9-day Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive

You can easily rent a car in Australia, and it’s a great way to explore routes like the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne.

To rent a vehicle, you’ll generally need:

• A valid UK driver’s licence (as it’s in English, an International Driving Permit is usually not required)
• A passport for identification
• A credit card in the driver’s name for payment and security deposit

Most rental companies also require drivers to:

• Be at least 21 years old, with additional surcharges often applying to drivers under 25
• Have held a full driver’s licence for at least 12 months
• Hold a licence valid for the type of vehicle being hired

In Australia, driving is on the left-hand side of the road, just like in the UK, which makes the transition behind the wheel relatively straightforward for most travellers.

You’ll find major rental companies at airports, city centres and regional locations across Australia, making pick-up and drop-off easy. It’s a good idea to book online in advance for better rates, especially during busy travel periods. You may also want to review insurance options carefully, as basic cover is usually included, with the option to reduce your excess for extra peace of mind.

You can rent a car in Australia, and it’s a great way to explore routes like the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne, but there are a few important requirements to be aware of.

To rent a vehicle, you’ll generally need:

• A valid Chinese driver’s licence
• An official English translation of your licence (as China does not issue International Driving Permits)
• A passport for identification
• A credit card in the driver’s name for payment and security deposit

Most rental companies also require drivers to:

• Be at least 21 years old, with additional surcharges often applying to drivers under 25
• Have held a full licence for at least 12 months
• Hold a licence valid for the type of vehicle being hired

Rental companies may have slightly different requirements, so it’s worth checking with your provider before you travel. You’ll find major rental companies at airports, city centres and regional locations across Australia, making pick-up and drop-off straightforward. It’s a good idea to book online in advance for better rates, especially during busy travel periods.

It’s also important to note that in Australia, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Coming from driving on the right-hand side in China, it may take a little time to adjust, so allowing extra time to get comfortable behind the wheel is a good idea.

Absolutely, this coastal journey is designed to be flexible. You can just as easily travel in reverse, starting in Melbourne and finishing in Sydney.

Because the route follows a well-connected stretch of coastline, it’s easy to tailor the experience to suit your travel style. You can adjust overnight stops, take scenic detours, or spend extra time in places that stand out to you along the way. Popular highlights such as Jervis Bay and Wilsons Promontory National Park are especially worth stopping in if you have the time, with beautiful beaches, national parks and plenty of opportunities to slow down and explore.

You can enjoy the coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne at any time of year, but spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are particularly beautiful. These seasons offer mild temperatures and ideal conditions for exploring coastal towns, national parks and beaches, while avoiding the peak summer crowds.

Summer (December to February) is popular for swimming, beach stops and long sunny days, though it can be busier with holiday travellers and higher accommodation prices. Winter (June to August) is cooler but still a great option for a road trip, especially for whale watching along parts of the coast and escaping the crowds.