How to find a cheap car hire deal in Newcastle
Start your adventure off right with a cheap rental car in Newcastle. With prices averaging $89 a day, it's travel freedom that doesn't cost a fortune. From small cars to full-size models, we'll match you with the perfect ride for the right price.
Daily rental prices in Newcastle start from just $55.
Planning a longer trip and want to explore beyond the main attractions? $385 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
To score the best price on a Newcastle car hire, it's smart to book in advance. Rates tend to climb as your travel dates approach, and you might be left with fewer choices.
Read the fine print when it comes to the coverage on your Newcastle car hire. A collision damage waiver (CDW) might be included in the deal or cost extra, depending on the company.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to score a good deal if the provider needs to move cars between branches. Find the best available rates by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your ride with a full tank, so you pay only for what you use. No surprise fuel add-ons when you hand back the keys either.
Travel without limits by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you need without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average $153 a day.
Offering daily rates of around $166, [this provider](this provider) comes in next.
The third option won't stretch your budget either. You'll pay roughly $128 a day with this supplier.
Need a car that covers most travel plans? The Compact rental category is the number one choice for travellers visiting Newcastle.
Compare car hire types in Newcastle
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Newcastle is all about getting you on the road for less. These agile, fuel-efficient cars are excellent for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, this is the rental that's juuuust right! Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of fuel efficiency and interior space and are popular with small families and couples.
Large: Offering greater driving comfort and extra tech features, this Newcastle car hire category includes full-size cars. With bigger back seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: When adventure's on your mind, an SUV's made for the moment. It's your ultimate road trip buddy, ready for country roads, highways, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Newcastle that makes light work of heavy loads. Typically featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's equipment, baggage or large groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't mandatory, but is something to think about. If your car is damaged, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a hefty excess fee. Different Newcastle car hire providers have varying insurance policies and coverage levels, so check the terms before booking.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can make all the difference on the road. Think about which extras will suit your needs when you rent a car in Newcastle.
Good to know
Check each supplier's age requirements before booking your rental in South Africa. Rules can vary, and added fees or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to explore your options.
Add a car seat to your Newcastle car rental reservation if you're planning to travel with the kids. Guidelines vary from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their size, weight and age is always the safest choice.
Bring the right documents to make pick-up quick and easy. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (no digital copies) plus another photo ID. Also bring along a credit card with room for the security hold. If anything else is expected, it'll be listed in your booking.
Get familiar with your rental. Check your seat and mirrors, find the lights and wipers, and get a feel for its handling before you set off. And remember to stay on the left side of the road in South Africa.
Stay within local speed limits of about 55kph through urban areas and around 110kph on highways. Check the road signs, as limits may vary.
In South Africa, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%. If you intend to have a couple of drinks, hand the keys to someone else or find an alternative way to get around.
Around 7am is one of the busiest times for traffic around this destination. Try to avoid peak times generally for a smoother trip.
The South African rand (ZAR) is the currency you'll be using for everyday purchases and activities. Pay with a card where you can, but have some cash ready when electronic payments aren't available.
Best hotels in Newcastle for drivers
Offering parking, Blackrock Hotel takes the stress out of finding a place for your car. This hotel is around 3 kilometres from central Newcastle and also comes with air conditioning and a pool.
Tramonto Boutique Hotel keeps guests happy with accessible parking and features such as a fireplace and a laundry. It's roughly 5 kilometres from the city centre.
Need more ideas? Browse the full lineup of hotels in Newcastle. You can narrow things down with filters — try 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' If your car's electric, you can use the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter.
After you've chosen a car hire deal in Newcastle and your hotel, you're ready to start sightseeing. Carnegie Art Museum is the perfect introduction to the city.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Newcastle
Keep travelling to Vryheid. Around 88 kilometres east of central Newcastle, you'll find must-sees like Vryheid Hill Nature Reserve and Hlobane Battlefield.
Alternatively, pick up your cheap car hire in Newcastle and then set off for Dundee. Around 56 kilometres southeast of Newcastle, Talana Museum and Catholic Church - Cathedral of the Holy Rosary are top attractions that are well worth the trip.
Stretch your journey and road-trip it to Soweto, about 257 kilometres northwest of Newcastle. Kick things off at Soweto, then take your time exploring Hector Pieterson Museum.
