Anyone who has ever traveled from Perth to Margaret River by car knows that this is one of the best ways to enjoy the road in Australia. No transfers, no need to rush anywhere, you can stay in picturesque places. Rent a car and don’t come back — that’s what the locals do. This approach is often considered the best car rental australia if the goal is freedom on the road and a minimum of worries.
Why is it more profitable not to return
Usually, the car is rented in the same place where it was taken. But why go back if you can only go one way and end the trip by the ocean? This scheme is called one-way rental — and it is quite common in Australia. Especially when companies want to move cars back, then they offer discounts themselves.
Moving south and checking in at Margaret River is a great solution for those who don’t want to waste time on the way back.
Which cars are taken on this route
It is about 270 kilometers from Perth to Margaret River. It’s a 3–4 hour drive — slowly. But it all depends on the luggage and the number of people. Locals choose either station wagons if they are traveling together, or SUVs — especially if they plan trips to beaches or farms.
Some people take minivans if they’re traveling as a family. The main thing is that it is comfortable and that the luggage does not interfere.
Life hacks from those who travel this route
- Look for offers closer to the weekend. Companies often lower prices on Fridays, especially for one-way rentals.
- Do not take a car at the airport. In urban areas, rent is cheaper — by 15–25%, and there is more choice.
- There are more discounts in the off–season. From May to August, you can find profitable relocation deals when cars need to be transported back to Perth.
- Keep track of the mileage. Sometimes there is a limit of 300–400 km per day. It is better to clarify this in advance.
- Record the condition of the car. Before and after photos are a common practice. It makes it easier to avoid disputes.
What about the money?
Prices depend on the car, booking time and route. The average rental price for one day is from 60 to 130 AUD. SUVs are more expensive. A refund in another city sometimes costs extra money, but if you get a relocation deal, the rent will cost 1–5 AUD per day — fuel is included.
Is it worth taking out insurance?
Regular insurance is almost always included. But it does not cover, for example, glass or tires. Full insurance is more expensive, but nerves on the road are more expensive than money. Especially if you plan to drive on a dirt road or go to little-known places.
Result
If you want to make a trip from Perth to Margaret River really memorable and not depend on bus or train schedules, one-way car rental is the best solution. The locals have been doing this for a long time: they took the car, drove along the southern coast and rented it in another city. Everything is simple. The main thing is to plan the route in advance, clarify the rental conditions and take the car that suits you.
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