Category: Car Rental

The Perth to Margaret River drive is one of Australia’s genuinely great road trips — and one that a hire car makes dramatically better. The region demands flexibility: wineries tucked down unsealed side roads, surf beaches without car parks, cape walks with no bus service, farm gates that are only open at certain hours. You can’t do it properly on a tour bus.

This is everything you need to know about making the drive — the route, the stops, the timing, the vehicle choice, and a few things that even experienced WA travellers sometimes miss.

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The Basics: Distance, Time, and Route

Margaret River township sits approximately 280 kilometres south of Perth — roughly three to three-and-a-half hours of driving on the main route, without stops. Most people turn this into a full day with stops, or leave the city mid-morning and arrive in time for a late afternoon winery session.

Leg	Route	Approx. Distance	Approx. Drive Time
Perth → Mandurah	Kwinana Freeway (Hwy 1) south	~75 km	~55 min
Mandurah → Bunbury	Old Coast Rd or South Western Hwy	~95 km	~60 min
Bunbury → Busselton	Bussell Hwy	~50 km	~35 min
Busselton → Margaret River	Bussell Hwy	~60 km	~45 min
Total (direct)	Kwinana Fwy + South Western Hwy	~280 km	~3–3.5 hrs

All roads are sealed, well-maintained, and suitable for all Burswood vehicles. No 4WD is required for the main route — though side roads to some surf beaches and forest tracks may be gravel.

📌  Off-road policy: Burswood vehicles are not permitted on unsealed off-road tracks. The sealed highway to Margaret River and the majority of the region’s roads are all fine — but confirmed off-road or beach driving is not within the hire agreement.

Which Vehicle for a Margaret River Road Trip?

The right vehicle depends on your group size and priorities. Here’s how the Burswood fleet maps to a Margaret River trip:

Group	Best Vehicle	Why
Solo or couple	Toyota Corolla or Kia Rio	Economical, great fuel range, easy to park in busy Margs on weekends
Family of 4	Toyota RAV4 SUV	Generous boot for luggage + food/wine, comfortable for the 3-hour drive
Group of 5–8	Kia Carnival 8-seater	Everyone in one car, shared cost, no convoy logistics
Couple seeking comfort	Toyota Camry Hybrid or Luxury	Smooth, quiet, excellent fuel economy for a multi-day stay

For groups, the 8-seat people mover often works out cheaper per person than multiple smaller cars — and keeps the whole group together. If you want to arrive in style after winery visits, a luxury vehicle is an option worth considering — and receives the winter fleet discount if you’re heading south in June–August.

The Route South: Stops Worth Making

Mandurah (approximately 75 km south of Perth)

Mandurah makes a good first stop for fuel, coffee, and a stretch. The Mandurah waterfront is pleasant, and if you’re doing the Old Coast Road route rather than the freeway, there are beach access points worth a quick look.

Bunbury (approximately 170 km from Perth)

Bunbury is WA’s second-largest city and a popular lunch stop. The town beach is one of the better urban swimming beaches in WA, and the dolphin discovery experience at Koombana Bay is worth an hour if you’re travelling with children. There’s a solid range of cafes and supermarkets if you’re stocking up for the stay.

💡  Stock up in Bunbury: Margaret River township has good food and provisions, but Bunbury offers a wider supermarket choice — useful if you’re self-catering or want to bring wine without buying at cellar door prices.

Busselton (approximately 230 km from Perth)

Busselton is where the landscape starts to shift from the flat coastal hinterland to the rolling hills of the South West. The Busselton Jetty — at almost two kilometres, one of the longest timber jetties in the world — is worth a 30-minute stop. The town also has a solid main street for a coffee before the final push south.

Dunsborough and Cape Naturaliste

Dunsborough sits just north-west of Margaret River and is a popular base in its own right. The road to Cape Naturaliste lighthouse (sealed) is one of the region’s most scenic drives — exposed limestone capes, turquoise water, and whale watching (June–September) that rivals anywhere in Australia. If you’re doing the full South West loop, this is the northern entry point to the Cape to Cape Track.

Margaret River Region: What to Do Once You’re There

Wineries and Cellar Doors

The Margaret River wine region is one of Australia’s most significant, producing a disproportionate share of the country’s premium cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay. There are over 200 cellar doors in the region — you’ll need a strategy rather than hoping to cover them all.

• The main concentration of cellar doors runs along Caves Road and its cross-streets between Cowaramup and the township
• Most are open 10am–5pm; some require bookings for tasting flights, particularly on weekends
• If you’re planning an afternoon of tasting, designate a non-drinking driver — the roads are winding and policed, and it’s not worth the risk

Having your own hire car is the difference between ticking three wineries on a tour bus schedule and genuinely exploring at your own pace, in your own order, for as long or as briefly as you want at each stop.

Surf Beaches

Margaret River’s surf coast is world-class — Main Break, Surfers Point, Gnarabup Beach, and Redgate Beach are all accessible by car from the township. Most have sealed car park access. Prevelly Park, just west of the township, is the most accessible beach for swimming and has cafe facilities.

• Surfers Point is the marquee surf location — worth visiting even if you’re not surfing, particularly when there’s swell
• Gnarabup is better for swimming and families — calmer, supervised in season
• Moses Rock and North Point require more local knowledge — ask locally for current conditions

Caves

The South West limestone country beneath Margaret River contains an extraordinary network of caves. The publicly accessible ones include Lake Cave, Jewel Cave, Mammoth Cave, and Ngilgi Cave — each with a different character and all within a 30-minute drive of the township. Check opening times and consider booking ahead for popular caves in peak season.

The Margaret River Township

The town itself is small but excellent — a main street with a concentration of good cafes, bakeries, chocolate and cheese producers, and craft breweries. The Margaret River Chocolate Company and the Goodfellow’s bakery are perennial stops. The Saturday morning Farmers Market is worth timing a visit around if your dates allow.

Practical Tips for the Drive

• Fuel up before Bunbury or in Bunbury — petrol is cheaper here than in the Margaret River region, which is more tourist-priced
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard on most Burswood vehicles — bring your cable and save the offline maps before you leave Perth signal
• Mobile coverage is generally fine along the main highway and in the township; some rural winery and beach access roads have limited signal
• The 45L esky available from Burswood as an optional accessory is genuinely useful for this trip — wine and cheese from cellar doors stay cool all the way back to Perth
• Allow at least two full days in the region — one day is not enough to do it properly; three is ideal

Getting the Most From Your Hire Car on This Trip

The value of a hire car on a Margaret River trip is flexibility above everything else. The freedom to leave a winery when you’re ready, detour to a lookout, take a longer coastal route back, or stay for one more hour at a beach — none of this is available on a tour. Burswood’s no-rental-sticker policy also means your hire car doesn’t announce itself as a rental, which matters when you’re parked near wineries or beaches.

If you’re heading south in winter — June to August — don’t let the season put you off. The region is genuinely beautiful in winter: the forest is lush, the caves are dramatic, the wineries are uncrowded, and Burswood’s winter fleet discount makes the hire cost lower than any other time of year.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive from Perth to Margaret River?

Approximately three to three-and-a-half hours direct, on the Kwinana Freeway and South Western Highway. With stops in Mandurah, Bunbury, or Busselton, most people take four to five hours for the full journey. There are no tolls on the route.

Do I need a 4WD for Margaret River?

No — the main highway and the vast majority of roads in the Margaret River region are sealed and suitable for all standard passenger vehicles. Some access tracks to remote surf breaks or forest parks are unsealed gravel, but the main attractions (wineries, beaches, caves, township) are all accessible without 4WD. Note that Burswood vehicles are not permitted on genuine off-road or beach driving terrain.

What’s the best time of year to drive to Margaret River?

The region is genuinely worth visiting year-round. Summer (December–February) brings beach weather and a busy, vibrant atmosphere. Autumn (March–May) is the grape harvest — a spectacular time to be in wine country. Winter (June–August) brings lush green scenery, uncrowded wineries, whale watching from the capes, and the best car hire rates. Spring (September–November) brings wildflowers and the build-up of the new season’s energy.

Can I pick up the hire car in Perth and drop it off in Margaret River?

One-way hire arrangements are available — contact Burswood directly to discuss the options and any applicable fees for one-way hire. Airport collection and hotel delivery can also be arranged for both pickup and return.

