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Sydney to Gold Coast One-Way Car Rentals

Explore the scenic route with flexibility and ease.

Can I rent a car from Sydney to Gold Coast?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Sydney to Gold Coast. 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: 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, or If you are a local renter, you may be required to present a utility bill within 3 months for checking.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, and UnionPay. Debit cards are also accepted in some cases, including Visa, Master, and UnionPay.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-100 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees, ranging from AUD 5.92 to AUD 23.71 per day, depending on the rental provider.
  • 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 Lisense (English version)

    Notes: If you are a foreign renter, you may be required to present a utility bill within 3 months for checking.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, UnionPay, JCB, and Discover. Debit cards are also accepted in some cases, including Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-100 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees, ranging from AUD 5.92 to AUD 23.71 per day, depending on the rental provider.
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How much does renting a car from Sydney to Gold Coast 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$ 117/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 124/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 268-3791US$ 196.40-2975.79US$ 349-3885Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 1155-4023US$ 982.01-3273.38US$ 1563-4264Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 353-359US$ 196.40-327.33US$ 591-610Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 275-451US$ 196.40-2975.79US$ 370-1360Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 451-3657US$ 360.07-2975.79US$ 1403-4168Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • Understand the one-way fees: Many rental companies charge an additional fee for one-way rentals. Ensure to include this in your budget.
  • Check cross-border policies: If your route involves crossing borders, verify if the rental agreement and insurance cover such needs.
  • Book well in advance: Availability of one-way rental cars can be limited, especially during peak seasons.
  • Understand drop-off location requirements: Verify the exact drop-off points and operation hours to avoid additional fees or delays.
  • Inspect insurance coverage: Confirm what your insurance covers and if additional coverage is required for specific regions.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your route ahead: Know the highlights along the way and plan your stops to make the journey enjoyable.
  • Refuel before drop-off: Save costs by refueling the car to the required level before returning it.
  • Verify navigation equipment: Ensure the car is equipped with GPS or have a reliable navigation plan.
  • Select the right vehicle type: Consider the distance, terrain, and passenger needs when choosing your vehicle.
  • Review the terms and agreements: Read the rental terms carefully to understand restrictions or additional clauses.
  • Share the drive if possible: Reduce fatigue by dividing driving duties among eligible drivers.
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 additional charges from the rental company.

Keep the last refueling receipt as proof of refueling.

Ensure the fuel level matches the level noted at the time of pickup.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost along the route is approximately $1.80 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control where possible.

Check your tire pressure before starting the trip to ensure optimal fuel efficiency.

Limit the use of air conditioning to reduce fuel consumption.

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Sydney Parking

Parking in central Sydney can be expensive, with rates ranging from $4 to $9 per hour.

Look for parking garages with early bird specials for all-day parking discounts.

Street parking is limited and often metered; ensure to check the signage.

Gold Coast Parking

Public parking is available near the beach areas, often costing around $2 per hour.

Some shopping centers offer free parking for a limited time.

Overnight parking may have restrictions, so verify with local guidelines.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia - Provides detailed parking information and availability.

Secure Parking - Offers booking options for parking spaces.

EasyPark - Allows users to pay for parking via their smartphone.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Sydney to Gold Coast:
Pacific M1 Highway
Expressway 9 hours

A direct and smooth coastal route offering scenic views and fast travel.

Newcastle , Port Macquarie , Byron Bay
New England Highway
Inland Route 10 hours

An alternative inland path with historical towns and countryside vistas.

Armidale , Tamworth , Warwick
Coastal Explorer
Scenic Drive 12 hours

A scenic route that meanders along the coast, showcasing numerous beaches and lookout points.

Port Stephens , Coffs Harbour , Surfers Paradise
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the Right Rental Car: Select a vehicle suitable for your planned route and group size to ensure a comfortable journey.

Plan Your Stops: Identify refueling points and frequent breaks to avoid travel fatigue.

Book in Advance: Secure your rental car early to get better deals and availability, especially during peak seasons.

Check Toll Roads: Ensure your vehicle has an electronic toll device to avoid complications on Australia’s toll routes.

Understand Insurance: Opt for comprehensive car rental insurance for peace of mind during the trip.

Pack Essentials: Bring along a travel kit, including water, snacks, and personal essentials, for a smooth journey.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies from Sydney to Gold Coast

Selecting a company for a one-way rental requires consideration of fees, availability, and service quality. Here are top recommendations:

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$★★★★★★★★ Wide range of vehicles , Excellent customer service , Available at major airports
Avis$$$★★★★★★★★★★ Luxury and economic options available , Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
Enterprise$★★★★★★ Affordable pricing , Good customer support
Budget$$★★★★★★★ Economical options , Convenient rental processes
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

Information About Car Rental Centers in Sydney and Gold Coast

Operating Hours of Rental Centers:

Most rental centers in Sydney and Gold Coast operate from 6 AM to 10 PM.

Rental Car Center Locations:

Sydney Airport: Located within the terminal; Gold Coast Airport: Available by shuttles near domestic terminal.

Shuttle Services:

Free shuttle services operate every 15 minutes between terminals and rental centers.

Support and Information:

24/7 customer helpline services are available for renters.

Pro Tips for Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport(SYD) Car Rentals

Book early for better pricing and larger vehicle selection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are one-way car rentals available between Sydney and Gold Coast?

Yes, many car rental companies offer one-way rental options for this route. There might be an additional drop-off fee for not returning the car to the pick-up location.

What is the approximate distance for the drive?

The drive from Sydney to Gold Coast covers approximately 850 kilometers, and it typically takes around 9 to 10 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Are there additional charges for one-way rentals?

Most rental companies apply a one-way fee to cover logistical costs of returning the vehicle. It's recommended to inquire about this fee while booking.

Is driver’s license from another country accepted?

Most car rental companies in Australia accept valid driver’s licenses issued in other countries, but ensure to confirm this with the rental company beforehand. An international driver’s license might also be required.

Can I choose a specific type of car for the route?

Yes, rental companies generally provide a range of vehicle types, from economy cars to SUVs. Availability might vary, so advance booking is advised to secure your preferred option.

Ready to Book Your Sydney to Gold Coast Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes