Search car rental at Launceston Airport

If you want to rent a vehicle from Launceston Airport, you’re in exactly the right place. With 17 National Parks, stunning scenery and delectable local produce, Launceston is growing in popularity as a tourist destination. Located in the north of Tasmania, when you land at Launceston Airport, your main priority will be to collect your rental car and get out on the open road - that’s where we come in. With live, up-to-the-minute rates from leading suppliers, let us remove the hassle from Tasmania car hire.

An insider guide to the airport

Located on the outskirts of the town, Launceston Airport is situated in the rural region of Western Junction, just 15km from the city centre. Handling more than a million passengers each year, it services airlines such as Jetstar and Virgin Blue. Having undergone a massive redevelopment, it’s one of the most modern and innovative airports in Australia. The likes of Budget, Europcar and Thrifty all have depots within the airport terminal, but they aren’t the only vehicle hire options.

Airport car rental is our business

We make car hire simple, offering you all the top rental companies on one website. We compile all of the best deals for Launceston, then you make the choice. All you have to do is input your travel information. What makes us different within this very competitive industry is that we have no preference who you hire from. All we want is for you to get the best deal.

Once you have entered your details and clicked the yellow search button, you will be given pages and pages of rental options. From major Launceston Airport car hire companies in Launceston, such as Redspot, Europcar and Hertz, to more local Tasmanian depots, they’re all here for you. The cheapest deal will be listed first and you can also filter your choice. Whether that’s by fleet, size, transmission or pick-up, the key is ticking all your boxes. From Nissan to Hyundai and Mitsubishi, to Audi Convertibles and 25-seater buses, all driving angles are covered.

Our customer service team is on hand to answer any queries or deal with any issues you may have on your Launceston car hire, working 24 hours a day on weekdays. We offer free cancellations and free amendments on most vehicles, thanks to the highly advanced distribution and booking technology. We also offer a free app, suitable for iPhone and Android.

Tips for driving in Tasmania

Although the highways may look similar, there are always little differences to each country’s road rules. Here’s a guide for driving in Launceston:

●  The urban street speed limit is 50kph, unless otherwise signposted. The maximum speed limit is 100kph.
●  Roads can be steep, narrow and winding, so take extra care in your Launceston Airport car hire.
●  Seat-belt wearing is mandatory for drivers and passengers.
●  There are a number of narrow one-way streets in Launceston – be prepared.
●  As you drive more off the beaten track in your car rental, be wary of the local wildlife. Injuring an animal could ruin your holiday!

Get in early

The key to securing the vehicle you want is booking in advance. The longer you leave it, the more chance there won’t be anything available or you will pay over the odds. Book a few months ahead, and you’re more likely to take advantage of any special deals on offer for your car hire from Launceston Airport. On our home page, we regularly update our specials – such as free rental days, upgrades, Frequent Flyer points and much more. Also, when you start searching, our information banner offers updates on school holidays. There is also a FAQ section if you have any queries.

A good night’s rest in Launceston…

Due to the fact it is a regional airport, there are no major hotels located there. However, there are a variety of accommodation options close by. From the Abel Tasman Airport Motor Inn, just 8.5km from the airport, to country clubs and more budget hostel options in the central district, you won’t have any problem finding a roof for the night. 

What to do and where to go

With the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Tasmania Zoo, Ben Lomond National Park and numerous sporting events, you won’t be short of activities during your time in Launceston. However, if you are looking to embark on a road trip, Launceston is a great starting point. Renowned for its gorgeous food and drink, the Wine and Culture Way alongside the Tamar River is a must for those who like a glass of white… or red. And there are two journeys you can take. Launceston to Hobart is also a relatively straightforward adventure, just two-and-a-half hours south. So get your car rental booked…and get driving!

For those looking to go further afield, why not consider a car rental from Gold Coast, Perth, Brisbane or a Hobart car rental.

Launceston is Tasmania’s inland city, a place of elegant architecture, outdoor adventure and gateway to the wonderful Tamar Valley wine region and the coastal city of Devonport. Launceston Airport is a small but fast-growing regional airport with several car hire options, several visitors are welcomed to the city each day.

Find the right car rental for your Launceston and Tasmania car hire roadtrip! Here’s where you’ll find a quick summary of what each brand at Launceston Airport has to offer, so you can make sure you have the perfect set of wheels.

On Airport Rental Brands

●  Avis Car Rental operates in the terminal at Launceston Airport, 201 Evandale Road, Western Junction, TAS 7212, and they also have a downtown car hire depot at 29 Cameron Street. Available from either location is a varied fleet of late-model vehicles which include small economy cars, several different sedan sizes, SUVs, hybrids, vans and more.

●   Budget Car Hire has a handy counter at Launceston Airport, 201 Evandale Road, Western Junction, TAS 7212 as well as a city depot at 76 Frederick Street. From them you can hire a Launceston Airport car hire choosing from modern vehicles with a great range of options - economy, compact, intermediate, full size, passenger van, SUV, premium and even some 4WDs.

●   Europcar Car Rental has an airport and a city location: the former at Launceston Airport, 201 Evandale Road, Western Junction, TAS 7212 and the latter at 80 Tamar Street downtown. Their new and safe car hire fleet in Launceston includes all sizes, from basic models to some elite and prestige vehicles like a Mercedes Benz. Minivans are also available.

●   Hertz Car Rental offers a late-model range of cars from their counter at Launceston Airport, 201 Evandale Road, Western Junction, TAS 7212 and a city car hire depot in Launceston at 58 Paterson Street.  They have plenty of options which vary from a small Toyota Yaris or similar to a an 8-seater Hyundai iMax or similar.

●   Aussie-owned Redspot Car Rental’s fleet has an average car rental age of less than a year. They have a counter at Launceston Airport, 201 Evandale Road, Western Junction, TAS 7212. Launceston Airport and city deport car hire vehicles in their range cover anything from a tiny and fuel-efficient compact or economy vehicle through intermediate and full-size sedans to handy SUVs and people movers.

●   Thrifty Car Rental can be found in the terminal at Launceston Airport, 201 Evandale Road, Western Junction, TAS 7212 and also in downtown Launceston at 2-10 Tamar Street. Their Launceston car hire range is huge, with many options for cars at all sizes, station wagons, vans and 4WDS.

●   Bargain Car Rentals are based in Tasmania, a great choice for your Launceston Airport car hire. They operate out of Launceston Airport, 201 Evandale Road, Western Junction, TAS 7212 and offer a great range of vehicles at some very low rates. Their fleet includes small, medium and large car hires, SUVs and buses.

●   Red Ribbon is serviced by Bargain Car Rental at their Launceston Airport car rental location, with older vehicles at low prices. Look out for this brand to get a great deal.

●   Auto Europe Car Rental will be one of the brands you see above - check your rental confirmation to find out which counter you should go to for your Launceston car hire. They can offer fantastic savings.

●   Keddy by Europcar is a rebranding of Europcar, and you can find some great discounts and specials on Launceston car hire with this brand at certain times of year. Keep them in mind for a cost-effective rental.

Launceston is one of Australia’s oldest cities, and is a great base for road trippers in Tasmania. From its northern location, you can easily enjoy driving in your car hire from winery to winery, visiting the capital of Hobart, or even circumnavigating the whole island. There are three easy locations where you can pick up your Launceston car rental.
 

Launceston City

Launceston City is full of fantastic history and architecture, so if you’re basing yourself in town or simply staying there before you start your Tasmanian  car hire road trip, it’s a good place to pick up your car rental. The airport is only 15 minutes away in a rental vehicle, so you can either take a shuttle or a taxi to town. Rental providers with car hire pick-up depots in Launceston City include Europcar, Hertz, Budget, Avis, Honk, and Thrifty Australia. 
 

Launceston - Western Junction

Launceston’s Western Junction is roughly 15 minutes to the south of Launceston central city in a car hire. It’s located on a main route that makes it easy to head north or south. You can pick up a car rental here if you’re hiring from Red Ribbon Tasmania. 

Launceston Airport

Launceston Airport is located 15 minutes south of the CBD via National Highway 1. Picking up your rental car as soon as you land is a good way to get out on the roads sooner. From here, you can find Launceston car hire depots for Europcar, Hertz, Budget, Avis, Honk, Thrifty, Redspot Car Rentals, Bargain Car Rentals, AutoEurope, Red Ribbon, Keddy by Europcar, Selective Rentals, Alamo, and Enterprise Australia. 

Launceston is Tasmania’s second largest city, and the only one on the island that’s located inland. That said, it is build around the banks of the Tamar River right where the North Esk and South Esk Rivers come together.

