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Explore the Coastal Wonders from Townsville to Cairns

An enriching one-way car rental journey tailored to your adventure preferences.

Document required for international visitors
  • 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 year. Local renters may need to present a utility bill within 3 months for verification.

    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.

  • Form of ID: A valid physical Australia national photo ID
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, AMEX, and UnionPay. Debit cards are accepted in some cases (Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 100. 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 year. Additional requirements include: Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (translation only, original licence required), or Original driving licence + NAATI Translation (certified by the Australian Translation and Accreditation Institute), or Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version, with English translation on the back).

    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.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, AMEX, JCB, Discover, and UnionPay. Debit cards are accepted in some cases (Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 100. 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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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

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 149-671US$ 16.44-1085.41US$ 208-1295Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 668-668US$ 434.16-1085.41US$ 768-1304Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 307-315US$ 131.56-131.56US$ 232-255Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 164-694US$ 16.44-1085.41US$ 224-1295Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 182-214US$ 16.44-131.56US$ 276-522Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • Understand One-Way Fees: Review any additional fees charged for returning the vehicle at a different location than the pick-up.
  • Account for Aircraft Restriction Policies: Check airline policies regarding carrying car rental keys if planning to fly from your drop-off city.
  • Enable Cross-Border Travel Procedures: Inquire if driving temporarily over state or national borders requires extra documentation or clearance.
  • Refill the Fuel Tank: Always ensure to refuel the vehicle according to the rental company’s requirement, avoiding extra costs.
  • Plan Returns in Advance: Aim to return the car during operating hours and at a time convenient for thorough vehicle inspection.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early for Best Rates: Secure the most favorable rental packages by opting for early reservations.
  • Prioritize Rental Location Drop-Off: Select a drop-off location that is easily accessible and charges competitive fees.
  • Explore Insurance Options: Evaluate various insurance coverages provided for more secure travels.
  • Check Applicable Discounts: Leverage corporate rates, memberships, or deals available through the rental company.
  • Understand Miles Allowance: Clarify limitations on mileage and conditions for unforeseen overage fees.
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
Tolls
Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

Shell - 291-293 Sheridan Street, James St, Cairns North QLD 4870, Australia

Puma Stratford - 35-39 Arnold St, Stratford QLD 4870, Australia

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid unnecessary idling to save fuel.

Ensure tires are properly inflated for optimal performance.

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Townsville Parking

Consider using public parking lots near the city center for affordable rates.

Parking costs, availability, or specific local advice

Cairns Parking

Look for parking spaces near the Esplanade for convenient access to major attractions.

Parking costs, availability, or specific local advice

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps that help users find or book parking in advance

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Tolls and FasTrak

Travelers do not need to prepare for toll payments on this route.

Use a GPS navigation system to confirm the absence of toll roads.

There are no toll roads along the route from Townsville to Cairns.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Scenic Drives from Townsville to Cairns:
Coastal Route via Bruce Highway
Highway Route 4-5 hours

A direct route along the stunning Queensland coastline.

Ingham , Cardwell , Mission Beach
Inland Tropical Forest Loop
Historic and Natural Sites 6-7 hours

Explore lush rainforests and charming hinterland towns.

Paluma , Ravenshoe , Atherton
Great Barrier Reef Drive
Scenic Oceanic Drive 5 hours

A picturesque drive showcasing waterfront views and reefs.

Tully , Port Douglas , Palm Cove
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Choose the right vehicle: Select a car that suits your journey - from compact to SUVs for exploration.

Plan stops in advance: Research and book accommodations early if needed, especially during peak travel seasons.

Refuel strategically: Know fuel station locations along the trip to avoid running low.

Understand road conditions: Familiarize yourself with potential construction areas or unsealed roads.

Budget for necessities: Include allowances for fuel, meals, and any entry fees into attractions.

Use maps and GPS: Ensure navigation tools are updated for the most reliable directions.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Choosing the right car rental company for your one-way trip from Townsville to Cairns involves considering factors like convenience, cost, fleet options, and customer service. Here are some options to explore:

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$Broad selection from compact to SUVsExtensive network across Australia 24/7 roadside assistance , Wide range of vehicle choices , Strong reputation for customer service
Avis$$$Premium selection including luxury carsStrong presence in urban and regional areas Seamless booking process , Rewards program for frequent users , Flexible pick-up and drop-off locations
Budget$Standard range for budget-conscious travelersModerate availability in key cities Competitive pricing , Straightforward rental policies , Reliable customer support
Thrifty$$Wide array of vehicles with a focus on economic optionsGood coverage in major towns and cities Clean and well-maintained vehicles , Options for eco-friendly rentals , Helpful and responsive service
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

Key Information About the Cairns Rental Car Centers

Operating Hours:

Rental car centers at Cairns Airport operate typically from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations:

All major rental companies have counters located within the Domestic and International terminals at Cairns Airport.

Shuttle Services:

Complimentary shuttle services are available from off-site rental locations to the airport terminals.

Nearby Refueling Options:

Multiple gas stations are located within a 5-minute drive from the airport, including Shell and BP stations.

Ensure your fuel tank is refilled before returning the car to avoid convenience fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up the rental car in one location, such as Townsville, and return it to another, like Cairns. This is ideal for travel routes where returning to the original location is unnecessary.

Are there additional fees for one-way rentals?

Yes, there is often a one-way fee or drop-off fee incurred with one-way rentals. This fee accounts for the cost to the rental company of returning the vehicle to its original location. This cost is included in the total rental price when booking.

What documents are required to rent a car?

Typically, you need a valid driver’s license, a credit card in your name, and an identification document, such as a passport if you're not from Australia.

Is unlimited mileage available on this route?

Many rental companies provide unlimited mileage options for one-way rentals; however, it’s recommended to confirm this while booking to avoid additional charges.

Are there specific cars available for this route?

Yes, rental agencies commonly offer a range of vehicles. Popular choices may include sedans, SUVs, and sometimes even specialty vehicles depending on the route’s demands and the company’s fleet.

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