A Sydney to Brisbane road trip is one of the most beautiful and exciting in Australia. If you have 900 km, you can make this adventure to go through beautiful coastal towns, rich hinterland and some of the most popular sites in the country. For the person who is a foreign visitor and plans to make this a route that is iconic to visit, then renting a car is the best way to experience the freedom of the open country. Here is what you need to know about car rental and the itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip.
Car Rental Tips for International Visitors
- Select the Proper Rental Car
The type of vehicle you choose to use will depend on the type of traveller you are. A compact car is useful for the money saver while an SUV is useful for people or those who want more space. If you have plans to go off the track then you should get a 4WD.
- Check License & Insurance Requirements
Most car hire companies in Australia are permitted to take IDP (international driving permit) together with your driving licence from your country.
- Learn About The Rules Of The Road
All cars in Australia are driven on the left side of the road.
On the highways the speed limits are 100-110 km/h.
The country has very strict drink and drive rules with the blood alcohol concentration limits set at 0.05%.
- Plan for One-Way Rental Costs
If you don’t think you are going to be returning the car to Sydney some car hire companies let you do a one way car hire but there will be extra charges. It is always important to find out the total cost of the services before making the booking.
💡 For the easiest pickup and drop off, try Car Rental Sydney Airport and Car Rental Brisbane Airport for your car hire needs.
Itinerary of the Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip (7 Days)
Day 1: Sydney to Newcastle (170 km, 2.5 hrs)
From Sydney you can take the Pacific Highway and cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Take a stop at Glenrock State Conservation Area for the tracks and the ocean as the background.
Enjoy Newcastle’s beaches, restaurants, and historical sites.
Day 2: Newcastle to Port Macquarie (245 km, 3 hrs)
Take a tour to the popular Port Stephens sand dunes that support 4WD.
You can also visit the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie to have a closer look at Australia’s animals.
Day 3: Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour (160 km, 2 hrs)
Stop over at South West Rocks which is famous for its beautiful beaches.
Visit one of the most recognizable landmarks of Australia – the Big Banana.
Day 4: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay (240 km, 3 hrs)
Make a stop at Yamba, a coastal town popular for its surfing spots.
Browse around Byron Bay and head to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for the sunset.
Day 5: Byron Bay to Gold Coast (95 km, 1.5 hrs)
Go to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and have a kangaroo and koala encounter.
Take a break on the shores of the famous Gold Coast.
Day 6: Gold Coast to Brisbane (80 km, 1 hr)
Stop by Surfers Paradise and enjoy shopping and eating out while being by the beach.
Hold a koala while visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Day 7: Explore Brisbane
Strolling along South Bank Parklands.
A relaxing CityCat ferry ride along the Brisbane River.
Final Thoughts
This Sydney to Brisbane road trip is a perfect combination of activity and relaxation with beautiful views. This is because when you rent a car you are in control of the time and you can also get to some places that are not congested. So bring your clothes, get into your car and make your exploration of Australia’s east coast a memorable one.
🚗 If you are in need of a rental car, you can book your car from Airport Car Rental Sydney or Airport Car Rental Brisbane and begin your journey without a hassle.