Known as ‘Lonnie’ to the locals, the city doesn’t even make it into Australia’s 20th biggest with just under 90,000 permanent residents, so it has a veritable laid-back feel without the rush of a big centre. In 2015, tourist numbers to Launceston made it over the 1 million mark for the first time, and it’s expected to rise as more people discover the charms of this riverside town. Launceston Airport have a range of car hire options for all budgets, vehicle types and brands.

Launceston – The Traffic Report

Launceston doesn’t come with anywhere near the same traffic as major cities, but there are still a few hot spots that can become congested at times while in a rental car. Both bridges – Charles Street and Victoria Street - over the North Esk River can become busy, especially as these are part of popular freight routes.

The central routes of Wellington and Bathurst Street are also known to create slow movement during peak times.  

Driving from Launceston Airport to the CBD in your Launceston Airport Car Hire

Launceston Airport is just 14.5 kilometres from the city centre in a car rental, a trip that should take less than 15 minutes without traffic. When you drive out of the airport lot, follow National Highway 1 northwest towards the city.

Tips for driving in Launceston

● If you’re in town to explore the city, park your Launceston car hire somewhere and walk instead as the CBD is small enough to wander around.
● Most streets in Tasmania enforce a 50km/h rule, so stick to it unless you see signage signaling otherwise.
● Be wary of wildlife on the roads while driving your rental car anywhere out of the city, especially when they’re most active at dusk and dawn.

Road trips from Launceston

Hobart: Hobart is Tasmania’s capital, and is only 190 kilometres south of Launceston in your car hire. This trip will take you roughly 2.5 hours without stops, and it will lead you to a city of museums, markets, and beaches.

Freycinet National Park: There are two roads to access this national park your car rental, the shorter of which will take a little over 1.5 hours along a 135-kilometre route. It’s a place of epic, raw beauty with massive granite mountains and white-sand beaches. It’s known for its surfing, fresh oysters, and abundant wildlife.

Tamar Valley Wine Route: The Tamar Valley wine region is just one of the many in Tasmania thanks to the island’s cool climate and long autumn seasons. Much of this route is located between Launceston and coastal George Town. Along it, you’ll find countless wineries and plenty of divine Pinot Noir.
 

Car parking in Launceston city                                        

There are car parks available in parking buildings and on roadsides around the city.

Council meters generally cost $2.50 for an hour, $2/hour for three hours, and as low as 70 cents/hour for nine hours. There are more than a dozen parking areas, most of which offer free parking for your Launceston Airport car rental on certain days or at certain times.

For specific address, prices and opening hours of City Council car parks, read more details on their website.
 

Car parking at Launceston Airport

There are three options for parking at Launceston Airport in your airport car rental; short term, long term, and under cover.

The short-term car park is located directly in front of the terminal. Rates here start at $2 for the first 20 minutes, $4 for 20-40 minutes, $6 for 40-60 minutes and up to $23 for 6-24 hours.

There are two lots of long-term car parking, located at each end of the short-term area. Here, you’re looking at the same rates as the short term for up to an hour for your Launceston car hire, then $18 for 6-24 hours, $35 for two days, and $89 for 8-14 days.

If you prefer under cover parking, it costs a little more at $3 for the first 20 minutes, $5 for 20-40 minutes, and $26 for 6-24 hours.

See the Launceston Airport rates page here for more details.
 

Launceston Fuel

Tasmania is known for its high fuel prices. So much so, in fact, that the RACT (Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania) has an ongoing campaign to help bring down the prices. This group estimates that Tasmanians (who use an average of 50L per week) are spending roughly $12 more for their petrol every week than those on the mainland.
 

Fuel stations close to Launceston Airport

You will need to top up your petrol tank before returning your car hire to Launceston Airport, so bear in mind these Launceston fuel stations on your final day:

● Coles Express: 106-114 Bathurst Street (14 kilometres away)
● BP: 31 Wellington Street (14 kilometres away)
● Caltex Launceston: 207 Charles Street (12 kilometres away)

How much does fuel cost in Launceston?

Your best bet is to fill up in the cities around Tasmania, rather than in rural areas where prices are often higher. As of April 2016, prices are relatively low due to international markets, so you can fill up for approximately 113 cents per litre at this time. Historically, they have been as high as 145 cents per litre, higher than what you would pay for an airport car rental in mainland Australia.

This city is one of Tasmania’s most overlooked hubs - visitors certainly won’t find themselves short of fun things to do in Launceston. 

While it’s a time honoured tradition to pick up a car rental in Australia and hit the road for an adventure, many people overlook Tasmania for a car hire experience when putting together their Australian travel plans - but this is a grave mistake. The southerly island state is teeming with amazing destinations to discover, and among the best of them is the city of Launceston. Tasmania’s second major city is one of the oldest settlements in Australia, but there’s far more here than just history. There are so many things to do in Launceston in your Airport car hire that it was hard to narrow them down to just ten - nevertheless, below are a few of the city’s top attractions so you know exactly where to go when exploring this beautiful city in the north of the island once you have picked up your Launceston Airport Car Rental.
 

Saltshaker Restaurant 

Swansea’s Saltshaker Restaurant could not be on a more scenic spot. The views from this eatery are worth the visit alone, but the food and drinks are just as impressive. It’ll be hard to decide what to pick from the menu, and you’ll likely end up taking bites from your friend’s and family’s plates. The Saltshaker scallop pie is a common favourite, especially as it’s made with fresh Tasmanian scallops in a mild yellow curry. And there’s no doubt you’ll be tempted into a dessert option - the frozen honeycomb slice is something you won’t see anywhere else! Make your way to this decadent eatery with a Hobart or Launceston car rental during your Tasmanian road trip. 

Where: 11a Franklin Street, Swansea, Tasmania 7190
Open hours: 9am til late daily
 

Freycinet Adventures

Freycinet Adventures is the kind of experience that will create photos and memories of your time in Tasmania that you’ll look back on for the rest of your life. 

Picture clear blue waters and soft sands, lapping water on the side of your kayak and a friendly guide to talk you through the stories and mysteries of the region. That’s what you can expect when you book a half-day, full-day, or several-day kayak tour in the picturesque Freycinet National Park. Whether you’ve been a kayaking a dozen times before or have never picked up a paddle in your life, the experienced guides will help you through the process and have you out exploring this hidden corner of the world in style. Pick up a car hire in Hobart or Launceston and make your way there in just a couple of hours. 

Where: 2 Freycinet Drive, Coles Bay TAS 7215
Open hours: 9am-4pm daily
 

Tarkine Forest Adventures

Tarkine Forest Adventures is located in Dismal Swamp - but don’t mind the name, as this is one Tasmanian excursion that won’t leave you disappointed. The swamp itself is a natural blackwood forest sinkhole, and it’s believed to be the only one of its kind on the planet. Here, you can check out this forestry interpretation and eco-tourism experience by walking on the cantilevered trail high above the treetops, then take an exhilarating slide down 110 metres to reach the bottom of the swamp floor. Try a guided tour, and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat at the restaurant with a view. Make your way to this north-west Tasmanian spot with your car hire from Launceston. 

Where: 26059 Bass Highway, Togari, TAS 7330
Open hours: 10am - 4pm daily

Launceston Cataract Gorge

Hollybanks Treetops Adventure

Exploring Tasmania’s wilderness on foot is an experience you should certainly embrace during your time on the island - the southwest of Tasmania is particularly good for those wanting to embark on longer hikes into the state’s pristine natural environment - but just 20 minutes northwest of Launceston in your Airport car hire you can find an altogether more unique way to discover Tassie forests. The Hollybanks Treetops Adventure gives visitors the chance to glide across the across the treetops for a unique bird’s eye view on the gorgeous forest canopy. Using harnesses and wires, adventurous nature lovers are led by expert guides between tree platforms high above the ground, known as ‘cloud stations’. Combining wilderness tranquility with the adrenaline spike of ziplining, the Hollybanks Treetops Adventure has to be experienced to be believed.

Address: 66 Hollybank Rd, Underwood TAS 7268, Australia
Opening Hours: 9AM–5PM
Website: treetopsadventure.com.au
 

Harvest Launceston

There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into fresh fruit or artisanal tasty treats that have been produced no more than a few kilometres away from where you’re standing. To get your fresh, local fix in Launceston, the best place to go is the Harvest Launceston Community Farmers’ Market in the heart of the Tamar Valley - a short drive out of Launceston in your car hire. Whether you indulge your inner caffeine addict with a locally roasted coffee, pick out a pastry or two for morning tea or pack up a local wine or cider to be savoured later on, this is a must-visit event for anyone who fancies themselves as a foodie. Harvest Launceston takes place every Saturday morning on Citimere Street, just across from Albert Hall. 

