If you’re in need of a car for more than just a few days—but you’re not quite ready to buy—long-term car rental could be the perfect in-between solution.
Whether you’re in Australia for work, navigating a life transition, or just prefer not to deal with the costs of car ownership, long-term rental gives you the freedom of having a car, without the long-term commitment. And with rising living costs, more Aussies are looking at smarter, more flexible ways to stay mobile.
On this page:
What is Long-Term Car Rental?
Long-term car rental lets you rent a car for a few weeks to several months or more, without having to buy, finance, or lease a vehicle. It’s ideal for:
- Extended business travel
- Temporary relocations
- Long holidays or family visits
- People waiting for a new car delivery
- Anyone avoiding the hassle of ownership
Unlike short-term hires, long-term rentals often come with included perks like maintenance, insurance, and roadside assistance, making the experience much smoother and more cost-effective.
You also avoid the big-ticket expenses that come with buying—no depreciation, no long-term servicing costs, no registration stress. It’s mobility on your terms.
Learn more about long-term car rental
Is Long-Term Car Rental Right for You? Here’s How to Decide:
✅ Step 1: Assess Your Budget
Start by setting a monthly budget and comparing it against the total cost of owning or leasing a car. Don’t forget to include:
- Rental fees
- Fuel
- Insurance (if not included)
- Maintenance
Long-term car rentals often combine many of these into a single predictable payment, which can help you stay in control of your finances.
✅ Step 2: Consider How You’ll Use the Car
Think about your lifestyle:
- Do you need a car every day for commuting?
- Or just on weekends or for the school run?
- Will you be travelling regionally or staying local?
Understanding your usage patterns will help you determine the right type of vehicle and rental plan for your needs. If flexibility is key, look for providers that allow you to swap vehicles or adjust your plan without penalties.
✅ Step 3: Compare Providers and Inclusions
Not all rental companies are the same. Look for:
- Mileage limits (and what happens if you exceed them)
- What’s included (servicing, insurance, roadside assistance)
- Availability of vehicle models
- Customer reviews and support responsiveness
Choosing a provider with transparent pricing and good service can make a big difference in your overall experience.
✅ Step 4: Weigh the Pros and Cons
Pros of Long-Term Rental:
- Flexibility without ownership commitment
- No need to worry about depreciation or resale
- Maintenance and registration often included
- Perfect for short-term contracts, relocation, or in-between cars
Things to Consider:
- Some rentals have mileage caps
- Costs may be higher than long-term leases if used for very long periods
- Limited customisation (you don’t own the car)
If you’re looking for convenience, peace of mind, and fewer financial surprises, long-term car rental could be a smart solution.
Looking for Even More Flexibility? Try a Car Subscription
If your circumstances change frequently, or you simply like the idea of one flat monthly fee that includes servicing, insurance, registration—and the option to pause or swap when needed—a car subscription might be even better suited to you.
Think of it as long-term rental, but with more freedom built in.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Whether you choose a long-term car rental or opt for the added flexibility of a car subscription, it all comes down to what fits your lifestyle best.
Want to explore your options? We’re here to help.
Start your car subscription today and drive on your terms.