Flying into Perth and picking up a hire car is one of the smoothest ways to start a WA road trip — but it helps to know exactly how the process works before you land. Perth Airport’s domestic terminals (T1 for Qantas and T2 for Virgin Australia) are well-organised, and Burswood Car Rentals delivers directly to the airport, making the collection process genuinely simple.

This step-by-step guide walks you through everything from landing to driving — including how airport delivery works with Burswood, what to do when you arrive, and what to check before you leave the airport precinct.

🚗 Burswood Delivers Direct to Perth Airport No rental stickers. No hidden fees. Airport and hotel delivery available — prearranged at any time. Call (08) 9362 4777. →  Book Your Airport Pickup →

Step 1: Book Your Car Before You Fly

The first step happens before you board. Book your Burswood hire car online or by phone before your travel date, and specify that you require airport delivery when booking. Airport and hotel delivery is available — and can be arranged at any time of day or night as a prearranged pickup.

At booking, confirm:

• Your arriving terminal — T1 (Qantas and alliance partners) or T2 (Virgin Australia)
• Your estimated arrival time, including realistic buffer for baggage claim
• Your flight number — this lets Burswood track delays without you needing to call
• Your vehicle preference — see the full fleet to choose the right car for your trip

💡  Book early for airport pickup: Airport delivery slots, particularly for popular vehicle types like SUVs and people movers, should be secured well in advance — particularly during school holidays and December–January. Don’t leave airport bookings to the day before.

Step 2: Understanding Perth’s Domestic Terminals

Perth Airport’s two domestic terminals are separate buildings. Knowing which one you’re arriving into matters for the collection process.

Terminal	Airlines	Location
T1 (Domestic)	Qantas, QantasLink, Jetstar, and alliance partners	Northern section of the airport precinct
T2 (Domestic)	Virgin Australia and partner airlines	Southern section, approximately 1.5km from T1

If you’re unsure which terminal you’re arriving into, check your boarding pass or the Perth Airport website (perthairport.com.au). Burswood coordinates delivery to whichever terminal you specify — just make sure your booking has the right one.

📌  T1 and T2 are separate: Don’t assume you’ll arrive at T1 because you’ve booked Qantas before — always check your current booking. Arriving at the wrong terminal expecting your hire car can cause significant delays.

Step 3: After Landing — What to Do at the Airport

1. Disembark and follow signs to the baggage claim carousel for your flight — domestic Perth arrivals are straightforward and well-signed.
2. Collect your luggage. No border security or customs for domestic arrivals.
3. Head to the arrivals area — once through the baggage hall, you’ll enter the arrivals concourse where ground transport options are available.
4. Contact Burswood to confirm your arrival — when you’re through and at baggage claim, a quick call or WhatsApp message to 0438 757 909 confirms you’ve landed and gives them your precise location. This is the cleanest way to coordinate the handover.
5. Meet the Burswood representative — they’ll come to you with the vehicle, or direct you to the vehicle’s location. Confirm the meeting point when you call.

💡  WhatsApp works too: Burswood can be reached via WhatsApp on 0438 757 909 — useful if you have international roaming data or prefer messaging over calling on arrival.

Step 4: Vehicle Collection — What to Bring and Check

At handover, have your documents ready:

• Current driver’s licence (physical card)
• Credit or debit card for the bond (charged the day prior to collection)
• International Driving Permit if applicable

At collection, take a few minutes to:

6. Walk around the car and check for any existing marks or damage — confirm these are noted on the agreement before you sign
7. Check the fuel gauge — the tank should be full; confirm this at handover
8. Confirm the kilometre allowance on your agreement — Burswood includes 100km or 200km free per day depending on vehicle type
9. Connect your phone to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay — most Burswood vehicles have this built in (you’ll need your cable)
10. Confirm where to return the car — if you’re doing a one-way trip or have specific return instructions, clarify these now

📌  Pre-existing damage: Always document any existing marks before driving off — photos on your phone with a visible timestamp provide your own record in addition to what’s noted on the rental agreement.

Step 5: Leaving the Airport — Perth Orientation

Once you’re in the car, here’s the basic orientation for leaving Perth Airport’s domestic precinct:

• Perth CBD is approximately 12–15 km south-west of the airport — a 20–30 minute drive depending on traffic
• Fremantle is approximately 25–30 km from the airport via the Roe Highway or Graham Farmer Freeway
• Burswood depot (16 Teddington Road, Burswood) is approximately 10 km from the domestic terminal — useful if you need to visit the office after collection
• Margaret River direction — head south via the Kwinana Freeway; see Blog 4 in this document for a full Perth to Margaret River driving guide

Most Burswood vehicles include Android Auto or Apple CarPlay — connect your phone to access Google Maps or Apple Maps for turn-by-turn navigation from the airport.

💡  First left out of Perth Airport: If your GPS loses signal in the airport tunnel or multi-level car park, it usually reacquires quickly once you reach the surface roads. Don’t panic — just pull over safely once you’re in the open if you need to reset navigation.

What If My Flight Is Delayed?

Flight delays are common, and Burswood accounts for them. When you book with airport delivery, provide your flight number — this allows Burswood to monitor your arrival and adjust accordingly without requiring you to call mid-flight. If there’s a significant delay or change, contact Burswood as early as possible via phone or WhatsApp to update the collection time.

Returning the Car After Airport Use

If you picked the car up at the airport and want to return it there too (or at a hotel), call Burswood to arrange. Prearranged drop-offs at the airport are available. Alternatively, the primary depot at 16 Teddington Road Burswood is open Monday–Friday 8am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday 8am–4pm. See the contact page for full details.

Book Your Perth Airport Car Hire Burswood delivers to Perth domestic terminals T1 and T2 — prearranged at any time. No hidden fees. From $25/day. →  Book Your Airport Hire Car →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Burswood deliver to both T1 and T2?

Yes — Burswood can deliver to whichever terminal you specify when booking. Just confirm whether you’re flying with Qantas (T1) or Virgin Australia (T2) at the time of booking. Contact Burswood via the contact page or on (08) 9362 4777 for specific collection arrangements.

What’s the best vehicle for a family arriving at Perth Airport with luggage?

For families of four or more with luggage, the Toyota RAV4 SUV or the Kia Carnival 8-seater people mover are the practical choices — generous boot space and comfortable for longer drives south toward Mandurah, Bunbury, or Margaret River.

Can I pick up at the airport and return to a different location?

Yes — discuss one-way hire and return arrangements with Burswood at booking. Airport pickup with hotel or depot return is available prearranged. Contact Burswood directly to confirm the specific arrangements for your trip.

Perth’s population has grown significantly over the last decade, and so has domestic and international tourism. That means car hire demand in Perth is more seasonal than ever — prices move with visitors, events, and school holiday calendars. If you know when demand dips, you know when to book.

This guide maps the year honestly — peak seasons, off-peak windows, and the specific winter discount that Burswood Car Rentals offers during the quieter months. Prices vary so always get a current quote, but understanding the seasonal pattern helps you plan and book smarter.

🚗 Price Match Promise — Perth’s Best Rate Guaranteed Burswood Car Rentals offers a price match promise. If you find a lower rate for the same vehicle and terms, we’ll match it. From $25/day. →  Get an Instant Quote →

Perth Car Hire: How Seasonal Demand Works

Like most Australian cities, Perth car hire demand follows a predictable pattern driven by school holidays, major events, and tourist peaks. The general pattern is:

• High demand (and typically higher rates): December–January, April school holidays, September–October school holidays, any period coinciding with major Perth events
• Moderate demand: February–March, May, August, November
• Lower demand (best value window): June–August — Perth’s winter, when fewer interstate and international tourists visit

Understanding this pattern doesn’t just help you find cheaper rates. It also helps with availability — popular vehicle types like SUVs and people movers book out quickly during peak periods, and having flexibility on dates means better choice.

The Cheapest Window: Perth Winter (June–August)

Perth’s winter is genuinely mild by any reasonable standard — daytime temperatures typically range from around 13°C to 19°C, rain is more common than in summer, but the city and its surrounds are absolutely accessible and enjoyable. Many travellers actually prefer visiting during this period: the wildflower season in WA’s south-west is one of the world’s great natural spectacles, Margaret River wineries are in full swing, and the crowds at most destinations are noticeably thinner.

For car hire specifically, Burswood Car Rentals discounts the entire fleet during winter to give customers the best possible value. This is a direct, confirmed discount across all vehicle categories — economy, mid-size, SUV, people movers, and luxury — making it the most practical single answer to ‘when is the cheapest time to hire a car in Perth?’. Check the current special offers page for the latest rates.

💡  Winter sweet spot: June and July are typically the best months for a combination of lower car hire rates and good availability. The July school holidays see a short demand spike — booking early in the winter window (June) usually offers the most flexibility.

Season-by-Season Breakdown

Season	Months	Demand Level	Burswood Tip
Summer peak	Dec – Jan	Very high	Book at least 3–4 weeks ahead; popular SUV and people movers go quickly
Late summer	Feb – Mar	Moderate	Good availability, reasonable rates — a solid window for flexibility
Autumn holidays	Apr	High	School holiday spike; book early, especially for families needing people movers
Early winter	May	Moderate	Demand easing; pre-winter pricing before the fleet discount kicks in
Winter (best)	Jun – Aug	Low–Moderate	Burswood fleet discount active; best value and availability window
Spring	Sep – Oct	High	School holidays and wildflower season bring demand back up; book 2–3 weeks ahead
Pre-summer	Nov	Moderate	Demand building; good window before summer peak pricing

Note: These are general patterns, not guaranteed price schedules. Actual rates depend on vehicle type, hire duration, and current availability. Always request a current quote for your specific dates.

Other Ways to Get Better Value Any Time of Year

Book as early as possible

Car rental pricing in Perth — as elsewhere — tends to increase as availability tightens. Booking weeks ahead of your travel dates typically secures better rates and better vehicle choice than leaving it to the last week. This is particularly true during school holidays and over Christmas–New Year.

Use the price match promise

Burswood Car Rentals offers a price match promise — if you find the same vehicle at the same terms for a lower price elsewhere, they’ll match it. This gives you the confidence to book without obsessively shopping every comparison site.

Consider the vehicle type carefully

Economy cars like the Kia Rio are the most affordable starting point at any time of year. If you’re travelling as a group, a people mover often costs less per person than multiple smaller cars — worth the comparison if there are five or more in your party. Luxury vehicles carry the highest daily rates but also receive the winter fleet discount. Check the full vehicle range to find the right fit.

Longer hire periods reduce the daily rate

Multi-week or long-term hire typically brings the effective daily rate down compared to shorter bookings. If your trip allows flexibility on duration, adding a day or two to cross a rate threshold can reduce the per-day cost. Ask Burswood about long-term hire rates for stays of a week or more.

Avoid peak event weekends

Perth hosts major events throughout the year — the Perth Festival (February–March), Fringe World, AFL finals, and various summer music events all drive short-term demand spikes. If your travel dates are flexible, avoiding these weekends can mean meaningfully better availability and rates.

Is Cheap Always the Right Priority?

A short note worth including: the cheapest rate on a comparison site isn’t always the cheapest total cost once you factor in hidden fees, excessive bonds, fuel charges, and limited kilometre inclusions. Burswood’s model is built around no hidden fees, transparent pricing, and a price match if you find a genuine like-for-like offer somewhere else. That’s the practical standard to compare against — not just the headline daily rate.

📌  Pricing note: All rates mentioned in this article are general guidance. Actual prices depend on vehicle type, hire dates, duration, and current availability. Request a current quote from Burswood for your specific travel dates.

 

Book Your Perth Hire Car Today From $25/day. Winter fleet discount active June–August. Price match promise. No hidden fees. No rental stickers. 1,000+ five-star reviews. →  Get an Instant Quote →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Burswood really discount the whole fleet in winter?

Yes — the winter fleet discount is a confirmed offer applied across all vehicle categories from approximately June to August. Check the special offers page for the current discount and apply it to your booking.

What is the price match promise?

If you find a genuinely equivalent hire — same vehicle type, same dates, same terms — at a lower price from another Perth rental company, Burswood will match it. See the price match promise page for full conditions.

Are school holiday rates significantly higher in Perth?

Yes — April, July, and September–October school holidays in WA drive meaningful demand increases, particularly for larger vehicles. Booking two to three weeks ahead during these periods is strongly recommended. The mid-winter window (June, early July before the school holidays) typically offers the best combination of the fleet discount and availability.

Renting a car in Perth is genuinely straightforward — and Burswood Car Rentals keeps it that way on purpose. The list of things you need to bring is short. But knowing exactly what’s required before you show up means there are no awkward moments at the counter and no delays before you’re on your way.

This guide covers every document scenario — Australian licence holders, international visitors, debit card users, and everything in between. For answers to specific questions, see the Burswood Car Rentals FAQs.

🚗 Perth’s Trusted Car Hire Since 1984 No hidden fees. No rental stickers. From $25/day. Get an instant quote from Burswood Car Rentals. →  Get an Instant Quote →

 

The Short Answer: Two Things

For the vast majority of people hiring a car from Burswood, you need exactly two things:

• Your current driver’s licence — Australian or valid foreign licence
• A credit or debit card in your name — for the bond and any charges

That’s it. No utility bills, no secondary ID, no passport (for Australian licence holders). Just a valid licence and a card. Everything else is optional depending on your specific situation.

💡  Quick check: Before you arrive at pickup, confirm your licence isn’t expired and your card has sufficient available funds for the bond — $400 for standard vehicles, $500 for luxury, plus an additional $200 if paying by debit card. The bond is charged the day before collection.

 

Document Requirements by Driver Type

Australian Licence Holders

If you hold a current Australian driver’s licence — from any state or territory — you’re good to go. Your Australian licence is valid across all of Western Australia and is accepted without any supplementary documentation.

• Licence must be current — check the expiry date before you travel
• Any Australian state or territory licence is accepted — no need for a WA licence
• Learner or provisional licences — minimum age requirement is 19 years, and Burswood will advise on licence class requirements when you book

📌  Minimum age: You must be at least 19 years old to hire a car from Burswood Car Rentals.

International Visitors — Overseas Licence

If you hold a licence issued in a country that uses English and the Roman alphabet, your overseas licence is generally valid to drive in Western Australia without any additional documentation.

Licences issued in countries where the licence is not in English, or does not use the Roman alphabet, require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to the original overseas licence. An IDP is a translation document issued by a motoring authority in your home country — it must be accompanied by your original licence at all times.

Licence Country/Type	What You Need
Australia (any state/territory)	Current Australian licence only
New Zealand	Current NZ licence only
UK, USA, Canada, Ireland	Current overseas licence (English, Roman alphabet)
Non-English or non-Roman alphabet	Current overseas licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
Expired licence (any country)	Not accepted — licence must be current

Note: WA road rules apply to all drivers regardless of where their licence was issued. International drivers are responsible for understanding and complying with Australian traffic laws.

💡  IDP tip: International Driving Permits are issued in your home country before you travel — they cannot be obtained in Australia. If you need one, arrange it through your country’s motoring authority before departure.

Payment: Credit Card vs Debit Card

A credit card is the standard payment method for car hire. It’s used to hold the bond, cover the daily rate, and manage any charges during the hire period.

Burswood does accept debit cards — but an additional $200 bond applies on top of the standard bond amount. So for a standard vehicle on a debit card, the total bond is $600 ($400 standard + $200 debit card surcharge).

• Credit card: $400 bond (standard) / $500 bond (luxury)
• Debit card: $400 + $200 = $600 bond (standard) / $500 + $200 = $700 bond (luxury)
• Prepaid credit cards, Zippay, Afterpay, and Klarna: not accepted
• The card must be in the hirer’s name
• The bond is charged the day before collection

📌  Bond release: The bond is held as a pre-authorisation on your card and released at the end of the hire period, minus any applicable charges. Bond release timing depends on your bank.

Additional Drivers

Additional drivers can be added to the hire agreement at no extra charge. Each additional driver must present their own current driver’s licence at collection — or have it verified beforehand if they won’t be present.

Child Car Seats — Extra Documentation? No — Just Book in Advance

If you need a child car seat, no additional documentation is required — but book it in advance. Seats are $5 per day and are fitted in the vehicle before pickup. Burswood also offers lightweight baby strollers on request.

