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Discover Canberra with Ease

Enjoy a seamless one-way car rental journey from Melbourne to Canberra.

Can I rent a car from Melbourne to Canberra?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Melbourne to Canberra. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for AU residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Australia national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-3 year(s).

    Notes: Local Renter Requirements: If you live within 100 km of the rental location and your booking is not linked to a corporate or insurance account, extra verification is required. Security Deposit: A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard. If you are a local renter, you may be required to present a utility bill within 3 months for checking.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, and UnionPay. Debit cards may also be accepted in some cases.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18-100 years. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees ranging from US$5.92 to US$23.71 per day, depending on the rental provider. Some fees are capped for the rental period.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-3 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original driving licence + NAATI Translation
    • Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version)

    Notes: If you live within 100 km of the rental location and your booking is not linked to a corporate or insurance account, extra verification is required. Security Deposit: A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, JCB, Discover, and UnionPay. Debit cards may also be accepted in some cases.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18-100 years. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees ranging from US$5.92 to US$23.71 per day, depending on the rental provider. Some fees are capped for the rental period.
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How much does renting a car from Melbourne to Canberra cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 109/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 116/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 158-5856US$ 0.00-720.14US$ 325-4230Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 336-797US$ 0.00-720.14US$ 488-599Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 164-839US$ 0.00-720.14US$ 343-939Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 162-454US$ 0.00-720.14US$ 346-549Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 305-622US$ 0.00-720.14US$ 471-953Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 488-852US$ 196.40-720.14US$ 1123-1123Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fee: Be aware of potential additional fees associated with picking up the vehicle in Melbourne and dropping it off in Canberra.
  • Distance covered: Calculate the total travel distance and ensure your rental agreement includes sufficient mileage.
  • Drop-off restrictions: Verify that the rental policy allows drop-offs in Canberra without penalties.
  • Insurance coverage: Ensure your insurance plan covers the journey and read the fine print for exclusions or conditions.
  • Refueling requirements: Understand the fuel policy—whether to return the car with a full tank or as received.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your stops: Identify key locations or rest stops along the route for a comfortable journey.
  • Book early: Secure your rental in advance for better availability and prices.
  • Emergency numbers: Keep emergency contact numbers handy in case of roadside issues.
  • Pack efficiently: Consider the vehicle type when packing to avoid exceeding capacity.
  • Check the vehicle: Inspect the car before departure to ensure it is in good condition.
  • Weather preparation: Check the weather forecast for your travel days and prepare accordingly.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid extra charges from the rental company.

Keep the fuel receipt as proof of refueling near the drop-off location.

Ensure the fuel level matches the initial level noted at the time of pickup.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost along the route is approximately $1.75 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure for better fuel efficiency.

Limit the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Melbourne Parking

Parking in Melbourne CBD can range from $5 to $12 per hour.

Consider parking at suburban train stations and taking public transport to the city center.

Use early bird parking deals for cheaper full-day rates.

Canberra Parking

Canberra offers free parking in many suburban areas.

City center parking can cost between $2 and $4 per hour.

There are several multi-level parking facilities near major attractions.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia: Provides parking availability and pricing information.

EasyPark: Allows you to find and pay for parking via mobile.

Wilson Parking: Offers booking options for parking spaces in advance.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Scenic and Practical Routes:
Hume Highway Route
Express Route 8 hours

A direct and well-maintained path connecting Melbourne to Canberra through major cities.

Albury , Wangaratta , Gundagai
Great Alpine Road
Scenic Drive 12 hours

A picturesque journey through mountainous landscapes and charming towns.

Bright , Mount Hotham , Bairnsdale
Coastal Route
Leisurely Scenic Route 14 hours

Experience stunning coastal views and seaside attractions.

Geelong , Lakes Entrance , Eden
Road Trip Preparation Advice

Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a car suitable for your route, considering the terrain and weather conditions.

Understand Rental Costs: Be aware of additional costs for one-way rentals and fuel surcharges.

Plan Your Stops: Mark your rest stops and fuel stations beforehand to avoid inconveniences.

Replenish Fuel Wisely: Opt for gas stations in larger towns to access lower prices.

Pack for Conditions: Bring essentials for changes in weather during your journey.

Emergency Readiness: Carry basic tools and know emergency contact numbers for your travels.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Choosing a car rental company for a one-way trip can be simplified by evaluating their one-way fees, fleet variety, location coverage, and offered advantages. Below are reliable options available for the Melbourne to Canberra route.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Avis$$★★★★★★★★★☆ Wide range of vehicle options , 24/7 customer support , Easy cancellation policies
Hertz$$$★★★★☆★★★★★ Multiple pick-up and drop-down locations , Unlimited mileage plans , Well-maintained vehicles
Budget$★★★☆☆★★★★☆ Competitive pricing , Good coverage across cities , Special deals and promos
Europcar$$$★★★★☆★★★☆☆ Premium vehicle options , Excellent customer service , Environmentally friendly policies
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Melbourne Rental Car Centers

Operating Hours:

Most rental services operate 24/7 and accommodate late arrivals.

Rental Locations:

Car rental desks are located at Melbourne Airport, Terminal T1, near the baggage claim area.

Shuttle Frequency:

Free shuttle services to off-site rental locations run every 10-15 minutes.

Vehicle Pick-up:

Directly at the rental car parking area or as directed by the rental agent.

Pro Tips for Melbourne Airport(MEL) Car Rentals

For a smoother experience, consider booking your rental vehicle online in advance to secure better rates and ensure vehicle availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental and how does it work for the Melbourne to Canberra route?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a rental car in Melbourne and drop it off in Canberra. You won't need to return the car to Melbourne, making it a convenient option for those traveling in just one direction. Check with the rental provider for specific policies and fees.

Are there additional fees for a one-way car rental between Melbourne and Canberra?

Many car rental companies charge a one-way fee, which is added to the base rental cost. This fee covers the operational costs of relocating the vehicle. Be sure to inquire about this fee when booking.

What types of vehicles are available for a one-way rental on this route?

Options usually include economy cars, SUVs, luxury vehicles, and vans. The availability depends on the rental company and the specific location. Mention your preferences while booking to ensure availability.

Can I modify or cancel my one-way rental reservation?

Yes, most rental agencies allow modifications or cancellations, but the terms vary. Some changes might incur fees, and cancellations may be subject to a penalty, particularly if done last minute. It's advisable to read the cancellation policy before confirming your booking.

What documentation is required to rent a car for this route?

You will need a valid driver’s license (an international permit may be necessary for non-residents), a credit card for security deposit, and identification such as a passport. Always check with the rental company for their specific requirements.

Ready to Book Your Melbourne to Canberra Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes