zero stress.

Tip:

Use a rental with heated seats and functioning defrost. Don’t assume all models have them by default. Pack two sets of gloves, not one. Wet gloves are worse than none. And bring matches. Not everything here is digital.

Let the Silence Carry You on Tasmania’s East Coast

This stretch along Tasmania’s east coast is winter stripped to the essentials. Big rocks, bold water, long silences, and meals that taste better when eaten with your jacket still zipped up.

What Sets It Apart

  • Bay of Fires lives up to the name in winter. Orange boulders light up under cold skies, and you’ll likely have the whole coastline to yourself.
  • Bicheno and Coles Bay give you ghost-town quiet with five-star local food.
  • St Helens is a low-key finish with walking trails and early nights by the heater.

Tip:

Don’t get the cheapest rental for this one. Roads are narrow and can be slippery after rain. Go for something with front and rear sensors. And bring a thermos. Few things beat hot coffee on a cold lookout.

If You Miss It Now, You’ll Miss It for a Year

Winter doesn’t mean staying in. It means driving smarter. It means choosing routes that reveal parts of Australia most people think don’t exist. These five winter road trips are time-sensitive invitations. You can’t scroll your way into the moments they offer. You have to be there, watching steam rise off a hot pie at a petrol stop while snow collects on the bonnet.

None of it works without the right set of wheels. If you’re planning to hit the road this winter without stretching your budget thin, Cheaper Car Rentals has you covered. From compact city zippers to roomy 8-seaters and SUVs that can handle the backroads, they make sure the car never holds you back from the drive that’s been calling your name since the temperature dropped.

How Families can Save on Car Rentals During School Holiday Travel in Australia

June 25, 2025 / 1313 / Travel Guide
How Families can Save on Car Rentals During School Holiday Travel in Australia

School holidays are a fantastic time to hit the road with your family and explore Australia’s stunning landscape. But if you’re renting a car, the costs can quickly add up, especially during this peak period. Don’t worry, though! With a bit of planning and the right tips, you can save big on your car rental and make your family trip stress-free.

Why Car Rentals Can Break the Bank During School Holidays

First things first, why do car rental prices spike during school holidays? It all comes down to demand. With families across the country heading off on holidays at the same time, rental companies take advantage by hiking their prices. Combine this with limited availability, and you’ll find yourself paying more than usual.

If you don’t book early, you might even miss out completely. Car rentals can become one of the largest expenses of your trip, cutting into your budget for other fun activities. But fear not! Understanding how the market works and knowing how to secure a good deal can make all the difference.

Save Smart: Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals

  • Book Early, Save More

The golden rule for school holiday travel? Book early! Waiting until the last-minute leaves you with fewer choices and higher costs. Many rental companies offer a wide range of vehicles to suit all budgets. Securing your booking early means you’re more likely to snag a better deal on the exact car you need.

  • Be Flexible with Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

Sometimes, picking up your rental car at a different location (rather than the airport) can save you a lot. For example, off-airport branches often charge lower rates. Check for companies that also allow convenient drop-off options to maximise your savings.

  • Choose the Right Rental Company

Not all rental companies are created equal. Independent operators often offer better rates compared to big-name brands. Plus, they tend to be more transparent with costs and include perks like free roadside assistance or generous daily kilometre allowances.

  • Avoid Hidden Fees

Keep an eye out for sneaky add-ons, like admin or registration recovery fees. Always read the terms and conditions thoroughly, so there are no surprises when you pick up the car.

Keeping Families Happy on the Road

  • Pick the Right Car for Your Family

Think about what works best for your plan. If you’ve got kids in tow, an 8-seater van or SUV like the Mitsubishi Outlander might be a perfect fit. It’s spacious, comfortable, and makes long drives more bearable.

  • Pack Smart to Save

Avoid overpacking, as rental companies sometimes charge extra for rooftop luggage carriers or larger vehicles if your bags don’t fit. Bring only the essentials and make the most of your car’s existing storage space.

  • Plan Ahead and Save Big

A bit of planning can go a long way. By booking early, choosing the right car for your family, and understanding the sneaky fees, you’ll save a bundle on your car rental. The money you save can go towards fun stuff like treats for the kids or an extra adventure stop along the way.

 

Cheaper Car Rentals make hiring a car affordable and easy for a short trip or something longer. Operating across Melbourne Airport and Gold Coast Airports, we’re here to offer car rental options that suit every budget. Be it a compact hatchback, a comfy medium sedan, an 8-seater van, or even a luxury SUV, we have the perfect car for your trip.

Get ready to hit the road and enjoy a stress-free family vacation! Happy travels!

Cheap Car Hire Options Near Gold Coast Airport – A 2025 Guide

May 27, 2025 / 1821 / Travel Guide
Cheap Car Hire Options Near Gold Coast Airport – A 2025 Guide

Landing at Gold Coast Airport, you can’t help but feel the buzz. Warm sun on your back, the promise of golden beaches, and the temptation of the rainforest waiting to be discovered. But hey, before you lose yourself in the magic, you’re going to need wheels. Plenty of visitors quickly figure out that public transport here is not exactly… well, quick. And ride-shares? Of course not, they are expensive.

Therefore, we have rounded up the essentials for picking up cheap car hire near Gold Coast Airport. With some smart planning, you can hit the road without emptying your wallet.

Understanding What Makes Up Your Car Hire Costs

If you’re thinking all you need to budget for is the daily rate, think again. There are quite a few extras (some avoidable, some not) that can sneak into your bill. Here’s the lowdown to make sure you’re clued up before signing anything for car hire near Gold Coast Airport.

  • Base Rate 

Compact vehicles, like hatchbacks and sedans, usually come at the lowest rates and are perfect for solo or couple travellers looking for a quick way to zip around town. Expect rates to vary based on car size, duration, and the time of year. 

  • Airport Surcharges 

Imagine this – your car rental desk is right in the arrivals hall near Gold Coast Airport. Convenient, right? Of course, it comes at a price. These on-site rental options commonly add extra fees for convenience. Want to save a few bucks? Providers just outside the airport often waive these sneaky charges. A little shuttle ride could be worth it.

  • Insurance Costs 

Here’s the deal. The car rental companies love upselling your insurance. Collision waivers, theft protection, or personal accident coverage can significantly increase costs. Though tempting, check your travel insurance or credit card perks first. Many already cover rental car protection. If you’re sorted there, you might be able to decline all those “extras politely.” 

  • Fuel Rules 

Most companies use a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you will pick up the car with a full tank and should return it topped up. Can’t be bothered to hit a petrol station before drop-off? Be warned – they will charge you premium rates for refuelling. 

  • Optional Add-Ons 

Need a child seat? How about GPS? Do you want to share the driving load with your mate or partner? These could add anywhere from $10 to $30 per day. Think carefully about what you actually need, and skip the extras if your phone’s maps app and a bit of common sense will do the trick.

Finding the Right Rental Car for Your Need At Gold Coast Airport

Your choice of rental car near Gold Coast Airport isn’t all about the dollars and cents. A little match-making here can mean the difference between a cramped ride and pure road trip bliss. Whether you’re travelling solo or rolling with a crew, there’s something for everyone.

  • Compact Cars

These budget-friendly rides are fuel-efficient and perfect for solo travellers or pairs. Cruise through Surfers Paradise in a nippy hatchback and save cash for cocktails by the beach.

  • Mid-Size and Family Rides

Do you have a small group or some kids in tow? Vehicles like sedans and bigger hatchbacks give you extra space without a massive jump in price. Perfect for fitting the family and avoiding luggage Tetris.

  • SUVs and People Movers

Planning a proper road trip or wrangling a larger crew? SUVs or 7-seaters are flexible and roomy enough to keep everyone comfy (without elbows jabbing into each other). They’re also great for hauling sports gear, like boogie boards or mountain bikes.

  • Commercial Vans and Utes 

Moving day? Or just transporting bulky stuff? Utes and vans are your go-to options. It is ideal for relocating surfboards, sound systems, or whatever other oversized treasures the Gold Coast throws your way. 

Handy Tips for an Easy Rental Experience

Hiring a car sounds straightforward, but a little prep can save you a lot of potential headaches. Here’s how to make your car hire thing as smooth as the Gold Coast beaches.

  • Local Driving Rules 

Not from Australia? Heads up – you’ll be driving on the left-hand side of the road here. Pay extra attention to roundabouts and intersections, as those can trip up newcomers. Speed limits? Typically, 50 km/h in built-up areas and up to 110 km/h on highways, but don’t risk a fine, as speed cameras are everywhere. 

  • Check the Car Thoroughly 

Before you jump in and rev that engine, give the car a proper once-over. Look for dings, scratches, or anything that doesn’t seem right. Snap a few photos if needed and ensure they’re noted in the rental agreement. Inside, flip some switches and check everything’s working – AC, lights, and even the cupholders. 

  • Plan for Emergencies 

Roadside dramas can ruin the vibe. Make sure your car’s got a spare tyre and jack, and the contact for roadside assistance is tucked in the glovebox. Breaking down in the Gold Coast Hinterland is beautiful, sure, but not ideal. 

  • Keep Fuel Costs Down 

There are plenty of petrol stations near the airport. Fill up before you return your car to dodge those ridiculous refuelling costs. Trust us, it’s worth the five-minute stop.

Steering Clear of Hidden Charges

The horror stories are real, but avoiding hidden rental fees is easier than you think. Here’s how to stay one step ahead.

  • Scrutinise the Contract 

Yes, it’s tiresome reading, but the terms and conditions will save you stress later. Watch for fine print on mileage, return times, and fuel policies. 

  • Stay Within Mileage Limits 

Some providers cap the number of kilometres included in your deal. Go over? It’ll cost you. For longer trips, confirm unlimited mileage when booking. 

  • Return Times Matter 

Late returns can lead to full-day charges. Plan ahead, and factor traffic into your schedule, especially around the airport.

Gold Coast Gems to Explore

Now that you’ve got your rental sorted, where to first? This wonderland is packed with spots you can’t miss. Here are five you should pin to your map.

1.Surfers Paradise – It’s the Gold Coast’s iconic heart. Think endless wave action, bustling streets, and nightlife that doesn’t quit. 

2. Springbrook National Park – Head to the Hinterland for waterfalls, glow worm caves, and Insta-worthy views. The drive’s worth the effort. 

3. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – Feed kangaroos, cuddle a koala, and get up close to Aussie icons. Perfect for the kids. 

4. Byron Bay – Venture across the border to this laid-back surf town. The drive is short, and you’ll be rewarded with epic beaches and local markets. 

5. Theme Parks Galore – Movie World, Dreamworld, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild… the lineup’s dizzying, and having a car means you can visit them all with zero hassle. 

Choose Us, Choose Best!

Need a ride that is affordable, reliable, and ready when you are? That is where we come in. At Cheaper Car Rentals, we are all about making car hire easy, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you need a zippy hatchback or a roomy SUV, we’ve got well-maintained vehicles to suit every trip and every budget. Plus, with airport pickup, 200km free daily, and 24/7 roadside assistance, we have got your back every kilometre of the way. 

Final Thoughts

Grabbing a rental car near Gold Coast Airport? Smart move. Whether you’re beach-hopping or Hinterland trekking, having your own wheels means freedom, flexibility, and bigger adventures. With just a little planning (and a dash of local know-how), you can dodge the pitfalls and focus 100% on soaking up those gorgeous Aussie vibes.

Now, what are you waiting for? The Gold Coast’s calling. Sunglasses on, playlist ready, and that rental car key in hand – it’s time to hit the road.

Happy driving and happy exploring!

What to Know Before Renting a Car at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport

May 27, 2025 / 1546 / Travel Guide
What to Know Before Renting a Car at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport

Picture this. You have just touched down at Melbourne Airport, known locally as Tullamarine airport or Tulla, ready to explore everything this amazing city and its surroundings have to offer. You are imagining the open road, maybe heading out to the Great Ocean Road or a trip to the Yarra Valley. But wait. You forgot to book your car in advance. Now, here you are, with your luggage on one hand and a glance at the long line at the car rental counters at Melbourne airport. The stress starts to sink in. Will there even be cars available? Are last-minute rates going to ruin your travel budget? And what about all those hidden fees?

Breathe. We have got you covered. Renting a car here doesn’t have to be a headache. With a bit of planning and the right know-how, you can avoid the common pitfalls, start your trip hassle-free, and make the most of your visit to Melbourne. This guide is here to walk you through the essentials for navigating car rentals at Melbourne airport.

Why Tullamarine Isn’t Just Another Airport

Tullamarine is Melbourne’s most important hub and located just about 23 kilometres from the city centre. Compared to Avalon Airport, which is farther out, Tullamarine is better connected for getting straight into the action. But don’t get fooled by its convenience. Being the busiest airport in Tullamarine also makes it a car rental hotspot.

Rental counters are conveniently located in the terminals, but, depending on your provider, some rentals operate off-site, and that can mean shuttles, wait times, and more logistics. Its closeness to the CBD isn’t the only benefit. Think of Melbourne’s unpredictable weather and its bustling roads. Renting a car here makes it easier to escape sudden rain showers or zip through traffic to those charming Victorian countryside destinations.

Make the Most of Your Rental Before You Even Arrive

Before picking up your car at Melbourne Airport, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are three things to check off your list to ensure a smooth self-drive experience:

  • Book in Advance

Last-minute bookings at the airport can be limited—especially during peak travel seasons. Lock in your car early through website to avoid disappointment and delays. 

  • Review the Terms and Conditions

Before finalising your booking, take a moment to carefully read through the rental terms and conditions on the website. It’s the easiest way to avoid surprises—like age restrictions, fuel policies, bond requirements, or insurance exclusions. 

  • Explore the Full Fleet

Reviewing different car types before booking can help make your trip more comfortable and cost-effective. Compact cars are ideal for getting around Melbourne’s city streets and finding parking easily. Larger vehicles, like SUVs or vans, offer more space for road trips, luggage, or family travel.

Australian Driving Rules That Catch Tourists Off Guard

If you are new to driving in Australia, there are a few things to watch out for:

  • Drive on the Left: Yes, the driver’s seat is on the right, and you keep left. It can feel odd at first, but you’ll adapt quickly.
  • Hook Turns: In Melbourne CBD, you’ll often encounter unique right-turn manoeuvres near tram lines. It’s a good idea to watch a quick how-to video before driving there.
  • Tolls: Many major roads, including CityLink and West Gate Freeway, have tolls. Check if your rental comes with an electronic toll tag. If not, you’ll need to manually pay tolls online.
  • Speed Limits and Cameras: Australia has strict speed limits, and mobile speed cameras are commonplace. Keep an eye on signs, even on highways.

Consider These Before You Hit the Road

Before driving off, do a quick checklist:

  • Toll Tags and Assistance: If your car doesn’t have a toll tag, ask about it. Also, confirm whether your rental includes roadside assistance. 
  • Apps to Download: Map apps like Waze are a must but also consider apps like Fuel Map Australia and Australian Red Cross – First Aid to make your road trip smoother.  
  • Refuel Options: Look for petrol stations near the airport (hint: there’s one on Mickleham Road) and save yourself any extra fees.

Timing is Everything

When it comes to car rentals at Melbourne Airport services, timing plays a huge role. Mornings can be super busy at rental counters, but Sundays and peak holiday times tend to be even worse. If you’re returning your car, give yourself more time than you think you need. Also, always take photos before and after your rental to avoid any disputes about damage.

Road Trip Ideas from Tullamarine

Want escape-worthy destinations within three hours of the airport? Here are a few ideas:

  • Great Ocean Road: A breathtaking coastal drive with stunning views and charming stops like Lorne and Apollo Bay. 
  • Yarra Valley: Wine country, rolling landscapes, and great local dining spots. 
  • Daylesford: Known for its mineral springs and day spas, perfect for a relaxing getaway. 
  • Macedon Ranges: A hidden gem with quaint towns, gardens, and scenic hiking routes. 

Don’t Forget These Essentials

Before stepping into your rental car, run through this final checklist:

  • Driver’s License: Bring your valid driver’s license. International licenses are generally accepted but might need translation. 
  • Deposit Funds: Check your card for coverage on deposits or holds. 
  • Document the Car’s Condition: Take photos or videos of any scratches or dents to avoid disputes later.

Bonus Tips From Locals

  • Stay calm! Aussie drivers are generally polite but can get impatient if you hesitate too long at traffic lights. 
  • Be mindful of cyclists. They’re everywhere, especially in the city. 
  • If you see flashing high beams, someone’s letting you in or politely asking you to move over—not being aggressive!

Parting Words

Renting a car at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport can be the key to unlocking an unforgettable adventure, but only if you’re prepared. Knowing Australia’s driving rules and planning ahead can help you avoid last-minute rental issues. With the right approach, you will be onto Victoria’s scenic roads in no time—feeling confident, relaxed, and ready to enjoy your trip.

At Cheaper Car Rentals, we value how important it is to have a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. That’s why we offer a range of cars and convenient booking process to make sure your trip goes off without a hitch. Plus, with free roadside assistance and customer support, you can feel at ease knowing that we have your back. Get in touch now!

A Step-by-Step Guide to Pick Up a Rental Car at Melbourne Airport

April 2, 2025 / 1570 / Travel Guide
A Step-by-Step Guide to Pick Up a Rental Car at Melbourne Airport

Travelling is something we all crave for. Exploring new places, meeting different people, and trying local delicacies can be thrilling. However, as much as we enjoy the adventure, travel days can sometimes be a little chaotic. Especially when you’ve just stepped off a long flight, feeling tired and maybe a bit jet-lagged.

And with all the fatigue, the last thing you want to worry about is transportation. Thinking of booking a taxi or a ride-sharing service? While these are valid choices, they won’t allow you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Car rentals make for a convenient and budget-friendly option for travelling around your destination.

But how do you get your hands on a rental car? Here’s where the real hassle begins. Scouring through various car rental companies, comparing prices, and dealing with hidden fees can be a headache. Not to mention the long queues at the rental counter.

Not anymore with our guide to renting a car. We’ve compiled all the essential information you need to know about picking up your rental car at Melbourne Airport.

Step 1: Book Your Rental in Advance

First things first, it’s always a smart idea to book your rental car before you even leave home. While you could just show up and hope for the best, advance booking lets you lock in better rates and ensures the car you want is available. Melbourne Airport gets busy, and the most popular car models (like compact vehicles or SUVs) can be snapped up quickly.

When booking, be sure to see if there are any hidden fees or surcharges. These can include additional insurance, extra charges for drivers under 25, or fees for returning the car to a different location. It’s always best to know the full cost upfront so you’re not hit with any surprises later on.

Step 2: Know Your Pick-Up Location

Melbourne Airport has several rental car pick-up locations, so it’s important to know which one you’ll be using before arriving. Some rental companies have their own counters within the airport terminals, while others are located in nearby off-site locations. Make sure to check your booking confirmation to see where exactly you need to go.

It’s also helpful to familiarise yourself with the layout of Melbourne Airport and its surrounding roads. This will make it easier for you to navigate once you’ve picked up your rental car. You can find maps and directions on the airport’s website.

Step 3: Have Your Documents Handy

This is one of those steps that’ll make your life a lot easier if you prepare for it in advance. Before you head to pick up your rental car, take a moment to make sure you’ve got all the paperwork and ID you’ll need. It’s better to have everything ready than to have to make multiple trips back and forth.

Here’s what you typically need:

  • Your Driver’s License: Make sure it’s valid and not expired. If you’re travelling from overseas, bring your International Driver’s Permit if required.
  • Booking Confirmation: Whether it’s a printout or on your phone, show the agent your reservation details to speed up the process.
  • Security Deposits: Some rental companies require a security deposit, usually in the form of a credit card hold. Make sure you have enough available credit to cover this.
  • Passport (If You’re from Outside Australia): Some rental companies may ask for extra identification.


Once you have all of this information ready, the rental process will be much smoother and quicker.

Step 4: Know the Road Rules Before Driving Away

If you’re not local, it’s worth brushing up on Australian road rules before driving off airport grounds. A few key things to remember:

  • Australians drive on the left side of the road.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced, and fines can be hefty.
  • Don’t use your mobile phone while driving unless it’s hands-free.
  • Always wear your seatbelt.


Point to Keep in Mind: Before you get on the road, set up your GPS or map system so you know where you’re going, especially if you’re heading straight into the city, which can be busy.

Step 5: Inspect the Car Thoroughly

This step is so important, and it’s one that many people overlook in the rush to get going. Before you leave the lot, make sure you inspect the car carefully. Walk around the vehicle and check for any existing scratches, dents, or damage. Don’t skip this step!

Here’s why this is crucial. If there’s any damage that hasn’t already been noted on the rental agreement, you could end up being held responsible for it later. To avoid this, take photos of the car from all angles before you drive off, and point out any issues to the rental staff. They’ll document it so you’re in the clear.

Step 6: Adjust and Get Comfortable

Once you’ve inspected the car and everything’s in order, hop in and adjust the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel to your liking. This is your chance to get familiar with the car. Spend a few minutes figuring out where all the controls are. Where’s the indicator? Is it a key ignition, or do you press a button to start? Small details like this will help you avoid fumbling when you’re on the road.

If you’re using a GPS to get to your destination, plug in the address and check the route before you start driving. Melbourne traffic can be tricky, especially during peak hours, so having a clear plan is always a good idea.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Road Trip!

And finally, it’s time to drive! Whether you’re heading down the Great Ocean Road, exploring the Yarra Valley wineries, or just cruising the city streets, having a car makes it all so much easier and more flexible.

During your rental period, make sure to keep the car clean and be cautious about parking restrictions and toll roads. Melbourne has several toll roads, so it’s important to either have exact change in coins or set up an electronic tag beforehand. 

Step 8: Returning the Rental Car

When your trip is over, you’ll need to return the car to the rental company. Most rental companies at Melbourne Airport have designated return areas, often in the same general area where you picked up the car. Follow the “Rental Car Returns” rules mentioned by the rental company: 

Before dropping off the keys, you should:

  • Refill the fuel tank to the same level it was when you collected the car. Use petrol stations near the airport to save time.
  • Remove all your belongings from the car, checking under the seats and in the trunk.
  • Take a final set of photos of the car to document its condition at the time of return.
  • Once you’ve handed the keys back, the rental company staff will inspect the vehicle. If everything checks out, you’re good to go!


Pro Tip: Arrive at the car rental return area with enough time before your flight. The process is usually quick, but you don’t want to risk missing your check-in.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Experience

To make your car rental experience at Melbourne Airport as seamless as possible, here are a few extra tips. These suggestions can save you time, money, and maybe even a headache or two: 

  • Avoid Hidden Fees Like a Pro

Hidden fees can sour your rental experience if you’re not careful. To dodge surprises, take the time to read the rental terms and conditions before booking. Watch out for sneaky charges like additional driver fees, late return penalties, or high costs for things like GPS devices or child seats. Wherever possible, bring your own essentials to keep costs in check.

  • Understand Your Insurance Options

Insurance can feel confusing, but taking the time to understand it can save you heaps of worry. Most rental cars come with basic insurance included, but this often has a high excess amount if something goes wrong. You can lower the excess by paying for extra coverage through the rental company. Alternatively, check if your travel insurance or credit card offers rental car protection. This might save you from paying for extra insurance unnecessarily.

  • Know How Toll Roads Work

Melbourne has a few toll roads, like CityLink and EastLink, which you’ll likely encounter if you’re driving in or around the city. Most rental cars are equipped with electronic toll tags, and toll charges will be billed directly to your rental account. However, it’s worth clarifying this with your rental provider and understanding how their toll system works to avoid unexpected fees.

  • Have a Backup Plan for Problems

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. If your car breaks down or you get a flat tyre, contact the rental company immediately. Many providers include roadside assistance in their packages, but it’s good to confirm this when picking up the car. Keep their emergency contact number handy for peace of mind throughout your trip.

Final Thoughts

Picking up a rental car, especially after a flight, can feel a bit exhausting. But honestly, once you break it down step by step, it’s pretty straightforward. With a little preparation and a clear plan, you’ll be on your way in no time. Plus, there’s something exciting about hitting the road in a new city or country, knowing you’re about to start an adventure of your own.

At Cheaper Car Rentals, we are here to provide our customers with a seamless and stress-free rental experience. Our seamless online booking process and attentive, knowledgeable staff are dedicated to making sure your journey is effortless and enjoyable from start to finish. And with our wide range of vehicles, you’ll find the right car for your needs.

Now, you’re equipped with all the steps to step out in Melbourne without breaking a sweat!

Top 10 Scenic Road Trips from Melbourne Airport with a Rental Car

April 2, 2025 / 1567 / Travel Guide
Top 10 Scenic Road Trips from Melbourne Airport with a Rental Car

There’s something magical about hitting the open road. The idea of grabbing the keys to a rental car, packing some snacks, cranking up your favourite playlist, and driving towards adventure is enough to spark excitement in just about anyone. Maybe it’s the freedom to choose your own path or the joy of discovering places at your own pace. If you’re flying into Melbourne and dreaming of an unforgettable road trip, you’re in for a treat. Victoria is home to some of Australia’s most stunning landscapes, and with a self-drive rental car, you’re in complete control of where you go and how long you stay. There’s no rushing to catch a bus or waiting for others to be ready to leave. It’s just you, the car, and the road ahead.

Melbourne Airport is the perfect starting point for road trip adventures. Once you’ve picked up your rental car, adventure is just a turn of the wheel away. Whether you’re chasing coastal views, rolling vineyards, or rugged mountain landscapes, the roads leading out of Melbourne offer unparalleled beauty and variety.

Here’s a roundup of the top 10 scenic road trips you can take from Melbourne Airport with your rental car. These drives will give you a mix of iconic spots, hidden gems, and plenty of places to stop, stretch, and soak in the views.

1. The Great Ocean Road

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 1.5 hours to Torquay (starting point)

The Great Ocean Road is a must-mention on any list of road trips from Melbourne. This world-famous stretch of coastline has dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and picture-perfect beaches, making it a must-see.

Start your drive in Torquay, Australia’s surf capital, and continue along the winding road to see landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, and Loch Ard Gorge. Don’t miss the charming towns along the way, like Lorne and Apollo Bay, where you can stop for fresh seafood or a coffee with stunning ocean views.

Tip: This trip is popular, so consider starting early to avoid the crowds and have more time to soak in the sights.

2. Yarra Valley

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 1 hour

If you love wine, food, or wildlife, the Yarra Valley is calling your name. This region is famous for its top-notch wineries, making it a great place to relax and enjoy yourself. Visit vineyards for tastings, enjoy gourmet meals at local restaurants, or treat yourself to a morning hot-air balloon ride over the lush vineyards.

For a touch of nature, Healesville Sanctuary is a must-visit. You’ll get a chance to see native Australian animals like koalas, kangaroos, and emus up close.

Tip: Book a winery tour to get the most out of your Yarra Valley experience and learn about the region’s rich history and production process.

3. Mornington Peninsula

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 1.5 hours

A road trip to the Mornington Peninsula is all about relaxation and scenic beauty. The region is dotted with quiet beaches, indulgent hot springs, and rolling vineyards. Spend some time at the Peninsula Hot Springs, where natural geothermal pools will leave you feeling rejuvenated. You can also explore coastal walks and enjoy fresh seafood near Sorrento and Portsea. For the adventurous, a hike up Arthur’s Seat offers panoramic views of the peninsula and Port Phillip Bay.

Tip: The Mornington Peninsula has a very laid-back vibe. Take your time and really soak it all in.

4. Phillip Island

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 2 hours

Phillip Island is well-known for its unique wildlife and family-friendly attractions. The Penguin Parade is a highlight, where you can watch cute little penguins waddle ashore at dusk. The island also has beautiful beaches, rugged coastlines, and scenic walks, making it ideal for all ages.

If motorsport is your thing, check out the Phillip Island Circuit, which often hosts international racing events. For animal lovers, the Koala Conservation Reserve provides the chance to meet koalas in their natural habitat.

Tip: Pack warm layers, even in summer, as the ocean breeze can get chilly during the evening Penguin Parade.

5. The Dandenong Ranges

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 1.5 hours

The Dandenong Ranges are perfect for a day of tranquillity and nature. This region is full of towering forests, pretty gardens, and picturesque villages.

Be sure to experience the Puffing Billy, a historic steam train that journeys through lush, dense forests. Stop by Sassafras or Olinda for locally made tea, handmade goods, and delicious scones. The Alfred Nicholas Gardens and Sherbrooke Forest are great for a leisurely stroll surrounded by native flora and birds.

Tip: If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll find endless opportunities to capture the magic of this region.

6. Macedon Ranges

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 1 hour

This hidden gem is a perfect destination for those who enjoy a mix of nature and local culture. The Macedon Ranges feel like a step into another world, with rolling hills, cute towns, and fantastic food.

Visit Hanging Rock, a stunning geological formation with hiking trails and incredible views. Nearby, Mount Macedon offers cosy cafes, lush gardens, and panoramic lookout points. If you love gardening or history, don’t miss the expansive Tieve Tara Gardens.

Tip: Take a leisurely stroll surrounded by native flora and birds, and you might even spot a kangaroo or two.

7. Grampians National Park

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 3 hours

For lovers of the outdoors, the Grampians is a dream come true. This national park offers rugged landscapes, dramatic rock formations, and abundant wildlife. The hiking trails range from beginner-friendly walks to challenging climbs, catering to all skill levels.

Mackenzie Falls is a breathtaking spot that’s easy to reach, while the Boroka Lookout offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and ranges. The town of Halls Gap is a great base to explore the area and enjoy local restaurants.

Tip: Pack sturdy walking shoes because the trails are uneven and steep in some areas.

8. Wilsons Promontory

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 3 hours

Known as “The Prom,” Wilson’s Promontory National Park is all about pristine wilderness. It’s a place of untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful forest walks.

Squeaky Beach, named for its fine white sand that literally squeaks beneath your feet, is a must-visit spot. There are also several trails that give you sweeping views of the coastline and surrounding greenery. Wildlife is abundant here, so keep an eye out for kangaroos, wombats, and emus.

Tip: This is a great place for camping, so bring a tent if you’re feeling adventurous and want to stay overnight.

9. Daylesford and the Spa Country

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 1.5 hours

Daylesford is made for those who want a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. Known as the Spa Country, this region is famed for its mineral springs and wellness retreats. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment, or simply enjoy the calming atmosphere of this charming town.

The Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens provide stunning views over the town and are perfect for a picnic. Don’t forget to explore the nearby town of Hepburn Springs, where you’ll find the historic Hepburn Bathhouse.

Tip: Visit on a Sunday to explore the Daylesford Sunday Market, where you can shop for unique gifts and local produce.

10. Ballarat and Sovereign Hill

Distance from Melbourne Airport: Approx. 1.5 hours

Step back in time with a visit to Ballarat, a city rich with history from the Gold Rush era. Sovereign Hill is the main attraction here, offering an immersive experience of 19th-century life, complete with gold panning and historical reenactments.

Aside from history, Ballarat also has beautiful botanical gardens and a thriving arts scene. The Art Gallery of Ballarat showcases fantastic Australian art, while Lake Wendouree is a peaceful spot for a stroll or picnic.

Tip: Allow at least a full day to explore Sovereign Hill and take in all the interactive displays.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s your first time in Victoria or you’re a seasoned traveller, these road trips offer something for everyone. Each destination has its own character, from coastal beauty to mountain magic.

Remember to plan your route, check the weather, and pack essentials like water, snacks, and a good playlist. Most importantly, enjoy the freedom of the open road and make plenty of memories along the way!

Rest assured, Cheaper Car Rentals has you covered for all your transportation needs. With our affordable prices and wide selection of vehicles, you can focus on the journey ahead without breaking the bank. Plus, with an easy booking process and friendly customer service, you can trust us to make your road trip experience even better.

With our car rentals, the only thing you’ll be thinking about is, “Where to go next?”

Cheaper Car Rentals Winery Tour of Victoria

March 5, 2024 / 1395 / Travel Guide
Cheaper Car Rentals Winery Tour of Victoria

Cheaper Car Rentals Winery Tour of Victoria

Tantalise your tastebuds and take a tour across Victoria’s Wine Regions With cheaper car rentals.

Victoria is one of the leading Wine growers in Australia. With more than 800 wineries and 600 cellar doors across five outstanding wine regions, it’s almost impossible to visit them all. That’s why Cheaper Car Rentals has selected the best three regions of wine cellars in Victoria which guarantees to deliver the perfect grape style to suit anyone’s palate.

The first stop takes us to the infamous Yarra Valley Wine region, approximately 240km Drive east of Melbourne CBD. Yarra Valley is Victoria’s first wine-growing district stretching back 180 years in producing wine and today Yarra Valley is recognised as one of the world’s leading cold climate wine-growing regions, with internationally known names such as Domaine Chandon, St Huberts, De Bortoli, Yering Station, Oakridgeand & Coldstream Hills. Why not match the superb estate wines with a meal at any of the winery restaurants in the region that boast multiple hatted chefs, whilst taking in the most exquisite views? If you’re travelling with a large group Cheaper Car recommends Hiring our Nissan Elgrand which is able to accommodate 8 passengers and plentiful comfort for your journey

Our next Stop on the Cheaper Car Rentals Wine tour will take your breath away. The Pinot Coast is a wine route that stretches across 750km of the Southern Ocean of Victoria. The trail consists of three distinct regions – Geelong/Bellarine, Mornington Peninsula and Gippsland – all of which produce outstanding maritime pinot noir. With more than 145 cellar doors and some of Australia’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants with locally sourced seafood, there are plenty of spent days exploring vast beaches, checking out the cosy villages and popping into the cellar door, and tasting acclaimed pinot noir, handcrafted cheeses, freshly picked berries, and more. Day One Mornington Peninsula first stop Yabby Lake vineyard and sample the peninsula’s acclaimed cool-climate pinot noir. The next stop is lunch at the critically acclaimed two-hatted restaurant Paringa Estate where you will enjoy the most delectable meal whilst pairing with delicious wines on offer. Day Two say goodbye to Mornington and head towards Gippsland to experience Western Port Bay & Phillip Island. The first stop is Purple Hens Wines and sample award-winning wines. For Lunch look no further than Phillip Island Winery Set on the south coast of Phillip Island The grounds are stunning yet simple, offering expansive garden views and glimpses of the turquoise water of Bass Strait. the Pinot Coast is extra special when you’re traveling with your loved ones for this trip Cheaper Car recommends Hiring the 4-wheel drive Mitsubishi 7-Seater Outlander.

Our last stop on the Cheaper Car rentals Wine Tour takes you to the King Valley, Victoria’s High Country where you think you have been transported to the picturesque hills of northern Italy. King Vally offers Mediterranean-inspired wines such as Pinot grigio, Arneis, Verduzzo, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, and Barbera and in most recent years it’s become the birthplace of Australian prosecco. At King Valley, you can visit Australia’s biggest exporters in wine such as Dal Zotto, Brown Brothers, Chrismont, Pizzini and Sam Miranda. In 2011, all five joined forces to create an exciting new food and wine trail, especially for lovers of the sparkling Italian white. Drive the trail in your rental car as you enjoy intimate tastings with the makers, appreciating rustic Italian cuisine and conversations about the meaning of life over a game of bocce, are all stops along King Valley Prosecco Road.

It’s no doubt that Victorians have so much to offer when it comes to wine. No matter what or where you choose to explore rest assured Cheaper Car Rentals Car can offer you affordable car hire options which can suite all your travel needs.

Exploring the City of Melbourne with Cheaper Car Rentals

February 8, 2024 / 1232 / Travel Guide
Exploring the City of Melbourne with Cheaper Car Rentals

Exploring the City of Melbourne with Cheaper Car Rentals

Melbourne is one of the coolest hippest cities in Australia. From funky cafes & restaurants to stunning architectural landscapes and most immortally the shopping. Melbourne has it all and is conceded to be the Cultural Capital of Australia.

With so much to see and do it can be a little daunting. That is why cheaper car rentals have put together a list of must-visit places in Melbourne.

What Hire Car is Best Suited

When exploring the city of Melbourne and the outer suburbs of the city, it is best to hire a car that is compact but also has enough room to fit the family or travel buddies.

Kia Picanto this compact Micro car is made for city driving. Don’t let the size fool you; The Kia Picanto is comfortable with plenty of legroom, and most importantly it is very economical with fuel!

Need something a little larger? Then hire the MGZS -SUV this compact 4WD gives you that extra comfort without costing a fortune of fuel another great vehicle when exploring the City of Melbourne.

Art in Melbourne

Hosier Lane – Steet Art

Location: Flinders street -Federation squire

Closest Car Rental Location: Cheaper Car Rentals Melbourne

For those who love street art Hosier Lane is a must-see. Between alleys and laneways, the walls are crowded with cool-looking graffiti and murals, from top to bottom. You can even book a tour that’s led by a local street artist Melbourne Steet Art Tour.

National Gallery Of Art

Location: St, Kilda Road South Bank

Closest Car Rental Location: Cheaper Car Rentals Melbourne

The oldest and the most visited Art Galleries in Australia, the budling alone is a sight to see. The National Gallery of Victoria has an extensive collection with over 75,000 works of art that will captivate any art lover.

ArtVo

Location: Docklands Melbourne

Closest Car Rental Location: Cheaper Car Rentals Melbourne

This is a must-do with the whole family. Art lover or not, this is an experience you don’t want to miss. Where else can you be part of the painting as you touch, interact, and give your wackiest pose next to the gallery’s larger-than-life artworks? This 3D interactive Art gallery will bring out the artist within.

Markets & Shopping

Queen Victorian Market

Location: Corner of Elizabeth & Victoria Street, Melbourne

Closest Car Rental Location: Cheaper Car Rentals Melbourne

Queen Victorian Market is the Rolls-Royce when it comes to Melbourne’s markets. Stretching over 17 acres and hosting over 700 stalls, supporting local designers in fashion and accessories to a unique range of homeware and Art Décor there is nothing you cannot find.   However, the market is best known for its food stalls, with the freshest produce that is locally grown and made, not to exclude the extensive range of international foods some would say it’s the whole of Europe under one roof.  During Summer every Wednesday, QVM hosts the famous Night Market where you can experience a mix of global street food whilst enjoying Live Music and entertainment from all over the world. It’s a cultural experience you don’t want to miss.

Bourke St Mall

Location: Burke Street Melbourne CBD

Closest Car Rental Location: Cheaper Car Rentals Melbourne

Bourke St Mall is Melbourne’s most iconic shopping destination. Located in the city centre, this pedestrian-only retail and dining hub is lined with leading department stores, high-end boutiques, and independent designers. Some of the most famous shopping stops along the Bourke Street Mall are Myer and David Jones. These department stores present several floors of fashion, homewares, electronics and more.

Collins Street

Location: Collins Street Melbourne CBD

Closest Car Rental Location: Cheaper Car Rental Melbourne

Collins Street is one for the fashionistas, looking for that something extra. Collins Street is the home of international brands and ultra-chic local designers of Melbourne.  Collins Street is known to be the ‘Paris End’ of Melbourne presenting a series of lavish boutiques surrounded by heritage-listed buildings that is reminiscent of the glamorous French capital. Here, you will find a selection of European designers, such as Dior, Burberry, Chanel, and Giorgio Armani.

Cafes & Restaurants

Melbourne is renowned for having the best coffee in Australia. Melbourne Lane ways are filled with cafes that tantalise your senses with the aroma of expresso and sweet smells from fresh pasties. Further afield just on the outskirts of the CBD, you can drive your hired car to the famous café destination of Carlton, Richmond, Fitzroy, Prahran, South Melbourne, Port Melbourne and St Kilda. Visiting all Locations is possible when you Hire a Car from Cheaper Car Rentals in Melbourne.

Must Eats During the Day

  • Luna Croissanterie: French pâtissier Specialising in pastries Located in Fizroy & Melbourne CBD
  • Proud May: Coffee roaster extraordinaire, located in Collingwood Proud Mary doesn’t just do coffee, they serve all-day brunch and a smaller selection of lunch offerings that are sure to contain everyone’s favourite.
  • Cibi: Japanese-inspired breakfast Café which also sells exquisite home wear Located in Collingwood
  • Jupiter: an all-day eatery specialising in Asian Flavours & Euro Expresso Bar located in South Melbourne

Must Eats After Dark

  • Third Wave Café If you like American style BBQ then you must try Third Wave café Located in Albert Park, this restaurant is definitely not vegan friendly nor for the faint-hearted.
  • Chin Chin Melbourne modern Asian hawker inspired restaurant with contemporary décor emphasising of sharing style menu that takes Southeast Asian food to the next level. Located in Flinders Lane Melbourne.
  • Sassone Cucina Italia Situated on the River side of the Esplanade, Sassone Cucina Italian restaurant offers panoramic views and the best of Italian cuisine in Melbourne’s Docklands
  • GRK Greek Kitchen & Bar, this family-style restaurant is one of the best traditional Greek eateries in Melbourne. Located in Thornbury GRK Greek Kitchen & Bar offers family-style platters of meat & seafood you defiantly feel like you’re at a Greek family home.

 

Whether you choose one place visit or all Cheaper Car rentals recommendations; rest assure Hiring a Car from Cheaper Car Rentals will not only get you there, your experience will be one to remember. 

Tips On Road Tolls in Australia

January 22, 2024 / 1360 / Travel Guide
Tips On Road Tolls in Australia

A toll road is a road that requires you to pay a fee to travel on it. In some instances, this may involve stopping at a toll point to pay a fee, however with recent technology, Electronic overhead toll collection system has taken its place.

Road Tolls can be found in the states of Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Tolling points are positioned within the metropolitan capitals of Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.

When hiring a rental Car with Cheaper Car Rental your Hired Car will come with a small electronic devise that is place on the front widescreen so no need to organise with the toll provider Linkt, before your travel. When Passing under the toll, your devise will make a singular beep sound, this will indicate that a toll charge has been recorded. Tolls can be used as many times as you require throughout the duration of your rental.

How to Pay Your Toll

Upon return of your hired Car, insure to inform a cheaper car rental assistant that tolls had been used.  You would have paid a security bond when signing your rental car agreement. Your Car rental security Bond will be used to pay any of the tolls used; the balance of your bond will be returned to your credit card once the toll balance has been deducted. This may take up to 10 working business days.

Locations of Tolls the states

Victoria

Victoria

The toll roads in Victoria can be found in and around the capital city of Melbourne. CityLink operate Toll Services from the Tullamarine Freeway, across the Bolte Bridge, through the Burnley and Domain Tunnels which links the South-Eastern suburbs to the West Gate Bridge

  • CityLink, will link Melbourne airport to Melbourne’s CBD therefore, if you have picked yourrental car from Cheaper Car Rentals Tullamarine airport location and heading into the city or southern suburbs of Melbourne the likelihood of using CityLink is probable.
  • EastLink, Links Melbourne CBD & Melbourne’s Eastern suburbs to the Mornington Peninsula. So if your planning to take your Rental Car for a drive to visit Melbourne’s stunning beaches of Mornington your will come across tolls

To find out more about Melbourne’s toll system visit www.linkt.com.au/melbourne

New South Wales

New South Wales

The toll points in New South Wales can be found in Sydney along the M2, M5, M7, Lane Cove Tunnel, Military Road E-Ramps, the Eastern Distributor, the Cross City Tunnel and the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel.

To find out more about toll roads in Sydney visit www.linkt.com.au/using-toll-roads/about-sydney-toll-roads/sydney

Queensland

Queensland

Queensland’s toll roads form an integrated network of tolled roads, bridges and tunnels that provides greater connectivity, efficiency and reliability across the greater Brisbane and Toowoomba areas These toll roads can be found on the Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges, Gateway Extension, Logan Motorway, Clem 7 and the Go Between Bridge. If you’re driving up from the Gold Coast to Brisbane on the M1 motorways it totally free however if your drive your Rental Car via the Gateway Motorway, you’ll need to pay a toll.

 

To find out more about toll roads in Queensland visit https://www.linkt.com.au/using-toll-roads/about-brisbane-toll-roads/brisbane

Discover Gold Coast Theme Parks with Cheaper Car Rentals Gold Coast

December 11, 2023 / 1078 / Travel Guide

Looking for some excitement for the whole Family? Gold Coast is the theme park capital of Australia. With so many to choose from, which one will be right for your family?

Dreamworld: Dreamworld is the biggest theme park in Australia. It has everything from exciting thrill rides for adults and teens to kids’ precincts like the ABC Kids World, Belinda’s Fun House, and Seabed Splash Park.

If you love nature, Dreamworld has one of the best animal encounters where you can feed the animals, hold a Koala, and don’t miss out on the Tiger Presentation. Dreamworld is your one-stop shop for all things FUN!

Dreamworld

How to get there

When renting a car from Cheaper Car Rentals in Gold Coast Airport, it takes approximately 40 min to drive from Gold Coast Airport (OOL) to Dreamworld Coomera via Gold Coast Hwy/State Route 2 and M1. Already at your accommodation, Cheaper Car Rental in Gold Coast can deliver a car to your hotel for maximum convenience.

Warner Brothers Movie World: Experience movie magic with Warner Bros. Movie World. See all your favourite movie caricatures, such as Bat Man, Superman, Wonder Woman and those wacky Characters from Loony Tunes. If thrill rides are more your thing, Movie World has Australia’s scariest and most thrilling rides. Green Lantern Coaster is one of the steepest inverted drops in the Southern Hemisphere. For that adrenaline rush, a Batwing Space shot will shoot you up almost 60 metres into the air. For the Younger kids, Movie World has you covered. Step into the world Of WB Kids Zone and experience the magic and thrills of the Looney Tunes rides. Are you looking for a Road Runner coaster or a mini car driving, or do you just want to escape the heat and cool down with the Loony Tunes splash zone? Whatever your heart desires, Dream World has everything you’re looking for.

Warner Brothers Movie World

How to get there

When renting a car from Cheaper Car Rentals in Gold Coast Airport, it takes approximately 29 min to drive from Gold Coast Airport (OOL) to Movie World via Gold Coast Hwy/State Route 2 and M1. Already at your accommodation, Cheaper Car Rental in Gold Coast can deliver a car to your hotel for maximum convenience.

Sea World: Sea World is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, and theme park. Sea World offers so much more than attractions and animal exhibits and promotes conservation through education and the rescue and rehabilitation of sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife. Get close and personal with Sea World’s beautiful marine animals, from King & Gentoo Penguins to curious seals to intelligent and lovable dolphins. Many different species call SeaWorld home, so there’s no shortage of fun for the whole family or group. After visiting the animals, why not have some fun at Sea World’s Atlantis Precinct? Enjoy the thrill on the Leviathan’s 909-metre coaster with speeds of up to 80 km per hour or the twist and turn of the Vortex. For the young ones, have fun with all the characters from Nickelodeon. Nickelodeon Land has many rides and live shows that would make any child’s day.

Sea World

How to get there

When renting a car from Cheaper Car Rentals in Gold Coast Airport, it takes approximately 29 min to drive from Gold Coast Airport (OOL) to Movie World via Gold Coast Hwy/State Route 2 and M1. Already at your accommodation, Cheaper Car Rental in Gold Coast can deliver a car to your hotel for maximum convenience.

Water Theme Parks: Want to escape the Queensland heat? Then come and visit not one but two massive water parks here on the Gold Coast. Wet n’ Wild is situated right next door to Movie World, which has over 20 attractions. Wet’n’Wild is the perfect spectacular destination for all ages. White Water World is part of the Dreamworld amusement complex and features groundbreaking technology to deliver some serious splashes.

There’s so much to do & see with either of these theme parks, so getting a seasonal pass or an annual pass with unlimited entry is the most affordable way to go. Dream World multi-entry pass offers a 7-day ticket, giving you access to Dreamworld and SkyPoint Observation Deck with seasonal entry to White Water World for 7 consecutive days from your first visit. A Village Road Show Super Pass offers 7-day access to WB Movie World Sea World Wet n’ Wild & Paradise Country.

White Water World

Why not explore them all with Cheaper Car Rentals in Gold Coast? Book your rental car today and have a week or two of fun with convenient locations at Gold Coast Airport Currumbin Waters. So what are you waiting for? Book now!

Recommended Cars to Get You There.

For large families or groups, choose from 8 Seater People Mover Van

● Hyundai Imax

● Nissan Serena Hybrid

● Nissan Elgrand

● Kia Carnival

For medium size family or groups, choose from 5-7 Seater SUVs or Sedans

● 7-seater Mitsubishi Outlander

● Kia Sportage

● Hyundai Tucson

● Haval Jolion

● MG 5 Sedan

For Small family or groups, choose From Small Compact Hatchbacks

● Hyundai Accent

● Kia Rio

● Kia Picanto

Tips for Choosing a Rental Car That’s Right for You

December 11, 2023 / 1093 / Travel Guide
What Led To The Popularity Of CCR Car Hire Services

Planning a holiday can be stressful. Whether you’re travelling for a weekend trip or a more extended vacation, being able to explore at your own pace is comforting. Therefore, hiring a rental car, especially in cities like Melbourne or Gold Coast, allows you to explore your destination comfortably. Cheaper Car Rentals offers a wide range of vehicles across Melbourne and Gold Coast, ranging from compact cars to spacious sedans, SUVs, and people movers. Our modern & reliable vehicles are offered in various car hire packages, ensuring you find an option that matches your budget and travel requirements.

So, if you’re looking to explore the great city of Melbourne or the beautiful beaches of Gold Coast, Cheaper Car Rentals offers convenient options at multiple locations across both destinations – ensuring a hassle-free exploration. Cheaper Car Rentals is your number one choice for all your rental car needs in Melbourne and Gold Coast.

Choosing the Right Rental Car For Your Needs

When it comes to choosing a rental car in Melbourne or Gold Coast, there are several factors to consider. Cheaper Car Rentals has come up with some of the essential questions that you need to ask yourself when choosing the right rental car for your needs:

  • What kind of road trip will I be taking?
  • How many people will be coming?
  • How much space will I need to carry luggage or equipment?

Road Trip

Going on a road trip can be very exciting; however, if you are not careful, some uncertain events can turn your fun experience into a costly and dangerous one. That’s why you must choose the right vehicle for the right terrain when hiring a rental car. Renting a large SUV is the perfect way to explore the great outdoors and the sites that may be off the beaten track. Not only do SUVs provide comfort and space, but these vehicles can go off-road, giving you access to areas that would otherwise be inaccessible by a standard car. With an SUV rental, you can experience the freedom of a road trip with your family or friends while having ample space for all your travel equipment.

Travelling with a Large Family or Group

While travelling with others is stressful enough, thinking of how to fit their luggage in one car can be an additional pain. Cheaper Car Rentals has the solution to your problem. We offer 8-seater Vans/People movers or 7-seater SUVs across Melbourne & Gold Coast that are perfect for travelling with families and groups. Additionally, these vehicles have enough storage space to accommodate all your luggage needs.

Travelling with a Medium-Small Size Family or Group

Travelling with a small family or group in Melbourne or the Gold Coast becomes effortless with Cheaper Car Rentals. Offering a wide selection from Small Compact Cars to Medium and Intermediate Sedans, Cheaper Car Rentals cater to diverse needs across Melbourne and Gold Coast. Sedans generally have four doors with a trunk, making loading and unloading luggage and other items easy. With comfortable seating and modern amenities such as air conditioning, entertainment systems, and safety airbags, sedans are great for family or groups who like those long trips and wants to explore places like the Great Ocean Road in Victoria or the Hinterlands in the Gold Coast. Sedans offer comfortable seating for up to 5 passengers and ample space for luggage or belongings.

Opting for a small compact car hire is a fantastic option for getting around inner suburbia, the inner cities of Melbourne CBD, and Gold Coats. Compact cars offer seating for up to 5 people without enough space to carry extra baggage for long travel. Small compact vehicles are also typically more fuel-efficient, allowing you to save money for other aspects of your journey.

Now that you know what type of rental car will suit your needs and help you enjoy your travel, book now! With Cheaper Car Rentals, you can hire your favourite car from your nearest location, whether in Melbourne or Gold Coast.

Suggested Car Hire for your next adventure.

1. Mitsubishi Outlander: 7-seater 4WD gives you complete freedom to explore your world on all kinds of surfaces and terrains and in almost all conditions.

2. Nissan Elgrand: 8-Seater People Mover is an excellent vehicle for family or group travellers. It comes with high seats and a spacious interior for extra comfort.

3. Kia Cerato Sedan: 5-Seater Intermediate Sedan is great for medium-sized families or groups. It has enough space in the boot with plenty of interior storage options, including bottle holders in the doors, a phone cubby under the air-conditioning controls next to two USB ports, centre cup holders, and a decent-sized console.

4. Kia Picanto: This small compact car is excellent for exploring the cities and inner suburbs of Melbourne & Gold Coast. This car may be small in size, but it packs many features without compromising comfort.

Important Tips to get Cheap Car Rentals on Gold Coast

February 8, 2023 / 1263 / Travel Guide
Untitled design

If you are looking for cheap car rentals in Gold Coast, there are a few factors you should consider. Rental cars are considered the most convenient option for commuting, especially after the pandemic. As the travel restrictions are now minimal, Australians have started travelling more, and businesses are also on their way to booming. It has significantly affected the price of rental cars in Gold Coast as well as in the country.

The prices of rental cars are sky-high, but the following tips can help make your car rental experience more convenient and budget-friendly. Before we learn the tips for saving on car rentals, let’s look at the advantages.

  • It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and convenience
  • More comfortable than public transportation
  • Easy to carry your luggage
  • Renting a self-drive car is safe as you have complete control
  • It’s more fun with friends and family
  • Car rental in Gold Coast is affordable
  • It’s more convenient and budget-friendly for international travellers
  • Easy booking and payment options

Now that you know how car rental comes with many advantages, let’s look at some tips that will give you an affordable car rental experience.

Search Aggregator Websites

Aggregator websites can save a lot of your time while looking for a reliable Gold Coast car hire company. Kayak and VroomVroomVroom provide you with a list of multiple car rental companies. You should not limit your research to such websites and visit the car rental company’s website to get more information. You might find a better deal on the company’s website.

Look Beyond Companies Located Nearby Airport

Renting a car from the airport is way costlier as the car rental companies have to pay hefty parking fees. However, while looking for companies that provide pick-up and drop-off services at the airport, you should also look for companies located downtown. You might have to reach the location by taking a taxi or using public transport, but it’s a small price compared to the affordability you will get with the car rental deal.

Look Beyond Brands

Expand your search beyond big names for cheap car rentals in Gold Coast. There are popular car rental companies in Australia with availability across the country. However, their rent can often cost higher than the local companies.

You should also consider smaller car rental companies. Google Maps can be an excellent tool for finding reliable local car rental companies. You can check the company’s website and also the ratings it has received.

Compare Daily, Weekly, Weekend, and Weekdays Car Rental Rates

The prices for renting a car on weekends and holidays may differ from weekdays. However, there is no specific time duration when you can get a cheaper car rental deal. Sometimes it’s cheaper to rent a car only for the days you need it and sometimes renting it for a week costs less. You need to check both ways and ensure that there are no extra charges to return the car early.

Decline the Insurance

Many credit cards provide car rental insurance, which may help you save on the insurance offered by the car rental company. Make sure that you are paying the amount which does not have insurance included.

Rent it for the minimum Days

If you are on holiday, car rental is one of the best options to plan your itinerary freely. Having a car to reach your destination gives you the flexibility of time. However, it’s essential that you opt for a car rental in Gold Coast only for the days you need the car.

Take Advantage of Membership Discounts

You can find car rental discounts in obvious places. You need to be vigilant about car rental discounts, which include your hotel loyalty program, airline loyalty program, credit card, and more.

Return the Car with a Full Tank

Most car rental companies in Australia provide a car with a full tank and expect to get it returned with the full fuel tank. If you fail to top-up the fuel while returning the car, you might get charged a premium per litre. To avoid the extra cost, you should top-up the fuel tank before returning the car.

Keep One Driver

Keeping the number of drivers to one or as few as possible can reduce car rental costs. Any additional driver can cost you extra, but it’s essential to add if required to get insurance cover. If you allow an unauthorised driver, it can invalidate the contract you have made with the car rental company. If you are taking a long road trip, you should look for a car rental company that offers deals with additional free drivers.

Keep an Eye on Additional Surcharges

You should keep an eye on the additional surcharges in your rental agreement. For example, some companies may charge extra for drivers under twenty-five. If you rent a car for a one-way trip, you might also have to pay extra. You should look for extra charges in your rental agreement for child seats, GPS, snow chains, booster seats, roof rack or ski rack, and a few more.

Mileage Limitation

When it comes to car hire in Gold Cost, you should check the mileage limitation as every company has different limitations. To avoid paying extra on that, you should look for a car rental company that offers unlimited miles.

Advance Booking

Like flight tickets, car rental prices do not fluctuate in Australia. However, it highly depends on the demand and location. You might have to pay more if you travel during the holiday season.

The best way to keep the car rental cost minimum is to book the car in advance. Most car rental companies in Gold Coast offer free cancellation till forty-eight hours, so booking in advance is more practical.

Cheap Car Rentals offer affordable and reliable car rental service in Gold Coast to give you the most convenient travel experience. We have a wide range of cars available, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and more, to meet your travel needs.

Renting A Car In The Gold Coast

September 19, 2022 / 2052 / Travel Guide
Car In The Gold Coast

All You Need to Know About Renting A Car In The Gold Coast

Driving around Australia during your holiday can be exhausting if you’ve got the wrong vehicle at a high cost; you must choose which type of car rental is suitable for your needs and fit within your budget. The cost to rent a car on the gold coast varies depending on your desired type of vehicle. Here, in this blog post, we will provide you with all the information about cheap car hiring on Gold Coast you need so you can save money while getting the best ride in town.

What is the cheapest website to rent a car on The Gold Coast?

Cheaper Car Rentals, Thrifty and Hertz are two Australian favourites for being reliable, cheap and always offering great deals.

Is it cheaper to book a car rental online?

Yes, it is. We found out that if you book online, you will be able to find cheaper deals than just walking into the agency and asking for their best price.

Is it hard to rent on the Gold Coast?

It can be difficult for some people to find a car rental deal that suits them. If you are searching for a Gold Coast car rental, look for reputed car rental companies with a wide range of vehicles at fair prices.

Why are rental cars on the Gold Coast so expensive right now?

One potential reason is that this region is seeing some of Australia’s highest short-term rent rates due to its rising popularity.

What do I need to rent a car on the Gold Coast?

Firstly, you will need to have a driver’s licence. You can obtain the licence from your local Australian state, territory or local council. Next, you will need to show a form of photo ID such as an international passport or a valid Australian ID. All Gold Coast residents must buy this insurance before renting any vehicle. It is optional for non-residents.

What is the best day to rent a car on the Gold Coast?

We believe you will likely get a better deal on weekdays, generally between 10.00 am and 12.00 pm. We recommend using a comparison site like CarHireXS to find the best car rental prices in Australia in just a few minutes.

What is the best time to pick up a rental car on the Gold Coast?

We recommend renting your vehicle at the latest at 1.00 pm in the Gold Coast to avoid congestion. The busiest time for pick-ups is between 10.00 am and 12.00 pm.

How far in advance should you rent a car on the Gold Coast?

It will depend on what type of vehicle you book. For instance, if you are booking SUVs or minibuses and want one on the same day, there is no need to book in advance. However, making your reservation as soon as possible would be best to ensure availability.

What is the easiest company to rent a car from?

Large fleet operators are usually cheap car rental options on Gold Coast, so if you decide to rent from Cheaper Car Rentals, you can rest assured that you will get the best possible service available. However, choosing local companies assures better rates and more responsive customer service. 

What is the most fuel-efficient rental car?

The most fuel-efficient rental car on the Gold Coast is the Toyota Prius, and the Prius only uses 0.9 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.

Why are there no rentals on the Gold Coast?

If you search for an area in the Gold Coast and it comes up with “No rentals available”, it just means that there wasn’t a rental agency available when you searched for your reservation. Try again sometime later after refreshing your internet browser.

Will rental prices go down in Queensland?

Conflicting reports have emerged this week, some saying that rental prices are falling while others say they are rising. We’ll have to wait until more data is released to know which statements are factual.

Is it hard to rent on the Sunshine Coast?

Car rental services are available in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, but you may have to hunt for them.

Why is it so hard to find a rental car?

Finding a rental car in the area can be difficult because all significant companies operate their stores based on what they have available at the moment. Booking in advance is always a better option. 

Do you pay before or after you rent a car?

Paying before you drive off is best. 

Do I need insurance to rent a car on the Gold Coast?

It would help if you bought insurance protection with car rentals- try not to skip on insurance.

Is it cheaper to reserve a rental car in advance in Gold Coast?

Yes, reserving your rental car in advance is usually cheaper, and it might even be the trick to hiring cars for cheaper on Gold Coast. There are a few ways to ensure you can get the cheapest rates.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article about the challenges you might face while renting a car on the Gold Coast, and we hope that it makes the process easier for you! 

Remember to check out our other articles at https://cheapercarrentals.com.au/

Happy renting!

Updates Regarding Coronavirus

April 22, 2020 / 2735 / Travel Guide
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It is our mission to maintain the high standards for safety and cleanliness that customers expect of our brands.

In addition to practicing preventative measures to reduce the spread of germs within our facilities, all of our vehicles go through a rigorous, multi-step cleaning process for each rental.

We are remaining vigilant in upholding these practices and are taking additional precautions as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and local governments to minimize the risk to our customers and employees.

Driving The Great Ocean Road With Cheap Car Rental

May 22, 2019 / 1894 / Travel Guide
Is Renting with Roof Racks Worth It Here?

Being the world’s greatest road trip and hugging a massive 300 kilometres of coastline, travelling to the Great Ocean Road offers one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world.

Being the world’s greatest road trip and hugging a massive 300 kilometres of coastline, travelling to the Great Ocean Road offers one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. It is not just the fantastic drive, the winding cliff-top roads make this drive the most memorable drive ever. It covers Victoria’s dramatic coastline from Torquay to Portland, offering a great visual treat.

Tempted to get this off your bucket list, but thinking of getting a cheap car rental first? Well, to let the tourists, travellers and explorers experience the diverse fun of a road trip, Cheap Car Rentals provides a range of current model cars, late model cars and commercial cars. We let you make the choice before you start for the Great Ocean Road. We are located at Melbourne CBD, Melbourne Airport, Carnegie, Keilor and Ormond.

FROM WHERE TO START: Most of the visitors start from Melbourne, which is 95 kilometres away from Torquay.

THINGS TO DO ON THE WAY: This stretch is a hub for adventure junkies who want to indulge in outdoor activities like scuba diving, surfing, sea kayaking and much more. It is also a great spot for visitors who cherish arts, heritage, cultural attractions, fine dining, local produce and winemakers.

COASTAL TOWNS TO VISIT WHILE DRIVING EAST TO WEST FROM TORQUAY:

  • Torquay (0 km) – Surf Central for The Great Ocean Road.
  • Anglesea (18 km) – Popular family beach.
  • Aireys Inlet (28 km) – Small town with great beaches.
  • Lorne (47 km) – Has one of the largest and most popular resorts.
  • Apollo Bay (90 km) – Entry point for most celebrated short and multi-day walks.
  • Port Campbell (188 km) – World famous for its extraordinary wave-sculpted rock formations and the Twelve Apostle.
  • Warrnambool (253 km) – The largest cosmopolitan town in the region.
  • Port Fairy (283 km) – Beautiful bluestone town with ranked number 34 golf course.
  • Portland (356 km) – Deepwater bulk port, with great European influence.

With Cheaper Car Rentals, you can book online and all our online prices are all you pay for your car rental.

Whether you are on an ocean adventure, road trip of a lifetime or a forest escape – The Great Ocean Road is an experience you will want to explore time and again.

Winter Car Rental Tips: 4 Tips for Driving Safe

May 22, 2019 / 2222 / Travel Guide
WINTER CAR RENTAL TIPS min

The major question that we have asked ourselves at least once in our lifetime is ‘How do I handle the snow and ice in a rental?’. Cheaper Car Rental provides you with the best tips to avoid all the hazardous experiences and to stay safe on the road.

WINTER CAR RENTAL TIPS min

The obvious perils of a winter driver are the snow, ice, winter fog and continuous rains. The major question that we have asked ourselves at least once in our lifetime is ‘How do I handle the snow and ice in a rental?’. Cheaper Car Rental provides you with the best tips to avoid all the hazardous experiences and to stay safe on the road.

  • Check the vehicle before departure: Thoroughly checking the rental car before starting for the destination is a wise decision to make. The tread in the tyres, pressure in the tyres, windscreen wipers, topped up engine coolant, stocked emergency provisions and other things ensure that the hazards on the roads do not cause delays/unfortunate incidents.
  • Check the winter terms and conditions of your car rental agreement: Remember that only a few companies allow the vehicles to be taken into the snow. Check your route and ask for additional snow cover.
  • Adjust your driving techniques: Wet, icy roads can greatly impact your car’s ability to function normally. A lot of precision and decisiveness is required while driving in the winters. Slow down and avoid sudden braking or turning!
  • In worst case scenarios: If you are stranded or stuck, remain in the car but switch off the engine to save the fuel. To avoid any further damage, call the emergency services or the breakdown cover provider. Cheap Car Rentals offers a range of car rental and hire options even during the winters. Browse through our Excess Reduction Packages and we hope that your winter driving goes hassle-free.

Best Winter Attractions to Visit Around Melbourne With Family

May 22, 2019 / 1824 / Travel Guide
Best Winter Attractions to Visit Around Melbourne With Family

Melbourne has the fame of being the most liveable city in the world. There is no time or season when the residents and visitors can run out of places to explore. There is always a little something for everyone each year. When the world is looking for skiing options and indoor activities during winters, Melbourne opens out as a culturally rich platform. With street art, rooftop bars, markets, festivals, events, exhibitions, live music, authentic eateries, mountains, vineyards, and much more – Melbourne has it all!

Winter in Melbourne is a force to be reckoned with and many people are apprehensive of the impending colder temperatures. On the contrary, there is plenty to do in and around the city, for you and your family.

Here, Cheaper Car Rentals brings to you the best of winter attractions which can be explored around Melbourne with family!

1. Yarra Valley : There is a lot to explore in Yarra Valley during the winters. Here, you can explore the big outdoors or linger in the villages. From estates to sanctuaries to premium wineries, Yarra Valley is a one-stop-destination for many explorations.

2. Hitting the winter slopes : Winter is the best time for skiing in Australia. With easily accessible fields like Falls Creek, Mount Buller, Mount Buffalo and Mount Baw – the skiing experiences in the Alpine region offer the best scenic views in the world.

3. Melbourne International Film Festival : Being one of oldest film festivals in the world, MIFF showcases the most current entries from cinema with retrospectives, tributes, and discussion programs. The website is regularly updated and can be visited for latest updates and screenings.

4. Melbourne Winter Masterpieces : Sourced from the most prestigious galleries around the world, the masterpieces are showcased over 100 days between June and October. For the glimpse of the most creative art, we can visit the Melbourne Museum, National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and Australian Centre for Moving Image (ACMI).

5. Melbourne Aquarium : It is one of the best indoor attractions in Melbourne. Divided into 4 different aspects of aquatic life, this aquarium offers the most amazing experience away from the colder feelings of winter. It is open daily – 9:30 am to 6 pm

Apart from the very few mentioned above, Melbourne has a range of place for all –  Healesville, Yan Yean Reservoir, Ferntree Gully, Grants Park, Lake Eldon, Phillips Island, CBD and Great Ocean Road are to name a few more.

Don’t let the winter get you down! There are a plethora of ways and places to explore before the temperature drops!

3 Money Saving Tips That Every Traveler Will Love

May 22, 2019 / 1879 / Travel Guide
3 Money Saving Tips That Every Traveler Will Love

Travel planning, especially transport, can dig deep into the wallets if travellers aren’t careful. Choosing reliable rental cars are as important as finding great deals on accommodations while you travel.

Travel planning, especially transport, can dig deep into the wallets if travellers aren’t careful. Choosing reliable rental cars are as important as finding great deals on accommodations while you travel. Cheaper Car Rentals, a smart alternative to the otherwise expensive car hire services in Melbourne, has a multitude of ideas about saving a lot on your car rental. With our easy tips, we ensure that travellers can put a lot of money back into their pockets or use it for other travel requirements.

Most of us are under the misconception that car rental rates are same and putting efforts behind browsing car rental options is an extreme time waster. Contrary to the general thoughts, car rental rates can and do vary between destinations and rental companies. Affordable car rentals always come handy, especially when they are the only way to explore a new place or commute through the new city. Travel smarter with the following 3 money saving tips that every traveller will love:

LOOK FOR RENTAL CAR LOYALTY REWARDS PROGRAM : Many travellers hesitate to sign up for such programs, but the fact is that they are free, offer free upgrades and you can avoid waiting in lines for the car rentals. Moreover, they lay a lot of focus on your car rental preferences and provide rental availability on an urgent basis too. Travelling through the program lets you earn reward points which can be redeemed for upgrades and free car rentals. Many other business benefit programs also provide up to 25% off on every rental. So, with a rental car loyalty rewards program, you are in a win-win situation anytime you travel.

COUPONS AND BEST DEALS ARE THE BEST MONEY SAVERS : To double down your savings from smart car rental tips, always look for coupons and deals which offer great discounts. The coupon codes can be applied during the checkout at the booking portal. Moreover, using online deal aggregators is an added advantage as they give the best suitable deals which are suitable for you. By using this tip, you can save up to 50% on your total rental.

AVOID RENTING AT THE AIRPORT : We all are aware of the airport concession fees, which can range between 10 to 30 percent of the rental fee. We understand that it is a personal choice and more convenient to hire the car rental from the airport, but believe us when we say that the most economical car rental is always found in the vicinity of the airports. Always look for a reliable offsite agency or book the car rental through your hotel authorities.

Use the tips the next time you travel. It is always worth taking a little extra effort and give car rentals an extra scrutiny like accommodation and airfares. Don’t let the hidden charges increase the ground transportation costs for you!

Hire Cheap Car Rentals when in Melbourne! We are your Australian cheap car rental specialists!

Why Should You Rent a Car for All Your Travelling Needs?

May 22, 2019 / 1893 / Travel Guide
Why Should You Rent a Car for All Your Travelling Needs?

Renting a car provides all the freedom and flexibility while you travel. Additionally, they are also the biggest expense on any trip considering the additional costs and fare rates imposed by individual companies.

Renting a car provides all the freedom and flexibility while you travel. Additionally, they are also the biggest expense on any trip considering the additional costs and fare rates imposed by individual companies. But, the travellers can still save a great deal of money by putting efforts behind finding the best deals, insurance options, choosing the most economical pickup points and more. Cheaper Car Rentals, a smart alternative to car hire in Melbourne, has many practical reasons to rent a car for all your travelling needs. The most primary reason is that the travellers can save a lot of money on car rentals using few tips!

COMPARE CAR RENTAL RATES ONLINE : Securing a car rental is easier with online price and services comparisons. Travellers can visit all the travel portals and choose to visit the car rental company’s website directly. This might get you a higher discount if you are paying in advance. Also, understand that most prepaid bookings are non-refundable, so you might want to make a choice to ‘pay in advance’ based on how sure you are to travel and cancellation terms of the car rental company.

LOOK BEYOND BIGGER BRANDS : Independent car rental companies can be a preferred choice due to lower operating costs and cars available. They can cost 15 to 30 percent lesser than mainstream brands – ensuring that you have considerable money to save.

BEWARE OF EXTRAS AND HIDDEN CHARGES ON CAR RENTALS : This list includes local sales tax, navigation, airport concession, child seat, varied surcharges, vehicles licence fee, car’s registration, arena fee, rental facility, local civic improvement, topping off the gas tank on return, and a lot more. Always do your research well.

SAY ‘NO’ TO AIRPORT RENTALS : If you have a choice or the possibility, please walk till the agencies beyond the airport. You will spare yourself from paying the surplus ‘airport fee’ and find a better car rental deal too. But, if you are looking for convenience, you can always even rent a car through the hotel.

DECLINE INSURANCE OFFERS FROM CAR RENTAL COMPANIES : Even if you have been lured by insurance offers, always know that the rental companies make a lot of profit through insurance fees. In most of the cases, the travellers would hardly need the coverage and there are slim chances of the insurance closing any expensive loopholes. Also, verify if your auto insurance policy or credit card company covers car rentals, especially when you are travelling abroad. Though travel insurance can be a good idea if you are travelling for a longer period of time, the insurance offered by most car rental companies are expensive.

Find the best budget deals on car rentals and travel happily wherever and anywhere. If you are in Melbourne, Call Cheaper Car Rental for the best car rental experience!

Ultimate Christmas Holiday Checklist For Car Rental Hire

May 22, 2019 / 1477 / Travel Guide
Ultimate Christmas Holiday Checklist For Car Rental Hire

As the busy Christmas season gets everybody engaged with their travel plans and getaways, it is important to make right choices and demand for quality car rentals.

Renting a car can be a nightmare, especially if you aren’t aware of the important Dos and the Don’ts. Now, if you are planning a car rental hire for the holidays as Christmas is just around the corner – Cheaper Car Rentals has put together a handy checklist for hassle-free and satisfying car rental experience. Make sure to guide yourself through the pointers and have a blast as you hit the road during the Christmas season.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE : Early December is the best time to start looking for your perfect car rental, especially for the competitive rates and massive discounts to encourage advanced bookings.

  • Compare rates – Online search is the best option
  • Ask about extras – Car rental add-ons should be specified for your own comfort
  • Book your rental car through Economy Car Hire!
  • Always click on the Show Rental Conditions

DURING THE CAR RENTAL HIRE PROCESS : Never forget to carry your,

  • Secondary Proof of Address
  • Driving License
  • Credit Card/Debit Card/Local Insurance
  • Additional ID, if applicable

UPON COLLECTING THE VEHICLE : 

  • Inspection of the vehicle – For booked details and damage
  • Check the fuel level, in adherence to fuel policy
  • Check for Terms & Conditions*
  • Check if purchasing a local insurance is required
  • All the required contact details of the car rental company or the representative

UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE :

  • Photos as proof of fuel level, damage and more
  • Existing scratches and dents on the vehicle
  • Fuel Level
  • Condition of the tyres
  • Accessories like spare wheels, first-aid kit, warning triangle
  • Requested add-ons
  • Transponder/Pre-Paid Tolls
  • Lights & Indicators
  • Car locks
  • Informing staff about the existing damage

WHEN RETURNING THE CAR : 

  • Leave plenty of time before check-in and check the vehicle completely
  • Check the fuel levels according to the fuel policy
  • Inspect the vehicle for any damage during the rental period

In high Christmas spirits, book your car rental with a guarantee to have yourself a car rental during the busy-and-booked December rush. Find the best budget deals on car rentals and travel happily wherever and anywhere.

If you are in Melbourne, call Cheap Car Rental for the best car rental experience!

The Best Road Trip Destinations for Christmas

May 22, 2019 / 1874 / Travel Guide
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With the Christmas break nearly upon us, it is important to make the most of the holiday season. With so many things happening, we hardly get time to go overseas.

Under such circumstances, the best way to make the most of the Holiday season is to keep things local and take a road trip. May it be a simple beach, a sanctuary, an unexplored getaway or a farm stay – hitting the road for any cause in Australia is going to be memorable.

Luckily with Australia having so many exotic locations and the stunning sceneries – planning a road trip to destinations here won’t ever be a problem. To make things easier for you, Cheaper Car Rentals has a list of few road trip you shouldn’t miss considering before making the final choice.

The Great Alpine Road : This 339 km stretch is one of the grandest road trips in Australia. With down plunging valleys, lofty mountain ranges, lush forests, vineyards, sparkling waterways on Gippsland’s coast and more – you and your family can dine on fresh local produce and award-winning cool climate wines on the way.

Pacific Coast : The Pacific Highway is 790-kilometre-long, stretching from Sydney in New South Wales to Brisbane in Queensland. Here, take a detour to Newcastle which is a home to a thriving pub rock scene, rock band Silverchair, and a stunning regional art gallery. Enroute, you can also join a daily tour to watch koalas at Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. You can also walk in the rainforest at Dorrigo National Park’s Skywalk.

Great Beach Drive : With a road trip experience like none other, this route stretches for 380 km. The drive here includes world’s most stunning beaches, few idyllic National Parks and World Heritage listed areas.

Grand Pacific Drive : Starting at the Royal National Park, this route extends for 140 km. With a scenic coastal view, the road has rainforests, iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and passes by the beautiful coastal cities of Shellharbour, Wollongong, Shoalhaven, and Kiama.

The Mighty Murray Way : This route follows one of the world’s longest rivers, Murray. Passing through diverse landscapes from the Riverland to the Murray Mouth, this road trip would be full of changing landscapes.

Eyre Peninsula : With country’s best seafood, outrageously photogenic coastline, deserted beaches, cliff top scenery, wildlife encounters,  and driving on the beach experience – this route is thrilling and adventurous. Moreover, this route is crowd-free even in summers, so if you want to enjoy the space in solitude – Eyre Peninsula is for you.

Waterfall Way : This spectacular 185 km road stretches from Coffs Harbour to Armidale. With 5 amazingly gorgeous national parks and waterfalls, this route is thundering best during the summer.

If you are in Melbourne and want to hit the roads with the best car rental services, call Cheap Car Rental for the best car rental experience!

Things need to know – Using Smart Phones and Driving

May 22, 2019 / 1658 / Travel Guide
Driving and Using SmartPhone

We all have come across that ‘smartphone user’ on the red light because of whom everyone in the lane had to wait for another red light cycle – just because this particular person was busy texting or talking on the phone when the traffic light turned green.

According to the studies, 70% of drivers engage in a smartphone while driving, from sending emails to browsing social media accounts. A lot of these activities internet browsing, video calling, taking selfies and trying to be uber cool with the brand new smartphone.

