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Explore Melbourne to Sydney with Ease

Your one-way car rental guide for a seamless journey

Document required for international visitors
  • 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 years depending on the rental provider.

    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. A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard. Additionally, you may be required to present a utility bill within 3 months for verification.

  • Form of ID: A valid physical Australia national photo ID.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and AMEX. Some providers also accept debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, or UnionPay).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must generally be between 21-99 years old, depending on the rental provider. Young drivers aged 20-25 may incur additional fees ranging from AUD $7.23 to AUD $20.89 per day, with some providers capping the fee 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 years depending on the rental provider. Additional requirements: Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP), or Original driving licence + NAATI Translation, or Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version).

    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. A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard. Additionally, you may be required to present a utility bill within 3 months for verification.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and AMEX. Some providers also accept debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, or UnionPay).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must generally be between 21-99 years old, depending on the rental provider. Young drivers aged 20-25 may incur additional fees ranging from AUD $7.23 to AUD $20.89 per day, with some providers capping the fee for the rental period.
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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

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 186-1126US$ 131.56-1085.41US$ 102-1201Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 347-1131US$ 197.34-1085.41US$ 442-1218Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 228-1158US$ 179.40-1085.41US$ 306-1300Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 234-441US$ 179.40-1085.41US$ 116-563Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 314-426US$ 197.34-1196.04US$ 491-661Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 333-1218US$ 197.34-1085.41US$ 1490-1490Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fee: Most car rental companies charge a one-way fee for returning the car to a different location.
  • Route planning: Plan your route well to avoid unnecessary mileage and associated costs.
  • Fuel policy: Understand the fuel policy, whether it's full-to-full or pre-purchased for convenience.
  • Airport drop-off fees: Be aware if there are any extra charges for drop-off at Sydney Airport.
  • Vehicle selection: Choose a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering passengers and luggage.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Compare company charges: Research multiple car rental companies to find the most budget-friendly rate.
  • Book in advance: Early booking can help secure better deals and availability.
  • Plan rest stops: Schedule stops at scenic points between Melbourne and Sydney for a pleasant journey.
  • Use mobile apps: Download apps for navigation and roadside assistance support.
  • Pack smartly: Ensure all travel essentials and documents are accommodated without overloading.
  • Understand local laws: Familiarize yourself with road regulations specific to the Melbourne-Sydney route.
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
Tolls
Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

United Petroleum - 32 Princes Highway, Sydney Airport NSW 2020, Australia

BP Runway - General Holmes Drive, Mascot NSW 2020, Australia (approx location)

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Avoid unnecessary idling to conserve fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated.

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Melbourne Parking

Consider using park-and-ride facilities to avoid high city-center parking costs.

Parking costs in Melbourne are typically high in the city center, with both metered street parking and parking garages available.

Sydney Parking

Use parking apps to find the best rates and availability.

Sydney offers a mix of street parking and parking garages, with costs varying significantly based on location.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like Parkopedia and EasyPark help users find or reserve parking in advance.

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Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure your vehicle is registered for electronic toll payments to avoid fines.

Use online toll calculators to estimate costs before starting your journey.

The route between Melbourne and Sydney includes several toll roads, such as the Hume Highway.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Melbourne to Sydney:
Coastal Route
Scenic Route 12-14 hours

This scenic drive along the coastline features pristine beaches, coastal towns, and breathtaking ocean views.

Phillip Island , Lakes Entrance , Batemans Bay
Hume Highway Direct
Highway Route 8-9 hours

A fast and direct route using the major highway, ideal for travelers who prefer efficiency.

Albury , Goulburn
Great Alpine Road
Mountain Route 15-16 hours

Travel through the mountainous region offering panoramic views, highland towns, and outdoor activities.

Bright , Mt Hotham , Omeo
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the Right Vehicle: Opt for a car that comfortably seats all passengers and suits the terrain you'll be traversing.

Understand Rental Conditions: Be aware of one-way fees, mileage limits, and insurance options associated with the rental.

Plan Your Stops: Pre-determine rest points and accommodation to avoid long stretches without breaks.

Fuel Planning: Ensure your route includes gas stations at regular intervals, especially when venturing far from cities.

Pack Essentials: Carry water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and entertainment for the journey.

Check Seasonal Conditions: Be aware of weather changes and road conditions depending on the time of year.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When selecting a car rental company for a one-way trip from Melbourne to Sydney, consider options that offer suitable vehicle choices, clear pricing, and convenient pick-up and drop-off locations.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Ace Car Rentals$GoodLimited Affordable rentals , Straightforward booking process
Budget Car Rental$$ExcellentWide Large selection of vehicles , Reliable customer service
Hertz$$$ExcellentExtensive Premium vehicles available , Frequent traveler rewards
Thrifty$$GoodWide Affordable for various budgets , Convenient location network
QEEQ

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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

Car Rental Centers in Melbourne and Sydney

Operating Hours:

Most car rental centers operate between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Verify specific hours for your booking.

Pick-up and Drop-off Points:

At Melbourne, rentals can typically be picked up from Melbourne Airport or city depots. Drop-offs at Sydney are facilitated at Sydney Airport or downtown locations.

Shuttle Services:

Free shuttle services from airports to rental centers are provided by most companies and run every 15-20 minutes.

Vehicle Models:

Choose between compact, sedan, SUV, or luxury models depending on the company.

Refueling Options Near Sydney Airport:

Fuel stations are conveniently located within 2-3 kilometers of Sydney Airport for easy refueling before the return.

Book in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability and better rates for one-way trips. Compare companies for one-way fees as they may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of a one-way car rental from Melbourne to Sydney?

The cost of a one-way rental varies based on the chosen vehicle, rental duration, and the rental company. Additional fees may apply for one-way rentals. Contact the rental provider for specific pricing details.

Are there any additional fees for ending the rental in Sydney?

Most rental companies apply a one-way fee for returning the car to a different location, like Sydney. This fee is used to cover logistics expenses.

Can I pick up a rental car at Melbourne Airport and return it to Sydney Airport?

Yes, many rental companies provide the option to start your rental at Melbourne Airport and drop it off at Sydney Airport. Confirm availability and terms when booking.

What types of vehicles are available for a Melbourne to Sydney one-way rental?

Available vehicles include compact cars, sedans, SUVs, and occasionally trucks for larger groups or more luggage. Vehicle variety depends on the rental company.

Do rental companies allow interstate travel for one-way journeys?

Yes, interstate travel between Victoria and New South Wales is generally allowed, but ensure this requirement is explicitly mentioned when booking.

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