When visiting a new city, a hire car can be a handy way to catch all the sights, as well as make sure you get back to the airport in time. But with so many rental car options to choose from, it can prove hard to decipher which providers are worth it, or which ones will simply take you for a ride. And with Melbourne a popular destination for many, finding the right car hire operator can help ensure your trip gets off on the right foot.
In this guide, Canstar Blue lists car hire companies in Melbourne, plus pick-up and drop-off locations, as well as what vehicles and services you can expect to find on your next trip.
Car Rental in Melbourne
Melbourne is one of Australia’s largest cities, and can prove to be a struggle to get around unless you have your own vehicle. Here is a list of hire car companies that operate in Melbourne:
- Hertz
- Thrifty
- Avis
- Europcar
- Budget
- Redspot
- Enterprise
- National
- East Coast Car Rentals
- Alpha
- Firefly
- Ace Rental Cars
- Alamo
- Dollar
- Sunny Cars
- Sixt
- Apex
- Jucy
- Bargain Car Rentals
- Advance Car and Truck Rental
- Auz Rental Cars
Car Rental at Melbourne Airport
When you head to Melbourne, chances are you will be landing at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport and need to line up a set of wheels to take you on the next stage of your journey. Here is a list of hire car companies with a presence at Melbourne International and Domestic airport:
- Avis
- Hertz
- Europcar
- Budget
- Thrifty
- Enterprise
Pick-up and drop-off locations in Melbourne
Like houses, location is an important factor for hire car providers, as you don’t want to be travelling out of your way to simply pick-up or drop-off the keys. While some providers will have you ready to go as soon as you step off the plane at Melbourne airport, you may have to travel further afield for other providers, so it’s best to check all locations before booking. Additionally, some providers allow you to drop-off your rental at a different location to your pick-up point, making it easy for those only going one-way.
If you’re returning to Melbourne airport, most providers will also offer free shuttle buses from domestic and international airports, making it easy for you to catch your next flight. If you’re not sure about where you can pick up or return your rental, most providers will offer options during the booking process.
Cheapest Car Rental in Melbourne
Price is a big factor to consider when it comes to hiring a car, so shopping around for the cheapest deal possible is a good way to make sure your trip doesn’t cost more than you budgeted for. While the final bill will come down to how long you’ve hired a car for, as well as whether you experienced any problems behind the wheel, you may be able to save if you look into all the available providers, big and small.
You’ll also have to keep an eye on the booking process, as those additional extras, surcharges and any insurance you take out can quickly rack up your bill if you’re not careful. Some costs will be dependent on how far in advance you book your vehicle as well, with booking a day before more likely to cost you than booking a few months in advance. However, you may be able to snag a promotional deal or discount, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled if you’re looking for a bargain.
Luxury Car Hire in Melbourne
If you’re looking to arrive in style while in Melbourne, a luxury car rental may be just the ticket for your next trip. In addition to the traditional car hire providers in Melbourne, there are a number of specialist providers if you’re looking to get behind the wheel of a Bentley, Mercedes or Ferrari, for example. Here is a list of car rental companies with luxury cars for hire in Melbourne:
- Europcar
- Avis
- Hertz
- Thrifty
- Enterprise
- Alamo
- National
- Unique Car Rentals
- Prestige Rentals
- Drive Away Car Rentals
About Hire Car Companies in Melbourne
Hertz Car Rental Melbourne
With more than 200 locations around Australia, Hertz is a popular option for those looking for a hire car or truck. Hertz provides online check-in to speed up the process, allowing you to partly fill-in your details before you arrive at your designated pick-up area, meaning you can get your journey underway quicker. You can also use the Pre-pay option to save time at the checkout, although this is available at only select locations. In addition, you can organise to drop your rental car off at a different location, making it easy for those on a one-way trip, or those whose plans change halfway through their trip.
Prices for Hertz car hire can be found once you’ve entered in your trip details and locations, making it easy to budget for your trip, with additional extras such as sat nav also available through the booking and checkout process.
Hertz Locations in Melbourne
- Tullamarine Airport
- Avalon Airport
- Clayton
- Glen Iris
- Hoppers Crossing
- Altona North
- Downtown Melbourne
- Vermont
- Moorabbin
- Noble Park
- Preston
- Footscray
- Albert Park
- Essendon Airport
- Campbellfield
- Pakenham
- St Kilda
- Deer Park
Thrifty Car Rental Melbourne
Offering more than 200 locations around Australia, Thrifty’s pick-up and drop-off points can be found online, with opening hours additionally available through the website. Similar to other providers, you can select from a range of vehicles, including small compact models, to larger SUVs and commercial vehicles. You can even hire a bus from Thrifty, making those school excursions or big group trips easier to manage.
