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Road Genius makes it easy to find great rental car offers in Geelong and around Australia. Compare prices and make bookings in one place. Simple. Geelong is a launchpad for a trip along the Great Ocean Road, letting you explore the coast at your own pace. You can grab a car from the city centre to save a few dollars or pick one up right at Avalon Airport for convenience.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 342242
Location 👍 Pros 👎 Cons
Geelong CBD
  • Lower prices (no airport fees)
  • Walking distance from train station
  • 6 major car rental companies
  • Limited hours (usually 8 AM-5 PM)
  • Closed or short hours on weekends
  • Need transport from airports
Avalon Airport (AVV)
  • Get your car right after landing
  • Major companies at airport
  • Easy for Sydney/Gold Coast flights
  • Higher prices (airport fees)
  • Fewer flight options
  • 25 minutes from Geelong
Melbourne Airport (MEL)
  • Open 24 hours every day
  • All types of cars available
  • International flights arrive here
  • 90+ minutes from Geelong
  • Higher prices with airport fees
  • Possible traffic delays

Transport to Rental Depots:

  • From Avalon Airport: Shuttle bus to Geelong CBD (about $18)
  • From Melbourne Airport: Gull shuttle service (about $40) or train from Melbourne city to Geelong (about $18)
  • Within Geelong: Taxis and rideshares available for local trips

Car Rental Prices

How to save?
  • Dodge the airport tax. Picking up your car in Geelong CBD is often cheaper than at Avalon or Melbourne airports. A short shuttle ride could save you real cash.

  • Time your trip right. Rates are usually lowest during the winter months (June to August). If you're planning a summer or holiday trip, book a couple of months ahead to lock in a better price.

  • Think small for big savings. A compact car is easier on the wallet for both the rental price and petrol costs, and it's a better fit for the winding Great Ocean Road.

  • Compare rental lengths. A full week's rental can sometimes be cheaper than just 5 or 6 days. It sounds weird, but it's true, so always check the weekly rate.

Parking and Local Driving

Area Parking Type Availability Notes
Geelong CBD Metered street parking Good Hourly rates apply, time limits vary (1P-4P)
Waterfront Paid parking Moderate Check signs for current limits and fees
Shopping centres Free timed parking Very good Check signs for current limits
Suburban areas Free street parking Excellent Pay attention to time restrictions
Eastern Beach Paid parking Limited on weekends Popular spot for families

Local Driving Rules:

  • Drive on the left side of the road
  • Default speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on rural highways
  • School zones: 40 km/h during designated hours
  • No handheld or touch phone use while driving or when stopped at lights; hands-free is allowed for fully licensed drivers
  • Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants
  • Blood alcohol limit: 0.05%

Enforcement: Victoria has strict traffic enforcement including speed cameras throughout Geelong and along major routes. Random breath testing is common, especially on weekends and holidays.

Car Rental Driving Distances from Geelong, Australia

FAQs

What documents do I need to rent a car in Geelong? Valid driver's licence, a credit card in the renter's name and passport for international visitors. If your licence is not in English, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official English translation to accompany your home licence.

Can I pick up in Geelong and drop off elsewhere? Yes, one-way rentals are available but usually incur additional fees (potentially $100-$150) unless special promotions are running.

What's the minimum rental age in Geelong? Generally 21 years, plus surcharges for drivers under 25. Some speciality vehicles require drivers to be 25+.

Are there electric vehicle rental options in Geelong? Limited but growing. Check your rental providers for current EV availability. Geelong has charging stations at key locations.

How far in advance should I book a rental car? For peak summer season and holidays, 2-3 months ahead. For winter travel, 1-2 weeks is usually sufficient.

Is it better to rent from Avalon Airport or Geelong CBD? Avalon offers convenience but potentially higher rates. Geelong CBD usually has lower rates but requires transport from the airport.

Do I need a special vehicle for the Great Ocean Road? No, standard 2WD vehicles are suitable. The entire route is paved, though compact or mid-size cars are easier to handle on winding sections.