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Compare rental cars from top suppliers at Adelaide Airport with Road Genius. From compact cars to luxury SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at great prices in convenient locations. All the major rental desks are right inside the terminal, so you can pick up your keys and walk straight to your car. You'll also find off-airport options nearby, often with lower prices and a free shuttle to their depot.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 338522
Location 👍 Pros 👎 Cons
At the Airport Terminal
  • Rental company desks located in the arrivals hall
  • Short walk to rental cars in nearby parking area
  • Open 6:00am-11:00pm every day
  • Higher prices because of airport fees (10-20% more expensive)
  • Long waiting lines when busy
  • Fewer luxury or special cars available
Near the Airport (Off-Site)
  • Lower prices (no airport fees)
  • Some companies provide free airport shuttle bus
  • Often 15-20% cheaper than airport terminal rentals
  • Shuttle bus to rental office takes 15-30 minutes
  • You may need to phone for shuttle pick-up
  • Shorter business hours than airport locations

Companies at the Airport:

  • Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, SIXT, Enterprise/Alamo/National

Nearby Off-Airport Companies:

  • East Coast Car Rentals (offers free shuttle)
  • Bargain Car Rentals
  • Apex Car Rentals

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car at Adelaide Airport (ADL)?

On average, car rentals in Adelaide Airport (ADL) cost around AUD $100 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from AUD $18 per day.

How to pay less?
  • Consider an off-airport rental location. You'll have to take a short shuttle ride, but you can often save a good chunk of money by skipping the airport fees.

  • Don't just book for the days you need. If you're renting for 5 or 6 days, check the price for a full week—sometimes it's actually cheaper.

  • Pick the right size car for your trip. A smaller car is cheaper to rent and run, and it’s all you need for driving around Adelaide and the nearby wine regions.

  • Always refill the fuel tank yourself before dropping the car off. Letting the rental company do it is convenient but will cost you more. There are several petrol stations near Adelaide Airport.

Local Parking and Driving

Location Details Tips
Airport Short-Term
  • Located in multi-level garage
  • Charges apply for short stays, starting from the first 30 minutes.
  • Rates increase incrementally for stays up to several hours.
  • A daily maximum rate applies.
Use only for pickups/drop-offs. Not economical for longer stays.
Airport Long-Term
  • Open-air lot with shuttle
  • Daily and weekly rates apply
More cost-effective for trips longer than a day. Book online for discounts.
Rental Car Return
  • Follow "Rental Return" signs
  • Located in dedicated area near terminal
Allow 30 minutes before flight for return processing and terminal transfer.

Airport Traffic Rules:

  • 10 km/h (6 mph) speed limit in car parks
  • Drop-off zone allows maximum 2-minute stops
  • No waiting or leaving vehicle unattended at terminal front
  • Follow dedicated lanes for rental returns

Adelaide Driving Tips:

  • Adelaide CBD has 40 km/h (25 mph) speed limit in central area
  • Many CBD streets are one-way. Check signs carefully
  • Tram tracks run through the CBD. Never drive on dedicated tram lanes
  • School zones (25 km/h / 15 mph) operate when children are present
Why rent a car in Adelaide

Rent a car so you can see:

  • Adelaide CBD

  • Glenelg Beach

  • Barossa Valley

  • McLaren Vale

  • Victor Harbor

  • Kangaroo Island ferry at Cape Jervis

FAQs

How long does it take to collect a rental car at Adelaide Airport? During quiet times, the whole process takes about 15 to 20 minutes-from counter to driving away. During peak times (12-1 pm and 5-6 pm), you should allow 30 to 45 minutes for waiting in line, paperwork, and finding your vehicle.

Can I change my vehicle if I'm not satisfied the one assigned? Yes, if alternative vehicles are available. Just head back to the counter before you leave the airport. Once you've left the airport, changing your vehicle becomes more difficult and may incur extra fees.

Is there a grace period for returns at Adelaide Airport? Most companies give you a 30-minute leeway for returns. After that, you might be charged for an extra day. Always call if you're running significantly behind schedule.

Do I need to wash the car before returning it to Adelaide Airport? No, the car rental companies don't expect a sparkling clean car. But if you do bring back a car that's excessively dirty (beach sand, mud) you might incur a cleaning fee. A reasonably clean interior is also expected.

Can I return outside operating hours if my flight departs early? Yes, all major companies at Adelaide Airport have secure key drop facilities. Just ask for after-hours return instructions when you pick up your car. Take some photos of the car's condition and fuel gauge as documentation.