Renting a car is often the best way to explore the scenic beauty and diverse landscapes of Australia and New Zealand. However, car rentals can be a significant expense for travelers. With some strategic planning and insider tips, you can save money while enjoying the freedom of the open road.
Here’s how you can make your car rental experience more budget-friendly, especially when traveling in these two popular destinations.
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1. Book Early and Compare Prices
One of the golden rules for saving on car rentals is to book early. Rental prices tend to increase as the pickup date approaches, particularly during peak travel seasons like summer or holidays. Use comparison platforms such as Kayak or Priceline to explore options across multiple companies, and then check if booking directly through the rental company offers additional discounts.
In both Australia and New Zealand, booking early is especially important in smaller towns or remote locations where vehicle availability may be limited. For example, securing a rental car in places like Queenstown or Cairns well ahead of time can help you avoid last-minute price hikes.
2. Consider One-Way Rentals
One-way rentals are an excellent option in Australia and New Zealand, where road trips are incredibly popular. Many rental companies offer discounted rates for one-way hires, especially if they need to relocate vehicles between cities. For instance, driving from Christchurch to Auckland or from Melbourne to Sydney can be more affordable with these deals.
Check with local companies like RaD Car Hire in New Zealand or Europcar in Australia for relocation specials that allow you to save money while enjoying a scenic drive.
3. Choose Off-Airport Locations
Airport car rental locations often charge premium rates due to convenience fees and surcharges. Opting for an off-airport location can save you a significant amount. In cities like Sydney or Auckland, taking a short taxi or rideshare ride to a neighborhood rental office can result in lower base rates.
However, if your travel itinerary requires late-night pickups or returns, weigh the convenience of airport locations against potential savings.
4. Opt for Economy Cars
Economy or compact cars are not only cheaper to rent but also more fuel-efficient—an important consideration given fuel prices in both countries. These vehicles are ideal for solo travelers or small groups exploring urban areas or well-paved roads23.
In New Zealand, smaller cars are particularly useful when navigating narrow roads in regions like Fiordland or Rotorua. Similarly, in Australia, compact cars are perfect for city driving in Melbourne or Brisbane.
5. Leverage Membership Discounts
Membership programs such as AA (or its equivalent NRMA in Australia) and Costco often provide discounts on car rentals. Frequent flyer programs also partner with rental companies to offer reduced rates and perks like free additional drivers.
For travelers visiting New Zealand, consider loyalty programs offered by local companies like Apex or Jucy Rentals, which frequently include extras like unlimited mileage or free insurance upgrades.
6. Be Flexible with Pickup and Return Times
Adjusting your rental period strategically can lead to savings. Weekly rentals often cost less per day than shorter rentals, even if you only need the car for five days. In addition:
- Weekend rates may be cheaper than weekday rates.
- Returning the car during business hours avoids after-hours fees.
For example, if you're planning a road trip along Australia's Great Ocean Road or exploring New Zealand's South Island, extending your rental period slightly might reduce your overall cost.
7. Avoid Hidden Fees
Carefully review the terms and conditions of your rental agreement to avoid hidden fees that can inflate costs:
- Insurance: Check if your credit card or travel insurance covers rental cars.
- Fuel: Decline pre-paid fuel options and refill the tank yourself before returning the car.
- Extras: Skip unnecessary add-ons like GPS (use your smartphone instead) or child seats (bring your own if possible).
In New Zealand, some companies also charge extra for crossing between the North and South Islands via ferry—factor this into your budget if applicable.
8. Explore Local Rental Companies
While global brands like Hertz and Avis are widely available, local companies often provide competitive rates and personalized service. In New Zealand, GO Rentals and Apex are highly rated for their transparency and value for money. In Australia, smaller providers in regional areas like RaD Car Hire on the Gold Coast may offer better deals compared to larger chains.
Local firms may also include perks like unlimited kilometers or free maps that enhance your travel experience without additional costs.
9. Take Advantage of Relocation Deals
Relocation deals are a hidden gem for budget-conscious travelers in both countries. Rental companies frequently need vehicles moved between cities and offer heavily discounted rates—or even free rentals—to drivers willing to do this.
Websites like Transfercar.co.nz list relocation opportunities in New Zealand, while similar services are available in Australia through platforms like Imoova.com.
10. Plan Around Seasonal Demand
Car rental rates fluctuate based on demand. If possible, plan your trip during shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) when prices are lower than peak summer months.
For instance:
- In New Zealand, avoid renting during December-January when tourists flock to hotspots like Queenstown.
- In Australia, steer clear of school holiday periods when demand spikes dramatically.
By traveling during off-peak times, you'll not only save on rentals but also enjoy less crowded attractions.
Conclusion
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Australia and New Zealand at your own pace. By booking early, considering one-way hires, leveraging memberships, and choosing local providers, you can significantly reduce costs without compromising on quality.
Whether you're embarking on an epic road trip along Australia's coastline or discovering hidden gems in New Zealand's countryside, these insider tips will help you make the most of your journey while staying within budget. Safe travels!