Are you planning a road trip or family getaway and looking to snag the best deal on a rental car? Look no further!
Securing an affordable car rental in Australia can be a breeze with the right strategies in place. From booking early to leveraging discounts, there are several tips and tricks that savvy travellers can use to optimise their rental car experience and save some extra cash.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some insider tips to help you get the best rates on car rentals across Australia.
Book early, save big
It’s a common rule of thumb in the world of travel: the early bird catches the worm. This adage certainly holds true when it comes to renting a car in Australia. By booking your rental car well in advance of your trip, you increase your chances of securing the vehicle you want at the best possible rate. Additionally, booking early allows you to take advantage of any early booking discounts or promotional offers that rental companies may have available.
For example, do you have a trip planned for Easter? Why not take advantage of a Valentine’s Day Sale?
Check direct
While you can find good deals booking with large travel outfits, it always pays to compare what deal you’re getting against what you’re able to get if you book directly. Factor in the cost of any extras you may need; baby seats, zero-excess cover or roadside assistance. When you book direct, these items may be available in bundles that help you to save more.
Consider renting an EV
Do your research ahead of time and work out if an Electric Vehicle would fit in with your plans. The charging infrastructure is becoming more robust and you can pre-plan your trips using apps like Plug Share to work out whether an EV would be suitable.
Rental Car companies often offer EVs at more competitive rates than their petrol counterparts. You also have the added benefit of saving on refuelling as the average cost to charge an EV is FAR less than fuelling a petrol or diesel car – especially during peak travel times like long weekends, Easter and Christmas when pump prices skyrocket.
Finally, you will often find that you can return an EV without a full charge, so unlike returning a petrol or diesel rental car, you’re saving on that one last tank!
Subscribe for savings
If you have a preferred provider, consider subscribing to their newsletter. East Coast Car Rentals (yep that’s us), rewards subscribers with additional deals and savings that are exclusive to them. So whitelist that email address and ensure you’re getting the best possible!
Consider rental length and timing
The duration of your rental and the timing of your trip can also impact the rates you’ll pay. Rental companies often offer better rates for longer rental periods, so if your schedule allows, consider extending your rental to take advantage of these savings. Additionally, rates may be higher during peak travel seasons or on weekends and holidays. If possible, try to plan your trip during off-peak times to secure lower rates on your rental car.
Avoid extra fees
Before finalising your rental agreement, be sure to review the terms and conditions carefully to avoid any unexpected fees or charges. Pay attention to details such as fuel policies, kilometre limits, and additional driver fees. By understanding the terms of your rental agreement upfront, you can avoid any surprises and ensure that you’re getting the best possible rate on your rental car.
Securing an affordable rental car in Australia doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these insider tips, you can navigate the car rental process with ease and score the best possible rate on your vehicle. From booking early to comparison shopping and taking advantage of discounts, there are plenty of ways to save money on your rental car and make the most of your road trip. Happy travels!