These activities are extremely dangerous and ILLEGAL, reminding you that you can face fine or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the damage/violation you have caused while using a smartphone while driving. Let us highlight the important considerations for the drivers on the Australian roads.

In Australia, it is illegal to use a handheld smartphone while driving to talk, text, send e-mails, play games, take photos, record videos or use any other function on your smartphone.

STATE BY STATE INFORMATION ON USE OF SMARTPHONE WHILE DRIVING :

  • Silence your phone while driving to avoid being distracted
  • Do everything on your smartphone before you depart or after you reach
  • Put your phone in a sleeve or a case

It is important to pay attention to the road and drive safely, rather than being entertained by a smartphone. Keep your smartphone distractions minimum and enjoy the roads as your drive. At Cheaper Car Rentals, we promote road safety and ensure that all the drivers are educated about the driving laws in Australia.

Top 5 Road-Trip Destination in Melbourne’s Autumn Season

May 22, 2019 / 2630 / Travel Guide
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Autumn season in Australia brings various types of climate to different locales, as the continent itself is large. Whether you want to behold stunning greenery, have an outdoor experience, take pleasure on the beach or enjoy a mixture of all three, you can do it during Australia’s autumn months.

Discover the magical diversity of Australia’s autumn, lasting from March to May across most of the country. As per travelling enthusiasts, Autumn is the best time to visit Melbourne, Australia.

Throughout the year, Melbourne is buzzing with awesome eateries, eccentric bistros and beguiling boutique shopping choices that will keep any traveller occupied, while the social concentration towards art and history mean the parade of exhibitions, galleries and shows offer entertainment regardless of the season.

Here, we are sharing some of the best Autumn destinations for a road-trip around Melbourne.

Mount Macedon Ranges

Explore the natural scenery of Mount Macedon ranges at your own pace and take in the immense scope of local experiences on offer. Reconnect with nature, rebalance body and mind at mineral springs and spas, and discover boutique wineries, organic producers and award-winning eateries along the trail.

Mount Macedon, a delightful town popular for its lavish houses, garden, a church and several plant nurseries, is an hour away from Melbourne.

Yarra Valley

Less than an hour journey from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is home to vineyards, offering quality local food, fine dining and quaint accommodation, making it one of Melbourne’s most loved weekend breaks.

The Yarra Valley is well known as one of the world’s premier wine growing regions with over 80 sensational cellar doors, brilliant eateries serving fresh regional produce, extravagance accommodation, famous landscape and stunning fine art.

Daylesford Region:

The Daylesford region is popular for its mineral waters and is known as the spa centres of Australia. Daylesford is in the Hepburn Shire situated in the Goldfields territory between the regional areas of Ballarat and Bendigo.

There are historic structures in the main street of Daylesford and the region’s history lies in the rush for gold. Lake Daylesford now covers land upon which gold was first found and offers lakeside picnic spots, abundant waterfowl, a youngster’s play area, walking paths, fishing and pedal sailing.

The Daylesford area has an abundance of mineral springs which were formed millions of years ago. In Daylesford, there are numerous mineral springs that are effectively open like the Central Springs and the Wombat Flat Springs. Daylesford is a popularly known as spa town approximately located in 115 KM North-West of Melbourne.

Healesville – Region:

Healesville Sanctuary is a bushland haven for Australian wildlife. With the development of the rail network to Gippsland and the Yarra Valley goldfields in the 1860’s, 1st development happened in Healesville and it was named in honour of Richard Heales. Enjoy scenic views of Healesville, Mount Riddell and the surrounding valleys by driving along Yarra Glen Road west of the racecourse.

The town is encompassed by mountains, forests and moving slopes spotted with wineries, fruit and berry farms.Healesville is a residential area on the Watts River, a tributary of the Tarra River, in Victoria. Situated 52-kilometers north-east of Melbourne’s central business area.

Phillip Island:

Just a 1.5 hour journey from Melbourne, Phillip island offers Victoria’s wildlife island marvellous coastal scenery with Endless family fun and iconic wildlife, spotless white shorelines and hi-octane motorsports. The island was named after Governor Arthur Phillip, the first Governor of New South Wales

See little penguins and sleepy koalas in their common natural surroundings, instruct the children to swim on a peaceful narrows shoreline, and douse up all the activity at the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix.

Best Campsites in Melbourne

May 22, 2019 / 1569 / Travel Guide
Cumberland River Holiday Park

1. Cumberland River Holiday Park, Lorne

Camping by the ocean turns into a reality in the wonderfully kept Cumberland River Holiday Park, near Lorne on the Great Ocean Road Victoria. The Park is settled in a lush green valley between rocks and rolling mountains, flanked by the Cumberland River, where it flows through rock pools and sandy sections into the Southern Ocean. Located on the banks of Cumberland River, the park offers riverside campsites, African Safari Tents in addition exclusive and standard lodges settled in a lush green valley between majestic cliffs and mountains. Cumberland River Holiday Park enables visitors to have your own campfire!

2. Tidal River, Wilsons Promontory

If you want to explore Wilsons Prom without a hassle, then stay in the Tidal River campground. It’s one of the popular campsite in Wilsons Promontory National Park. It’s the greatest national-park campsite in the state that offers many great walks for all different fitness levels, as well as stunning views of pink granite boulder mountains, turquoise water and squeaky-white sand. Tidal River features all the modern amenities and conveniences for campers and visitors to the Park. There are 480 campsites available.  Visit the campsite and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the magnificent beaches that stretches as far as the eye can see.

3. Johanna Beach, Great Ocean Road

Johanna is a rural farming settlement stretching along the coast between Glenaire and Lavers Hill.  Rolling hills and lush rainforest meet at the foot of the wild Southern Ocean. A grassy, open undulating area behind sand dunes facing farmland. Near a popular, remote surfing beach, backed by steep hills. One small site near the Park entrance has some shade from old cypress trees and a flush WC. The beach and its usually large swells provides a sense of mother nature at her most powerful, and if there are surfers in action that feeling is even stronger.

4. Marengo Holiday Park, Apollo Bay

Marengo Holiday Park provides a range of facilities including modern amenities, including dedicated family and disabled bathrooms, camp kitchen, playground and BBQ areas. The park is situated at the beginning of the Great Ocean Walk offering unlimited scope for formal bushwalking trails. In addition, a walking/cycling track connects the park to the main shopping centre of Apollo Bay situated 2 kilometres north of the park.

5. Lake Catani, Mount Buffalo

Lake Catani is one of the popular camping ground atop the unspoilt Mount Buffalo, and about 4 and a half hours drive from Melbourne. Because of its natural appeal, the lake Catani is the perfect picnic destination to enjoy with your family. The surrounding activities include abseiling, rock climbing, caving, gliding, bushwalking, guided tours of the impressive old Chalet, swimming, canoeing or fishing, not to mention getting to know your fellow campers, who are fairly spread out thanks to the big, largely uncleared grounds.

Best Apps to Download while Travelling Melbourne Australia

May 22, 2019 / 2166 / Travel Guide
Waze

Cheaper Car Rentals specialises in car rental and car hire across Melbourne. Our fleet consists of a current model, late model and older model cars so you can rent a car to suit your budget. We are committed to making your road-trip journey more convenient and peaceful. But have you thought about what could help in other circumstances when you’re on the road? There are lots of easy to travel apps are available that make touring much more manageable. These type of apps are available free to use and easily accessible in iTunes App stores and Google Play. For professional or seasonal travellers, these types of apps are beneficial.

Check out some of the famous and resourceful apps for your next road-trip to Melbourne Australia.

Waze: Waze is one of the best GPS navigation apps that helps to get the best route, every day, with real-time bits of help from others community driver members. There are so many GPS-enabled navigation apps are available, but Waze helps to make your road-trip more convenient & bring it a new level of social connectivity. The main reason for the popularity of Waze is, it gives your real-time update on what’s happening on the road. It provides you update about traffic, any on-going construction work, police, crashes to saves your time from bad experiences.

Fuel Map Australia: Either you are resident of Australia or planning a Melbourne road-trip, Fuel Map Australia is the fantastic app for all. The developers of WikiCamps have provided an excellent app that is very useful for travellers or drivers of transport industry as they drive around Australia. Fuel Map is a crowd-sourced database of petrol stations and fuel prices from all across Australia. It is like community-based apps that allow adding current fuel prices which are shared with others Fuel map users. Its also provides the functionality to keep a log of fuel purchases and tracks your fuel economy.

BeachSafe: On this weekend, if you are taking a road trip up the coast and looking for a right beach for you then finding the best beach is kid’s game now. This app helps travellers to provide complete information about location, facilities, weather, conditions and lifesaving services for all the Australian beaches to find the right shore. Beachsafe also offers in-depth knowledge about beaches and expert’s advice about flags and signs, waves, rip currents, marine creatures, surf skills and more.

Australian Red Cross – First Aid: While travelling Red cross – First aid apps should be the must-have app to make your road-trip more relax and safe. It is a simple, free to use app that can save a life in an emergency or critical situation. The official Australian Red Cross First Aid app gives you convenient access to instant information that required to handle first aid emergencies. In a simple mean, we can say that FirstAid is an easy to use, interactive app that provides step by step advice to handle any first aid situation.

Trip Advisor: Any road-trip destination is incomplete without using Trip Advisor app. It is one of the most trustworthy apps that share real & genuine people’s experiences about any picnic spot or holiday accommodations. It is also a simple and straightforward solution to booking accommodation, checking out places to go and reviewing the best things to do in cities around the world. With lots of features like Location’s images, detailed content and user’s personal experiences make Trip Advisor must have an app on mobile. The app is available for free to download on Apple or Android.

Zomato: Zomato helps travellers to provide the facility to highlight available deals in nearby locations, browse the restaurant’s menu, photos, reviews of users about any food places and ratings to decide where you want to eat and use the map features to guide. This is a common platform for users and restaurant owner to provide and use services. Restaurant’s owners can create their restaurant’s profile, add menu, images and additional information to attract the user to make their decision. It helps to users by providing table booking functionality.

Rental Cars Driving Tips in Melbourne

May 22, 2019 / 1474 / Travel Guide
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After Sydney, Australia’s second biggest city is Melbourne that offers its visitors memorable and superb experience. This city has a lot to explore and car rentals services in Melbourne is a great way to explore the city and nearby areas without having to rely on public transport.

After Sydney, Australia’s second biggest city is Melbourne that offers its visitors memorable and superb experience. This city has a lot to explore and car rentals services in Melbourne is a great way to explore the city and nearby areas without having to rely on public transport. With rental cars, city is perfect to explore the major attractions scattered around the region.

As like new city, you need to understand and take care of several things before to set off behind the wheel. Here we are sharing some of the driving tips to ensure safe drive in Melbourne and protect yourself from any unexpected surprises once you hit the road.

Trams in Melbourne:

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It feels similar to drive in Melbourne as like other cities in Australia but there is one thing which makes a bit difference that’s Trams. While rental car driving in Melbourne, always keep an eye out for trams. Trams are very common and popular public transport in Central Melbourne, and drivers must give way to them. Melbourne has the world’s 3rd largest trams network. It is illegal in Melbourne to overtake a tram to their left. As a Car driver, you always need to ensure that the tram isn’t about to stop and let people out.

Toll Roads in Melbourne:

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While driving in Melbourne, chances are very high to come across the toll roads. The chances of toll roads are very high, if you are driving around the city and to the airport. Number of toll roads operate in Melbourne including M3, Southern Link, Tullamarine Freeway and Batman Avenue. If you are unaware with these system then there are many car rental companies will have system in place to deal with the tolls. These tolls deduct payment automatically via an electronic tag attached with rental car. So, read the car rental policy before head out.

Driving Rules of Melbourne Roads:

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As per Victoria Roads Rules, While driving use of mobile phones are not allowed. Always keep in mind to be in a left hand side of the road in Australia. Familiarise yourself with a hook turn. This is a unique turn in Melbourne where trams are also crossing an intersection. Signs will indicate that you need to turn right from the left hand lane.

Fuel:

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While returning your car to the car rental service provider, you must ensure that you fill the fuel tank full. If you return the car without a full tank, car rental company will ask you for additional charges.

Best Travelling Destinations of Australia in Winter

May 22, 2019 / 1902 / Travel Guide
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Winter in Australia lasts from June to August month for most of the country. Australian snowfields offer a adventures experience for skiers and boarders looking for fresh snow with a beautiful bushland backdrop. With the variations of winter seasons in the south and warm weather in the north, there are more local activities for your upcoming winter escape.

Some of the famous winter destinations nearby Melbourne are:

Mount Buller: Mount Buller is a town located in the shire of Mansfield in the Alpine region of the Australian state of Victoria. The distance of Mount Buller from east of Melbourne is around 208 KM on the slopes of Mount Buller. Mount Buller is the most accessible large snow resort in Australia and the closest large resort to Melbourne, Tullamarine airport.

Mt Buller has largest lift network of 22 lifts in Victoria. The resort features a world-class ski and snowboard facilities. There are lots of activities for everyone to try at Mt Buller to try everything from tobogganing to fine dining, snowshoeing to spa treatments and so much more.

Mount Hotham: Mount Hotham is another popular winter destination nearby Melbourne which is around 375 KM far from the Melbourne city. Mt Hotham is famous for its high annual snowfall and challenging runs including the notoriously difficult ‘Mary’s Slide’. With a lot of beginner territory, magnificent snow play exercises, amazing facilities and incredible off-snow amusement, it is additionally a unique destination for less adventurous snow tourists.

Falls Creek: If you have no intentions of hitting a slope you will enjoy Falls Creek. Falls Creek winter destination is popular for having the best spread of learner to cutting edge runs, which imply that as you advance with you ski/boarding abilities, there’s a new part of the mountain for you to explore, including landscape parks for all levels. Falls Creek is just 4 and half hour far from Melbourne city. It is one of the busiest tourist destinations in the winter period and is the second largest winter destination with resorts and travelling people.

Mount Baw Baw: Mt Baw Baw is the closest downhill ski resort to Melbourne, and is only a short 2.5-hour drive from the city. One of the popular winter destination nearby Melbourne I.e. Mt Baw Baw is situated in at the Southern end of the Victorian Alps, with the route from Melbourne taking in the beautiful towns of West Gippsland. This winter spot is best for having lots of fun on the snow and a safe and affordable snow experience.

Mt Baw Baw is a perfect ski destination for beginners to advanced skiers & snowboarders. It offers 5 hectares of downhill territory, seven lifts, 10km of cross-country ski trails, three snow play areas and unlimited terrain amongst the snow gums to explore.

Mount Buffalo: In the winter season, Mount Buffalo National Park is an excellent location for winter adventures and family fun. This place is situated 330 km away from the Melbourne city. This alpine region has smaller ski areas and the best place to consider for short winter break.

If you’re thinking to plan some winter destination travel in Australia for 2018, don’t forget to take plenty of warm clothing; Do your research to see if any unique festivals are coming. Above all, don’t be tempted to cut corners when it comes to affordable car rental fees and your winter driving safety! Let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime with our car rental deals around Melbourne! We’re here to help you create a driving itinerary that is tailored to your needs. Book your next rental car with us online.

Car Rentals for Under 25 Years

May 22, 2019 / 3142 / Travel Guide
Car Rentals

As a local Car Rental Service Company in Melbourne, some of the most common queries we hear “Can I rent a car if I am under 25 years? Or “How old must I be to rent a car?” or “ What is a minimum age for car hire? At Cheaper Car Rentals, the answer is, “A person with an age of 21 years and more and have a minimum of two years of experience is eligible to hire a car”.

If you are planning to have a road-trip around Melbourne, Victoria and you are under 25, then no need to worry. Cheaper Car Rentals can be considered as an ideal car hire solution for International and Domestic travellers looking for friendly and transparent Car Rental Services in Melbourne.

Car Hire in Melbourne makes road-trip easy and comfortable to get around while on vacation. But there are few things need to understand while renting a car under 25.

1) What are the requirements for Hire a Car?

All drivers must need a valid driver’s licence. A current acceptable overseas, the Australian or International licence is required from all drivers. Translation documents must be provided where a driver’s licence is not in English. We are happy to rent to a holder of a provisional licence that meets our age requirements and has at least two years driving experience.

2) Is there an additional under 25 rental fee?

Yes, a surcharge of $16.60 per day applies for under 25 drivers.

3) When I rent a car do I have to purchase additional insurance?

At Cheaper Car Rentals no additional insurance is required for your car rental if you are under 25. Vehicle insurance is included on all cars available for rentals and varies depending on whether you are involved in a multi-vehicle accident or a single vehicle accident. Check the terms and conditions that apply to a rental before proceeding with a booking.

4) Think about going local: Instead of going with a large national or international rental company, you may find better rates for young drivers from local car rental service provider.

Top 3 Victorian Road Trips for Perfect Summer Getaway

May 22, 2019 / 1998 / Travel Guide
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Unwind from the hectic and stressful routine and head on a road trip to explore Victoria.

Thanks to a stunning landscape blessed with some of the most picturesque beaches, impressive rock formations, peaceful rainforests and beautiful countryside, Victoria offers memorable the most amazing road tripping experience.

And since, the summer holidays are here, we have listed down the top 3 destinations that will provide a perfect summer getaway:

Philip Islands

Philip Island

It won’t be an exaggeration to call this place a nature lover’s paradise! Just a couple of hours drive away from Melbourne, Phillip Islands is unique in many ways. It is a home to the world’s smallest penguins and you can watch these cute little penguins walking on the beach each evening. Take a wildlife coast cruise to spot whales, seals and dolphins in their natural habitats. And not to forget, walk through the Koala Sanctuary on the raised boardwalks where you closely watch the cute koalas.

Mornington Peninsula

Morning Peninsula

If you are looking for a tranquil weekend break to relax and rejuvenate, Mornington Peninsula is just the perfect destination. It takes just 90 minutes drive from Melbourne get to the gorgeous and peaceful Mornington Peninsula. It has some of the most beautiful and quiet beaches, where you can take a stroll and reconnect with yourself. And, if you are a wine-lover you can taste the best quality wine at some of the popular boutique wineries.

Don’t forget to visit the The Peninsular Hot Springs, Victoria’s first hot spring resort. With over 20 outdoor plunge pools and bathing experiences, you can enjoy the Japanese onsen right here in Australia!

Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road

The list incomplete without mentioning the Great Ocean Road! One of the iconic destinations in the world, Great Ocean Road offer the one most scenic coastal drives. It’s something that you should not miss on your trip to Australia!  This 243 km long famous highway offers so much – You can capture the scenic golden bays in your camera, see the majestic natural rock formations and numerous spectacular views at every turn!

Don’t forget to stop by the 12 Apostles – the striking natural rock formations. Moreover, the adventurous souls can climb or zip-line the Ottway Fly Tree Top Walk, the longest and tallest treetop canopy walk.

It is always better to drive down the road in a rented a car. You can easily rent a car in Melbourne and discover the best attractions of Victoria.

The Best Places to Travel This New Year

May 22, 2019 / 2783 / Travel Guide
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Kickstart the new year with a well- deserved a holiday in one of these hot travel destinations around Australia. Are you planning for a post-New year celebration travel break?

In January- February, people are still running on the post-Christmas holiday break and the school holidays are at the end. So it is the best time to plan a new year’s first travel with the family or friends. Plus, there’s Australia Day public holiday comes at the end of the month so you can plan a long weekend holiday.

Are you feeling inspired for planning the trip? Here’s are our hit picks for January destinations that will help you enjoy your family time together.

Bay of Islands

Great Ocean Road

Bay of Islands is 32 kilometres (20 miles) long coastal reserve located in Victoria. It has gorgeous ocean views, cliffs and rock stacks. For those that love beaches and water activities, it’s paradise to explore. Why don’t you and your friends plan a road-trip to great ocean road and visit this Bay of Islands?

Pine Mountain

Pine Mountain

Pine Mountain is one of Australia’s most massive monoliths that is reputed to be one-and-a-half times the size of Uluru. Be fascinated by the one million hectares (3861 square miles) of tall green forests, sandstone cliffs, canyons and waterfalls that make up the magnificent pine mountains. Don’t believe us? You can see for yourself!

Squeaky Beach

Squeaky Beach

If you like us who enjoys the feel of sand between your toes, then maybe you also want the sound of it too. The rounded grains of quartz make a squeaking sound when you walk in the white, dry sand at Squeaky Beach. If you’re an animal lover, is one of the best places in Australia to spot wombats in the wild.

Mira Mira, Victoria

Mira Mira Victoria

Do you always dream of living in fantasy land? Well, Mira Mira is the spot where that dream could become a reality. Mira Mira is home to a collection of self-contained, two bedroom fantasy retreats where guests have an opportunity to “Live in Art”.

Hit The Road With These Amazing Places

Another charm of Melbourne for tourists is that there are so many amazing places to see around that are only a short drive outside of the city centre. So if you’re planning a trip for more than a weekend, make sure you take a day trip or two. No matter whether you enjoy adventure hikes, discovering vineyards, wildlife encounters, or relaxing at some of Victoria’s fabulous beaches, you will get everything all at once.

The most popular destinations around Melbourne are:

Drive to the Mornington Peninsula (where you can explore guided wine tours, visit the hot springs or getaway ),

Visit the famous little penguin paradise – Phillip Island

Phillip Island

The Yarra Valley (for a wine tour)

Yarra Valley

Plan a road trip to the great ocean road where you can visit the famous twelve apostles, the Grampians and Wilsons Promontory.

great ocean road

Each of these places is stunning, and whichever one you choose you can’t go wrong.

Take out a rental car from us so you can easily drive to the many tourist destinations around Melbourne. Contact us today and we will ready to provide you affordable car rental deals.

Road Trip Snacks Guide

May 22, 2019 / 1384 / Travel Guide
family road trip snacks

Top Do’s And Top Don’ts While You Hit The Road on Melbourne

With any road trip comes snacking. Lots of snacking.

As the holidays are approaching,  road trips will be on the list of your travel plans. Whether it’s just a small road trip with your friends around Melbourne, or you are driving your car on your way to grandma’s home,  a long journey on The Great Ocean Road, you’re inevitably going to need a backseat full of road trip snacks.

Road Trip Snacks Guide

And, unfortunately, good road trip snacks aren’t the first thing you’re thinking about when you’re planning for your trip around Melbourne—likely, they’re one of the last things you do before heading off.

But this season, we can all aim to do better and plan to make sure you’ve packed the best road trip snacks possible for your Melbourne road trip journey.

Thankfully, Cheaper Car Rentals is here to guide you in selecting the right kind of snacks for your trip around Melbourne.

As a leading car rental company, we know what to pack and what not to carry while you hit the road.  Let’s read on some dos and don’ts to follow while packing snacks, and of course, the best road trip snacks to buy on the go.

Read on for your road trip food craving and survival guide:

Do:

Pack individually portioned treats into an individual zip-lock baggies. It will make things easier for everyone to pack the bags. Buy some cooler bags for the things that should be kept chilled like cheese, fruits, cold drinks and more. Your other pantry bag can be filled with cookies, crackers, etc. Holding this two separate bags make sure that the dry pantry foods don’t get soggy from condensation or spills.

Focus on packing dry foods such as dry almonds, dry nuts, cashews and more. Sometimes it’s a good idea to eat clean like health gurus and stick to the fruits like bananas, apples, and oranges.

Pack food in mason jars. Just fill up a mason jar that easily fits into a cup holder so the person at the wheel (or the trusty, hungry driver) can snack along too.

Don’t:

Don’t carry anything that could melt or spoil your vehicle. Instead of bringing a chicken salad or milk for the kids, plan to make stops to nearby grocery stores along the way. And while everyone loves chocolate, but it melts quicker than you’d think—to keep it to an on the go treat unless you want to deal with a sticky mess in your backseat.

Don’t bring foods that need utensils to make or even eat. Avoid a last-minute lunch meltdown when you realised you forgot to pack forks or spoons and try to eat everything by hand and bite-sized.

Healthy Road Trip Snacks to Make At Home

If you are trying to stay away from processed foods, then load up your cooler with the homemade healthy road trip snacks mentioned below.

  1. Banana-Walnut Muffins
  2. Baked Cookies
  3. Pizza Pretzel Nuggets
  4. Cookies and Cream Crispy Treats
  5. Honey Mustard Snack Mix
  6. Nutty Superfood Breakfast Bites
  7. No-Bake Lemon-Chia Bars

Best Road Trip Snacks to Buy From The Grocery Stores

If you are a person with a “There’s No Way I Can Get Snacks in Order Before I Leave” thinking, then no worries at all! We suggest you plenty of delicious and healthy options to buy from the gas station shops or nearby grocery stores.

Pick a couple of options for your road-trip from our list.

  1. Oreos
  2. Nuts
  3. Water
  4. Granola or nut bars
  5. Grapes
  6. Cheese and crackers
  7. Popcorn
  8. Carrot sticks
  9. Popcorn, greek yoghurt
  10. Hummus and bell peppers strips
  11. pack of multi-grain slices of bread

No matter what you pack for your road trip, with our affordable car rental packages, we are here to provide a pleasurable road trip experience in Melbourne.

Have Your Rental Car Delivered to Your Home

December 20, 2016 / 3868 / Travel Guide
Have Your Rental Car Delivered to Your Home

Cheaper Car Rentals has started a Rental Car Delivery Service, a unique offering where your rental car comes to you, rather than you going to it.

In 1981, when we started the business, Melbourne was a smaller city than it is now. There were less suburbs, the number of cars on the street was far less, and finding a parking spot was easier. Melbourne’s population was 2.8 Million people.

Fast-forward to 2015, the things are exactly opposite. Melbourne’s population is now 4.4 million people. There are more than 100 suburbs, the streets are full of cars, and parking is not easy. We have become more reliant on cars as our suburban sprawl has grown so being without one can be very debilitating.

Although a rental car can easily be booked over the phone, the internet or from a mobile app, this is not the case when it comes to picking up that car. Not everybody stays on a public transport route or has someone that can give them a lift to where they need to be.

Cheaper Car Rentals has started a Rental Car Delivery Service, a unique offering where your rental car comes to you, rather than you going to it. Sounds amazing doesn’t it? It is as amazing as it sounds. In fact, we are one of the only car rental companies in Melbourne that deliver your rental car to you, across the Melbourne metropolitan region. From Craigieburn to Frankston or from Melton to Pakenham, we have you covered.

How does Rental Car Delivery Service works?

  • You select rental car delivery service as your location online at least 24 hours prior to the pick-up time and confirm your location.
  • We will send you a confirmation email and deduct bond charges from your credit card.
  • We will let you know the estimated arrival time as soon as we are enroute.
  • We deliver the rental car to your chosen location and complete the paperwork
  • We collect the car when your rental is completed.

Who can take advantage of this service?

  • Anybody who is ready to rent a car for at least 3 days and is over 21
  • Anyone with a valid driving license.
  • The address on your license and of your location is the same. Otherwise, have proof of address ready.
  • The credit card holder is present at the time of signing the contract.
  • Your location falls within Melbourne Metropolitan Region.

When is the service available?

The service is available from Monday to Friday, anywhere between 9am to 3pm for just $39.

I need more information. How can I book?

For any further information, or to book a rental car with us, feel free to contact us on 03 8393 1891

Melbourne’s Top Weekend Getaway Places

November 15, 2016 / 1313 / Travel Guide
Melbourne’s Top Weekend Getaway Places

Here are the Melbourne’s Top Weekend Getaway Places.

Melbourne is one of Australia’s most entertaining and cultural cities – with its winding alleys, hidden bars, numerous theatres, restaurants and cafes. Every year thousands of tourists visit the natural beauty of Melbourne and enjoy their sightseeing activities starting from the heart of the city.

Melbourne’s ideal positioning puts it within close proximity to many alluring Victorian destinations, all perfectly suited for a weekend escape.

Wilson’s Promontory National Park

The beauty of Wilson’s Promontory is enormous. Well-known for its superb view, the 50,000-hectare Wilson’s Promontory National Park highlights eminent and tranquil beaches, rainforests and mountains in the country. With cool fern gullies, magnificent scenery, enormous rock formations, spectacular walks and its heavenly natural life, Wilson’s Promontory is amazingly one of the best weekend getaways in the country. In this park, you can indulge in the scenic walking trails and camp outdoors in tents. There are also a few lodges set amidst the lush green valleys and the pristine rivers, thus conveying the best of nature to you.

Hepburn Springs

The small town of Hepburn Springs is situated within a region that contains Australia’s biggest concentration of natural mineral springs. The design of the town is emphatically influenced by the Swiss and the Italians who were prominent settlers in the region.  Hepburn Springs offers an attractive and scenic destination for guests, surrounded by dense forests, valleys, and a large number of mineral springs. The resort town has luxurious spas, which utilise the mineral water from the springs for many well-being treatments and hydrotherapy techniques. Hepburn can be considered as a luxurious and healthy getaway in Melbourne for a picnic.

Daylesford

Combined with its lovely mountain view, forests, gardens and lakes, Daylesford has become one of the Melbourne’s best getaways for holidays, day trips and wellbeing as well.  Located 10-minutes away from Hepburn Springs, Daylesford offers exciting views of nature, a chance to go kayaking on Jubilee Lake and lots of shopping opportunity as well. An ideal place to unwind, Daylesford also gives you a chance to enjoy the best of natural therapies and massages.

Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley is just a short distance away from Melbourne and is a perfect spot for wine lovers and foodies alike. Tourists in the Yarra Valley get a chance to taste the best wines from around the country. If wine isn’t your thing, the place also offers chocolate tasting visits. Yarra Valley is a great place to enjoy gourmet delights.  In the Yarra Valley, there is a place called the TarraWarra Museum, which has exclusive collections of Australian art from mid-20th century and at Healesville town, shopaholics can find multiple opportunities to buy beautiful souvenirs or visit wildlife sanctuary.

Geelong

Around an hour’s drive from Melbourne Airport is Victoria’s second biggest city, Geelong. The most mainstream spot in Geelong is the Geelong Waterfront that offers grand walks, a vast play area, tasteful eateries and ancient milestones.

For more information visit Cheaper Car Rentals or Call on 03 8560 3290 (Ormond), 03 8393 1891 (Melbourne CBD), 03 8393 1892 (Melbourne Airport), 03 9571 7696 (Carnegie), 03 9336 3260 (Keilor).

Visiting Melbourne? Here are the exciting things to do!

September 20, 2016 / 1279 / Travel Guide
Visiting Melbourne? Here are the exciting things to do!

Here are the things to do in Melbourne in spring along with the carnivals and fairs happening in the month of September and October 2016. Don’t miss out these festivals.

If you are thinking of travelling to Melbourne, Australia this spring, don’t think twice as the country is most beautiful in this season. Melbourne is dressed up in colours of nature in spring and the clear skies and cheery temperature set a perfect ambience to be out and explore the beauty.

There are so many things you can do in Melbourne this spring like getting close to nature by exploring the Melbourne Zoo, located at the heart of the city, where you will find, orang-utan, Australian pelican, giant tortoise, cotton top tamarind, kangaroos, baboons and many more exciting animals. You can also consider visiting Werribee Zoo which offers FREE safari tours to some classical grasslands fauna. The last option on the list is HealesvilleSanctuary, where the wildlife enthusiasts can have close encounters with their favourite mammals like Koala, Red Kangaroo, Platypus, Cockatoos andothers. You can go to their official websites and look for the tickets, times and other additional activities that these Zoos offer.

Visiting Victoria and not going to the Royal Botanic Garden is like missing the opportunity to see the rarest varieties of flora and in spring the landscape is just a splendour to see. Another exciting reason to visit the garden is the “Rare Plant Fair” on 22-23 October 2016, which will showcase rare plants, climbers, succulents, shrubs and trees. You can take them home and plant them in your yard and let neighbours envy your rare plant grandeur.

If you are sporty and love adventure you can go hiking or golf playing as the temperature is moderate and pleasant for walking down the trail and playing out in the open.

We have saved the best for last, the Spring Racing Carnival, a field where fashion and fine champagne are gathered to witness the festival of the year. It starts in Septemberand will of course include the race that stops a nation, the Melbourne Cup on the 1st of November. You don’t want to miss this!

Travel Easy

Getting around from one place to another can be quite cumbersome in Melbourne. This is why, it is highly recommended to rent a car as per your needs. Cheaper Car Rentals the ace car rental company in Victoria offers you cars that fit your requirements. Go online and use our easy to book website and choose a convenient pick and drop facility. Whether you just want cheap car rental or are looking for a new car to rent to splurge your raceday winnings on, check out our online car rental discounts.

For more information visit cheapercarrentals.com.au or Call on 03 8560 3290 (Ormond), 03 8393 1891 (Melbourne CBD), 03 8393 1892 (Melbourne Airport), 03 9571 7696 (Carnegie), 03 9336 3260 (Keilor).

Baby Seat And Booster Restraints

April 9, 2016 / 1471 / Travel Guide

Vicroads Government has made it necessary to have a safety child restraints in the car whenever there is a baby in the car.

For safety purposes, the Victorian Government have made it mandatory to use child seats or booster seats when there is a baby or young child in the car. There are various types of seats available for children of different age groups. It is important to use the right type of child restraints depending on your baby’s size and age. The seats should be properly adjusted and fastened to ensure a safe ride for the child.

Child Restraints in Car Rental

Infants up to the age of six months must be made seated in a rearward facing seat. Children ageing from six months to four years can use either a rear or forward facing child seat that has restraints with extra straps for protection.

However, children over four years and under seven years could use forward facing baby restraints or a booster seat. The type of child restraints also depends on the child’s size.

Cheaper Car Rentals offers tested and approved child seats with added harness. Daily rates starts at $7.70 and are capped at $49 per rental. The seats we have in our cars are convertible and can be used as rearward or forward facing baby seats.

Booster Seats

As the baby grows the child seat no longer fits. This is when booster seats are used so the child is comfortable and safe in the back seat. Daily rates start at $7.70 per booster seat and are capped at $49 per rental.

Hatchbacks and other small size cars are not recommended while you are travelling with a baby. Larger cars give the required space for the luggage and the baby seat.

Before driving away in your rental car please check if the seat is correctly fitted or not. In order to ensure the child’s safety, visit the Vicroads website to know more about which seat is more appropriate for your baby.

Rent a Car – Travel in Style

February 24, 2016 / 1532 / Travel Guide

Got a long weekend ahead, the place is also decided but still hooked at the pros and cons of different modes of transportation?

You must be already aware about how expensive flights could be and how exhausting train and other public transports are. But there’s a way where you can travel in style and comfort – Rent a Car.

Renting a car has many advantages over taking your own vehicle for holidays. The ease and no fuss services of such companies have created a huge need for car rentals.

This read will help you to decide, how you should travel to your favourite place on the weekends. After all, it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey.

Happy Holidays

Rented Car lets you enjoy your drive to your destination, you do not have to worry about your car’s wear and tear, its maintenance, repair cost etc. Also, these car rental companies let you choose your own type of ride.

Traffic Hassles

Owning a vehicle in the most urbanised cities of the world can be problematic. Many people prefer public travel or cabs because of all the traffic annoyance they go through when they take their personal vehicles to places. Renting a car will deliver the car at your doorstep when you need it meaning owning a car is now optional.

Repair Cost and Registration

Owning a car means registering, repairing and servicing it. When taking your personal vehicle for a drive you would always have a concern about your car repair cost, the gas cost, tyre replacement etc. The rental companies are responsible for all these expenses and if a car breaks down while you are using it, it is either repaired or replaced with another one.

When Comfort is Priority

Car rental companies are now a booming industry with lots of competition, everyone is offering their unique customer services to woo customers. So why take your personal car when you get a personalised car suiting your needs along with effective customer services to pamper you.

Vehicle for Every Occasion

Not just for holidays or family, car rental companies offer cars to suit every need of their customers. You can even hire a car when going for a business trip or adventure trip with your group of friends.

Don’t Get Lost

When you don’t get lost, you save time and go with the plan. Car rental companies also facilitate navigation with a GPS and maps, this way it is easier to reach your holiday spot without wasting time looking for the right way.

Pros and cons go hand in hand. Everything is bound to have two aspects, so is the case with Car Rental Services. But you know you got the right deal when pros outgrow cons. I would still like to note down few pros of public transportation, but I am sure you will not be much convinced about it when going for a leisure trip.

Choosing public transportation over a rented car has a few benefits, like it could save additional costs of repair services, gas etc. and you do contribute to the environment when you use the basic public transportation or bicycle.

But I am sure holidays have to be a stress free travel hence, rent a car – travel in style.

Welcome to Cheaper Car Rentals

December 5, 2015 / 2118 / Travel Guide

If you’re going on holiday over the upcoming holiday season, why not hire in advance with Cheaper Car Rentals.

Get a great deal on car rentals and hires this Christmas!

This Christmas by booking early, you can experience some awesome rates at all of our locations.

If you’re going on holiday over the upcoming holiday season, why not hire in advance with Cheaper Car Rentals.

We have just kick started bookings for the holiday season’s car rentals and the response is huge so far. Our booking slots are filling fast and it’ll be earlier than expect ed that we’ll run out of slots and have to close the bookings. So rush to any of our locations and book a rental car that suits your need. It is much better to book earlier then to end up with whatever available at the last moment—the time when the bookings are running short. In addition, you can book a rental car online through our user-friendly booking portal.

Booking online is as simple as selecting the Pickup Location, Pickup Date, Pickup Time, Return Location, Return Date, Return Time, Vehicle Type, and Age of Youngest Driver. On proceeding, you’ll be provided with the list of cars available for rental along with the estimated rate. Remember we often have discounted rates online so always check there first. From there, you can select a car based on your requirements.

Moreover, if you book early, you have more chance of getting the car you desire. Larger specialty vehicles such as 8 Seaters are always in high demand over peak seasons so book early if you are heading out with the family in tow this Christmas.  The earlier you book, the better the chances of you getting yourself a car that fits your requirements and your budget.

Book Early and Get a Christmas cracker from Cheaper Car Rental!

Our locations:

Melbourne CBD

110 A’beckett St,
Melbourne, 3000.
Ph: 03 8393 1891

Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Sat: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Sun: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day

Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine)

70 -90 Garden Dve,
Tullamarine, 3043.
Ph: 03 8393 1892
Pickup/Drop offs: 24/7
Pre-booked vehicles only

Carnegie

964 Dandenong Road,
Carnegie, 3163.
Ph: 9571 7696

Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sat: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Sun: closed

Closed December 24th to January 3rd

Keilor

Factory 2, 25 Keilor Park Dve,
Keilor Park, VIC 3042
Ph: 03 9336 3260

Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sat: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Closed December 24th to January 3rd

Happy Holidays

Cheaper Car Rentals

Why booking a rental car upfront is better than renting an airport taxi

July 1, 2015 / 1428 / Travel Guide

Do you often have to wait long hours when going home from the airport after a long flight?

Do you often have to wait long hours when going home from the airport after a long flight? Nobody likes to stand in lines waiting for a taxi after a tiresome flight, especially in peak hours when the queue is long and it takes around an hour to get a cab. Have you considered booking a rental car upfront with Cheaper Car Rentals instead of taking a taxi?

Here are some advantages:

1. Car waits for you, not you for the car

You are picked up by minibus and taken to our Tullamarine depot, 5 minutes from Melbourne Airport. Your rental car is waiting for your arrival so you can drive home in your comfortable rented car while others wait in the queue for their turn to hail a taxi.

2. Choose your favourite car

Whether you’re a SUV guy, someone who likes a sedan or you need an 8 seater, you can book any of them and drive you home with ease. When was the last time you went home from the airport in your favourite car?

3. Travelling in groups and customisation

In addition, if you’re flying with a group, then renting cars in bulk is much easier up front. Further, rental cars upfront, unlike on arrival bookings can be customised with things like child seats or GPS.

4. No Price Difference

In addition to getting the car of your choice, with an upfront rental car you have price flexibility too. Otherwise, if you rent at the airport, due to the lack of options, you have to settle with whatever the cost you are offered.

Pre-booking a rental car online usually means a discounted rate.

Renting a car in unfamiliar places

You know inside out about how to hail a taxi in your city. What about when you’re in another city, and you don’t know the regulations there? Renting cars, especially abroad is a risky business. You don’t know anything about your driver and this can cause anxiety about feeling safe. Thus, upfront rental cars come in handy in such situations.

Car Rental or Taxi? Which is better?

May 14, 2015 / 2101 / Travel Guide

When you travel, a world of experiences is there for the taking. If you are on holidays or taking an extended travel adventure it is the journey, not the destination that can often be the most fun.

When you travel, a world of experiences is there for the taking. If you are on holidays or taking an extended travel adventure it is the journey, not the destination that can often be the most fun. If you are travelling for business, then it is often about trying to fit too much into one day. Different types of travellers have different needs. Some prefer the freedom of having a rental car at their disposal while others prefer to hire a taxi during the course of their journey.

What to do?

Hailing a taxi spares you from the stress of driving a car, particularly in a city you are not familiar with. Driving in peak hour in a strange city is usually not fun. There is also the big plus of not having to worry about parking. In some cities, taxi travel is cheap and a much more convenient option, particularly if you are just there for a couple of days. Some cities on the other hand, the cost of the taxi from the airport to your hotel is more than you would pay for a rental car for the day. In Melbourne for example, a taxi fare from the Airport to the city costs around $55 AUD including your tolls. This is still good value if you are just going into town for a couple of meetings and do not need a car during the day.

Renting a car, on the other hand, gives you the freedom to travel wherever and whenever you like. There is no waiting around for a taxi to arrive which can be a very long time in peak periods. You also get the benefit of having somewhere to store luggage instead of dragging it with you everywhere you go. If you find yourself with a few hours to spare, then having a rental car allows you to explore some places a bit further afield that you may not see if you are on foot and relying on taxis or public transport.

When it comes to cost, rental cars can be a cheaper option if you have a few places to travel in a short time. Using our previous example, a return trip from the airport to the city in Melbourne is around $110. If you use a taxi during the day, then the amount spent can easily reach $200. A one day rental from an independent car rental company will cost a lot less. Of course, if you have to pay for parking or if you get a parking fine, then a rental car may not be that cheap.

How to book?

Just like rental cars, taxis can also be pre-booked. Both Taxis and rental cars can easily be booked using a phone, computer, or a mobile. Finding a taxi or a rental car agency is not difficult in Melbourne. There are several taxi ranks in every major location of the city. Most of the taxi service providers provide home pickup services too.

There are also many rental cars provider in Melbourne. Most of them can be contacted or booked without visiting them physically. However, you will need a valid credit card and deposit a security amount before starting the journey.

Conclusion:

There is no right or wrong answer here. Taxis are convenient if you are just in Melbourne for business and do not need a car during the day or if you do not want the stress of driving. For those going to a remote place, and want complete freedom, rental cars are the best option.

How Does a Car Rental Work?

April 27, 2015 / 1345 / Travel Guide

A system in which an agency or an individual offers a variety of cars for rent is known as car rental and the services is known as car rental services.

What are car rental services?

A system in which an agency or an individual offers a variety of cars for rent is known as car rental and the services is known as car rental services.

Generally, a car rental service is used by people who don’t have their car with them and need a car in the time being. People who are on vacation or have their vehicle on service generally use car rental services.

The Process of Renting a Car

What if you’re in same situation and want to hire a car? Here is the process of car renting:

Make a Reservation

Walk-in to a car rental agency is a good idea and mostly works. However, sometimes, especially during holiday season, agencies run out of cars for rent. You can always walk-in though sometimes it’s better to make a prior reservation. A reservation can be made phone or the website of most rental agencies.

Talk to the front desk agent:

The agent will ask you to verify the reservation and for two-piece of documents: a valid Driver’s License and a Credit Card. Be prepared to have a second piece of Id with your address on it.

Review the Rental Agreement

Upon validating the Driver’s License and Credit Card, the agent will provide with a rental agreement which you should read carefully before signing. Some of the things you should give special attention to include:

  • Number of kilometres allowed per day
  • Grace Periods
  • Credit Card usage terms
  • Any additional fees
  • Late fees, if any

Check the insurance excess

Check the validity of insurance, policy and terms and conditions before signing the contract. Many car agencies offer added layer of insurance over the normal insurance when renting a vehicle from them. The added insurance may come with hefty charges but if you’re an inexperienced driver or are not familiar with the local road rules consider the added layer of insurance.

Check the Vehicle

Review the car, inside out. Look for any sign of damages, performance, clutch and brakes if something is not working properly, inform the agency immediately. If you miss any of these, you might be held responsible for them.

Return the vehicle

Return the car with the same amount of fuel as when it left. The attendants at the agency expect the car to be in the same condition as at the time of renting. So make sure it is if you don’t want the additional charges. Always be honest if you have caused damage to the vehicle as this will allow you to deal with the situation quickly on the day.                                                                                                                                                                         

Inspecting your Rental Vehicle – What to look for?

April 7, 2015 / 1550 / Travel Guide

When you enter into a car rental agreement you are signing a contract that will make you liable for payment when a car is damaged. Whenever you are renting a car you should definitely inspect the car thoroughly.

When you enter into a car rental agreement you are signing a contract that will make you liable for payment when a car is damaged. Whenever you are renting a car you should definitely inspect the car thoroughly. Most reputable rental companies will provide you with a damage report to fill in. If a rental company does not provide this, you should be very cautious about renting from them.  So what should you mark on your damage report? We hope the following list is of assistance.

 The Exterior:

Check for dents and scratches and mark them in the corresponding area of your damage report. Good practice is to circle the area on the damage report where there is a dent, place an ‘X’ where there are stone chips and scratches and use lines to indicate long marks or scratches. It is also good practice to put notes on the damage report explaining what you have marked. It also helps to take a video or photos of what you find and if you do this try and get a shot that shows the position on the car, not just a close up of the damage. Be thorough with your inspection and ask questions of a company representative if you are not sure what fair wear and tear is.

A good tip is to check for even panel gaps all the way around the vehicle. Uneven panel gaps are a sign of a vehicle that has had accident damage and may be in need of further repair. If a rental vehicle has had a temporary repair, be sure that you have photographic evidence of how the vehicle was given to you in case something goes wrong.

The Windscreen:

It is important to check the windscreen carefully. Most rental companies deem small stone chips as fair wear and tear. Larger chips and cracks are not fair wear and tear if they breach roadworthy guidelines and hence need to be repaired so are at the renter’s expense. Always make sure you mark any windscreen chips on the damage report using and ‘X’.

The Interior:

Sometimes you might come across damaged interiors in rental cars.  If there is no room on the damage report to mark this, then writing a comment about the interior damage is acceptable. You may want to note things like rips and tears and stains so that you avoid cleaning fees.

Drivability of your vehicle.

Rental cars come in various types, ages and condition. If you have elected to drive an older model car then there may be some things that you have to accept. Things like faded paint and interiors are inevitable on older model rental cars. However, they should always be maintained to roadworthy standards. Things like lights, windscreen wipers, tyres and brakes should be serviceable so if you notice issues with these, bring them to the attention of your rental company.

Fuel and Kilometres travelled:

When you check your rental car for damage always make sure you note the amount of fuel in the car and how many kilometres the car has travelled. This is important where you opt for deals that have limited kilometre usage so that you do not pay for kilometres you did not use. Checking the fuel in the car is important as you do not want to be charged for fuel you did not use.

In summary, always be mindful that you are entering into a contract when you rent a car. Do not take for granted opportunities such as insurance excess reduction options and tyre and windscreen cover to reduce your liability. Products like these that are offered by your rental company can save you a lot of money if something goes wrong.

At Cheaper Car Rentals, we understand that accidents happen which is why we give you a damage report to fill in and we also take a video of the car for you to refer back to. We do this because we do not want our customers to be unfairly charged for something they did not do if there is any damage to a vehicle. We always recommend you take your time with filling in the damage report and take a video or photos of your rental car as we

Avoid running out of fuel with these simple tips.

March 3, 2015 / 1353 / Travel Guide

To give you that extra peace of mind, Cheaper Car Rentals provides free roadside assistance with every car rental so help is always at hand if you run out of fuel

Everyone has heard a story about someone who has run out of petrol at a most inconvenient time and in a most inconvenient place. In fact at some point we will probably all end up pushing a car to the side of the road because we did not fill up in time. With mobile phones in tow, we often think that help is available anywhere any time these days but if you find you are out of mobile range, what then?

When you are on holidays and driving a rental car in an unfamiliar place this situation needs to be avoided at all costs. To help you avoid unnecessary stress on your holiday, we have curated a list of tips that may seem obvious but are often forgotten:

  1. All cars are fitted with a trip meter. It will take a bit of investigation to work out how to use it, but it is well worth getting acquainted with the trip meter in your rental car.  Trip meters are the best way to measure your fuel consumption. Resetting the trip meter every time you fill up will help you to understand easily how far you can get on a full tank. Remember, you will get more kilometres from a tank of fuel when doing highway driving than around town so it is important to factor different driving conditions into your calculations.
  2. If you look around you car’s dashboard you will find the fuel gauge. This gauge is your next best friend after the trip meter and very beneficial in gathering information about how fast your car is consuming fuel in different driving conditions. This information is of most use if you’re running low on fuel and want to maintain maximum efficiency out of your car. We always recommend refuelling you rental car when you get down to a quarter of a tank so you can be sure you won’t run out.
  3. No matter how efficiently you’re driving you will have to stop for fuel at some point. If you are driving long distances, we always recommend taking a break every 2 hours so you avoid becoming too drowsy. A good tip is to allow for your rest breaks to coincide with fuel stops and to top up when you stop.
  4. Keep in mind your driving style effects your car’s fuel efficiency. If you’re low on fuel at any point in your journey, make sure you drive smoothly, at a constant speed, and avoid unnecessary braking.

To give you that extra peace of mind, Cheaper Car Rentals provides free roadside assistance with every car rental so help is always at hand if you run out of fuel.

Enhance your professional status with affordable corporate car rentals!

October 28, 2014 / 1281 / Travel Guide

These practical and affordable car rental services can make client meetings a memorable experience. Whether you need a to and fro service from the airport or get them dropped at the hotel or your office; you can be sure of receiving the finest service.

Satisfying business clients and portraying business status in the corporate world is necessary to be in the race. Therefore when clients are visiting Melbourne, nothing compares to a world-class corporate transportation service that will impress your clients and strengthen business ties. But we all need to control business expenses right?

Cheaper car rentals in Melbourne offer a hoard of cars on hire that are just perfect to give your clients that royal feel. Whether you require the very sophisticated Hyundai Elantra sedan, the Ford Mondeo Wagon, Suzuki Swift, Nissan Pulsar, Hyundai I20 or the stylish Ford Focus, be assured that you will receive prompt service and the cheapest rates in the market. For a larger group the 7 Seater Toyota Avensis Wagon or the 8 Seater Hyundai Imax with ample of space is undoubtedly the best choice. Avoid the hassles of booking by calling up representatives who are available 24×7. With just one phone all arrangements for booking can be made within minutes.

These practical and affordable car rental services can make client meetings a memorable experience. Whether you need a to and fro service from the airport or get them dropped at the hotel or your office; you can be sure of receiving the finest service. Car rentals for corporates guarantee comfort for clients that will leave them feeling relaxed, satisfied and extremely pleased.

Cheaper Car Rentals specialize in providing cheap car rental services that give you the chance to take your clients on a tour of Melbourne. The relaxing beaches, authentic cuisines and mesmerizing locations are sure to refresh their mind and body. But be sure to go through all the packages on offer and then choose the best deal that suits you. Be assured the affordable rates will not create a dent in your pocket.

Advantages of renting a car at Melbourne Airport

September 18, 2014 / 1323 / Travel Guide

Rental car serves more in a good way than a taxi or a cab. You can acquire a rental car for more long hours than a taxi. You are bound to release the taxi service at some point or time.

Melbourne is a very appealing city with fine-looking luxuriously built Airport. Hiring a car at Melbourne Airport adds more to your Melbourne visit experience.

Know some advantages of Cheap Car Rentals Melbourne Airport below:

No to the depressing queues! The prime benefit of renting a car right from Airport is no more sticking to the frustrating queues. And even if you try to adjust waiting in a queue, at times over loaded public may be a disturbance.

Saves time! Priorly made bookings for rentals saves a great deal of time. You can always make provisions of using the rental service by making prior bookings even online or at a branch office. You can travel anywhere on time plus at your convenience.

More comfortable than public transport! It is way different from public conveyance in a way that you can freely travel anywhere you want with a rental car. You need not follow the long standard routes as the public transport does.

Better choice than a taxi! Rental car serves more in a good way than a taxi or a cab. You can acquire a rental car for more long hours than a taxi. You are bound to release the taxi service at some point or time.

Hope this article proved to be helpful and enlightened you in a better way.

Car Rentals in Melbourne CBD: Classic Victorian road trips start in Melbourne CBD!

May 19, 2014 / 1441 / Travel Guide

Australia is indeed a unique and enthralling country that delights every traveler. And when you take on a road trip, it becomes all the more exciting when you get car rentals in Melbourne CBD. The beautiful country of Australia has many attractions and natural landscapes that can even be enjoyed easily within a small distance from any capital city.

So, if you are keen to go for car rentals in Melbourne CBD and are looking for places to discover, here is a list that is sure to fascinate you. Have a look:

The Royal Botanical Gardens:

Known as the epitome of botanical gardens, the Royal Botanical gardens houses more than 12,000 varieties of plants. A very relaxing afternoon can be had wandering around the gardens which are a short tram ride from Melbourne CBD. Try going here first and the pick up your car rental in Melbourne CBD close by.

Gippsland:

Around 2-3 hours drive from Melbourne, Gippsland is a diverse area with lots to see and do. The drive into Lakes Entrance is spectacular with a roadside stop at the lookout overlooking Lakes Entrance a must do. From beaches to bushwalking to sailing to motorbike riding, Gippsland has a lot to offer.

Buchan Caves:

The Buchan Caves have remarkable limestone formations deep inside. Situated around 360 km outside Melbourne, this place doesn’t need much of drive and is a great tour to undertake and is a wonderful adjunct to a trip to Gippsland.

Swan Hill:

Nearly 4 hours from the city of Melbourne, a trip to Swan Hill can be a bit longer than the other ones but is worth the distance traveled. During the trip, you will travel at the side of the Murray River and you can even stay on a houseboat and participate in some river cruising.

Try out any of these wonderful destinations and treasure some wonderful moments.

Toll Roads in Melbourne: Things You Need to Know!

April 17, 2014 / 1969 / Travel Guide

The beautiful country of Australia attracts avid travellers from every part of the world. While there are many ways to explore this wonderful land, the best way is to discover the beautiful locales by car.

Most visitors prefer hiring cheap car rentals in Melbourne and save on the cost of travelling. However, if you have never driven in Melbourne then it is very important that you are aware of Melbourne’s toll roads. You will come across toll roads like City Link which goes between Melbourne Airport and the CBD. While opting for the cheap car rentals, ensure you acquire all the needed information about toll road systems as well.

Toll Roads in Melbourne

City Link and the Exhibition Street Extension in Melbourne is comprised of eight toll zones. Electronic tolling lets the drivers make use of City Link without slowing down or stopping to pay the tolls. It even assists in maintaining a stable flow of traffic on the highway. When you use these road tolls while driving your cheap car rentals from Cheaper Car Rentals, the toll road charges will be automatically deducted from your credit card. Renting from us means not having to open a toll account or buy a Day Pass. All Cheaper Car Rentals’ cars have an E-Tag fitted.

How e-TAG works?

The e-TAG consists of an individual number that is stored electronically. It works as the vehicle passes via the toll area. The e-TAG gets scanned by a scanner installed above the highway and the assigned number is recorded. This identification number is linked to Cheaper Car Rental’s toll account and our rental system software is linked with the toll company. This enables any toll charges to be charged automatically to you and removes any worry about having to contact toll companies to pay for toll charges.

Melbourne’s International Flower and Garden Show: Come & Be A Part of this Great Event!

March 20, 2014 / 1473 / Travel Guide

If you haven’t planned anything special for the month of March then here’s a great way to make this otherwise not so happening month a great affair and get back in touch with nature.

Melbourne is all geared up for its annual International Flower and Garden Show that is to take place from March 26 to March 30.  The show happens to be one of the highlights of the Victorian Calendar.

You can plan the trip with your family and friends to make it all the more exciting. To facilitate the trip, book the cheapest car hire in Melbourne as this will make the journey convenient and hassle-free.

The Event at a Glance

It doesn’t matter at all whether you possess a green thumb or not, the event is for everyone and the blooming flowers are sure to leave you in awe. You just have to book the cheapest car hire in Melbourne and the rest will just follow.

The event is to be held in the Royal Exhibition Building and the Carlton Gardens. You can join the expected 100, 000 visitors and enjoy a wide range of beautiful flowers exuding the best of charm.

This is the leading yearly flower and garden show in the southern hemisphere, and more than 500 exhibitors will be seen showcasing a complete range of inventive products and services intended for both proficient gardeners and the amateurs.

The festival even focuses on the delightful lifestyle Australia has to offer, with an emphasis on the outdoors. You will come across plenty of landscape and floral structures, complemented by a delectable assortment of delicious food choices and some remarkable garden retail products.

Fun Options at the Event

Other than flowers and tempting delicacies; the event has a lot more to offer. You can also sit back and enjoy some great entertainment choices on offer. You can take delight in the floral design workshops, or understand the floristry in the Great Hall of Flowers. You will come across a great collection of some of the finest award-winning displays including outdoor fun ideas, floristry, country parks and landscaping.

Book for the cheapest car hire in Melbourne today and get ready to discover some of the exceptional and uncommon plants on offer. Who knows, at the end of the show, you might end up with some innovative ideas for your garden!

Tips to save money on cheap car rentals!

February 26, 2014 / 1426 / Travel Guide
ccr tripwithfamily

Are you planning another exciting road trip? While a road trip can be a great way to get you away from the everyday hustle and bustle, don’t jump into booking cheap car rentals without proper research.

There are indeed many companies offering cheap car rentals. Always be careful and consider the following important facts that can save you from unwanted problems with your car rental.

1. Read the paperwork thoroughly:

Before fixing the deal for cheap car rentals, make sure that the paperwork is thoroughly studied by you. While rushing through it, you may miss on some important terms and conditions which might turn out a major surprise for you once you are back from your trip. Do not leave room for any doubt or uncertainty. This will save you from paying the extra charges, which we are sure no one really wants.