What to Check Before You Arrive

Check	Details
Licence is current	Check expiry date — licences must be valid on the day of collection
Licence is physical	Most rental companies including Burswood require the physical licence card
Card has sufficient funds	Bond (up to $600 debit) + daily rate must be available at time of charge
Card is in your name	The card used for the bond must match the hirer’s name
IDP (international only)	If your licence is non-English or non-Roman alphabet, bring your IDP
Minimum age	Must be at least 19 years old at time of collection
Child seat booked (if needed)	Book in advance — $5/day, fitted before you arrive

What You Don’t Need

For the sake of clarity, here’s what you don’t need to bring to pick up a Burswood hire car:

• A utility bill or proof of address
• A passport (for Australian licence holders)
• Your own insurance documents — every Burswood vehicle is comprehensively insured
• A printed booking confirmation — though having it handy on your phone is always helpful

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else pick up a car booked in my name?

Yes — the person collecting the car just needs to present a current driver’s licence in their name. There’s no requirement for the person who booked to be the one who collects. See the Burswood FAQs for full details.

Do I need to bring my passport if I have an Australian licence?

No. Your current Australian driver’s licence is all the identity documentation you need. Passport is not required for Australian licence holders.

What happens if my credit card is declined for the bond?

Contact Burswood as soon as possible before your collection date. The bond is charged the day before collection — if you’re using a debit card, ensure the additional $200 is accounted for in your available balance.

Can I use a digital licence on my phone?

This may vary — call Burswood directly to confirm their current position on digital licences before your pickup day. Having the physical card available as a backup is always the safest approach.

Western Australia is one of the great road trip destinations on earth. Perth sits at the gateway to landscapes that range from pristine surf coast to ancient red rock formations, world-class wine regions to wild national parks. And unlike the crowded routes of the east coast, most of WA’s best drives unfold with astonishing space and very little traffic.

A hire car unlocks all of it. Here are the top road trips from Perth — covering everything from half-day escapes to week-long adventures — with practical notes on distance, what to see, and the best vehicle for each trip.

🚗 Ready to Hit the Road? Burswood Car Rentals has been getting Perth travellers on the road for over 40 years. From $25/day. No hidden fees. Price match guarantee. →  Book Your Hire Car →

1. Margaret River Wine Region — The Classic WA Road Trip

Distance from Perth	Duration	Best Vehicle
~280km south	3–3.5 hours each way	Mid-size sedan or SUV

The Margaret River region is arguably the most popular road trip destination from Perth — and for good reason. World-class wineries, spectacular surf beaches (Prevelly, Gnarabup), sea caves (Ngilgi Cave, Lake Cave), old-growth karri forest, and artisan food producers are all packed into a region that rewards several days of exploration.

The drive south from Perth takes you through Bunbury, Busselton (with its famous Busselton Jetty — the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere), and into the forested wine country around Margaret River township. The roads are sealed, well-maintained, and largely uncrowded outside of the summer peak.

• Best time to visit: Autumn (March–May) for harvest season and fewer crowds; Spring (September–November) for wildflowers on the drive south
• Don’t miss: Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse — the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet
• Ideal vehicle: Toyota Corolla or Toyota Camry Hybrid — fuel-efficient on the highway, comfortable for 5+ hour days

✅  Burswood Advantage: Burswood’s Toyota Camry Hybrid is an ideal Margaret River car — excellent fuel economy on the 280km highway run each way, plus a large boot for wine purchases on the way home.

2. The Pinnacles Desert via Cervantes — Perth’s Most Dramatic Day Trip

Distance from Perth	Duration	Best Vehicle
~200km north	2–2.5 hours each way	Economy or mid-size sedan

The Pinnacles — thousands of limestone pillars rising from a golden desert floor — are one of Western Australia’s most photographed landscapes and one of the most accessible. Located within Nambung National Park near Cervantes, the Pinnacles are easily combined with a stop at Lancelin’s sand dunes for sandboarding, and the peaceful fishing village of Jurien Bay for lunch.

The drive north up the Indian Ocean Drive is itself a highlight — the coastal scenery between Perth and Cervantes is consistently stunning, with glimpses of turquoise ocean and white beaches along the Turquoise Coast.

• Best time: Early morning or late afternoon at the Pinnacles — the low-angled light is spectacular and the heat is manageable
• Entry: National parks pass or day entry fee applies at Nambung National Park
• Combine with: Lobster fishing in Cervantes — the town is known for its crayfish

💡  Day trip tip: The Pinnacles drive works perfectly as a day trip from Perth in any of Burswood’s economy or mid-size vehicles — the roads are all sealed and easy.

3. Swan Valley — Perth’s Closest Wine Region

Distance from Perth	Duration	Best Vehicle
~25–30km northeast	30 minutes	Any vehicle

If you want wine, food, and chocolate without the 3-hour drive, the Swan Valley is Perth’s closest wine region — just 30 minutes from the CBD. The Great Northern Highway through the Swan Valley takes you past cellar doors, breweries, honey farms, nougat factories, and farm-gate providores.

The Swan Valley is ideal for a leisurely half-day or full-day loop. It’s also a great first-day option if you’ve just collected your hire car and want to get a feel for driving in Perth before heading further afield.

• Highlights: Sandalford Estate, Houghton Wines, the Caversham Wildlife Park, and the Bells Rapids walking trail
• Food trail: The Swan Valley Food & Wine Trail map is available at most cellar doors

4. The Turquoise Coast to Kalbarri — The Long North Drive

Distance from Perth	Duration	Best Vehicle
~600km north	5.5–6 hours each way	SUV or comfortable mid-size

For travellers with a week or more, the drive north to Kalbarri is one of the most rewarding in Western Australia. The route passes through Lancelin, the Lobster Coast, and Geraldton before arriving at Kalbarri — famous for its dramatic gorges (Nature’s Window in Kalbarri National Park), stunning cliff-top walks, and excellent fishing.

Burswood even has a dedicated travel guide to Kalbarri on their website — a testament to how popular this drive is among Perth hire car customers.

• Best time: April to October — summers in Kalbarri are hot and some inland trails close due to heat risk
• Don’t miss: Murchison Gorge, Z-Bend lookout, and Rainbow Valley at sunset
• Ideal vehicle: Toyota RAV4 SUV for comfort on the longer sections and flexibility if exploring any gravel access roads

✅  Burswood Advantage: Burswood’s fleet includes vehicles with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard on most models — essential for navigating and managing music on long regional drives.

5. Perth Hills & Avon Valley — The Weekend Escape

Distance from Perth	Duration	Best Vehicle
~45–80km east	45 min–1 hour	Economy sedan or SUV

The Perth Hills rise to the east of the city — the Darling Scarp — offering a completely different landscape from the flat coastal plain. The towns of Kalamunda, Mundaring, and Toodyay are accessible within an hour, and the Avon Valley around York and Beverley rewards a full weekend with heritage sandstone architecture, farm stays, and wildflower drives in spring.

John Forrest National Park, just 35km from the CBD, is a beautiful short escape with bushwalking, swimming, and wildlife. The Valley of the Giants walk among ancient tingle trees near Walpole (further south, en route to Albany) is worth a detour if you’re heading to the South West.

6. Fremantle & The Southern Coast — The Urban Escape

Distance from Perth	Duration	Best Vehicle
~20km south	20 minutes	Any vehicle

Fremantle is the closest significant day trip from Perth — just 20 minutes south — and an essential one. The port city has an extraordinary concentration of Victorian-era limestone architecture, a thriving café and bar culture centred around the Cappuccino Strip, the WA Maritime Museum, the Fremantle Prison (World Heritage-listed), and Little Creatures Brewery.

Combine Fremantle with the coastal drive south through Cockburn, Rockingham (dolphins!), and Mandurah for a full day on the Southern Coast. The highway south is smooth and fast.

7. The Wheatbelt Wildflower Drive — September to October

Every year between August and November, Western Australia’s Wheatbelt erupts in wildflowers — one of the most extraordinary natural events in Australia. The drives through York, Merredin, and Corrigin reward visitors with roadsides blanketed in everlastings, wattle, and banksias. This is one of those experiences that’s genuinely unknown to most international visitors — and unforgettable to those who stumble upon it.

💡  Wildflower season: Wildflower season timing varies year to year based on rainfall. The WA Wildflower Society publishes seasonal guides — check ahead if planning specifically for the blooms.

Choosing the Right Hire Car for Your Road Trip

Road Trip	Recommended Vehicle	Why
Margaret River (280km)	Toyota Camry Hybrid or Corolla	Fuel-efficient on highway, comfortable boot for wine
Pinnacles Day Trip (200km)	Economy sedan (Kia Rio)	Sealed roads, short distances, great value
Swan Valley (30km loop)	Any vehicle	Local drive, any hire car is ideal
Kalbarri (600km)	Toyota RAV4 SUV	Comfort on long drives, flexibility on access roads
Perth Hills/Avon Valley	Economy or mid-size	Easy roads, not a distance vehicle
Group trip anywhere	Kia Carnival 8-seater	8 passengers + luggage — the best group road trip option

Browse the full Burswood fleet and choose the vehicle that matches your itinerary. If you’re unsure, call the team on (08) 9362 4777 — they know Perth roads well and can help you choose the right vehicle for your specific trip.

🚗 Plan Your Perth Road Trip From $25/day. No hidden fees. Airport delivery available. Let Burswood Car Rentals get you on the road and into Western Australia’s best landscapes. →  Book Your Road Trip Car →

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Margaret River from Perth?

Margaret River is approximately 280km south of Perth — around a 3 to 3.5 hour drive. It’s comfortably doable as a weekend trip and ideally explored over 2–3 days.

Can I take the Burswood hire car on long WA road trips?

Yes. Burswood vehicles are well-maintained and suited to WA’s highway drives. Check your daily kilometre inclusions at booking — for longer trips, confirm the excess kilometre rate to budget accurately. See the FAQs for kilometre policy details.

Are the roads to destinations like Kalbarri suitable for standard hire cars?

The main highways to Kalbarri and most popular WA destinations are sealed. Access roads within national parks may be unsealed — note that Burswood vehicles are not permitted on unsealed off-road tracks. For any destination involving significant unsealed road driving, confirm suitability with the Burswood team before your trip.

What’s the best car for a group road trip from Perth?

The Kia Carnival 8-seater people mover is the best option for groups of 5 to 8. It’s comfortable on highways, handles luggage easily, and sharing the hire cost between 6–8 people makes it one of the best value options available.

Do Burswood vehicles have GPS?

Most vehicles come with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, which effectively turns your phone into a GPS. Bring your phone cable. If you don’t have a smartphone, speak to the team at booking about alternatives.

Are there any current special offers for road trip hires?

Yes — check the Burswood special offers page for current promotions. Winter rates across the full fleet are typically discounted, making the cooler months an excellent time for a WA road trip — wildflowers in spring, whale watching in winter, and vineyards at harvest in autumn.

You’ve touched down in Perth, your bag is on the carousel, and you’re ready to get moving. The last thing you want is a confusing shuttle bus system, a long wait at a rental counter, or an unexpected charge that wasn’t in your original quote.

This guide covers exactly how Perth airport car hire works — including how Burswood Car Rentals handles airport collections and what makes it different from the on-site airport rental experience most travellers default to.

✈️ Flying into Perth? Burswood Car Rentals delivers directly to Perth domestic and international airport terminals. No airport surcharges. From $25/day. →  Book Airport Car Hire →

Understanding Perth’s Airports

Perth Airport handles both domestic and international flights through four terminals:

• Terminal 1 — Qantas domestic and Qantas regional flights
• Terminal 2 — Virgin Australia domestic flights
• Terminal 3 & 4 — International departures and arrivals

Perth Airport is located approximately 15–20 minutes east of the Perth CBD. Burswood Car Rentals is based at 16 Teddington Road, Burswood — directly en route between the airport and the city — which makes both pick-up and drop-off extremely convenient.

Option 1: Burswood Delivers to Your Terminal

The most convenient option for travellers flying into Perth is to have Burswood deliver the vehicle directly to the terminal at the time of your arrival. This means you clear customs, collect your bags, and your hire car is waiting — no shuttle bus, no counter queue, no airport surcharge on top of your rental.

Burswood offers delivery to all Perth airport terminals within 20km of the depot at no additional cost. Simply arrange this when you make your booking and confirm your flight arrival time.

✅  Burswood Advantage: No airport surcharge — a significant advantage over on-site airport rental desks, which typically levy a fee of $10–$30 per day on top of the base rate just for the privilege of picking up at the terminal.

Option 2: Pick Up at the Burswood Depot

If you’d prefer to collect the vehicle from the Burswood depot at 16 Teddington Road, Burswood, this is a short drive from the airport — either in a cab, rideshare, or on the Perth Airport shuttle. The depot is in Burswood, immediately adjacent to the Crown Hotel and just minutes from the Perth CBD. This option works well if you’re arriving at a time when the airport delivery logistics are less convenient, or if you’d prefer to sort accommodation first.

The depot is open 8am–5pm Monday to Friday and 8am–4pm on weekends. Outside these hours, pre-arranged pick-up is available around the clock — so early morning or late night flights are not a barrier.

Comparing Airport Car Hire Options in Perth

Option	Burswood Terminal Delivery	On-Site Airport Desk	Burswood Depot Pick-Up
Airport surcharge	None	Typically $10–$30/day	None
Waiting time	Car ready at arrival	Queue at counter	Short drive from airport
After-hours	Pre-arranged, available	Limited/closed	Pre-arranged, available
Daily rate from	$25/day	Variable	$25/day
Hidden fees	None	Possible	None
Stickers on car	None	Usually yes	None

 

💡  No stickers: Burswood vehicles carry no rental stickers — a detail that matters for travellers. Rental stickers mark you as a tourist and can attract opportunistic theft, particularly of bags left in parked vehicles. No stickers means less risk.

What to Organise Before You Fly

A bit of pre-trip planning makes airport car hire seamless. Here’s what to sort before you board:

1. Book your vehicle in advance — summer and school holidays see availability drop fast. The best vehicles at the best rates go first.
2. Confirm your arrival terminal and flight time with Burswood when booking, if you’re using terminal delivery.
3. Check your licence requirements — Australian state licences are fine. International visitors travelling from countries where licences aren’t in English need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
4. Arrange payment — have your credit or debit card ready. The bond ($400 for standard vehicles) will be pre-authorised at pick-up.
5. Add extras at booking — if you need a child seat ($5/day), confirm it when you book. See the FAQs for full optional accessory details.
6. Check current special offers — seasonal promotions, including winter discounts, can meaningfully reduce the total cost.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for a Perth Arrival

What you hire from the airport depends on what you’re doing in Perth. A couple on a week’s holiday is well served by an economy sedan. A family coming through Terminal 3 with five suitcases and three children needs something much larger — the Kia Carnival 8-seater is the go-to for groups. A business traveller heading to corporate meetings wants something that presents well — Burswood’s luxury vehicle range covers that. Browse the full fleet to find the right fit before you fly.

Important Things to Know on Arrival

Road rules in Western Australia

If you’re from interstate or overseas, note a few Western Australia-specific road rules: the speed limit in built-up areas is generally 50km/h unless otherwise signed; some Perth roads have variable speed limits enforced by cameras; and mobile phones must not be used while driving unless the phone is in a hands-free cradle or holder.

Fuel

Perth has plentiful petrol stations across the metro area. The full-to-full fuel policy means you receive the car with a full tank — fill up before returning the vehicle to avoid the $3.50/litre shortfall charge.

Parking in Perth

Perth CBD parking is largely metered or in paid car parks. Most hotels offer parking (sometimes at a fee). If you’re hiring a car primarily for day trips out of the city rather than city driving, parking is much less of a concern — and the car genuinely comes into its own on the open roads.

24-Hour Roadside Assistance

Every Burswood rental includes 24/7 RAC roadside assistance. In the unlikely event of a breakdown, the number is on the bottom of your rental agreement. If the fault is with the vehicle, the call-out is free.

📋 Book Your Perth Airport Car Hire No airport surcharges. Terminal delivery available. Over 40 years of trusted Perth car hire. Get a quote online in under a minute. →  Get an Instant Quote →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Burswood pick up from Perth Airport?

Burswood Car Rentals can deliver your vehicle to any Perth Airport terminal — domestic or international — within 20km of the depot. Arrange this when booking and confirm your arrival time.

Is there an airport surcharge with Burswood?

No. Unlike on-site airport rental desks, Burswood does not add an airport surcharge for terminal delivery. The rate you’re quoted is the rate you pay.

What if my flight is delayed?

Contact Burswood as soon as you know about the delay. The team is experienced at handling flight schedule changes — call (08) 9362 4777. You can also contact them via WhatsApp. See the contact page for all contact options.

Can I return the car to the airport?

Yes — return arrangements can be made to Perth Airport terminals within the 20km service area. Confirm drop-off logistics when you book.

What are Burswood’s opening hours?

The depot is open 8am–5pm Monday to Friday and 8am–4pm Saturday and Sunday. Pre-arranged collections and deliveries are available outside these hours — including early morning and late-night airport arrivals.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for Perth?

If your driver’s licence is not in English, yes — you’ll need an IDP alongside your foreign licence. Australian state licence holders need only their licence.

Car hire in Perth covers a wide range — from a compact city runabout at around $25 a day through to a luxury SUV or people mover for larger budgets. What makes pricing confusing isn’t the base rate; it’s the extras, conditions, and occasional hidden fees that can push the real cost well above the advertised number.

This guide gives you a clear, honest breakdown of what car hire in Perth actually costs — by vehicle type, by the extras you might need, and by the factors that determine whether you’re getting good value or paying more than you should.

💰 Perth’s Best Value Car Hire No hidden fees. No rental stickers. Price match promise. Burswood Car Rentals from $25/day with transparent, all-inclusive pricing. →  Get a Quote →

Car Hire Rates in Perth by Vehicle Type

The table below reflects the general rate range you can expect at Burswood Car Rentals. Rates vary by season, availability, and duration — longer rentals and off-peak periods typically attract better daily rates.

Vehicle Type	Approx. Daily Rate	Best For
Economy (e.g. Kia Rio)	From ~$25–$30/day	Solo travellers, couples, city trips
Mid-size Sedan (e.g. Toyota Corolla)	From ~$35–$50/day	Couples, small families, comfortable road trips
Large Sedan (e.g. Toyota Camry Hybrid)	From ~$50–$65/day	Families, longer distances, business travel
SUV (e.g. Toyota RAV4)	From ~$65–$90/day	Families, luggage-heavy trips, regional travel
People Mover (Kia Carnival 8-seat)	From ~$80–$110/day	Groups of 5–8, family holidays
Ute	From ~$76/day	Moving, trade work, regional or rural trips
Luxury vehicles	From ~$120+/day	Premium travel, corporate, special occasions

Note: Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always confirm current rates via the Burswood quote form or by calling (08) 9362 4777.

✅  Burswood Advantage: Burswood’s price match promise means if you find a comparable vehicle at a lower rate elsewhere, they’ll match it. Always worth checking.

What Else Do You Pay For?

Beyond the daily hire rate, there are several additional costs that affect the total price of your car rental. Here’s what to know about each.

Security Bond

A security bond is pre-authorised on your credit or debit card at pick-up — it isn’t charged unless there’s damage or a fuel shortfall. Standard bond amounts at Burswood are:

• Standard vehicles: $400 bond
• Luxury vehicles: $500 bond
• Debit card: standard bond + additional $200
• With reduced liability option: bond reduced to $300 or $200

The bond is released when the car is returned in the agreed condition with a full tank.

💡  Bond tip: The bond is a pre-authorisation, not an actual charge — but it does reduce your available credit for the duration of the hire. If you’re on a tight budget, account for it in your travel planning.

Fuel

Burswood operates a full-to-full fuel policy: the car leaves with a full tank and should be returned full. If the tank isn’t full on return, a fuel charge of $3.50 per litre applies to cover the shortfall. This is a common industry practice — the simplest way to avoid it is to fill up before returning the vehicle.

Child and Baby Seats

Child car seats and booster seats are available for $5 per day. All children must be in the correct restraint for their age and size under Western Australian law. Seats are fitted in the vehicle at pick-up — Burswood advises customers to triple-check the fitting.

Additional Drivers

Adding extra drivers to a Burswood rental agreement is free — a genuine point of difference from many other Perth car hire companies, which charge $5–$15 per additional driver per day.

✅  Burswood Advantage: No charge for additional drivers — a straightforward saving on longer trips or family hires where more than one person will drive.

Excess Kilometre Charges

Economy and mid-size vehicles at Burswood typically include 100–200 free kilometres per day. If you exceed this, excess kilometre rates apply. This matters most on longer road trips — Perth to Esperance is around 750km, for example. If your trip involves significant driving, confirm the daily kilometre allowance and excess rate at booking.

Optional Accessories

A 45-litre cooler (esky) and deck chairs are available as optional extras — useful additions for a beach road trip. Most vehicles also come with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, so a dedicated GPS unit generally isn’t necessary; you’ll just need your phone cable.

What Affects the Total Cost of Your Hire?

Factor	Lower Cost	Higher Cost
Season	Winter (Jun–Aug) — fleet discounts available	Summer and school holidays — higher demand
Duration	Weekly hire — better daily rate	1–2 day rentals — higher daily cost
Vehicle size	Economy or mid-size	SUV, luxury, or 8-seater
Kilometres	Staying within included km allowance	High-distance road trips exceeding daily limit
Fuel	Returning with a full tank	Returning short — $3.50/litre charge
Booking time	Book well in advance	Last-minute booking in peak season
Payment type	Credit card	Debit card — additional $200 bond required

How to Get the Best Price on Perth Car Hire

1. Book early — availability tightens and rates rise during peak season (December to February) and school holidays.
2. Check the special offers page — Burswood runs seasonal promotions including discounted winter rates across the entire fleet.
3. Use the price match promise — if you find a lower comparable rate elsewhere, Burswood will match it.
4. Compare the all-in price — not just the advertised daily rate. Some operators add insurance levies, admin fees, and airport surcharges that can add $20–$40/day to the headline price.
5. Consider a weekly hire — if your trip spans 5–7 days, a weekly rate typically works out cheaper than paying seven individual daily rates.
6. Stick to a smaller vehicle if you don’t need the extra space — an economy car costs half the daily rate of a large SUV and is perfectly adequate for most Perth trips.

The Real Cost: What to Watch Out For With Other Providers

The biggest source of car hire cost surprises isn’t the daily rate — it’s the add-ons. Common gotchas to watch for when comparing providers:

• Insurance levies charged separately to the daily rate (these can be $20–$40/day on top of the advertised price)
• Airport pick-up surcharges that only appear at checkout
• Charges for additional drivers that substantially increase the total
• Fuel service options that charge well above standard pump prices
• One-way hire fees if you’re not returning to the same location

Burswood Car Rentals operates on a no-hidden-fees model — the price you see is the price you pay. That straightforwardness is part of why they’ve maintained 1,000+ 4.8-star reviews over more than four decades of Perth car hire.

📊 See Burswood’s Current Rates Transparent pricing. No surprises. Get an instant quote for your dates and vehicle — and see our current seasonal specials. →  View Current Rates & Specials →

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is car hire in Perth per day?

At Burswood Car Rentals, car hire starts from around $25–$30/day for an economy vehicle. Mid-size sedans start from around $35–$50/day, SUVs from around $65–$90/day, and people movers from around $80–$110/day. See the full fleet and rates for specific vehicle pricing.

Is insurance included in the car hire cost?

Yes. Every Burswood vehicle is covered by comprehensive insurance. You can optionally reduce your damage liability — which lowers the bond from $400 to $300 or $200 — at an additional cost.

What is the cheapest car hire in Perth?

Burswood’s economy vehicles (like the Kia Rio) start from around $25–$30/day, making them among the most competitive base rates for car hire in Perth. Check the special offers page for current seasonal discounts.

Are there cheaper rates for longer hires?

Yes. Longer hire periods — particularly weekly bookings — typically attract better daily rates than short-term hires. Contact the Burswood team directly to discuss rates for extended or long-term hire.

What’s the fuel policy?

Full-to-full. The car is provided with a full tank and should be returned full. If returned with less fuel, a $3.50/litre charge applies to cover the shortfall.

Perth is a city built for driving. The open roads to the Swan Valley, the coastal run south to Mandurah, the long stretches leading to Margaret River — none of it is really possible without your own wheels. Hiring a car is the most flexible and cost-effective way to explore everything Western Australia has on offer, and the process is far simpler than most first-timers expect.

This guide covers every step — from choosing the right car to driving away — so you know exactly what to expect and can get on the road without fuss or surprises.

