Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Sydney to Cairns. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
Notes: Local Renter Requirements: If you live within 100 km of the rental location and your booking is not linked to a corporate or insurance account, extra verification is required. Security Deposit: A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 117/dayStarting from
US$ 124/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 268-1566 | US$ 196.40-1404.28 | US$ 349-1788 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 904-1344 | US$ 654.67-1309.35 | US$ 1155-1592 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 353-359 | US$ 196.40-327.33 | US$ 591-1704 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 275-1010 | US$ 196.40-2975.79 | US$ 370-891 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Van | US$ 1370-3657 | US$ 982.01-2975.79 | US$ 891-1674 | Large families, groups |
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.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges.
Keep the last receipt as proof of refueling.
Use nearby gas stations to the drop-off point to save time.
The estimated average fuel cost along this route is approximately AUD $1.80 per liter.
Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.
Check tire pressure regularly to reduce rolling resistance.
Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.
Parking in Sydney CBD can cost between AUD $5-10 per hour.
Street parking is limited; consider parking garages for extended stays.
Use parking apps to book spots in advance and save time.
Cairns offers free parking in many areas, especially on weekends.
Parking near the Esplanade can be crowded during peak hours.
Consider using designated parking lots for overnight stays.
Parkopedia
Secure Parking
Wilson Parking
Explore the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Known for dolphin watching and beautiful dunes.
A group of islands featuring pristine beaches and snorkeling opportunities.
Immerse yourself in the world’s oldest tropical rainforest.
Choose a Suitable Vehicle: Ensure the car is comfortable for long drives and check if off-road travels are allowed.
Plan Fuel Stops: Be prepared for long stretches without service stations, especially in rural areas.
Carry a Map or GPS: Always have a backup for directions when traveling through remote areas.
Understand Rental Costs: Familiarize yourself with the fuel policies and additional fees before renting.
Verify Rental Insurance: Check the insurance options provided by the rental company to avoid unexpected costs.
Pack Essentials: Take along water, snacks, and emergency supplies for the trip.
Choosing a car rental company for a one-way journey from Sydney to Cairns involves considering various factors such as price, fleet options, and area coverage. Here is information on some popular options.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | $$$ | High | Excellent | Wide range of vehicle options. , Frequent traveler rewards. , Strong presence in major Australian cities and airports. |
| Budget | $$ | Medium | Good | Affordable rates. , Transparent pricing. , Convenient locations for city and airport pickups. |
| Thrifty | $$ | Medium | Good | Special offers for long journeys. , Focus on customer satisfaction. , Flexible rental policies. |
| Europcar | $$ | High | Good | A wide network of rental locations. , Special discounts for corporate rentals. , Clean and current year models. |
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Most car rental centers at Sydney Airport operate from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Rental car counters are located inside the terminal near the baggage claim at Sydney and Cairns airports.
Shuttles to off-airport rental centers run every 15–20 minutes during operational hours.
The journey from Sydney to Cairns offers remarkable coastal and inland driving routes, with access to scenic spots such as Byron Bay and Airlie Beach.
To save on one-way fees, consider booking during promotional periods or contacting rental companies directly for discounts.
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