Tips For Smoother Car Rental Pickups And Dropoffs When Visiting Melbourne
A lot of travellers who go through Melbourne’s busy airport rely on car rentals to get around the city, coast, rural areas or to commute to the airport. While this is a good way to get around, some find the car pickups and drop-offs a bit tedious.
Our guide offers some practical tips for smoother car rental pickups and drop-offs so you can explore Melbourne and have more fun without any hassle.
Pre-Travel Tips for Melbourne
There are quite a few things you can do to ease your entire travel experience or to get around without having to worry about your car drop-off. Here are some of the best pre-travel tips to keep in mind.
- Book in Advance
It is always best to reserve your car as early as possible. With early reservation comes a greater selection of vehicle choices, lower rental rates, and ensures that you will have a rental available. This is especially important during peak season.
- Check License Requirements
It is also important to find out what the basic requirements are for vehicle rentals. International drivers, for example, may need an International Driver’s License depending on their country of citizenship or residency. Without this permit, you may not be able to book a rental car with any agency. New Zealand driver’s licenses, however, are recognised in Australia for a travel period. Be sure to check the requirements for your license type in advance to avoid disappointment on arrival.
- Understand Local Rules
Melbourne has some strict road rules that all drivers need to be aware of. They also drive on the left, and drivers need to be aware of toll roads where an e-tag might be needed for processing payments. When you understand the rules and have everything you need, a lot of hassles or issues can be avoided.

Tips for a Smoother Pickup
When you arrive at Melbourne’s airport, you might be tired from the long journey and eager to get your rental so you can move on. To cut back on waiting times and ensure a smooth pickup, you can keep the following tips in mind.
- Inspect the Vehicle
It is always a good idea to inspect your car rental before you take off. If you notice any damage or scratches, then take some time to document these issues with a few photographs. These photographs can serve as evidence that you are not responsible for the damages.
Take note of the fuel level so you can ensure that it matches what was agreed upon during the rental contract.
- Confirm your Inclusions
Double-check with your rental company and confirm the inclusions for the rental period. Do you have unlimited kilometres? Does the car have insurance? Do you have roadside assistance? These aspects can make for a smoother rental period.
- Set Up Your GPS or Phone Before Driving
Take some time to set up the GPS or your phone before you rush off onto Melbourne’s streets. The city’s road network can be difficult to navigate, and ensuring that your phone and SIM work properly can keep you from getting lost.
Tips for Drop-Offs
Drop-offs with a good rental agency should be very easy, but there are still some things you can do to make the process even simpler.
- Return the Vehicle on Time
If the car is dropped off late, you could end up with a full-day extra charge. For the most part, it is better to return the car early rather than late.
- Refuel Before Returns
Refilling your car yourself can help you avoid expensive refuelling fees. You can keep the receipt as proof that you refilled the car before returning it.
- Do a Final Check
Remember to remove all of your personal belongings from the car when you return it. Getting belongings back can be difficult, especially for international drivers.
Try Spendless Car Rentals For Smoother Travels
Booking early and securing a vehicle with a good rental agency like Spendless Car Rentals makes all the difference. Thanks to our elite services, you can enjoy Melbourne to the fullest without spending time waiting for your car, paperwork hassles, or problems dropping off the car when it is time to leave.
Book now at Spendless Car Rentals and enjoy the smoothest driving experience.