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Explore the Road Between Sydney and Melbourne

Plan your one-way car rental journey with ease and convenience.

Can I rent a car from Sydney to Melbourne?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Sydney to Melbourne. 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 year(s).

    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. A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard, or 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. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, and UnionPay. Debit cards may also be accepted for some providers.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-100 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees ranging from US$ 5.92 to US$ 27.50 per day, depending on the provider.
  • 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 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original driving licence + NAATI Translation
    • Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)
  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, JCB, Discover, and UnionPay. Debit cards may also be accepted for some providers.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-100 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees ranging from US$ 5.92 to US$ 27.50 per day, depending on the provider.
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How much does renting a car from Sydney to Melbourne 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$ 117/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 124/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 265-684US$ 0.00-1309.35US$ 349-776Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 700-1155US$ 458.27-1309.35US$ 939-1239Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 270-353US$ 0.00-327.33US$ 506-759Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 275-432US$ 0.00-2975.79US$ 370-611Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 451-451US$ 360.07-1309.35US$ 630-630Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fee: Often, car rental companies charge an additional fee for dropping the car off at a different location.
  • Cross-border restrictions: Check if the rental company allows you to travel between states or territories with the vehicle.
  • Flexible pickup and drop-off times: Ensure you are aware of the operational hours of the rental stations at both the starting and ending locations.
  • Limited drop-off locations: Some companies may not have drop-off locations where you plan to end your trip.
  • Insurance considerations: Review the insurance options for one-way trips as they may differ from round-trip rentals.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your drop-off location: Select a conveniently located drop-off point in Melbourne to save travel time.
  • Book early for discounts: Many rental companies offer lower prices for early bookings.
  • Understand fuel policies: Determine whether you should return the vehicle with a full tank of fuel or pay for pre-purchased fuel options.
  • Monitor physical vehicle condition: Document any existing damage to avoid being charged for pre-existing issues at drop-off.
  • Familiarize yourself with the road: Understand driving laws along the route from Sydney to Melbourne for a safer ride.
  • Equip for the journey: Make sure to have necessary supplies like GPS, mobile charging cables, and any specific travel permits if required.
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 higher refueling charges from the rental company.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Ensure the fuel level matches the level noted at the start of the rental.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost along the Sydney to Melbourne route is approximately $1.85 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed around 90-100 km/h for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Avoid overloading the vehicle to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption.

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Sydney Parking

Street parking in Sydney can cost between $4-$7 per hour in central areas.

Look for parking garages for longer stays; rates are often capped for daily parking.

Use parking apps to find and reserve spots in advance.

Melbourne Parking

Melbourne CBD parking rates can range from $5-$10 per hour.

Consider parking in outer suburbs and using public transport to reach the city center.

Some shopping centers offer free parking for a limited time.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like Parkopedia and Wilson Parking can help locate available parking spaces.

Secure-a-Spot allows pre-booking of parking slots in select locations.

Download the Melbourne Parking app for real-time updates on space availability.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Primary Routes Between Sydney and Melbourne:
Coastal Route
Scenic Drive 12-14 hours

Follow the picturesque coastline of New South Wales and Victoria, enjoying breathtaking ocean views and charming coastal towns.

Wollongong , Jervis Bay , Lakes Entrance
Hume Highway
Express Route 9 hours

The most direct connection between Sydney and Melbourne, ideal for travelers seeking to save time.

Campbelltown , Albury , Wodonga
Great Alpine Road
Mountain Pass 15-16 hours

Experience stunning highland scenery as you traverse through the Australian Alps, perfect for adventurers.

Bright , Mount Hotham , Wangaratta
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Vehicle Options: Choose a vehicle suited to your trip type, such as fuel-efficient cars for long drives or SUVs for rugged terrain.

Route Planning: Plan your route in advance, considering overnight stays and meal breaks to ensure a comfortable trip.

Fuel Stops: Locate fuel stations along your route to avoid running out of petrol in remote areas.

Packing Light: Pack essentials, but keep the luggage minimal to avoid extra weight affecting fuel economy.

Cost Management: Familiarize yourself with potential rental fees and fines to manage your budget effectively.

Safety Kit: Carry a basic first-aid kit, extra water, and emergency tools for unforeseen circumstances.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$HighExtensive Well-maintained vehicles , Multiple location options across Australia , 24/7 customer support
Avis$$MediumExcellent Better premium vehicle options , Easy online booking process , Frequent promotions for one-way rentals
Budget$$MediumGood Affordable prices for basic cars , Wide network coverage , Efficient pickup and drop-off process
Europcar$$HighExtensive Luxury and SUV options available , Convenient urban locations , Flexible rental terms
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

Essentials About Melbourne Rental Car Centers

Operating Hours:

Car rental centers at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport typically operate 24/7.

Location of Rental Car Center:

The rental car counters are located within the terminal building, near the baggage claim area.

Shuttle Frequency:

Complimentary shuttles are available every 10 minutes to the rental car parking zone.

Airport Transportation:

Melbourne Airport offers multiple transport options including taxis, buses, and rideshare services to reach the city.

Pro Tips for Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport(SYD) Car Rentals

Ensure to confirm the one-way rental fee during the booking process as fees can vary based on the company and vehicle type.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical duration of the drive between Sydney and Melbourne?

The drive from Sydney to Melbourne typically takes around 9 to 10 hours non-stop. However, it is recommended to factor in breaks and overnight stops for a more comfortable and safer journey.

Are there car rental companies that allow one-way rentals on this route?

Yes, many car rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, and Budget, offer one-way rental services from Sydney to Melbourne. It is advisable to confirm the availability and terms with the rental company directly.

What additional fees are associated with one-way car rentals on this route?

One-way car rentals often include an additional drop-off fee due to the logistical costs of returning vehicles to their original location. These fees vary by company and distance but are commonly included in the rental agreement.

Are there any road tolls when traveling from Sydney to Melbourne?

Yes, the route includes tolled roads, particularly near the major cities. Ensure your rental car is equipped with a toll payment device or make manual payments for the tolls incurred.

What are some scenic stops along the way from Sydney to Melbourne?

There are several notable stops on this route, such as the historic Hume Highway towns, the picturesque vineyards near Albury, and the breathtaking coastline of the Great Ocean Road if you take a detour.

Ready to Book Your Sydney to Melbourne Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes