Car Rentals in Australia

Many backpackers and other travelers who take time to explore Australia quickly realize that a car is helpful in covering expansive distances. Before you decide to buy, or rent, a car, there are a few things on take into consideration.

Many hostels list car advertisements and flyers from other travelers on their notice boards, hopefully with dates to let you know of their timeliness. Also check out newspapers and public message centers.

There are car markets in almost every major city. Sydney's Kings Cross Car Market is the largest, in a cold, wet basement during the wintertime and outside during the summer. It can be very hit-or-miss, but is the best place to haggle with other backpackers and possibly pick up a deal from someone who is heading out of the country in a few days.

Go online and look at the following websites: Travellers AutoBarn, Trading Post, Boomerang Cars. These places specialize in car sales to backpackers and some promise to buy it back when you return - although not necessarily at the price you want.

Drawbacks to buying a car is that most are 'as is' and may break the next day. Make sure to buy one that's legitimately registered and can be easily maintained or repaired - Holden, Ford and Toyota are all popular makes. Get the RAC to inspect it before purchase if you want to be careful. Keep in mind that where you buy the car can be important as well and legal registration requirements vary from state to state.

When renting a car, know what your price quote includes: roadside assistance? Car insurance? Unlimited milage? Make sure everything is spelled out, and always go through a reputable company.