January is the best time of year to be a sports fan in Australia. But let’s be honest: it is the worst time of year to be stuck in a taxi queue.
Between the thoroughbreds at the Gold Coast Magic Millions and the aces flying at the Australian Open (AO), our cities are packed. The surge pricing on rideshares is nasty, the humidity is high, and waiting 45 minutes for a bus is nobody’s idea of a holiday.
If you are flying in for the big events this week, you need a game plan. Here is how to keep your transport sorted so you don’t miss the first serve (or the first race).
The Australian Open: The “Park & Tram” Strategy
Melbourne comes alive during the AO. The atmosphere at Garden Square is electric, but the traffic gridlock around the CBD can be a mood killer.
The Rookie Mistake: Trying to drive right up to the entrance of Melbourne Park. Parking is expensive, limited, and usually booked out months in advance.
The “Sorted” Strategy: Smart travellers know that the best way to do the tennis is to stay mobile. Don’t rely on the slow Airport Skybus. Pick up your car hire Melbourne Airport vehicle as soon as you land so you can toss your bags in the boot and head straight to your hotel on your own schedule.
On game day, park on the city fringe. Suburbs like Richmond or South Yarra often have parking garages that are cheaper and less chaotic than the CBD. From there, it is a quick tram ride or a scenic walk along the Yarra River to the courts. You avoid the traffic jam, save cash, and have your car ready for a recovery trip to the Yarra Valley the next day.
The Magic Millions: Beating the Bundall Heat
Up on the Gold Coast, the Magic Millions is in full swing. It isn’t just a horse race; it is a week-long carnival of sales, polo, and parties.
The Challenge: Getting to the Turf Club is easy. Getting out is the hard part. The taxi rank queue after the last race can stretch for hundreds of metres. Standing in a suit or dress in the humid Queensland afternoon heat while waiting for a ride is exhausting.
The Solution: Control your own exit. While VIP parking is scarce, the surrounding streets in Bundall often have spots if you arrive early. Having your own air-conditioned vehicle means you can leave exactly when you want—heading straight to the beach at Surfers Paradise to cool off while everyone else is still refreshing their rideshare app.
Game, Set, Match
The best part about having a rental car for these events isn’t just the convenience, but also the freedom to escape the city when the crowds get too much. Whether it is a drive down the Mornington Peninsula or a cruise to Burleigh Heads, you need wheels to see the real Australia.
Don’t leave your summer plans to chance. Check our live availability and get your trip sorted today.
