Fuel Efficiency Tips for Your Road Trip Rental
Fuel Efficiency Tips for Your Road Trip Rental
Planning a road trip from Sydney to the Blue Mountains or setting off from Hobart to explore Tasmania’s wild coastline? Whether you’re a tourist soaking up Australia’s natural beauty or a local chasing a weekend escape, a hire car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
But with petrol prices on the rise, it pays to be smart about how you drive. Maximising fuel efficiency means fewer stops at the servo and more money to spend on food, fun, and experiences.
Here are our top fuel-saving tips for your next journey—plus how YesDrive helps you travel smarter in Sydney, Hobart, and beyond.
Table of Contents
Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Trip
Fuel efficiency starts with picking the right car. A zippy compact hatch will use significantly less fuel than a large SUV—so think about your travel needs before choosing.
Solo or couple road trips: Compact or economy cars are ideal for city-to-country drives.
Family holidays: Go for a mid-sized SUV or sedan that balances space with efficiency.
Adventurous getaways: If you’re heading off-road or packing heavy, choose a fuel-efficient SUV with good mileage.
At YesDrive, we offer a range of well-maintained, modern vehicles in both Sydney and Hobart, making it easy to match your ride to your road trip.
Drive Smoothly and Avoid Sudden Stops
Aggressive driving burns more fuel. Accelerating quickly, speeding, and braking hard all contribute to higher fuel consumption.
Travel Tip:
Try to drive smoothly—accelerate gradually, coast where safe, and anticipate traffic to reduce unnecessary braking. On highways, aim to keep a steady pace, which is far more efficient than frequent speed changes.
Bonus: Smooth driving also helps reduce wear and tear on the car, making for a more comfortable and safer trip.
Lighten the Load in Your Hire Car
Every extra kilo in your vehicle makes the engine work harder, which increases fuel use—especially over long distances.
Before you head off:
Remove any heavy items you don’t need.
Avoid carrying unnecessary luggage or gear in the boot.
Leave bulky extras like roof racks behind if they’re not essential.
YesDrive vehicles are regularly cleaned and prepped so you’re not starting your journey with added weight. And if you need space, we offer roomy models that won’t compromise fuel efficiency.
Use Cruise Control Where Possible
Cruise control is a fuel-saving feature that’s especially handy for long road trips. On flat roads or highways, it keeps your speed constant, helping reduce fuel use caused by small speed fluctuations.
Just be mindful: On steep inclines or winding roads, cruise control can actually use more fuel as it works harder to maintain speed. Use it wisely and turn it off when tackling hills or twisty terrain—like those scenic Tassie routes outside Hobart.
Plan Smart: Routes, Stops, and Refuelling
Planning ahead saves more than just time—it can also save fuel. Use maps or apps to avoid heavy traffic, roadworks, and long detours that can burn through your tank.
Helpful hacks:
Check for the cheapest fuel stops along your route using apps like FuelCheck NSW or PetrolSpy.
Avoid peak-hour travel in busy areas like central Sydney or Hobart CBD.
Consider combining stops so you’re not making extra trips for essentials like groceries or supplies.
At YesDrive, our friendly staff can offer local advice to help you plan efficient and scenic routes around Sydney or across Tasmania.
Keep Your Tyres Properly Inflated
Under-inflated tyres are a common cause of poor fuel economy. They create more resistance with the road, which means your engine has to work harder.
YesDrive performs regular checks and maintenance on all vehicles before you pick them up—but it’s always smart to do a quick visual check during long trips. Most petrol stations have air pumps where you can top up tyre pressure for free.
Tip: The correct tyre pressure can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the vehicle manual.
Why YesDrive Makes Fuel-Efficient Travel Easy
Hiring with YesDrive means starting your road trip on the right foot. Here’s how we help you travel smarter:
Modern, fuel-efficient vehicles: Our fleet includes newer models designed to go further on less.
Choice of vehicle types: Whether you want something compact or need space for the whole family, we have fuel-friendly options to suit.
Convenient locations in Sydney and Hobart: Easy access to your starting point—no wasting fuel getting to your car.
Local knowledge: Our staff are always happy to share route tips and travel hacks to help you get the most from your trip.
Book Your Next Adventure with YesDrive
Road trips are all about freedom, but they don’t have to be fuel-guzzling. With a few smart choices and the right hire car, you can explore more and spend less on petrol.
Whether you’re setting off from Sydney to explore the coast or leaving Hobart to chase mountain views, YesDrive is your go-to for reliable, efficient, and comfortable rental cars.
Ready to hit the road? Book your next fuel-friendly rental car with YesDrive today and drive smarter, not harder.
