Suitable Times for Pick-Up
Branch opening hours, choosing a pick-up time, busy periods and how long check-in takes when you collect your campervan.
Campervan branch hours
You can generally pick up at any time within the branch's opening hours, because campervan rental is charged by calendar day. Hours are usually around 9.00am to 3.00pm, but they vary between rental companies, and on weekends and public holidays. You pay for the whole day, so pick up early and drop off shortly before closing to make the most of your holiday. You must collect the vehicle from the branch. There's no delivery option.
Peak time at the branch
You'll want to make the most of your first day, but the busiest time is usually between 9am and 10am. If you arrive then, you may have a longer wait.
Selecting a pick-up time
After choosing your vehicle on the DriveNow book page, select your pick-up time in "Step 1 - Confirm Booking Details". Use the drop-down arrow next to your pick-up date. To check the branch's opening hours or address, click "+MORE – Show address".
Do I have to commit to a pick-up time?
Some rental companies require you to organise and confirm an appointment time 2 days before your pick-up date. To do this, call the branch. You'll find its contact details on your DriveNow booking confirmation under "Pick-Up Details". If you're running late for your appointment, we recommend a quick courtesy call to tell the branch your new estimated arrival time, so staff and the vehicle are available when you get there.
How long does it take to pick-up
Allow enough time for check-in, including the vehicle walkthrough. How long it takes depends on the vehicle, the rental company and how busy the branch is. Branch staff will show you how to operate the vehicle, or you'll watch a video that shows you, or both. You'll also need to inspect the vehicle and sign the rental agreement.
Inspection of the vehicle
Before you leave the branch, check the vehicle for damage and compare it with the Vehicle Condition Report in the rental agreement. Ask a staff member to record anything new on the report, and take photos or videos for your own records.
Parking my car
Branches don't usually have customer parking, but there are usually safe, secure and affordable parking options nearby. In Melbourne, long-term parking near Tullamarine Airport is a common choice.
Late pick-up
If you're running late and won't reach the branch until close to or after closing time, call the branch as soon as possible. The number is on your booking confirmation. If you can't reach the branch, contact DriveNow so we can let the rental company know. You may have to collect the vehicle the next day and arrange your own accommodation for the night. There are no refunds for unused days.
Can I pick-up after hours?
After-hours pick-up is only possible if you arrange it when booking, and it's entirely at the rental company's discretion. Our guide to late pickups explains how to ask.
Next steps
- Required documents for pick-up: what to bring
- Suitable times for drop-off: planning the end of your hire
Part of Picking Up Your Campervan in the Campervan Hire Handbook.