🚗 Ready to Hit the Road? Burswood Car Rentals has been Perth’s trusted hire company for over 40 years. From $25/day. No hidden fees. No rental stickers. Price match guarantee. →  Get a Quote Today →

What You Need Before You Book

Before making any booking, get these essentials sorted:

• A current driver’s licence — Australian licence holders can use their state licence. International visitors need their foreign licence; if it isn’t in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside it.
• A credit or debit card — Burswood Car Rentals charges a security bond on pick-up ($400 for standard vehicles, $500 for luxury). Debit cards are accepted with an additional $200 bond. Note: prepaid credit cards, Afterpay, Zippay and Klarna are not accepted.
• Minimum age — You must be at least 19 years old to hire from Burswood Car Rentals.

💡  Tip: If you’re travelling as a couple or group, add extra drivers to the booking at no extra charge — a genuine advantage at Burswood that many other operators charge for.

Step-by-Step: How to Hire a Car in Perth

Step 1: Choose Your Vehicle

Start by thinking about what the car needs to do. A solo traveller or couple exploring the city is well served by an economical small car like the Kia Rio from around $25–$30/day. A family road trip to Margaret River calls for a Toyota Corolla or Toyota Camry Hybrid — spacious, fuel-efficient, and comfortable on long runs. Travelling with a larger group? The Kia Carnival 8-seater people mover carries eight passengers with luggage. Heading to the regions or need to haul gear? A ute hire from $76/day covers the heavy work. Browse the full fleet and choose the right tool for your trip.

Step 2: Check Kilometre Inclusions

Different vehicle categories include different free daily kilometre allowances. Economy and mid-size cars typically include 200 km/day — more than enough for most Perth-based trips and reasonable day drives. If you’re planning a long road trip to Kalbarri, Esperance, or across the state, confirm the daily limit and any excess kilometre costs before booking.

 

✅  Burswood Advantage: At Burswood, the car you book is the car you drive. No surprise upgrades or downgrades — a common trick at some other rental agencies.

 

Step 3: Compare Rates and Check for Specials

Burswood Car Rentals maintains year-round special offers including discounted winter rates across the entire fleet. Their price match promise means that if you find a cheaper equivalent rate elsewhere, they’ll match it. When comparing rates between providers, always check whether the advertised price is genuinely all-inclusive — some companies add insurance levies, airport surcharges, and administration fees at checkout that substantially inflate the final cost.

Step 4: Make Your Booking

Online booking at Burswood is straightforward — select your pickup and drop-off location, dates and times, vehicle type, and driver age via the quote form. You can also book by phone on (08) 9362 4777. No payment is taken until the day before collection. If you need to add extras — child seats ($5/day), GPS (most vehicles have Android Auto or Apple CarPlay built in), a cooler/esky, or deck chairs — include these at booking.

Step 5: Arrange Your Pick-Up

Burswood Car Rentals is located at 16 Teddington Road, Burswood — right next to the Crown Hotel and just minutes from the Perth CBD. Pick-up is straightforward from the depot during business hours (8am–5pm Monday to Friday, 8am–4pm Saturday and Sunday). Outside these hours, pre-arranged collections are available around the clock.

Alternatively, Burswood can deliver your vehicle to any Perth airport or hotel within 20km — especially useful if you’re flying in and want to be on the road immediately without a detour to the depot.

Step 6: Collect Your Car

When you arrive, bring your driver’s licence and credit card. The team will process your bond, confirm the vehicle details, walk you through the car, and get you on your way. Burswood’s fast booking system minimises paperwork — most people are on the road within minutes of arriving.

Take photos or video of the vehicle before you drive off — note any existing marks or damage and confirm these are recorded on your rental agreement. This simple step protects you completely at return.

Step 7: Return the Vehicle

Return the car at the agreed time with a full fuel tank (Burswood supplies a full tank and expects a full tank in return — if you return it short, a fuel charge of $3.50/litre applies). Return the car in the same condition it left in, and your bond will be released promptly.

 

💡  Fuel tip: Fill up before you hit the return route rather than at the petrol station immediately adjacent to the depot — prices vary and a station a kilometre or two out is often cheaper.

 

What to Bring to Your Pickup — Quick Checklist

Item	Details
Current driver’s licence	Australian state licence or international licence + IDP if non-English
Credit or debit card	In your name. Bond: $400 standard / $500 luxury. Debit: +$200 bond
Booking confirmation	Email or reference number
Passengers’ licences	If additional drivers are being added to the agreement

 

Understanding Your Damage Cover

Every Burswood vehicle is covered by comprehensive insurance. What sets Burswood apart is the option to reduce your damage liability — bringing the bond down from $400 to either $300 or $200 depending on your chosen level of cover. For most travellers who want complete peace of mind, reducing liability is worth considering.

For full details on cover options, see the Burswood FAQs.

 

✅  Burswood Advantage: No rental stickers on any Burswood vehicles. Rental stickers attract opportunistic theft — particularly of bags and gear left in the car. No stickers means less risk for you.

 

Common Mistakes First-Time Hirers Make in Perth

Mistake	What to Do Instead
Not reading kilometre inclusions	Check your daily km limit and factor extra kms into your trip budget
Assuming airport pick-up is automatic	Confirm delivery or pick-up arrangements at booking — don’t assume
Using a prepaid card	Use a standard credit or debit card — Burswood doesn’t accept prepaid cards
Not photographing the car at pick-up	Always document existing marks before driving away
Returning with an empty tank	Return full — or budget the $3.50/litre charge if that’s easier
Waiting to book during peak season	Book ahead — summer and school holidays reduce availability fast

 

🔑 Start Your Perth Adventure Over 40 years of trusted car hire in Perth. No hidden fees, no rental stickers, price match guarantee. Get a quote in under a minute. →  Get a Quote Now →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to hire a car in Perth at Burswood?

You need to be at least 19 years old to hire a car from Burswood Car Rentals.

Can international visitors hire a car in Perth?

Yes. You’ll need your foreign driver’s licence. If it isn’t in English, you’ll also need an International Driving Permit (IDP), which you can obtain through your country’s automobile association before travelling.

What payment methods are accepted?

Credit and debit cards are accepted. An additional $200 bond applies for debit cards. Burswood does not accept Afterpay, Zippay, Klarna, or any prepaid credit cards.

Can someone else pick up the car if it’s booked in my name?

Yes — they just need a current driver’s licence.

Is roadside assistance included?

Yes. All Burswood vehicles include 24/7 RAC roadside assistance. If the breakdown is due to a fault with the vehicle, there’s no charge. If the cause is driver error (flat tyre from a pothole, running out of fuel, etc.), a $165 charge applies.

What happens if I need to change my booking?

Burswood is flexible — you can adjust booking details at any time. Contact the team directly if your plans change.

Renting a car in Perth could save you money if you’re planning to move to this vibrant Australian city. My biggest worry after moving here was the cost of getting around. Perth taxis are expensive – you’ll pay $4.60 just to start the meter, plus $1.87 for each kilometer. Public transport offers DayRider tickets at $10.40 for unlimited travel, but the costs pile up if you commute regularly.

A rental car gives you more freedom and helps you save money. Companies charge about $60.43 per day for long-term rentals. The math makes sense, especially for families or people living in Perth’s outer suburbs who would otherwise spend more on daily public transport or costly taxi rides. This piece will give you the scoop on affordable car rentals in Perth, ways to cut costs, and local knowledge to help you get around the city better.

Understanding Car Rental Options in Perth

Perth has car rental options that fit every budget and need.  start at 28 days and save you money compared to daily rates. You can pay as little as AUD 38.22 per day for extended stays, and this includes unlimited mileage at no extra cost.Long-term rentals

Weekend trips and quick visits work best with short-term rentals, but the daily rates quickly add up if you stay longer than a week. These rentals give you flexibility without asking for a long commitment.

You’ll find plenty of rental companies in Perth with different pricing. Budget-friendly weekly specials start around AUD 35.17 per day, while luxury cars cost from AUD 100.91 daily. More companies give discounts when you book for longer periods.

Perth’s vehicle selection includes:

• Compact cars that save fuel and are perfect for city driving
• SUVs and 4WDs ready for regional adventures
• People movers that fit the whole family
• Luxury vehicles that deliver premium comfort
• Electric and hybrid options that help protect the environment

Rental companies are spread across Perth’s metropolitan area, and many will pick you up from the airport. You should book early to get the best rates and your preferred vehicle, especially when tourist season peaks between September and November.

Why Renting a Car Makes Sense for New Residents

Life in Perth gets better with your own set of wheels. The freedom to move around becomes part of your daily life since  doesn’t reach all of Perth’s best spots directly. You won’t need to plan your day around bus schedules – just head out whenever you want.public transport

A rental car gives you something else that’s vital – privacy. You’ll have your own space while you check out the city’s hidden spots. This works great if you love taking photos, since you can pull over anytime to get that perfect shot.

The practical side of car rentals makes sense too. Rental companies give you lots of choices with daily, weekly, and long-term deals. If you’re here for a few months, subscription plans work better than buying a car. You’ll get maintenance, repairs, servicing, registration, and insurance all wrapped up in one monthly payment.

One-month minimum leases work well if you’ve just moved here and are still settling in. Cheap car rentals in Perth also come with roadside help, which helps when you’re getting used to new roads.

The best part? You won’t have to think about car problems or repair costs. The rental company handles all that, so you can focus on making Perth your new home.

Cost-Saving Tips and Local Advice

Smart planning helps you save money on car rental services in Perth. Booking at least a week in advance gives you substantially lower rates and better vehicle choices. Weekly rates prove more economical than daily ones, offering major discounts for rentals beyond 4 days.

You’ll save more by avoiding airport pickup locations because they add extra surcharges that off-airport sites don’t charge. Most rentals include standard excess (Loss Damage Waiver) coverage. Allianz’s travel insurance policies are a great way to get rental vehicle excess coverage instead of costly rental company products.

Groups can maximize their savings through these methods:

• Travelers can split fixed costs like rental and accommodation equally
• Fuel-efficient vehicles with green leaf icons reduce expenses
• Hybrid rentals consume just 3.9L per 100km compared to standard petrol vehicles’ 6L

The rental company’s inflated refueling rates make it worth filling up before return, saving AUD 30.58-76.45. Upfront payment during booking can save up to 20%. Your credit card might already provide rental insurance coverage, so check before buying extra protection.

Extended stays become more cost-effective as prices drop to AUD 38.22 per day for 28+ day rentals, making Perth’s car rental options truly budget-friendly for newcomers.

Conclusion

Life in Perth brings its share of transport hurdles, but rental cars give you a perfect mix of value and ease. Perth’s rental scene has shown us that this option beats expensive taxis and the limited public transport network hands down.

You’ll get the best value from Perth’s car rental services with long-term deals. Daily rates can drop to AUD 38, and you won’t have to worry about maintenance while enjoying complete freedom to move around. The rental fleet’s variety means you’ll easily match a car to your needs – from zippy city runners to roomy SUVs for weekend getaways.

The best part for newcomers like us is the freedom to explore. No more checking bus schedules or watching taxi meters tick up. Your rental car lets you discover Perth’s stunning coastlines and hidden spots whenever you want. This flexibility becomes a game-changer during your first few months of settling in.

Smart booking tricks will save you loads of money. Book early, go for weekly rates, skip airport pickups, and fill up the tank before returning – these simple steps can save hundreds. People planning longer stays should look into extended rental packages that often throw in maintenance coverage and roadside help.

Many new Perth residents start with car rentals as a stopgap but end up sticking with them for months or years. This setup gives you all the perks of owning a car without the hassle of buying one outright. Whether you’re here for a short while or making Perth your forever home, these rental tips will help you master your new city’s streets with confidence.

Many travelers can’t decide between  services and transfer options for their Western Australian adventure. Transportation costs can affect your total budget a lot during your Perth trip planning.car rental Perth airport

Transperth, the city’s public transport system, runs efficiently, but it may not work for every itinerary. Daily rates for car rentals make sense, especially for extended stays. Your parking expenses can reach over $20 per day. Ride-sharing becomes costly on longer journeys because providers calculate fares based on time and distance.

This piece compares the most affordable car rental options at Perth airport with transfer services. You’ll learn which choice makes financial sense for different situations. We break down all costs, convenience factors, and specific scenarios to help you pick the best option for your Perth adventure.

When Renting a Car at Perth Airport Makes Sense

A rental car from Perth airport gives you the freedom to explore  right after you land. The airport’s car rental services work best when you want to make multiple stops or take day trips beyond the city.Western Australia’s stunning landscapes

Business travelers need wheels to get around all day efficiently. Rental cars are a great way to get what families need too. They come with plenty of space, child seats, and work perfectly as a home base for all your stuff.

Public transport gets pretty thin once you leave the city. Your rental car lets you reach some amazing spots like:

• The ancient limestone formations of the Pinnacles Desert
• World-class wineries in Margaret River and Swan Valley
• The pristine beaches of Cottesloe and Scarborough

Rental cars prove reliable in places where you won’t find ride-sharing services. They make more financial sense on longer trips too. The fixed daily rates help you budget better than dealing with surge pricing from multiple ride-shares.

Avis and similar companies offer flexible rentals from 60 days to 11 months if you plan to stay longer. These packages usually include newer cars under 2 years old. You won’t have to worry about registration or maintenance either.

A rental car lets you truly own your trip. You can set your own pace, stay as long as you want, and find hidden gems across Western Australia’s big landscapes.

When Transfer Services Are the Better Option

serve as an attractive alternative when travelers value convenience over flexibility. These services provide pre-booked, door-to-door transportation with fixed pricing that eliminates unexpected surge charges common with rideshares.Transfer services

Chauffeur services are a great way to get punctuality, discretion, and executive-grade vehicles that help business professionals maintain their professional image. Professional drivers who know Perth’s roads handle the navigation, which lets executives focus on work during transit instead of dealing with traffic.

Many transfer companies cater to families by offering child and booster seats when requested. Parents appreciate not having to install these seats themselves. Larger groups can travel together in luxury people movers and minibusses without splitting up into multiple vehicles.

Short-term visitors and people with limited driving needs benefit most from transfer services. The daily costs of rental fees, insurance, and city parking charges ($20+ per day) make transfers more cost-effective for stays under 3-4 days.

These services run around the clock and monitor flight schedules to adjust for delays. Travelers can rest easy knowing they have generous complimentary waiting periods – up to 30 minutes for domestic and 45 minutes for international arrivals. Tired passengers can reach their destination hassle-free.

Cost and Convenience Breakdown

Here are the actual numbers that show how much different Perth airport transportation options cost.

Car rental rates change a lot based on the vehicle type. A simple hatchback starts at AUD 48.93 per day, sedans begin at AUD 55.04, and SUVs cost from AUD 64.22 daily. A standard vehicle rental for a week could set you back AUD 342-449.

Watch out for  on your final bill. Airport locations charge an extra 15-25%. Rental companies also add cleaning fees, late return penalties, and administrative charges without clear explanations.hidden fees

The other transfer options each have their own pricing structure. A taxi ride from Perth Airport to CBD costs AUD 68.80 plus an AUD 6.12 airport fee. Rideshare services usually have lower base rates but their surge pricing during busy times can turn a AUD 30.58 ride into AUD 68.80.

The train provides the best value, with airport to CBD fares at just AUD 7.64. The SmartRider card gives you extra discounts and caps daily spending at AUD 20.03, whatever number of trips you take.

The security deposits at airport car rental companies are another factor to think about. These range from AUD 152.90 to AUD 152,900 based on the type of vehicle.

Your choice between Perth Airport’s car rental services and transfer options depends on your travel plans. Rental cars give great value when you stay longer than 4-5 days or want to explore beyond city limits. Transfer services work best for business travelers, short-term visitors, and anyone who prefers not to drive.

Money plays a big role in this decision. Car rentals give you freedom, but parking fees, fuel, and unexpected charges can pile up quickly. You might also need to set aside a large security deposit during your stay. Transfer services come with fixed prices that are easy to budget, though they cost more if you make multiple trips daily.

Public transport remains the cheapest way to get around for anyone comfortable with Perth’s train and bus network. The AUD 20.03 daily spending cap makes it even more attractive, but it doesn’t offer the convenience many visitors need.

Take a good look at your plans before booking transportation. Ask yourself if you need a car all the time. Are you planning trips to Margaret River or the Pinnacles? Do you have family members with special needs? Your honest answers will lead you to the most affordable choice.

Perth’s stunning landscapes and attractions are waiting for you, whatever way you choose to get around. The right transport choice lets you enjoy Western Australia’s wonders without breaking the bank. Your Perth adventure should be about making memories, not stressing about transportation.