Pick-up and drop-off locations can be selected when booking, making it easy to organise your hire car around your trip, and not the other way around. You can even add strollers, booster seats and GPS to your bookings, helping to make everyone on the trip more comfortable. And if it’s your first time in Melbourne, Thrifty even offers a travel blog to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Thrifty Locations in Melbourne
- Avalon Airport
- Dandenong
- Frankston
- Bayswater
- Moorabbin
- Melbourne Airport
- Tullamarine
- Blackburn
- Footscray
- Clayton
- Hoppers Crossing
- Preston
- Richmond
Avis Car Rental Melbourne
Providing more than 100 locations available around Australia, global-brand Avis offers a range of cars, including small cars, sedans and SUVs, along with trucks to help with a move, or for when you’ve got a big job ahead of you. For those who are going to multiple locations, you can select where you would like to pick up and drop off your rental, making it easier to work around your schedule instead of worrying about where you should drop the keys off to.
Costs are outlined after you’ve entered in your travel dates and locations, with optional extras available as you progress through the booking process. Avis allows for drivers to pre-pay their booking, with Rapid Return also available for those who don’t want to wait around while dropping off their rental.
Avis Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne CBD
- Blackburn
- Footscray
- Dandenongn
- Frankston
- Preston
- South Melbourne
- South Yarra
- Richmond
- Melbourne Airport
Europcar Car Rental Melbourne
Available in more than 140 countries around the globe, Europcar is well-known within the hire car scene, with over 100 locations in Australia. Bookings can be made online, or through the Europcar app, making it easy if you’ve left it to the last minute. With a fleet that consists of small cars, sedans, as well as 4WDs and vans for all your transport needs, Europcar offers a number of extras to help make your time behind the wheel more enjoyable, including GPS and child seats.
Europcar allows for separate pick-up and drop-off points, making it easier to organise around your trip. Opening hours, as well as pricing quotes are available on the website, allowing you to budget both your money and time before you set out. Loyalty programs and rewards are also available for those who are constantly traveling and using Europcar.
Europcar Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne CBD
- Melbourne Airport
- Albion
- Clayton
- Epping
- Moorabbin
- Melbourne South
- Werribee
- Bayswater
- Richmond
- Campbellfield
- Frankston
- St Kilda
- Blackburn
- Dandenong
- Preston
Budget Car Rental Melbourne
An American brand, Budget is available at more than 200 locations around Australia, and like other hire car operators, Budget has a range of vehicles for you to choose from, including smaller models for when you’re travelling on your own, or SUVs for those who have a crew with them.
Rates and prices are outlined as you book your car online, with options broken down into car types, including ‘compact’ cars such as the Suzuki Swift, as well as ‘full size’ cars for those looking for a Holden Commodore or something similar. Additional extras such as GPS, child safety seats and even snow cover can be added onto your order, with Budget also allowing users to prepay at a discounted rate for those who have their plans locked in early.
For those who are frequently travelling, Budget offers Fastbreak, which allows you to pick up and drop off your ride quicker and easier. While only available at select locations – and you have to be a Fastbreak member – it may be a handy option for those in a rush.
Budget Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne CBD
- Sunshine
- Richmond
- Footscray
- Campbellfield
- Preston
- Brighton
- Bundoora
- Melbourne Airport
Other Hire Car Companies in Melbourne
Redspot Car Rental Melbourne
A smaller operator in comparison to its competitors, Redspot has been in operation since 1989, and offers a number of vehicles for drivers to choose from, including the smaller Kia Rio all the way to the Holden Colorado ute, as well as other commercial vehicles such as vans and trucks. Redspot offers a number of pricing tiers to choose from, including Bare Bones, Middle of the Road and Top Dog, each with different included extras and cover, helping you to personalise to your journey and preferences.
Redspot Locations in Melbourne
- South Melbourne
- Melbourne CBD
- Melbourne Airport
- Coburg
Enterprise Car Rental Melbourne
A global brand, Enterprise looks to focus more on short-term car rentals, making it a handy option for those who are just looking to get around town for the day. Enterprise offers a number of vehicles for your driving preferences, including small cars such as the Hyundai i20, with larger models such as the Toyota Camry also available. Users can choose where to pick-up and drop-off their rentals, with rates and fees shown during the booking process to ensure that you aren’t left with a surprise when you drop the keys off.
Enterprise Locations in Melbourne
- South Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
- Melbourne CBD
National Car Rental Melbourne
Operating under the Enterprise brand, National allows you to reserve a hire car for either yourself or a friend, helping to make the organising phase of your next trip easier. With a wide range of vehicles available to hire, including smaller models such as the Kia Rio as well as larger models like the Subaru Forester or Mitsubishi Outlander, you can load up on extras and policies during the checkout to ensure you get the most out of your trip. You can also sign up to the Emerald Club for bonuses and discounts.
National Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
East Coast Car Rental Melbourne
East Coast Car Rentals may not be as well-known as other providers when it comes to picking up a rental, but still offers a number of vehicles for your needs. Prices are shown on a per day basis, with extras such as baby seats, portable DVD players and GPS also available, meaning it still offers plenty to consider when your next trip to Melbourne comes around.
East Coast Car Rental Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
- Melbourne City
Alpha Car Rental Melbourne
Another small provider operating in major cities, Alpha Car Rental offers a vehicle range that includes small cars such as Hyundai i20 as well as vans, utes and even a three-tonne truck for those who are looking to take a few things with them. Extras are available for purchase through the online booking process, including GPS units, child seats as well tyre and windscreen protection in case you encounter some wild weather. With opening hours available on their website, Alpha Car Rental also offers a quick guide to Melbourne if it’s your first time visiting.
Alpha Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
Firefly Rental Melbourne
Firefly is available around major and capital cities of Australia. Owned by Hertz, Firefly has been in operation since 2013, and has a number of cars available for hire, including the Suzuki Swift for those after a small model, or the Toyota Kluger and Kia Carnival for those who need something a little bigger. Extras such as GPS units and child seats are also available through the reservation process, allowing you to find out how much you’re spending before you pick up the keys.
Firefly Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
- Downtown Melbourne
Ace Rental Cars Melbourne
A New Zealand company, Ace Rental Cars expanded into Australia in 2003, and currently operates under Hertz. Vehicles include compact models such as the Toyota Corolla, plus SUVs such as the Mitsubishi Outlander, with the Super Saver option coming with a ‘Mystery Vehicle’ if you’re looking to be a bit adventurous. Ace Rental Cars additionally offers a free shuttle bus from drop-off points for those who need to get to the airport, making it very convenient when you need to catch a flight.
Ace Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
Alamo Car Rental Melbourne
Originating in America, Alamo has expanded on a global scale, and currently operates under Enterprise Holdings along with Enterprise and National car rentals. Offering small models for the solo traveller or large SUVs and people-movers for when you’re taking the whole crew, Alamo has plenty of options available for your hire car needs, with extras available through the booking process.
Alamo Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
Dollar Car Rental Melbourne
Another American brand, Dollar Car Rental currently operates under Thrifty, with the brand available across 70 countries globally. Cars available include the Hyundai Getz for those looking for something small to zip around in, while Mitsubishi Outlanders are also available for those looking for a bit more room to play with. Rates and fees are shown when you book, with Dollar Car Rental also detailing the breakdown of their fees so you know what you’re paying for.
Dollar Locations in Melbourne
- Downtown Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
- Richmond
- Preston
- Blackburn
- Moorabbin
Sunny Cars Rental Melbourne
Founded in Germany, Sunny Cars operates on a global scale, and is available in major and capital cities around Australia. A variety of vehicles and packages can be purchased to suit your style and budget, with Sunny Cars accepting payments through PayPal as well as major credit cards, making it easier for those budgeting their trip. You can filter your car results to suit what you need, but be careful when booking online as prices first appear in euros – so be sure you don’t get caught when converting to Aussie dollars!
Sunny Cars Locations in Melbourne
- Kilda
- Melbourne CBD
- Preston
- Melbourne Airport
Sixt Car Rental Melbourne
The first car rental car in Germany, Sixt has been operating for over 100 years, and has expanded to cater for a global audience. In Australia, Sixt offers a number of models for your rental needs, whether you need a small Hyundai i20 or a large Toyota Commuter to ferry the crew around. Prices and extras are outlined during the booking process, meaning you can budget for your trip, as well as ensure you are comfortable while on the road.
Sixt Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
- Melbourne CBD
Apex Car Rentals Melbourne
Operating in major cities around Australia and New Zealand, Apex Car Rentals provides a number of models for drivers to choose from, including the Hyundai Accent to the Hyundai iMax for those looking to drive the whole family around. Prices are outlined during checkout, both as a total cost, as well as a day-by-day cost, with extras such as roadside cover and booster seats also available through the Apex Car booking process. Furthermore, Apex offers no additional fees for under 25-year-old drivers or additional drivers, potentially making it a handy option for younger travellers.
Apex Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
- Melbourne CBD
Jucy Car Rentals Melbourne
While it may be more well-known for its bright green and purple campervans, Jucy additionally offers cars for all your rental needs. The New Zealand-owned company is available in major Australian cities, with locations and opening hours outlined on the Jucy website. Small, medium and large vehicles are all available for hire, along with extras such as GPS and baby seats. Jucy also provides a ‘relocation’ deal for those heading one-way for their travels.
Jucy Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
- Melbourne CBD
Bargain Car Rentals in Melbourne
With a range of vehicles available to book, regardless if you’re going by yourself or with a few friends, Bargain Car Rentals additionally has commercial utes and trucks for those looking to take a bit of gear with them. If you’re going away for the weekend, Bargain Car Rentals may be worth looking into, with an extensive range of campervans also available to book.
Offering no booking fees and no surcharge for drivers aged between 21 and 25, Bargain Car Rentals may live up to its name for those looking for a cheaper alternative, but it’s best to always keep an eye on the final bill when booking to ensure you don’t find any surprises when your return the keys.
Bargain Car Rental Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
Advance Car Rental in Melbourne
Another small provider to consider when in Melbourne, Advance Car Rental offers a number of vehicles in their fleet, including the smaller Hyundai i20, as well as larger SUVs such as the Mitsubishi Pajero, or even a bus for those who need something to fit the whole squad. You can get a quote before you begin the booking process to ensure your hire car fits into your budget, with additional extras and cover available when booking online.
Advance Car Rental Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport
- Melbourne CBD
Auz Rental Cars Melbourne
With plenty of vehicles available to help you get around Melbourne, whether it’s a solo trip or a group adventure, Auz Rental Cars offers smaller hatch backs such as the Toyota Yaris all the way up to a 12-seater mini-bus for those who need a bit of extra room. In addition, it offers a shuttle bus to the airport if you need. Auz Rental Cars outlines costs such as insurance on their website to confirm that you know what you’re getting before you sign on the dotted line, with extras such as GPS units and baby strollers also available during the booking phase.
Auz Rental Car Locations in Melbourne
- Melbourne CBD
- Melbourne Airport
- Craigieburn
Other car hire options
If you’re still not sure about which car rental provider to go with, there are other options that may suit your journey and budget.
Providers such as Discover (formerly known as Atlas Choice) and AutoEurope are available for drivers to book through, acting as a middleman between drivers and providers. They work by renting a car from an established provider before leasing it out to you, which means they don’t have the overheads of looking after a car fleet, which may mean it’s a cheaper option for you to consider.
If you’re looking for something completely different, you may also want to consider Carhood and Car Next Door, which allow you to rent someone’s car, or lease your own car out for someone else. It works by pairing those looking to rent a car with someone who is leaving their car at the airport for a few days, providing a cheaper alternative to those looking to explore Melbourne, while giving those travelling outside of Melbourne a chance to make some money.
Which hire car provider should I use?
Whether you’re planning on sticking close to the city, or you’re looking to explore the greater Melbourne area, you’re not short on options when it comes to finding a hire car for your needs. Which provider you decide to go with however, will come down to your needs and situation, as one provider may offer a wider range of extras to help keep the kids entertained, while others may have additional cover for those looking for peace-of-mind.
Price and convenience will be the biggest factors to consider in your decision-making process, with having to go out of your way to return your hire car a sure-fire way to mess up your travel itinerary, with a pricey bill also enough to cut short your trip. To ensure you get the holiday you planned, it’s best to look into all your options – including the smaller providers – before booking, as you may find a better option to drive off into the sunset with.
If you’re not sure which provider may be the best option for you, check out our Hire Cars Ratings to see which brand came out on top.
Picture credits: Dobo Kristian/shuttersctock.com, Mandy Godbehear/shutterstock.com, cunaplus/shutterstock.com, oneinchpunch/shutterstock.com
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