Tasmania’s wild coastlines, Australia’s lush forests, and winding country roads make it one of most breathtaking places to explore by car. Whether you’re a local planning a weekend escape from Hobart or a tourist landing in Sydney and flying down for a scenic road trip, there’s no better way to soak in the island’s beauty than behind the wheel. 

But while you’re admiring Tassie’s natural wonders, why not give a little back to the environment that makes it all so special? With a few simple changes to your driving habits—and a little help from YesDrive—you can reduce your environmental impact while still enjoying the ultimate road trip.

Let’s dive into some eco-friendly driving tips to help make your Tasmanian adventure a greener one. 

Plan Smarter, Drive Greener

Before you hit the road, a bit of thoughtful planning can go a long way toward minimising emissions.

Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Trip

At YesDrive, we offer a range of fuel-efficient and hybrid vehicles in both Hobart and Sydney, so you can match your rental car to your travel needs. Whether you’re cruising around Hobart’s art-filled laneways or heading out to Freycinet National Park, a smaller, efficient vehicle can help you cut down on fuel usage.

Optimise Your Route

Use a GPS or smartphone app to plan the most direct route between your destinations. Reducing the time spent idling in traffic or taking unnecessary detours can significantly lower your fuel consumption. Bonus: you’ll get to your next photo stop even faster!

Travel Light

It might be tempting to pack everything but the kitchen sink, but extra weight puts more strain on your car, increasing fuel consumption. Stick to the essentials and leave a little space in the boot—you never know when you’ll stumble upon a charming local market or winery worth bringing something back from.

Drive Smoothly and Efficiently

Small changes in how you drive can make a big difference in your car’s efficiency.

Avoid Sudden Braking and Accelerating

Gentle acceleration and braking help your vehicle operate more efficiently and reduce wear and tear. On Tasmania’s winding country roads, this also makes for a more comfortable and enjoyable drive.

Stick to the Speed Limit

Tasmania is all about slowing down and taking it in, and sticking to posted speed limits isn’t just safer—it also improves fuel efficiency. Speeds over 100km/h can significantly increase fuel consumption, especially in less aerodynamic vehicles.

Use Cruise Control Where Possible

On longer highway stretches, such as the drive between Hobart and Launceston, cruise control can help maintain a steady speed and reduce unnecessary acceleration, helping you conserve fuel.

Embrace Sustainable Pit Stops

It’s not just how you drive that matters—it’s also where you stop along the way.

Support Eco-Conscious Local Businesses

When grabbing a bite or booking a tour, look out for cafes and experiences that prioritise sustainability. From farm-to-table restaurants in the Huon Valley to eco-lodges near Cradle Mountain, there are plenty of options that align with your eco-friendly goals.

Bring Reusables

Keep reusable coffee cups, water bottles, and shopping bags in your hire car to reduce waste while you explore. Many Tasmanian towns, including Hobart, are big on cutting down single-use plastics, and you’ll likely get a discount for bringing your own.

Dispose of Waste Responsibly

Tasmania’s landscapes are pristine for a reason—locals and visitors take care to leave no trace. Carry a small rubbish bag in your vehicle and make use of recycling bins at rest stops, towns, and parks along the way.

How YesDrive Helps You Travel Greener

At YesDrive, we’re committed to helping travellers and locals enjoy the road responsibly. Here’s how we make it easier for you to have a more sustainable road trip:

• Fuel-efficient fleet: Our range includes compact and hybrid vehicles that consume less fuel and emit fewer emissions.

• Convenient pick-up in Sydney and Hobart: Whether you’re starting your journey on the mainland or already in Tasmania, our locations make it easy to find the right vehicle for your needs.

• Well-maintained vehicles: Regular servicing keeps our cars running efficiently and safely, which helps reduce environmental impact.

• Flexible rental options: Whether it’s a short local trip or an extended island adventure, we offer flexible plans to suit your travel goals.

Our team also loves sharing local tips, so don’t hesitate to ask about scenic eco-friendly stops, slow-travel destinations, or places that support sustainable tourism.

Eco-Driving FAQs

Is it possible to rent a hybrid or electric vehicle in Tasmania?
Yes! At YesDrive, we offer hybrid options in both Hobart and Sydney. While electric vehicle infrastructure in Tasmania is still growing, hybrids offer a reliable eco-friendly alternative.

What’s the most fuel-efficient route for a Tasmania road trip?
A loop from Hobart to the East Coast (Freycinet, Bicheno), up to Launceston, and back down through the Midlands Highway is efficient, scenic, and well-serviced.

Are there extra charges for choosing a fuel-efficient car at YesDrive?
Nope! In fact, smaller or hybrid vehicles often come with lower rental and fuel costs—saving you money while helping the environment.

Can I rent a car in Hobart and return it in Sydney?
While Tasmania-to-mainland returns aren’t available, we offer flexible drop-off options within Tasmania and Sydney. Talk to our team about one-way rentals within each state.

Ready to Hit the Road the Green Way?

Whether you’re exploring the streets of Hobart, the vineyards of the Tamar Valley, or setting off from Sydney for a bigger Aussie road trip, driving can still be a sustainable choice. By making small changes in how you plan, drive, and travel, you can enjoy all Tasmania has to offer while preserving it for the next adventure-seeker.

Book your eco-friendly rental today with YesDrive and make your Tasmanian getaway unforgettable—for all the right reasons.