How to Save Money on Melbourne Road Trips in 2025

Melbourne has some spectacular road trips, like down the Great Ocean Road, the scenic drive to Wilson's Promontory or through the lush rainforests on the iconic Black Spur Drive. And while the road trip opportunities in this region are rich, they don't have to break the bank.

Choose the right-sized vehicle

When travelling on a budget, it can be tempting to scrimp and save everywhere, but with proper planning, you can make your dollars go further. Start by choosing the right-sized vehicle for your needs. A more compact car like the Yaris would have sufficient space if you travel solo or with your partner.

A larger model like the Corolla Cross or Kluger is an excellent choice for families with children. With extra seats and ample cargo space, you can pack everything you need to avoid the expense of buying items you couldn't fit while on the road.

Top money-saving tips for families on the Melbourne roads

• Plan meals and pack extra snacks to avoid pricey roadside stops
• Choose accommodation with kitchenettes to avoid eating out for every meal
• Use flexible car-sharing services like KINTO, which include fuel

KINTO has a fleet of comfortable and affordable cars perfect for your next Melbourne road trip. And with short term car rental available, you can take the family for a quick weekend getaway that doesn't blow the budget.

Only Pay for What You Need

Car ownership can potentially become a  financial burden; with maintenance, insurance, registration and fuel, the costs can add up fast. With the rising cost of living, more and more people are saving money by turning to car sharing and short term car hire alternatives.

Say goodbye to the added costs of owning a car. KINTO lets you pay based on a hire rate of  either hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly, plus a cost-per-kilometre, ensuring you only pay for what you actually use. This pricing structure is especially beneficial for longer journeys, where traditional rentals might charge unnecessarily high flat rates.

Whether taking a quick getaway or embarking on a longer road trip outside of Melbourne, you'll save on costs by only paying for what you use. Plus, with KINTO's flexible options, including monthly car rental, you can enjoy even more convenience and value for extended journeys.

Travel off-peak

Are you looking to escape into nature, unwind in a retreat and grow without burning a hole in your pocket? One of the best ways to do that is to travel during off-peak times and avoid higher costs in accommodation. Plus, you can enjoy quieter roads.

KINTO has simplified car rental, letting you do less and drive more. With paperless, contactless and keyless hire you can book a spontaneous retreat and escape the Melbourne CBD anytime you like. And if you decide you need a little longer in nature, that's ok too. KINTO lets you take all the time you need with flexible hire arrangements that you can extend through the app.

Top tips for budget-friendly personal development in Melbourne

• Share the costs by travelling with like-minded friends to make the trip more cost-effective and create shared growth and learning
• Save on wellness retreats by packing your own wellness essentials like yoga mats, journals, mindfulness activities and meditation apps
• Plan free or low-cost activities like nature hikes, scenic lookouts or community events to enrich your journey without stretching your budget

Split the costs with friends

Escaping the city doesn't have to cost a fortune. Grab your friends, hit the road, and make unforgettable memories without breaking the budget. With KINTO's short-term car rental, you can set off on a week-long coastal adventure and split the costs.

Plus, KINTO's larger vehicle options, like the RAV4, make group travel a breeze, offering plenty of space for passengers and all the extra bags.

Top money-saving tips for group travel in Melbourne

• Skip toll roads and opt for scenic routes to save fees and enjoy a more picturesque route
• Instead of dining out for every meal, spend time with friends in the kitchen and cook together
• Plan out the events you want to attend. By planning, you can decide what attractions you want to spend money on and plan other low-cost or free activities in the area

Plan and book car rentals early

Every dollar counts. That's why it's important to book your short term car hire as early as possible to secure the vehicle you want for the dates you need, especially around peak times of the year. Get in early and secure your hire to avoid disappointment and the need to book a more costly vehicle or car rental service.

Use the KINTO app to find the perfect car for your next road trip out of Melbourne. The app shows available vehicles nearby, making choosing one that suits your plans quick and easy. There are many KINTO locations around Melbourne–download the KINTO app to find a KINTO near you.

Will car sharing remain popular in 2025 and beyond?

With the rising costs of living, sustainability concerns front of mind and the convenience offered by car sharing; car rental and car sharing are expected to continue to grow in popularity. KINTO provides access to a fleet of sleek, affordable  cars right at your fingertips.

Save on insurance, fuel, maintenance and registration costs by only hiring a car when you need it. And with short term car rental available, you can hire for as little as you need.

How much can I save by using a car-sharing service instead of owning a car?

Savings will vary based on individual needs and vehicle usage, but car-sharing users who have switched from car ownership can often save thousands of dollars a year by avoiding costs like loan repayments, registration fees, fuel costs, insurance, etc.

KINTO offers both short-term and monthly car rental options, so you have the convenience of a car without the ongoing costs of ownership. See how you can save and Fight the Cost of Living With KINTO.

Are car-sharing services available in regional areas?

Yes! KINTO has hundreds of locations Australia-wide, and we're constantly adding new ones. With KINTO, you'll have access to a fleet of cars suited to your needs with convenient pick-up locations in off-street parking or secure on-street parks. Some locations are available 24/7, so you can hire a car regardless of day or night. Get a quote and see live availability near you.

Ready to hit the road without the hefty costs? With KINTO's flexible, budget-friendly car-sharing options, you can take a road trip from Melbourne on your own terms.

From weekend getaways to week-long adventures, KINTO has the perfect vehicle for every traveller. Get in early and book today to start your 2025 road trip the smart way!

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