Car Rentals in Cairns, Queensland

Are you looking for cheap car rental deals in Cairns, Queensland? Search right here!

Cairns, QLD, Australia
Oct 3 — Oct 10
Same drop-off
Cairns, QLD, Australia
Tue 10/3
Noon
Tue 10/10
Noon

Deals from rental companies in 70,000+ locations.

Rental cars insight and trends in Cairns

Useful insights to help you book the perfect rental car in Cairns

What is the cheapest rental car agency in Cairns?

The cheapest rental cars in Cairns are generally found through Atlas Car & Truck Rental. When booking with Atlas Car & Truck Rental, you may be able to find rental car prices for as low as $16/day. The average price to rent a car in Cairns is $21/day.

What car rental company in Cairns has the most locations?

Sunnycars has the most locations of any rental car company in Cairns, with 6 locations.

What car do most people rent in Cairns?

When renting a car in Cairns, most of our users will opt for the Toyota Land Cruiser at $67/day on average. The second most popular is the Nissan X-Trail car rental for an average of $62/day. Our users have found Toyota Land Cruiser rentals in Cairns for as low as $43/day and Nissan X-Trail rentals for as low as $24/day.

Best deals found for Cairns, Queensland car rentals

Find great deals below on a variety of popular rental car types in Cairns, Queensland
Economy$24/day
Compact$21/day
Intermediate$26/day
Standard$35/day
Minivan$50/day
Full-size SUV$48/day
Mini$25/day
Passenger van$49/day
Premium SUV$53/day
Supplier choice$24/day
Compact SUV$28/day
Intermediate SUV$31/day
Standard SUV$40/day
Best rates found by momondo users in the past 48 hours.

Important information about Cairns car rentals

If you’re planning a visit to Cairns, Australia, we're sure diving in the Great Barrier Reef is top on your to-do list. The city is also famous for being the access to the Barron Gorge National Park and all its waterfalls as well as the nearby village of Kuranda. In downtown Cairns, you’ll find the Esplanade boardwalk. There are about 30 car rental locations in Cairns. There’s a variety of options from passenger van rentals to luxury car rentals in Cairns. However, finding a cheap car rental in Cairns may be a little bit difficult. There are many places to park a Cairns car rental, from on-street parking to parking garages, and some of the options are free, normally with time limits. The main roads in and out of the city from the west and south are the Highway 1 and A1.

While visiting, is it worthwhile to rent a car while visiting Cairns?

The Cairns city center is fairly flat and walkable. Normally due to the weather, especially during the hottest days, it’s not recommended, and you may find yourself wanting a vehicle. Apart from that, there’s so much you’ll want to see that’s not in downtown Cairns. The Barron Gorge National Park is probably the closest top destination, only about half an hour away with a car rental in Cairns. The area is also known for its rainforest swimming holes like Josephine Falls, about an hour south of Cairns. Parking rental cars in Cairns Business District can be challenging at times but there are so many options to choose from. Make sure to check for the regulated hours.

What different driving laws should I keep in mind while driving in Cairns?

Here are some driving rules and tips for traveling with a car rental in Cairns. In Cairns and the rest of Australia, they drive on the left-hand side of the road. Pedestrians always have the right of way. Don’t drive into an intersection if the road ahead is blocked by traffic, even if your light is green as it is considered an offense. When approaching a traffic circle remember to travel clockwise and yield to the vehicles already circling. U-turns are only allowed at intersections if there is a sign specifically allowing it. However, please check in with Cairns’ department of motor vehicles for any updates there might be on traffic laws.

Will I need a special driver’s license or permit to drive a rental car in Cairns if I’m visiting from another country?

Car rentals in Cairns will generally accept foreign driver’s licenses as long as they are in English. If you’re traveling from out of Australia and your document is not in English, you should foresee needing an International Driver’s Permit to present along with your original document. This IDP must be obtained in the country of origin of your driver’s license as you won’t be able to get an International Driver’s Permit once you’re already in Cairns.


Cairns, Queensland car rental deals found on momondo

Find the rental car in Cairns that's right for you

Small Cars

$46 - $69

All Car Types

$66 - $113

The average price of a Small rental in Cairns, Australia is $57. The cheapest time to rent a Small in Cairns, Australia is in February. The price is 20% lower than the rest of the year at just $46 per day. A Small rental is typically 39% less expensive than the average rental car in Cairns. The average price of a vehicle rental in Cairns can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Cairns Small rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a Medium rental in Cairns, Australia is $74. The cheapest time to rent a Medium in Cairns, Australia is in February. The price is 37% lower than the rest of the year at just $47 per day. A Medium rental is typically 21% less expensive than the average rental car in Cairns. The average price of a vehicle rental in Cairns can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Cairns Medium rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a Large rental in Cairns, Australia is $97. The cheapest time to rent a Large in Cairns, Australia is in March. The price is 35% lower than the rest of the year at just $64 per day. A Large rental is typically 6% more expensive than the average rental car in Cairns. The average price of a vehicle rental in Cairns can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car.

