cheap car hire

So you've purchased your airline tickets, packed your bags and are ready for that overseas road trip. You're a little nervous, though - what's the best way to go about booking a car in another country?

With our online car rentals booking system, you can scout the best deals from the comfort of your own home. Simply pick your departure date, pick-up and return locations and let our search engine do the rest.

Domestic car hire is undertaken in conjunction with our partner Europcar. Europcar rental customers can select from a wide range of vehicles from prestige cars to commercial vehicles, from 4WDs to minibuses.

Search and book hire cars online with Student Flights' car rental partner Europcar.

International car hire is undertaken in conjunction with DriveAway Holidays. Since 2005 DriveAway Holidays have been finalists at the National Travel Industry Awards. In 2006 they won the Award for Excellence in the Best Car Rental Company.

Car Rental Tips

The best way to ensure a smooth trip is to book your rental car in advance. Rental rates tend to be higher at the counter than over the phone. Try and make all car rental arrangements before you leave home. This makes the process cheaper and less likely to include hidden fees.

When you book, be sure to ask about weekend specials, late penalties and petrol charges. Some additional costs are not explained unless you ask, including if you chip the windscreen or puncture a tyre.

One place you can save money, however, is by returning your car on time. Late fees are common yet easy to avoid. Find out the specific time you need to return your car and save yourself the hassle of paying more than you need to.

So, what sort of license do you need to drive overseas? An International Driving Permit or IDP entitles the holder (you) to drive the motor vehicles specified in the permit - in all participating countries. An IDP can be used for photo ID and must be accompanied by a valid Australian Driver's Licence at all times. In Australia, the only authority that issues permits is the Australian Automobile Association.

To get an IDP simply visit your nearest Transport Department shop with your current Australian Driver's Licence and a recent passport-size photo. If applying for an IDP through a Transport Department, an application form is not required.

An IDP is valid for 12 months from the date of issue unless your domestic licence expires. IDPs cannot be issued to people under 18 years of age. They also cannot be issued to holders of Learner Licences or other restricted use licences.

With regards to its use, different countries have different identification requirements when driving. www.racv.com.au maintains a list with all the country requirements.

So now that you have your International Drivers Permit, you really need travel insurance. Even if you're a safe and cautious traveler, accidents can happen. Travel insurance ensures professional assistance is there when you need it.

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