Australian Road Trip Essentials: Driving Tips and Rental Car Policies

A self-drive trip is an ideal chance to make impromptu stops, whether to soak in a breathtaking view, roam in a local market, or dine in a roadhouse serving local cuisines. Here’s some information on navigating Australian roads and important car rental policies to know before booking a rental car in Australia:

Navigating Australian Roads:

Australia drives on the left-hand side of the road. Australia takes road safety very seriously, and rules like wearing seatbelts and obeying speed limits are strictly enforced for the safety of all road users. Taking the time to learn the driving rules will help ensure a smooth and safe road trip adventure.
Speed limits are posted in km/h – cities 50km/h, highways 100-110km/h.
No tailgating. Aim for at least two seconds of space between you and the vehicle in front of you, and don’t hesitate to increase the distance if the weather or other road conditions are getting hairy, especially when driving in wet weather.
Many rural roads stretchout long and straight, potentially becoming monotonous for drivers. Ensure to take regular breaks. There are abundant rest areas along these roads.
Vast distances between towns mean carrying extra fuel/supplies is recommended for remote travel.
Be cautious of wildlife, especially at dusk/dawn when animals are most active near roads.
Australia has strict laws about drinking alcohol and driving, with the legal limit set at 0.05 blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Learners and probationary license-holders must have a 0.00 BAC.
Talking or texting on a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal.
VicRoads shares more details on the road rules. Make sure to read them through.

Car Rental Policies to Know:

Check age requirements – most companies require renters to be 21+ years old. Under 25 may face additional fees or restrictions.
Review insurance options and choose adequate coverage for your needs.
One-way rental fees often apply if picking up and dropping off at different locations.
Allow time to inspect the rental car thoroughly and note any existing damage. Take plenty of pics from all sides. These can be used for reference in case there’s an issue later while returning the car.
Additional fees may be charged for extras like GPS, child seats, roof racks etc.
Check if the vehicle can be taken on unsealed roads if you plan on doing off-road driving.
Understand fuel policy – whether to return the car full or empty.

Knowing key road rules and rental car requirements will help ensure a smooth and safe driving experience when exploring Australia by rental car.

For students or new drivers, it’s important to learn Australian road rules. This will help prevent fines, demerit points, and potential loss of your driver’s license. Prioritize understanding these regulations thoroughly for a safe and legal driving experience.