Hire the best car at the best price at Cairns Airport

Cairns Airport Car Hire: The Complete Guide

Location and Terminal Information

Cairns Airport has two terminals – the Domestic Terminal (T2) and International Terminal (T1). Car rental desks are located in both terminals, making it convenient regardless of where you arrive.

• Domestic Terminal (T2): Car rental desks are in the arrivals hall
• International Terminal (T1): Car rental counters are adjacent to the arrivals area
• The terminals are within walking distance of each other (approximately 200m)

Available Car Rental Companies

Major Operators

• Avis
• Budget
• Europcar
• Hertz
• Thrifty
• Enterprise/Redspot
• Sixt

Local/Budget Operators

• East Coast Car Rentals
• Atlas Car & Truck Rental
• Cairns Car Hire (off-airport with shuttle service)

Booking Options

Pre-booking Online

• Generally offers better rates and vehicle selection
• Recommended during peak tourist season (June-August, December-January)
• Most companies offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before pickup

Last-minute Booking

• Possible but selection may be limited
• Higher rates typically apply, especially during peak periods
• Not recommended during busy holiday periods

Vehicle Types and Considerations

Popular Options

• Economy/Compact Cars: Ideal for couples or solo travelers
• Mid-size Sedans: Good for small families
• SUVs: Better for driving to nearby attractions like the Daintree
• 4WD Vehicles: Necessary for certain Cape York adventures

Special Considerations

• Air conditioning is essential in tropical North Queensland
• Check if GPS is included or available as an add-on
• Consider unlimited kilometers if planning extensive driving

Driving in Cairns and Far North Queensland

Road Conditions

• Well-maintained highways connect major tourist destinations
• Some attractions require driving on unsealed roads
• During wet season (November-April), some roads may flood

Distances from Cairns

• Port Douglas: 67km (1 hour)
• Palm Cove: 27km (25 minutes)
• Atherton Tablelands: 80km (1.5 hours)
• Daintree River: 110km (2 hours)
• Cape Tribulation: 140km (2.5 hours)

Insurance Options

Standard Coverage

• Usually includes basic collision damage waiver (CDW)
• Often has a high excess/deductible (A$3,000-5,000)

Additional Coverage

• Excess reduction options typically available at extra cost
• Third-party coverage from travel insurance or credit cards may be applicable
• Premium packages often include glass and tire coverage

Pickup and Return Procedures

Pickup Process

• Allow extra time during peak periods (30-45 minutes)
• Required documents: Valid driver’s license, credit card, booking confirmation
• International visitors typically need their home country license (English translation or International Driving Permit may be required)

Return Process

• Most companies require a full fuel tank upon return
• Allow at least 30 minutes for the return process
• Return location is usually in the dedicated car rental return area

Money-Saving Tips

• Compare rates across multiple providers
• Book well in advance for best rates
• Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance coverage
• Consider weekly rates for stays of 5+ days
• Avoid airport surcharges by using off-airport providers (if shuttle service is available)

Common Additional Fees

• Young driver surcharge (typically for drivers under 25)
• Additional driver fees
• One-way rental fees
• Late return charges
• Premium location surcharge (airport fee)

Would you like more specific information about any particular aspect of car rentals at Cairns Airport?

Price Range by Rental Duration at Cairns Airport

Economy/Compact Cars

• Daily Rate: A$35-65 per day
• Weekly Rate (7 days): A$210-350 (saving approximately 15-20% compared to daily rate)
• Monthly Rate (28+ days): A$650-1,100 (saving approximately 30-40% compared to daily rate)

Mid-Size Sedans

• Daily Rate: A$45-80 per day
• Weekly Rate: A$270-450
• Monthly Rate: A$850-1,400

SUVs/Medium 4WDs

• Daily Rate: A$65-120 per day
• Weekly Rate: A$390-650
• Monthly Rate: A$1,200-2,200

Large 4WDs/Premium Vehicles

• Daily Rate: A$90-200 per day
• Weekly Rate: A$550-1,100
• Monthly Rate: A$1,700-3,200

Cost Factors That Affect Pricing

1. Seasonal Fluctuations:
   
   • Peak season (June-August, December-January): Prices increase by 20-40%
   • Shoulder season (April-May, September-October): Standard rates apply
   • Off-peak season (February-March, November): Discounts of 10-25% often available
2. Booking Time Frame:
   
   • Last-minute bookings typically cost 15-30% more
   • Booking 3+ months in advance can save 10-20%
3. Vehicle Availability:
   
   • Limited supply during peak periods drives prices higher
   • Special events in Cairns can cause temporary price spikes
4. Additional Costs to Consider:
   
   • Insurance excess reduction: A$15-30 per day
   • Additional drivers: A$5-10 per day
   • Child seats: A$8-15 per day
   • GPS rental: A$10-15 per day
   • Premium location (airport) surcharge: Approximately 10-15% of base rental
5. Minimum Rental Periods:
   
   • Some companies require minimum 3-day rentals during peak periods
   • One-way rentals often have minimum duration requirements