Car & Van Hire - Brisbane

Brisbane is not only the capital of Queensland, but it's also the most populous city. Queensland's sub-tropical climate and beautiful nature make it a popular spot for visitors. While car hire or van rental in Brisbane will let you see the best of the state, don't neglect the city itself! It's worth taking a trip into the central business district (CBD) of Brisbane to get a feel of the city. Eat Street Northshore is a foodie's paradise, as it's an enormous food market made from old shipping containers. The market has over 180 food stalls to choose from. Once you've eaten, take a stroll along the Brisbane Riverwalk for the best views in the city. This route starts at the picturesque green New Farm Park and continues along the river to the Botanic Gardens. If you'd rather be on the water than alongside it, you can also take a kayak tour down the river.

Want to see Australia's wildlife? One of Brisbane's top attractions is Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, which is particularly popular with kids. This sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of koalas and other critters. There are over 80 species of native wildlife living here, and there's a strong emphasis on education. It's a great day out for the whole family to enjoy.

Fancy a hike? There are some great options starting right in the city. On top of the list has to be Mount Coot-tha. Take the Eugenia Circuit, a trail that winds through the eucalyptus trees and lets you stop to admire the Simpson and JC Slaughter Falls. The trail continues on to a great view overlooking the city. There are designated picnic spots along the way, so you might want to bring some snacks.

Queensland is famous for its spectacular coast. Make the most of it by taking a trip to Moreton Island. Over 600 wild dolphins frolic in the waters of Moreton Bay. Underwater thrill seekers can also check out the Tangalooma wrecks, a group of purposefully-sunk ships that have become a major draw. With a huge variety of colourful fish and sea creatures living here, this is an ideal spot for snorkelling or scuba diving.

Whale season in Queensland runs from June to November. Whale-watching tours are available in Moreton Bay. You'll have to cross your fingers, as spotting these gentle giants is never guaranteed. If you're lucky, you'll see humpback whales close to the shore, a truly unforgettable sight.

Brisbane has several toll roads. With a car hire in Brisbane, you will usually find that your vehicle comes equipped with an e-Tag, which is used to make toll payments. There is no need to make a physical payment as you pass through the toll booth. The most notable toll roads include the Gateway Motorway, Logan Motorway, AirportLinkM7, Clem7 Tunnel, Legacy Way and the Go Between Bridge.

Brisbane is a good city for driving. The CBD has less traffic than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it easy for you to drive right into the city centre. There is ample parking throughout the city. You'll find both on-street parking, operated by meters, and flat-free garages. It's worth looking online for parking websites, as you can often save money by booking in advance.

Want to avoid rush hour? There are many commuters in South East Queensland, moving between Brisbane and nearby towns like Gold Coast. Peak traffic times are between 07:00-09:00 and 16:00-19:00. Most commuters are coming into the city, so inbound traffic is heavier in the morning, while outbound is heavier in the evening. The traffic may not be as bad as in Sydney, but it's still a good idea to plan your trip around these hours to avoid the rush. During rush hour, try to steer clear of Sandgate Road, Western Arterial Road, South Pine Road and Centenary Motorway, which are usually the worst-affected spots.

If you're driving outside the city, be aware of distances. Australia is a very large country. Driving holidays in Brisbane are a popular choice but should be carefully planned first. After you get a car rental in Brisbane, you'll need to carefully check distances and look for amenities along the way. Driving within city limits after dark is fine, but visitors are strongly recommended to only drive through the outback during daylight hours. Kangaroos can be found throughout the state. They are most active at night, and while they may make a charming sight loping alongside the road, they can present a serious hazard to drivers.

Queensland's wet season runs from November to April. During this time, heavy rains are common and can lead to flooding. Bushfires are also a possible danger throughout the year. Be sure to pay close attention to local weather warnings, and don't take unnecessary risks when renting a car in Brisbane. If you are caught in an adverse weather situation, always follow the guidance given by authorities.