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Discover the Freedom of a One-Way Rental from Cairns to Brisbane

Experience the picturesque journey while enjoying the convenience of a one-way rental.

Can I rent a car from Cairns to Brisbane?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Cairns to Brisbane. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for AU residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Australia national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-3 years.

    Notes: You may be required to present a utility bill within 3 months for checking. Budget Australia may require a customer renting a vehicle to complete a Rental Qualification Form and provide additional identification as it deems necessary or appropriate or in accordance with applicable law (e.g. copy of utilities bill, phone bill).

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, and UnionPay. Debit cards may also be accepted, including Visa, Master, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20-99 years. Young drivers aged 20-25 may incur additional fees, ranging from AUD 5.92 to AUD 20.89 per day, with some rentals capping the fee at AUD 75.97.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-3 years. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original driving licence + NAATI Translation
    • Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version).
  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, and UnionPay. Debit cards may also be accepted, including Visa, Master, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20-99 years. Young drivers aged 20-25 may incur additional fees, ranging from AUD 5.92 to AUD 20.89 per day, with some rentals capping the fee at AUD 75.97.
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How much does renting a car from Cairns to Brisbane cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 39/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 53/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 51-659US$ 0.00-1442.13US$ 117-1283Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 127-845US$ 0.00-655.51US$ 347-1004Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 65-127US$ 0.00-294.98US$ 148-214Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 71-357US$ 0.00-2979.61US$ 158-331Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 178-3685US$ 0.00-2979.61US$ 226-4305Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 3714-3714US$ 2979.61-2979.61US$ 701-4025Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fees: Be aware that rental companies often charge an additional fee for one-way rentals, which covers their logistics of relocating the vehicle.
  • Drop-off location accuracy: Confirm the specific drop-off location to avoid confusion or additional fees.
  • Vehicle type availability: Ensure the type of vehicle you need is available for one-way rentals, as availability can vary.
  • Advance booking benefits: Book your one-way trip in advance to secure the best rates and ensure vehicle availability.
  • Long-distance driving restrictions: Check for any restrictions or requirements for long-distance drives, such as mandatory breaks or additional charges.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan refueling stops: Identify and plan stops at fuel stations on your route to ensure the vehicle is refueled upon return.
  • Pack essentials for the trip: Prepare snacks, water, and entertainment for a comfortable journey.
  • Review traffic rules: Familiarize yourself with local traffic regulations between Cairns and Brisbane to ensure a safe drive.
  • Utilize GPS or maps: Use a reliable GPS or maps app for navigation and to discover scenic detours.
  • Inspect the car beforehand: Check the vehicle for any pre-existing damage to avoid disputes later.
  • Understand cancellation policies: Review the rental company’s cancellation policy to ensure flexibility in your plans.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid extra charges from the rental company.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling near the drop-off location.

Check the fuel type required for the rental car to avoid using the wrong type.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel price along the route is approximately $1.70 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden accelerations to conserve fuel.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.

Limit the use of air conditioning to reduce fuel consumption.

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Cairns Parking

Parking at Cairns Airport is available with both short-term and long-term options.

Street parking in Cairns city center is metered; check signs for time limits.

Consider using parking apps to find available spaces and compare prices.

Brisbane Parking

Brisbane Airport offers various parking options, including valet and economy parking.

City parking in Brisbane includes metered street parking and public garages.

Some hotels in Brisbane provide parking at discounted rates for guests.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia: Provides a comprehensive list of parking options and prices.

Secure Parking: Allows booking and paying for parking in advance.

EasyPark: Offers a user-friendly interface for finding and reserving parking spots.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Explore Scenic Routes from Cairns to Brisbane:
Coastal Drive via Bruce Highway
Scenic Coastal Route 19 hours 30 minutes

Drive along the breathtaking coastline with endless ocean views, passing through charming coastal towns.

Townsville , Airlie Beach , Rockhampton , Sunshine Coast
Inland Route via A39 and A1
Historic Inland Route 20 hours 45 minutes

Enjoy a journey through Australia's heartland, with lush landscapes and historic country towns.

Charters Towers , Emerald , Toowoomba
Adventure Route via Tropical Tablelands
Nature Exploration Route 22 hours

A route for nature enthusiasts, featuring rainforests, waterfalls, and unique wildlife habitats.

Atherton , Undara Volcanic National Park , Biloela
Essential Tips for Your Road Trip

Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a reliable and comfortable vehicle, considering terrain requirements and fuel efficiency.

Plan Your Stops: Schedule your breaks and overnight stays at safe and convenient locations along the route.

Budget Responsibly: Keep track of fuel, accommodation, and food expenses to avoid overspending.

Prepare Navigation Information: Carry physical maps and keep your GPS device updated to avoid getting lost in remote areas.

Pack Necessary Gear: Include essentials like sunscreen, comfortable clothing, first aid kit, and chargers for your devices.

Refuel Strategically: Plan your fuel stops, especially in less populated areas, to avoid running out of gas.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Choosing the right car rental company is crucial for a smooth journey. The following companies offer one-way rental services from Cairns to Brisbane, ensuring convenience and reliability.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
HertzLow ($)ExcellentWide Extensive vehicle selection , User-friendly booking system , Global customer service support
AvisModerate ($$)GoodGood Frequent promotions , Flexible rental periods , Well-maintained vehicles
ThriftyLow ($)GoodModerate Affordable pricing , Special deals for longer rentals , Dedicated road assistance
BudgetModerate ($$)ExcellentWide Regular discounts , Comprehensive insurance options , No hidden costs
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Rental Car Center Information at Cairns Airport

Operating Hours:

Monday to Sunday, 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Location:

Rental car center is located on the ground floor of the Cairns Airport parking area.

Shuttle Service:

Free shuttle services to and from the rental center every 15 minutes.

Customer Assistance:

24/7 rental desk support for inquiries and assistance

Pro Tips for Cairns Airport(CNS) Car Rentals

Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time to ensure a smooth process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental involves picking up a rental car in one location, such as Cairns, and returning it at a different location, like Brisbane.

Are there extra fees for one-way rentals?

Yes, most rental companies impose a one-way fee to cover the logistics of moving the car back to its original location. The specific fee varies by company and route.

How long does a typical drive from Cairns to Brisbane take?

The drive is approximately 1,700 kilometers and typically takes 18-20 hours, depending on your stops and chosen route.

Can I drop off the rental car at the Brisbane airport?

Yes, many rental agencies located in Brisbane allow returns at the airport for your convenience. Confirm this option during booking.

What do I need to consider when renting a car for this route?

You should consider the total rental cost, fuel expenses, any one-way fees, and insurance coverage. Also, ensure that the vehicle can handle the desired route, especially if planning to visit remote areas.

Ready to Book Your Cairns to Brisbane Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes