Tasmania is a road-tripper’s dream, offering stunning coastal routes, lush national parks, and historic towns. Whether you’re chasing vibrant festivals, exploring hidden gems, or looking for the best value trip, timing your visit and choosing the right transport can make all the difference.
For travellers looking to get the best value, making smart travel choices is key. One of the most important? Hiring a car. Not only does it give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but it also lets you reach places that public transport won’t take you.
In this guide, we’ll cover Tasmania’s top seasonal events, expert travel tips, scenic and diverse 3-day road trip routes, and how to find the amazing car hire deals to maximise your experience.
Why Hiring a Car in Tasmania is Essential?
Tasmania is designed for road trips—public transport is limited, and many of the best spots are only accessible by car.
- Freedom & flexibility: Plan your own schedule, stop where you want, and take spontaneous detours.
- Access hidden gems: Visit places like The Wall in the Wilderness, and Cloudy Bay on Bruny Island. Remote locations that are unreachable by buses.
- Travel at your own pace: With a rental car, you can explore off-the-beaten-path locations and linger longer at the places you love.
- Best way to see nature: Drive through Western Wilds’ rainforests, Great Eastern Drive’s beaches, or Heartlands’ historic villages.
Best starting points:
- Hobart: Ideal for exploring the Southern Edge and Port Arthur. Bruny Island is also accessible via ferry, though car rental policies may vary.
- Launceston: Perfect for exploring the Tamar Valley, Cradle Mountain, and Northern Forage.
For a complete guide to Tasmania’s best road trips, visit our Tasmania Road Trip Guide. Start by finding the amaizing car hire deals on KAYAK.
Seasonality & Travel Cost Tips
Tasmania offers unique experiences year-round, but the season you choose impacts both your experience and your value. Here’s what you need to know before planning your trip:
Autumn in Tasmania (March – May)
Golden foliage sweeps across Tasmania’s landscapes, making it a scenic paradise for road trips. This off-peak season is perfect for value travellers, with lower prices on flights, accommodations, and car hire. The weather is still pleasant, and wine festivals are in full swing.
- Best for: Fagus foliage walks, cool climate wine tastings, and peaceful winter road adventures.
- Event highlights: Taste of Summer, Ten Days on the Island, and Echo Festival.
- Money-saving tip: Book last-minute stays—hotels often offer better value during this season.
Winter in Tasmania (June – August)
Winter brings a different kind of magic, snow-capped mountains, cosy fireplaces, and unique cultural festivals. While some areas get quieter, Hobart and Launceston remain lively. This is the cheapest season for flights, car hire, and accommodation.
- Best for: Cosy getaways, winter hikes, cultural experiences.
- Event highlights: Dark Mofo Festival, Festival of Voices, and Tasmanian Whisky Week.
- Money-saving tip: Hire a 4WD or SUV for better handling on icy roads in highland areas.
For more details on Tasmania’s seasons, visit Discover Tasmania.
Spring in Tasmania (September – November)
Tasmania’s national parks come alive with wildflowers and baby wildlife. It’s a great time for outdoor activities, from hiking at Cradle Mountain to scenic drives past rolling vineyards and countryside views.
Spring is a shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds and better value on accommodation and car hire.
- Best for: Nature lovers, road trips, outdoor adventure.
- Event highlights: Effervescence Tasmania (celebrating sparkling wine), The Unconformity, Tulip Festival Wynyard, and Junction Arts Festival.
- Money-saving tip: Book in advance for cheaper flights and car hire deals.
Summer in Tasmania (December – February)
With long daylight hours and warm temperatures, summer is Tasmania’s peak season. Beaches, festivals, and food markets are in full swing. However, prices for flights, accommodations, and car hire are at their highest, so plan ahead.
- Best for: Beach trips, major celebrations, festival feasts and fresh seafood lovers.
- Event highlights: Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Taste of Summer Festival.
- Money-saving tip: Avoid December’s holiday rush by traveling in early February.
Finding the Best Car Hire Deals in Tasmania
Now that you know why renting a car is essential, let’s talk about how to find the best value car hire options in Tasmania.
- Use comparison tools: Websites like KAYAK allow you to compare rental prices from different companies to find the best deal.
- Book in advance: Tasmania is a popular road trip destination, especially in summer and during festivals. Booking ahead ensures better availability and lower rates.
- Pick up from major cities: The best places to rent a car in Tasmania are Hobart and Launceston, as they have the largest selection of rental companies.
- Consider rental insurance: While rental companies offer insurance, you may find better rates through third-party providers. Always check the terms before booking.
- Check for unlimited mileage: Some rental agencies have mileage restrictions, so ensure you get a plan that allows unlimited driving, especially if you’re doing a long road trip
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling during winter, consider renting an SUV or 4WD for better handling on icy roads in mountainous areas.
Breathtaking Road Trips in Tasmania
Tasmania is made for road trips, offering breathtaking coastal drives, scenic mountain passes, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re after winding wilderness roads, vineyard trails, or beach-hopping routes, there’s a drive for every traveler.
- Northern Forage: Discover gourmet food, rolling vineyards, and character-filled river towns.
- Heartlands: Step back in time with historic villages, scenic farmlands, and whisky distilleries.
- Southern Edge: A mix of city, coast, and countryside, from Hobart to stunning coastal cliffs.
- Great Eastern Drive: The ultimate beach road trip, with turquoise waters and fresh seafood stops.
- Western Wilds: Venture into ancient rainforests, deep gorges, and Tasmania’s wild landscapes.
For full itineraries and key stops, check out our Tasmania Road Trip Guide.
Tasmania is a road trip paradise, and hiring a car allows you to explore its diverse landscapes, hidden gems, and seasonal events at your own pace. Whether you’re planning a coastal summer getaway, a wine-filled autumn escape, or a winter adventure, having your own vehicle ensures a seamless and unforgettable trip.