Address: 71 Cimitiere St, Launceston TAS 7250, Australia
Open Hours: Saturday 8:30-12:30
Website: harvestmarket.org.au

Tasmania Zoo

So far you’ve had plenty of opportunities to see Tasmania’s rich forest and plant life, but to get a prime look at the unique wildlife of Australia (including many Tasmanian natives) then there’s no better place to go than Tasmania Zoo. This local family owned operation has a spectacularly diverse collection that includes a number of critically endangered native and exotic species, and also hosts the largest collection of primates in any private Australian Zoo. The folks at Tasmania Zoo do more than their fair share for wildlife conservation and education as well, even to the extent of caring for injured and orphaned animals (returning to the wild all those which can be safely released) so you know that creatures you’ve come to admire are in good hands. Tasmania Zoo have plenty of parking options for your Launceston Airport car hire vehicle.

Address: 1166 Ecclestone Rd, Riverside TAS 7250, Australia
Opening Hours: 9AM–4:30PM
Website: tasmaniazoo.com.au

City Park

Sometimes all you need, in the middle of a packed itinerary, is a peaceful place to recharge and refresh. Launceston’s City Park is just such a place. Located right in the heart of downtown Launceston, the park is the perfect place to park up your Launceston car hire and take a casual stroll along a shaded walkway or picnic on the green grass. This isn’t just your standard park though. Before you leave, make sure to head over to the Japanese Macaque monkey enclosure to see these beautiful animals up close and free of charge! There’s also a playground and BBQ area, making City Park ideal for a low key, low cost family outing. You can get to the park from either Tamar Street or the corner of Cimitiere and Lawrence Streets in your car rental.

Address: 45-55 Tamar st., Launceston TAS 7250, Australia
Opening Hours: 8:30AM-4:30PM
Website: launceston.tas.gov.au

The Tamar Valley

This gentle river valley, liberally dotted with vineyards and wineries, stretches northwest from Launceston for some 50 kilometres, offering visitors the perfect opportunity for a day trip around the vines. There’s no one right way to travel through the Tamar Valley (although a Launceston car rental is a great option), so do a little bit of research about the various wineries in the area, sort out a sober driver and embark on your own personalised tour of this beautiful area. If you have a little more time available to you, spending as much as three days discovering the small towns and many excellent vintages in the region will make for a more indulgent and luxurious experience.

Location: Runs from North to West from Launceston to the coast either side of the Tamar River

Three Capes Track

Launceston isn’t just a fantastic destination - it’s also a great place to launch your Tasmanian adventures from. This island is packed with amazing things to do, and picking up a Launceston Airport car hire will give you the freedom to range far beyond the city and discover charming settlements and spectacular wild places. One such wild place, adored by hikers worldwide, is Three Capes Track. When it comes to coastal walks, it doesn’t get much better than this. While the grade of the walk is easy to moderate, the track will guide you through four days of dramatically remote Tasmanian coastline. Booking is essential for the Three Capes Track, so make sure you plan well ahead and visit the official Three Capes Track website for more information. Be sure to book your car rental for when you land at Launceston Airport well in advance during peak times as availability is often limited. 

Address: 6955 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur TAS 7182, Australia
Website: threecapestrack.com.au
 

Forest Walks Lodge

Nestled amongst Tasmania’s stunning forests is the cosy bed and breakfast, Forest Walks Lodge. With a passion for the environment, this eco-friendly lodge is the perfect spot for a wilderness weekend getaway. Built and run by husband-wife team Sean Cadman and Rosemary Norwood, Forest Walks Lodge exists to share the beauty of Australia’s wildlife with travellers, adventurers, and those needing a well-earned break. And they sure do an incredible job. With fresh ingredients and produce for meals, locally sourced Tasmanian wine, three beautiful rooms ranging in size, and the wilderness on your doorstep, there’s so much to love about Forest Walks Lodge. Located 80 kilometers southwest from Launceston, it’s a short one hour trip in your Launceston Airport rental car.

Where: 669 Jackeys Marsh Road, Jackeys Marsh, Tasmania, 7304, Australia
Phone: +61 03 6369 5150
 

National Automobile Museum of Tasmania

Step back in time when you visit the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania. An ever-changing exhibition area allows visitors to view a fantastic range of classic car and motorcycles for a trip down memory lane. Head to central Launceston in your rental car for a bit of nostalgic fun. The museum showcases vehicles with fascinating back-stories and historical significance. Spend a morning or afternoon wandering through the cars and motorcycles, many of which are unique to the museum.

Where: Corner of Willis & Cimitiere Street, Launceston, Tasmania, 7250, Australia
Hours: Open 7 days, 9:00am - 5:00pm Winter 10:00am - 4:00pm