How to Rent a Car in Tasmania for an Incredible Road Trip

Tasmania is a magical island, filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant national parks, deserted beaches, and a welcoming local culture. But how do you explore an island so full of secrets? For us, the answer was clear from the start: rent a car in Tasmania was essential to make the most of the road trip experience.

Traveling in Tasmania was a priority in the itinerary of our second trip around the world. Although we knew little about this island south of Australia, something told us it would be unforgettable. Join us and learn how to plan an epic road trip, starting with renting a car in Tasmania!

Why Go on a Road Trip in Tasmania?

If you’re wondering how to rent a car in Tasmania, let us first explain why we think it’s necessary. Although small, Tasmania is an archipelago full of contrasts and is not easily explored using public transportation.

While organized tours exist, they don’t offer the flexibility needed to uncover the island’s most remote and charming spots. For us, the freedom to stop wherever we wanted, explore at our own pace, and venture off the beaten path made renting a car the best option to explore Tasmania.

What Are the Roads Like in Tasmania?

The roads in Tasmania are generally well-maintained. However, you’ll encounter many narrow secondary roads, some unpaved, especially in remote areas and national parks. Driving here is a peaceful experience but requires attention, especially due to wildlife frequently crossing the roads, particularly at dusk.

How to Rent a Car in Tasmania

1. Choose Where to Start and End

There are several itineraries you can do in Tasmania, but we chose to start and end in Hobart. Why? First, because this significantly reduced the cost of renting a car in Tasmania. When you return the car to a different station from where you picked it up, there’s usually an additional one-way fee — and we wanted to avoid that. Second, our departure flight from Tasmania was from Hobart, and plane tickets were cheaper from there than from Launceston.

2. Choose the Best Rental Company

To find the best options for renting a car in Tasmania, we followed the same approach as in other destinations: we used an aggregator like DiscoverCars. It’s a tool that makes life so much easier because it gathers the most competitive offers in one place. Plus, it allows you to compare prices and conditions from different companies quickly and easily. This is how we always ensure we get the best deal for our trips!

3. Recommended Vehicle Type

The type of car you choose will depend greatly on your itinerary. If you plan to stick to cities and main roads, a compact vehicle is more than sufficient. However, if your plan includes exploring national parks or venturing into remote areas, an SUV might be your best bet. We opted for a compact car, and it was perfect for our itinerary (we did both, but without taking on extreme adventures). Simple, economical, and it served its purpose without any issues!

4. Required Documents

To rent or pick up a car in Tasmania, make sure you have the following:

• Reservation confirmation: Digital or printed.
• Driver’s license: If your license is not in English, you may need an International Driving Permit (check this with the rental company).
• Passport: For identification.
• Credit/debit card: In the driver’s name. Some companies require a credit card for the deposit.

Tips for Organizing Your Road Trip

1. Book in Advance

Renting a car in Tasmania ahead of time ensures the best prices and greater availability, especially during high season.

2. Appropriate Insurance

We recommend full insurance to avoid unpleasant surprises. Check if the policy covers damages caused by wildlife, something common in Tasmania.

3. Plan Your Itinerary

Create an itinerary that balances adventure and relaxation — that’s how we like to travel! Destinations like Freycinet National Park, Cradle Mountain, and Bruny Island are absolute must-sees in Tasmania, and you’ll be glad you included them.

If you’re a wine lover (we are!), be sure to add a visit to one of the many wineries in the region. They are the perfect setting to relax while tasting some of the best local wines. After all, a great trip strikes the perfect balance between exploring and savoring the experience!

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Tasmania?

Costs may vary, but here’s a general idea:

• Daily rental: Between €50 and €80, depending on the vehicle and season.
• Additional insurance: Around €20 per day for full coverage.
• Fuel: The average price per liter of gasoline is €1.50.

Driving Rules in Tasmania

1. Drive on the Left Side

If you’re not used to it, driving on the left might feel strange at first, but you’ll quickly adapt. Stay calm, especially during the first few hours, and follow the road signs.

2. Speed Limits and Parking

• Speed limits: Generally, 50 km/h in urban areas and 100 km/h on main roads.
• Parking: Follow local rules, especially in cities where paid parking is common.

Road Trip Tips for Tasmania

1. Drive Safely at Night

Wildlife is one of the biggest risks on the road at night. Slow down and stay alert, as kangaroos and wombats can appear suddenly.

2. Prepare for Weather Changes

Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable. Always carry appropriate clothing and check the weather forecast before setting out.

3. Mobile Data

Having mobile data is essential for driving in Tasmania. Whether it’s for checking the weather, using GPS, or sharing your best travel moments with friends and family, you’ll need a good connection.

We recommend Holafly. Besides offering unlimited data, it provides the best coverage for your road trip in Tasmania. That way, you’ll never be offline, whether in the middle of a national park or a small coastal town. Relying on this saved us more than once!

4. Travel Insurance

Having travel insurance in Tasmania isn’t just a good idea — it’s essential. From nature trails to adventure activities, unexpected events can arise when you least expect them. We never travel without coverage, and we always trust Heymondo. It’s our trusted choice for all trips, and we recommend it to you too. This way, you can explore Tasmania worry-free and make the most of every moment!

Nothing compares to the freedom of a road trip to discover the best of Tasmania. From dramatic landscapes to hidden gems, every kilometer is a new adventure. Book your car now with DiscoverCars for your next Tasmanian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)