2. Drive Cautiously

Going on a road trip doesn’t give you a license to drive carelessly. Driving carefully is very important whether you are using your own vehicle or have booked one of the cheap car rentals. You are responsible for the hired vehicle and the conditions of the hire contract so it is necessary to drive cautiously so that no harm is caused to the car.

3. Check the insurance

Though most of the cheap car rentals come with full insurance it is always better to check that you are being covered from every aspect. This will help you understand whether there will be any excess charges or not.

4. Keep a tab on discounts

There’s no issue if you aren’t regular with the car hire, you are still entitled to get discounts and other free extras. The only thing you have to do from your part is to stay updated so that you don’t miss out on any deal.

5. Compare the prices

Before choosing your car rental company, make sure that you analyse the market well. Find out the prices in the market and pick the one offering the best of deals.

If you can make a note of these points, you will be able to save money on car hire along with enjoying a leisure trip.

Road Trips with Kids: Ways to Make it Stress Free!

February 21, 2014 / 13583 / Travel Guide
ccr trip with kids

A road trip is indeed a great way of exploring new places and spending some quality time with friends or family. Those who undertake such trips alone, certainly don’t face much of a fuss as travelling alone for many is quite a pleasurable thing to do.

You can book your cheap car rental at Melbourne airport and plan a wondrous expedition.

However, taking a trip with your family and kids can become stressful. Their constant nagging tends to drive you crazy at times and even distracts you from driving. Unfortunately leaving them back home is definitely not a solution as tempting as that might sound and the idea is to spend some quality time with your family. So why not try and make the trip a happy one with a little planning and creativity?

Here we have brought to you some exciting tips that will help you plan the journey with kids in a stress free manner. Have a look:

1. Kids’ Journals:

This is a great idea to keep your little ones engaged in travelling. Encourage them to draw pictures of all the things they see on the way. It would be great if you can carry necessary items in your cheap car rental from Melbourne airport to help them with the same like, drawing books, crayons, sketch pens etc.

2. Travel Backpacks::

You can buy a travel backpack full of your kid’s favourite characters which will not just delight them but will also keep them occupied. You can even carry some interesting stuff to help them pass the time in a creative manner. Make sure that your cheap car rental in Melbourne airport has enough space for storage.

3. Take fun breaks: :

Driving without break for long periods is never advised for the driver but the same goes for you passengers, especially children. Plan to take short breaks regularly and look for somewhere to stop that is interesting and incorporates some fun activity.

4. Classic Road Games::

Be prepared with some easy yet appealing games before hitting the road. Make a list and encourage the kids to suggest some activities as this will make them feel a bit more responsible and help make the activity a fun thing for all.

5. Movie Time:

This is one option which should be picked only if the entire family is willing to. Make sure that your movie time doesn’t kill your family time thereby making the trip futile. If everyone approves of the idea then some family friendly DVDs are great way to keep kids entertained.

You will have a great time travelling with your kids in cheap car rental from Melbourne airport provided you take care of these basic things and book for cars that fit your needs and family requirements!

Safe Driving Tips: Enjoy your trip safely!

January 29, 2014 / 3209 / Travel Guide
drive safely

Touring new destinations in a rental car can be a fun activity that brings with it new experiences. Driving a rental car requires your utmost care and responsibility to ensure the safety of other road users as well as your passengers.

van-rental-tipsThis is especially important if you are driving in a foreign country for the first time. Having accidents can turn your cheap car rental into an expensive one so please keep in mind our safe driving tips and avoid potential road mishaps.

Drive Carefully:

  • It is very important to plan your trip carefully to take full advantage of your cheap car rental for a long trip. You must be clear about the time you’ll start your journey and which route will you take. If you are not familiar with the roads you are planning to use, avoid peak hour traffic by leaving at a time when the roads are less congested.
  • Resting regularly on long drives is essential. Be sure to plan regular breaks every couple of hours and take advantage of looking around the small towns you might otherwise bypass. Also if you can avoid driving in poor weather conditions do so.
  • Always wear a seat belt and ensure that everyone in the car is also using theirs. It might not be a fashion statement but it certainly does save your life and there’s nothing more important than that. See to it that the seat belt is worn correctly.
  • Life does move very fast these days but everything has a limit. Keep an eye on your speed and drive at the designated speed limits. Driving too fast will leave you with less time to react if something unexpected occurs.
  • Stay focused and vigilant. Pay close attention to the traffic around you and refrain from using mobile phones as they are a distraction.

What not to do while driving?

  • Never drink and drive. Alcohol in most cases impairs your senses resulting in slow reaction times and reduces your ability to concentrate on the road. Having an accident with alcohol.
  • Never drive if you are angry, tired or drowsy as these all will distract you from driving. Take a short break if you feel tired or stressed.
  • Using mobile phones, texting or eating while driving is not at all advisable. Always take a break from driving for these activities.

We hope that our tips for driving cheap car rentals safely are useful to you. Remember it is not always about the destination and driving safely will help you make the most of your journey.

Ute rental in Melbourne: The major advantages of hiring one!

January 18, 2014 / 1595 / Travel Guide
van rental melbourne src 1

Ute rental is a term you will come across very often in Australia. Used as a short form for describing utility vehicle in Australia, people often use utes when moving house or office.

It happens to be an easy way of getting things from one place to another. Apart from this, there are several other benefits of ute rental. This article helps you understand what are the advantages of hiring a ute. Have a look:

1. Shifting: All those who are shifting their residence or office to some other location can opt for Ute rental as loading of your goods is done with great ease. There are varied sizes of utes available depending on the quantity of things you need to move.

2. Company Usage: Ute rental in Melbourne fully serves the purpose of companies and dealers who regularly need to deliver goods to various addresses. Hiring such vehicles makes the work easy for them and provides consistency as well, particularly as an emergency replacement vehicle.

3. Sightseeing: Well, if you thought Ute hire is only good for loading goods then there’s certainly a lot more than meets the eye. It is even a common way of sightseeing across Australia and tourists hire them quite often.

The popularity of utes is widespread in Australia and is a good choice for vehicle hire.

Van Rental in Melbourne : Important Tips to Consider!

December 19, 2013 / 1473 / Travel Guide
van rentals

Renting a van may not be a new thing in Melbourne, however; if it’s a new experience for you then there are certain points that you must remember before making the final call. Being a first timer, you may not know what exactly you should be looking for in a van rental in Melbourne.

The following tips will give you a deeper understanding of van rental in Melbourne and help you in taking the wise decision:

van-rental-tips

  • Firstly, you must know that there exist two types of vans; one is the passenger van while the other is the commercial van. Passenger vans are used for transporting people from one place to another while the commercial vans are great for transporting goods and furniture. Based upon your need, you must begin your search for van rental service providers through internet or local business directories.
  • Secondly, read the contract terms carefully and discuss it at lengths. You must make a point to discuss vital issues like insurance policy, breakdown cover and age. There are a few companies that do not provide van rental in Melbourne to under 25 year olds. It’s because the insurance is higher for younger people as the group is prone to accidents.
  • Thirdly, you must carefully check the insurance policy and things covered under it. Check if it covers third party accountability for death, any sort of damage to yourself or vehicle. Also check whether breakdown cover is made a part of the policy or not. This will prevent you from the unwanted situation of getting stuck in a place with a van you can’t manage to fix!
  • Fourthly, carefully analyse the mileage costs. There are some companies that include mileage in the price quoted while others charge you extra for the mileage. If you are under the impression that you have booked cheap van rental in Melbourne, ensure that there are no extra charge for mileage.

Last but surely not the least, also see that they have a cancellation policy and you are not paying for something, you aren’t provided with. Keep these tips handy and make a wise choice!

Your Guide to Van Rental in Melbourne

November 13, 2013 / 1789 / Travel Guide
late model van auto src 1

Moving house or having to transport freight can be cheaper if you do it yourself. Hiring a van in Melbourne does not have to be expensive particularly if you consider the following tips.

  • Work out how long you need to hire a van for.
    Hourly van hire is available from some companies so if you are just moving one or two items, a short van rental hire period may suffice. Always check if kilometres are charged on top when you ask for this option.
  • What size van do you need? If you are doing a large move, perhaps a removalist truck may be a better option.
    Or you can do a combination of truck and van hire so that all your small and fragile items are not mixed in with larger items that may move around in transit and cause damage.
  • Ask if trolley hire can be added for free.
    Van rental in Melbourne from some suppliers may also include free hand trolley hire. This can be very handy for moving larger items and be less taxing on your body.
  • Always take the insurance excess reduction option.
    If you are not used to driving larger vehicles such as moving vans, it is very easy to do damage to them as you can misjudge the size of the vehicle very easily. This is particularly easy to do if you are in a rental van where you are sitting right at the front of the vehicle. Taking the safest insurance cover can save you a lot of money if you do damage your rental van.

Considering car rental at Melbourne airport?

October 14, 2013 / 1728 / Travel Guide
melbourne airport

Visiting Melbourne can be actually very convenient if you have a car. A comfy, well maintained car is the most convenient way of getting around Melbourne city. Hiring a car is the best alternative if you are on a short trip to Melbourne.

There are many different types of car rental available at the airport and in the suburbs close by, most of which offer a pick up and drop off service. If you are on a budget you can save money with cheap car rental at Melbourne airport. Selecting the car you want in your budget is the catch. Read below our tips on finding a rental car in your budget.

Checklist you must consider to get cheap car rental at Melbourne airport:

Type of car: Depending on the purpose of the visit and your choice, you can opt for anything from a 20 year old rental car to a brand new rental car. It is important to realise that older model cars will have restrictions on how many kilometres you can do and where you can travel and you must be comfortable with driving an older model car.  Also, do not just choose the cheapest price car if you want a new car. So, firstly go online, find out about the cars, select one, check its pickup facility at the airport and make sure that you actually opt for cheapest car rental at Melbourne airport that suits you.

Early booking: The best way to get the cheapest deal is by booking early especially before public holidays and school holidays. During peak times demand for rental cars is high and there can be a considerable price rise during peak periods. Booking early to get a cheap car rental in Melbourne helps you hire a car at the most cost effective rate.

Rental charges: Check if the payment you make is the best you can do. Also, if there is any discount offers then you can utilise them for reduced car rental charges. Also, if you are a member of any car hire company then check all its current discount offers and go for the most affordable one.

GPS device: Most of the car hire companies offering cheap car rental at Melbourne airport also give free GPS device. You need to check the availability of GPS while you book the car online. This will help you to find directions and exact locations on your trip to Melbourne.

Free baby seat: If you are travelling with the baby then it is a must to have baby seats in the car.

Some car hire service providers will offer discounted or even free baby seats with some car rentals. In order to cut your costs, check if they provide any special discounts like FREE baby seat or not.

Carbon emission check: Check the carbon emission impact of the vehicle you want to book. It is good to choose a vehicle with low carbon emission rate. This will reduce your impact on the environment and help you feel better about cheap car rental at Melbourne airport.

Keeping these points in mind will help you choose the correct vehicle for your trip to Melbourne and help you stick to your budget. Just a little attention to these points can make your journey smoother and fulfilling. So, keep these points at the back of your mind while you hunt for cheap car rental at Melbourne airport.

Your Guide to Melbourne Airport

October 14, 2013 / 1470 / Travel Guide
Melbourne Airport

Australia is known to be amongst the most beautiful countries to visit and has some of the busiest airports in the world. All of its airports are well connected to international destinations and provide many services for travelers.

Places like Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and others are on the wish list of all avid travelers; Melbourne especially gets a large number of tourists. Traveling through Melbourne is easy due to the simple access to cheap car rentals at the Melbourne airport. If you have planned a visit to Melbourne, which has the second busiest airport in the world, then this guide to Melbourne Airport is going to help you a lot. Here you go:

Cheap car rental in Melbourne

The moment you land at Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport, the very first thing to draw in your attention is the cheapest car rental in Melbourne airport. You will get complete guideline about cheap car rental in Melbourne airport at the terminals. The Arrival Halls of both T1 Domestic i.e. Qantas & Jetstar; and T3 Domestic comprising of Virgin Blue and Regional Express have car rental desks. Hiring a car calls for a very simple process wherein you have to make the booking at the desired car rental office and you will be provided with all the required information via email. Once you move out of the airport in a rented car you can freely roam about in the beautiful Victorian countryside and sample cosmopolitan Melbourne.

Melbourne Airlines, Terminals & Gates

The airport is being used by 20 international, five domestic and six freight airlines. There are three terminals utilized as an international terminal, Terminal Two (T2), that has 16 gates and the other two domestic terminals have 46 gates. The Terminal One (T1) is mainly used by Qantas and Jetstar whileTerminal Three (T3) is used by Virgin Blue.

E-check in facilities are available for both Qantas and Virgin Blue domestic flights. The domestic airlines offering VIP lounges at the Melbourne airport are The Blue Room by Virgin Blue which is on T3 (mezzanine floor) and The Qantas Club by Qantas on T1, which is on the first floor. You will find all the international airlines with VIP lounges on T2, first floor and after Customs. These include Cathay Pacific at CP First Class Lounge, Malaysia Airlines at The Golden Lounge, Qantas at The Qantas Club, Singapore Airlines at Silver Kris Lounge and Air New Zealand/United Airlines. Emirates’ lounge is found on T2 after customs and you will have to take the escalator to the third level.

Services offered:

Apart from the facility of cheap car rental in Melbourne that you get at the airport, you can also access showers, toilets and baby change facilities which are located throughout the terminals. It also has web kiosks and telephones, plus a phone for the hearing impaired located on the ground floor of T2 arrivals.

Disabled passengers are provided with a pick-up/drop-off area, disabled parking, disabled toilets and disabled access within all terminals. All those who have opted for cheap car rental in Melbourne can get all the detailed information about roaming around the city at the Travellers Information Desk & Lost Property service, which is on the ground floor of international arrivals. Once here, you can find out the latest hot shows in town, the best restaurants and nightclubs, the big events and other tourist destinations. It even has an Airport Medical Centre, a general medical practice with a pharmacy located next door.

Added benefits

Shopping at Melbourne airport

Melbourne airport offers great shopping for all travelers thanks to its array of shops. These shops offer tax free access to a wide range of duty free goods like jewellery, clothes, books and others.

Easy accommodation

The airport has three hotels located nearby where you can easily stay and relax your senses. You can choose between budget accommodation options and luxury suites all within walking distance of the terminals.

You can enjoy a hassle free trip in the city once you book yourself a rental car at Melbourne airport. Right from landing at the airport, Melbourne will tempt you and excite you and give you a journey you will remember.

Secrets to Cheap Car Hire without Breaking the Bank

August 30, 2013 / 1310 / Travel Guide
medium car current src 1

Renting a car increases the flexibility of your trip- whether it’s business or leisure; however, not paying enough attention to details while renting a car, can break the bank.

In spite of having rented a car in the past, that deer in the headlights feeling is pretty much on cards while talking to a car hire agent. Here are few useful tips to make things easy for you-

Research and Compare the rates- Most of us assume that all car rental companies offer the same rates. No, that’s not right. Most of us are on the lookout for cheap airfares, but are often ignorant towards cheap car hire prices. Research well and compare car rental prices before committing to hire a car.

Make calculations and Avoid Temptations- Do not get tempted by unreasonably low rates and watch out for those hidden charges and surcharges. Ask what taxes, surcharges or extra money you will need to pay for extras such as adding another driver.

Hunt for Promo Codes and Specials- Many car hire companies offer weekend specials or special weekly rates. You can save a lot of money by using promo codes or discount codes. A quick internet search can help you get a cheap car hire and save some serious dollars.

Check for Restrictions- Check for restrictions before you seal the deal. If you are planning to drive across the state, you must confirm that it is ok before locking the deal. Do not get tempted by the ‘unlimited mileage’ prices because some of these rates do not include certain states. You might end up paying an astronomical bill, if you are unaware of the restrictions.

Do not Prepay for Gasoline- Paying upfront for gasoline is rarely a good deal. Since gas is less expensive at the gas stations, the best idea is to get the tank filled before returning the car.

Book now for Melbourne’s major sporting events!

August 15, 2013 / 1696 / Travel Guide
horse racing

Thankfully we are in the last leg of winter and in Melbourne that mean getting ready for the AFL finals and the Spring Racing Carnival.

Spring Racing Carnival

Spring in Melbourne is great time to do some touring so why not take some extra time and rent a car if you are visiting for the AFL finals or Spring Racing Carnival. The spring blossoms are an amazing sight and you will find visiting the Countryside a visually stimulating experience. Car rental in Melbourne gets busy during this time so booking early Is advised. If you are a horse racing fan, car hire will get you to Victoria’s country race tracks and for a full guide to country racing in Victoria go to www.countryracing.com.au

If you just want a quiet break and experience the spring blossoming in North East Victoria, here is a taste of what you can see. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5M8123Wz80s. We recommend Tourism Victoria’s website for an overview of the region and great accommodation options. http://www.travelvictoria.com.au/experiences/drivingroutes/greatalpineroad/

Benefits of Renting a Car

July 1, 2013 / 1369 / Travel Guide
holiday in car(1)

Ok, so you are all charged up for a wonderful holiday exploring Victoria’s beautiful coastline with your family or friends. If you don’t have more than a week or two renting a car can help you travel and explore as much as you can and make the most of your holiday.

A Car RentingRenting a car makes your life really easy. It not only saves time, but makes travelling fun as well.

Rental cars can be booked online and be waiting for you at the airport. Travelling in a rental car makes your vacation more comfortable than travelling in trains or buses and gives you the ability to travel out of the way places that are off the beaten track.

You will also have the freedom to stop and go for quick happy snaps and these are the little things that make holidays special and memorable.

Renting a car will make travelling comfortable and flexible for you, but do not forget to check our tips for renting a car that we have previously posted as it will help you save some serious dollars.

Above all, enjoy your time away, put your everyday life on hold and open yourself up to new experiences. Get reacquainted with the smiles and laughter of your friends and family and bring some joy to the people you meet along the way. Isn’t that what life is really about?

Tips for Renting a Car

June 21, 2013 / 1687 / Travel Guide

Are you looking for wheels for your next holiday? If you are looking for flexibility when you are travelling, then renting a car is a very good option, but it may not always be so easy.

Finding a good deal, type of insurance cover you need are just some of the key points to consider. So here are some useful tips for you-

Choosing a Car– First things first ! What kind of vehicle will cater to your requirement? If you are travelling with a lot of gear or with children, then an SUV is the best option for you. You can go for a small car, if you are travelling with 2-3 people. But size is not the only yardstick when it comes to choosing a car. Are you comfortable with a stick shift or you prefer driving automatic vehicle. Also enquire if the car rental company offers extras such as GPS system and trolley.

  • Points to consider before booking a car– Are you going to hire the car for a week or less than that? Search online to find good deals before you make up your mind. If you are going to drive a lot, then you should also consider if the rental company offers breakdown services or not.
  • Get a clear understanding of your Rental- Always read the terms and conditions before booking, especially if you are booking online. Is there any extra cost involved for additional drivers? Is it mandatory to list their names in the contract? In some countries there are restrictions on interstate travel, so you may want to get a clear understanding of those as well. One way car rentals can levy heavy drop off charges if you are going for it. Getting a clear understanding will save you some serious dollars.
  • Hidden Costs- Enticing cheap car rentals can be seen advertised all over the internet, but the hidden cost might inflate the actual cost by a big margin. Insurance, gas bills, additional driver fees, local taxes are important points to consider. Cheap car rentals are available at Cheaper Car Rentals. You can check out our packages to see which one caters best to your requirements or call us and we will answer all your queries.

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