The average price of a SUV rental in Cairns, Australia is $74. The cheapest time to rent a SUV in Cairns, Australia is in February. The price is 26% lower than the rest of the year at just $55 per day. A SUV rental is typically 21% less expensive than the average rental car in Cairns. The average price of a vehicle rental in Cairns can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Cairns SUV rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a Van rental in Cairns, Australia is $121. The cheapest time to rent a Van in Cairns, Australia is in November. The price is 32% lower than the rest of the year at just $83 per day. A Van rental is typically 24% more expensive than the average rental car in Cairns. The average price of a vehicle rental in Cairns can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Cairns Van rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a Pickup Truck rental in Cairns, Australia is $106. The cheapest time to rent a Pickup Truck in Cairns, Australia is in March. The price is 51% lower than the rest of the year at just $53 per day. A Pickup Truck rental is typically 14% more expensive than the average rental car in Cairns. The average price of a vehicle rental in Cairns can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car.

The average price of a Luxury rental in Cairns, Australia is $103. The cheapest time to rent a Luxury in Cairns, Australia is in February. The price is 27% lower than the rest of the year at just $76 per day. A Luxury rental is typically 11% more expensive than the average rental car in Cairns. The average price of a vehicle rental in Cairns can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car.

The average price of a Convertible rental in Cairns, Australia is $97. The cheapest time to rent a Convertible in Cairns, Australia is in August. The price is 22% lower than the rest of the year at just $120 per day. A Convertible rental is typically 6% more expensive than the average rental car in Cairns. The average price of a vehicle rental in Cairns can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car.

Mini Hatch
or similar Compact
Up to 4 passengers

$21/day

8 Dec - 15 Dec
Mini Hatch
Kia Picanto
or similar Economy
Up to 2 passengers

$24/day

8 Dec - 15 Dec
Kia Picanto

Cairns car rental directory

All major car rental suppliers in Cairns, Queensland

Ace Rental Cars

10.0
Wonderful
1 review•3 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

10.0

Comfort

10.0

Overall

10.0

Pick-up/drop-off

10.0

Value

8.0

JUCY

2 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

10.0

Comfort

10.0

Overall

10.0

Pick-up/drop-off

10.0

Value

10.0

Thrifty

9.0
Wonderful
1 review•4 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

9.0

Comfort

9.0

Overall

9.0

Pick-up/drop-off

9.0

Value

6.9

Budget

8.8
Very good
20 reviews•2 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

9.1

Comfort

8.6

Overall

8.7

Pick-up/drop-off

8.9

Value

8.0

Sixt

8.7
Very good
9 reviews•2 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8.8

Comfort

8.8

Overall

8.7

Pick-up/drop-off

8.9

Value

7.9

Alamo

8.6
Very good
19 reviews•2 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8.6

Comfort

8.6

Overall

8.6

Pick-up/drop-off

8.9

Value

8.6

Hertz

8.1
Very good
9 reviews•3 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

8.2

Overall

8.2

Pick-up/drop-off

8.5

Value

8.0

Europcar

7.3
Good
4 reviews•2 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.3

Comfort

7.3

Overall

7.3

Pick-up/drop-off

7.3

Value

7.3

Quick facts about car rentals in Cairns

Get the overview on great rental deals, popular car rental companies, and best car types for your visit in Cairns

Most Popular Agency

Bargain Car Rentals

Popular Car Types

Compact, SUV, Intermediate

Cheapest Rental Car

$27

Most Popular Model

Class Compact SUV
The most popular Cairns car rental agency found on momondo this month is Bargain Car Rentals. Other top choices for car rental companies are Sixt and JUCY
The following car types were offered at rental car companies in Cairns in the past 72 hours: Compact, SUV, Intermediate.
The lowest price for a rental car in Cairns is $27/day. For this area, you can expect average prices starting from $48/day.
The most popular car model to rent in Cairns in the past 7 days is the Class Compact SUV. Our users also prefer the Toyota Land Cruiser as an alternative.

Find popular attractions close to your rental car pick-up

Visit these must-see attractions near popular rental car locations in Cairns

Nearby attractions:

Cairns Night Markets & Food Court2.8 mi
Cairns Rainforest Dome3.0 mi
Reef Hotel Casino3.1 mi
Cairns Convention Centre3.3 mi

Nearby attractions:

Cairns Night Markets & Food Court78.1 mi
Cairns Rainforest Dome78.3 mi
Reef Hotel Casino78.4 mi
Cairns Convention Centre78.6 mi

Nearby attractions:

Cairns Night Markets & Food Court0.2 mi
Cairns Rainforest Dome0.5 mi
Reef Hotel Casino0.5 mi
Cairns Convention Centre0.6 mi

Rent a car near one of these popular hotels in Cairns

Below are the most popular hotels in Cairns

Driving with a rental car in Cairns - FAQs

Learn everything there is to know about renting a car in Cairns so you can be properly prepared for your next trip

How much will it cost to rent a car in Cairns, Australia in October?

For October in Cairns, the average price from these searches for a weekend rental was $48 - but some users found deals as low as $25. $50 is a normal deal for a week-long rental in Cairns, but for October it's not uncommon to see prices as low as $23, depending on your requirements.

Is there a fee to cancel my Cairns, Australia car rental?

The majority of the Cairns car rental agencies that we partner with do not have a cancellation fee. This means that if your plans change unexpectedly, many car rental centers in Cairns such as Ace Rental Cars, JUCY , and MINI Car Rentals often offer cancellation free of charge based on when you booked.

What is the best type of car to rent in Cairns during October?

A Standard car is the ideal car to rent when visiting Cairns in October. On average, Cairns receives 3.5″ of precipitation and temperatures hover around 78.8 °F during the month of October. These conditions are well-suited for a standard, which can easily handle a bit of rain and even hold up well when temperatures fall. Renting a Standard in Cairns will cost you $62/day on average.

What is the speed limit in Cairns, Australia?

If you are renting a vehicle in Cairns, then be aware that the current speed limit within city or town limits is 35 mph, unless otherwise posted. Suburban speed limits around Cairns will generally have a speed limit of 70 mph. If you are traveling on a highway in Cairns, then the speed limit is 70 mph.

What car rental company has the Audi Q3 in Cairns?

What is the weather like in Cairns, Australia in September?

In September, Cairns usually gets 1.2″ of precipitation and has an average temperature of 73.4 °F. This information can be very helpful when looking at rental cars in Cairns as it can help you make the best decision.

Is the weather in Cairns similar to the rest of Queensland?

Travelers looking to leave from Cairns on a road trip around Queensland or the surrounding areas during the month of September should expect temperatures around 66.2 °F and about 1.4″ of possible rain through the month.

When did momondo last update prices for cars in Cairns?

Prices for cars in Cairns are updated daily.

How many operators does momondo search for cars in Cairns?

How old do you have to be to hire a car in Cairns?

The minimum age for drivers varies by country, including Cairns. In many EU countries drivers must be 18 years old. As a rule, you’ll need to be 21 to hire a car abroad, and a young driver surcharge may be applied if you are under 25. We recommend reading through the policy of your chosen rental company before booking.

What documentation or ID do you need to rent a car in Cairns?

To rent a car in Cairns, all drivers must have a valid full driving license. If the license is written in a language other than the language of the country of rental, an International Driving Permit may be required to avoid the risk of potential fines. If you're renting a car abroad, you may also need to provide proof of return travel and accommodation information during your stay. We recommend that you verify with the specific rental company you're booking with.


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Why use momondo?

Why should I use momondo to book a car rental in Cairns?

momondo finds and compares thousands of car rental websites to provide you with the best selection of policies and car rentals in Cairns. Finding a rental car is quick and free of charge, so using momondo for your booking makes sense.

How does momondo help me find the best car rental deal in Cairns?

By the use of filters, momondo makes finding a great car rental in Cairns easier. Whether it is price, car type, amenities or policies, momondo allows you to refine your search with these and more filters to find the best deal for you.

Does momondo show car rental deals in Cairns with free cancellation?

Of course! momondo has a dedicated filter for users to specifically look at car rentals in Cairns which offer free cancellation.

Can I rent a car with a fair fuel policy in Cairns on momondo?

momondo specifically allows you to search for car rentals in Cairns with fair fuel policies.

Can I find a car rental in Cairns which offers enhanced cleaning on momondo?

Enhanced cleaning services can be found on all car rental locations on momondo including Cairns.

Can I search for rental cars in Cairns with unlimited mileage on momondo?

Yes, car rental deals in Cairns with unlimited mileage can be found on momondo.


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