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Finding a car rental at Cairns Airport is easy with Road Genius. Compare prices from dozens of suppliers across Australia with no booking fees. You can choose to collect your hire car right inside the terminal or save some cash by catching a free shuttle to a nearby depot.
| Location | 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
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| Terminal Counters (On-site) |
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| Off-Airport Providers |
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| Airport - Domestic vs International |
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On-site Car Rental Companies at Terminals:
Off-Airport Providers:
Cairns Airport Terminal Navigation Tips:
On average, car rentals in Cairns Airport (CNS) cost around AUD $159 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from AUD $37 per day.
Check out off-airport rentals. A quick 5-10 minute shuttle ride from Cairns Airport can save you a bundle, as these lots don't have the hefty airport fees tacked on.
Play the booking game. Always book online to avoid shocking walk-up prices. If you're renting for 5 or 6 days, check the weekly rate—it can often be cheaper.
Bring your own navigation. Save $10-$15 a day by skipping the rental company's GPS. Your smartphone's map app works great around Cairns and the surrounding areas.
Fill up before you return. Rental companies charge a premium to refill the tank for you. Top it up yourself at a station on Sheridan Street, just a few minutes from the airport.
| Aspect | Details | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Return Location | Clearly marked rental return spaces at both terminals | Signs direct to dedicated rental car return areas; follow colour-coded zones |
| Return Process | Counter return during hours, key drop after hours | Allow 15-20 minutes for processing during busy periods |
| Fuel Options | No fuel stations at airport itself | Fill up nearby. Fuel stations on Sheridan Street are a short drive from the airport. |
| Late Return | After-hours key drop boxes available | Photograph car upon return if using after-hours drop |
| Early Return | Possible but refunds rarely given | Check policy. Most companies do not refund unused days |
Airport Spaces for Visitors: If someone is dropping you at the airport to collect a rental:
Vehicle Inspection Tips:
Get a car so you can get to:
Cairns CBD – 7 km, 10-15 min
Northern Beaches – Trinity Beach, Palm Cove, 10-20 km, 15-30 min
Port Douglas – Rex Lookout, 65 km, 1 hour
Atherton Tablelands – Kennedy Highway or Gillies Highway, 85-95 km, 1.5-2 hours
How long does the airport rental pickup process take? In normal circumstances, you're looking at 15-30 minutes for the paperwork and vehicle inspection. But if you arrive during peak times (10am-2pm), that can stretch to 45 minutes.
Can I change vehicle size/type after booking? Yes, but subject to availability. We recommend choosing the vehicle well at booking time to avoid disappointment.
Is there a grace period for returns? Most companies allow a 29-59 minute grace period before charging an additional day. Confirm the specific policy at pickup.
What if my flight is delayed? Major car rental companies monitor flight arrivals. If your delay is going to be significant, it's a good idea to give them a call and let them know when you'll actually be arriving.
Can I return to a different location than Cairns Airport? Yes. Most companies allow returns to Cairns CBD for a fee. Returns to Port Douglas may be possible for an additional fee.
Do airport rentals have mileage/kilometre restrictions? Most standard rentals include unlimited kilometres, but always verify. Some speciality or discounted rentals may have daily limits.
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