Car hire Canberra, ACT

Car hire in Canberra, ACT is one of the most practical ways to explore the ACT and surrounding NSW, whether you're visiting for business or leisure. Home to Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial, Canberra attracts millions of visitors each year — and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to travel on your terms. The local car rental market is competitive, with options ranging from budget hatchbacks to premium SUVs, available at Canberra Airport (CBR) and city centre locations.

The car rental market in Canberra

Canberra has a well-established car hire scene. National brands like Hertz, Avis, Budget and Europcar operate at the airport and in central locations, while independent and local operators compete on price and service. For travellers, that means plenty of choice. Many local businesses use booking and fleet tools to stay compliant and manage reservations.

Picking up at Canberra Airport vs. the city

If you're flying into CBR, picking up at Canberra Airport is the most convenient option. Most major providers have desks in the terminal or a shuttle to nearby depots. Airport locations typically have the largest fleet selection and offer 24/7 or extended-hour pickup. City and CBD locations suit visitors who are already in Canberra or want to avoid airport surcharges. Some city locations also offer free delivery within a certain radius — worth checking when you compare.

Choosing the right vehicle

Think about how many passengers, how much luggage and what kind of driving you'll do. Economy and compact cars are ideal for city trips and short distances. SUVs and 4WDs suit families, group travel and regional roads — especially if you're planning a drive to the Snowy Mountains or the South Coast. People movers and minivans are a good choice for larger groups. For trade and logistics, several Canberra operators offer utes and vans. Always check the rental terms: fuel policy, kilometre limits, excess and any restrictions (e.g. unsealed roads, interstate travel or age limits).

Booking tips for Canberra car hire

Book online in advance to secure the best rate. Peak seasons — school holidays, Easter, Christmas and major events — drive up demand, so early booking is especially important during these times. Compare the full cost including insurance, excess and any extras (GPS, child seats, additional drivers). Full-to-full fuel policies are usually the cheapest option. If you're renting for a week or more, ask about long-term discounts. Reading reviews and checking the fine print on excess and damage liability can save you headaches later.

Insurance and excess

Basic cover is usually included in the rental price, but the standard excess (the amount you pay in the event of damage) can be $3,000–$5,000. Most providers offer excess reduction for a daily fee, bringing it down to $0–$500. You can also buy standalone excess cover from third-party insurers. Check whether your credit card or travel insurance already covers rental car excess — it often does, and can save you the daily fee.

For rental business owners in Canberra

If you run a car hire business in Canberra, operational efficiency is key. Australian fleet compliance — registration, insurance, safety checks — must be kept up to date. Many operators use booking and fleet management tools to automate reservations, contracts and reporting. We compare options for Australian rental businesses in our For Operators section.

Popular trips from Canberra

With a rental car from Canberra, you can easily take a drive to the Snowy Mountains or the South Coast. Having your own vehicle makes it easy to stop where you like, explore at your own pace and reach places that public transport doesn't cover. Whether it's a day trip or a multi-day road trip, Canberra is a great starting point for exploring the ACT and surrounding NSW.