Rent a Car at Avalon Airport (Melbourne) - Compare Prices

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Compare car rentals from major suppliers at Avalon Airport with Road Genius. From small economy cars to large SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at great prices in convenient locations. Skip the Melbourne city traffic and get a head start on the Great Ocean Road, with rental counters located right inside the terminal.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Alpha · Apex · Bargain · Dollar · Enterprise · Europcar · Everything · Goldcar · Hertz · Jucy · Karmo · Keddy by Europcar · National · Routes · Simba · Sixt · Sixt · Thrifty · UR Drive

Car Hire Locations and OptionsLocationProsCons
On-Airport CountersGet your car right after landing
Major companies available (Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt)
Easy to return car when leaving
Airport extra fees (15-30% higher prices)
Open only when flights arrive/depart
Long waits when many flights arrive together
Off-Airport ProvidersCheaper prices (no airport fees)
Some provide free shuttle bus
Need transport to reach the office
May close early
Takes extra time to get your car
Geelong CityMay be cheaper
More local rental companies to choose from
Open longer hours
Need transport from airport (SkyBus or taxi)
20-30 minutes from airport
Hard to return car if flying out from airport

Location	Pros	Cons
On-Airport Counters	Get your car right after landing Major companies available (Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt) Easy to return car when leaving	Airport extra fees (15-30% higher prices) Open only when flights arrive/depart Long waits when many flights arrive together
Off-Airport Providers	Cheaper prices (no airport fees) Some provide free shuttle bus	Need transport to reach the office May close early Takes extra time to get your car
Geelong City	May be cheaper More local rental companies to choose from Open longer hours	Need transport from airport (SkyBus or taxi) 20-30 minutes from airport Hard to return car if flying out from airport

Car Rental Prices

Saving Tips

Consider picking up your car off-airport in a location like Geelong. You might find lower rates by avoiding the airport premium, but you'll need to arrange your own transport to the depot.
Booking way in advance isn't always cheapest. For peak times like summer holidays, book 2-3 months ahead. For the off-season, you can often find good deals just 2-4 weeks out.
Choose the smallest car that fits your crew and luggage. A smaller car not only costs less to rent but also saves you money on fuel.
If you need a car for 5 or 6 days, check the price for a full week. Sometimes a 7-day rental is actually cheaper than a shorter one.
Fill up your tank in Geelong before returning the car. Fuel prices there are often more competitive than at the service stations on the main freeway.

Local Parking and Driving

Location	Parking Options	Cost Range	Tips
Avalon Airport	Short-term car park Long-term car park	Fees vary by duration	Book long-term spaces online for big savings. Not usually needed if you're picking up a rental.
Melbourne CBD	Commercial car parks Street parking Early bird specials	Fees vary by car park Hourly rates apply for street metres	Look for early bird specials if entering before 9am. Beware of clearway zones during peak hours.
Great Ocean Road	Free car parks at most lookouts	Mostly free	During peak season (Dec-Jan), arrive at popular spots like Twelve Apostles early morning to secure a space.
Geelong	On-street parking Municipal car parks	Fees vary by area	First stop for many travellers. Eastern Beach has paid spots close to waterfront.

Local Driving Rules

Speed cameras and enforcement are strict throughout Victoria
Default speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 100 km/h on country roads
School zones reduce to 40 km/h during school hours (usually 8-9:30am and 2:30-4pm)
Legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% BAC
Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless completely hands-free
Always drive on the left side of the road

Toll Roads

Some routes to and within Melbourne use toll roads such as CityLink. Your rental car will be automatically charged, and the company adds an administration fee. A single trip from Avalon to Melbourne may include tolls depending on your route.

FAQs

How long does it take to pick up a rental car at Avalon Airport?

Usually 15-20 minutes from arriving at the counter, assuming your booking is confirmed and documentation is in order. The process can be longer after multiple flight arrivals.

Can I return my rental outside business hours?

Yes, most companies offer key drop facilities inside the terminal. Confirm after-hours return procedures when picking up your vehicle.

Are there age restrictions for renting from Avalon Airport?

Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and drivers under 25 pay a young driver surcharge of about $15-40 per day.

Can I take my rental on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry?

Often yes, but only after getting prior authorisation from the rental company and subject to conditions. Many major brands permit travel on the Spirit of Tasmania. Damage or loss while the vehicle is on the ferry is usually not covered, and additional restrictions or fees may apply. Always check and get written confirmation in your rental agreement.

Is a special licence required to drive in Victoria?

International visitors can drive using their home country licence if it's in English. If it's not in English, you must carry either an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official English translation, as well as your regular licence.