Kangaroo Island car rentals

Driver's age: 26-65
Fri 05.04
Fri 12.04

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Cheap car rentals in Kangaroo Island

Mini
Economy
Compact
Intermediate
Standard
Full-size
Luxury
Minivan
Passenger van
SUV
Commercial
Pickup truck

Top tips for renting a car in Kangaroo Island

  • While standard vehicles are allowed on the roads on Kangaroo Island, many people prefer to navigate the island with a four-wheel drive, especially when visiting for the first time. This is because the majority of the roads on the island are unsealed and can be slippery, even when dry. The road surface changes frequently throughout the island, so depending on your itinerary, it’s definitely something worth considering when choosing your hire vehicle for your trip.
  • On Kangaroo Island they drive on the left-hand side of the road, like the rest of Australia. If you’re travelling at a lower speed than the vehicles behind you, it’s courtesy to pull over on the left side of the road when it’s safe to do so and allow these vehicles to overtake you. Driving after dark is not an offence, but is not recommended on Kangaroo Island as it’s difficult to spot wildlife. Some car hire companies do not permit you to drive your vehicle at night as large animals like kangaroos can cause serious incidents. It’s best to check with your chosen company beforehand, some companies do make exceptions when you request in advance.
  • There are several petrol stations on Kangaroo Island, one in Penneshaw, two in Kingscote, two in Parndana and one in Vivonne Bay. It’s always best to check with your chosen car hire company what type of petrol your car requires and how you should leave the vehicle. Some companies require you to fill up the car with petrol before returning the vehicle or some ask you to leave the same amount of petrol that was originally given to you. Checking this information can save you unnecessary charges upon returning your vehicle. Make sure you’re always aware of how much petrol you have as the stations are quite far apart and some close early.
  • Book your rental car in Kangaroo Island at least 3 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Compact rental cars in Kangaroo Island are around -23% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in Kangaroo Island

  • Should I rent a car in Kangaroo Island?

    As public transport is very limited on Kangaroo Island, hiring a car is the best way to enjoy the island. The road network is widely accessible and clearly signposted. It takes around 4h to drive the whole way round the island, but in reality, you’ll need much longer as there’s so much to explore. Easily navigate between Flinders Chase National Park on the west side of the island, to the Seal Bay Conservation Park on the south, to Dudley Wines in the east of the island, followed by the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park in the north. Although you can book individual coach tours to each location, if you’re planning to visit a few different places it can get expensive and it also doesn’t allow you to explore the island at your own pace.

  • What is driving like in Kangaroo Island?

    When driving around Kangaroo Island it’s important to be aware of road conditions, it’s always best to be cautious with your speed, as there are unsealed roads on the island. Watch out for warning signs, which will ask you to slow down when the road surface is changing. Another thing to consider is the wildlife, again driving at lower speeds is the best way to prevent any incidents. Native animals like kangaroos are mostly spotted on roads early in the morning and at sunset, so it’s worth being extra careful at these times.

  • How old do you have to be to rent a car in Kangaroo Island?

    You have to be a minimum of 21 years old in order to hire a car on Kangaroo Island and must have a valid driving licence valid for the full hire period. Most hire companies on the island charge a young driver fee, so it’s worth checking the different prices in advance if you fall into this category. Some companies also have higher age restrictions for more powerful or larger vehicles and premium vehicles, so if you’re not looking to hire a standard vehicle this is something to bear in mind.

  • What is the most popular rental car in Kangaroo Island?

    Compact (Hyundai i30 or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Kangaroo Island.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in Kangaroo Island?

    Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.

Car rental locations in Kangaroo Island

Car rental directory

  • thrifty

    Thrifty car rental locations in Kangaroo Island

    3 Locations

  • budget

    Budget car rental locations in Kangaroo Island

    2 Locations

  • firefly

    Firefly car rental locations in Kangaroo Island

    2 Locations

  • hertz

    Hertz car rental locations in Kangaroo Island

    2 Locations

  • sunnycars

    Sunnycars car rental locations in Kangaroo Island

    2 Locations

Good to know

Most popular car type

Compact

When to book a rental car in Kangaroo Island

Average daily price per month
Rental car prices as pick-up date approaches