Hertz
Budget
Avis
Sixt
Thrifty
Europcar
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Road Genius makes it easy to find great rental car deals at Mackay Airport and around Australia. Compare prices and make bookings in one place. Simple. You will find all the major hire car desks located right in the arrivals hall, so you can grab your keys and start exploring the Queensland coast without any hassle.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 343752
Provider 👍 Pros 👎 Cons
Avis/Budget
  • Loyalty programs with possible free upgrades
  • Many different vehicles available
  • Open 7:00-21:30
  • Often costs more than smaller companies
  • Long waiting lines when many flights arrive
Hertz/Thrifty/Dollar
  • Counters next to each other for easy price checking
  • Cars in good condition
  • Gold/rewards programs for faster service
  • Extra airport fees added to prices
  • Few special vehicles available
Europcar
  • Can return car to different locations
  • Fair prices for mid-range cars
  • Can cancel booking for free
  • Strict rules for late car returns
  • Staff not always available
Sixt
  • High-end luxury vehicles available
  • Good prices for luxury cars
  • Newer car models

Terminal Layout: All car rental counters are in the arrivals area. After you get your luggage, turn right towards the exit. You will see rental desks along the wall. The rental car parking area is outside the terminal, a short walk from the counters.

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car at Mackay Airport (MKY)?

On average, car rentals at Mackay Airport (MKY) cost around AUD $101 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from AUD $56 per day.

Saving Tips
  • For Mackay, booking 1-3 months out usually gets you the best rates, especially for travel in the peak winter season (June-Oct). If you can, travelling in the quieter summer months (Dec-Mar) might also save you a few bucks.

  • Check the weekly rate. Sometimes renting for 7 days costs less than renting for 5. Play with the dates on our site to see if you can find a pricing sweet spot.

  • Always return the car with a full tank of fuel. The price you'll pay at a local petrol station is way better than the refuelling fee the rental company will charge.

  • Keep an eye out for 'Pay Now' deals. If your plans are locked in, paying upfront when you book can often unlock a lower rate.

Car hire prices at Mackay Airport (MKY) 2025/2026

Parking Tips

Area Parking Options Notes
Mackay Airport Short-term parking Close to terminal
Mackay Airport Long-term parking Located adjacent to short-term car park
Mackay City Street parking Look for P signs indicating time limits
Mackay City Car parks Available in CBD area
Shopping Centres Shopping centre car parks Abundant at Caneland Mall, Mount Pleasant Centre
Beaches/Parks Public parking Limited spaces at popular spots

Local Driving Rules:

  • Drive on the left side of the road
  • Default speed limits: 40 km/h at airport, 50 km/h in town, 100 km/h on highways
  • School zones (40 km/h) operate during set hours on school days
  • Mobile speed cameras and red light cameras operate in the Mackay region
  • Random breath testing is common, along with a 0.05% blood alcohol limit
  • Mobile phone use while driving is strictly prohibited

Returning Your Rental Car: When returning to Mackay Airport, follow the "Car Rental Return" signs as you approach the terminal. The return area is clearly marked and located near the main car park. Allow 15-20 minutes for the return process. Several fuel stations are located within a few kilometres of the terminal.

Why rent a car in Mackay

Get a car so you can see:

  • Mackay City Centre – 4 km

  • Northern Beaches – 12–20 km, Slade Point Road

  • Cape Hillsborough – 50 km, Bruce Highway, Seaforth Road

  • Eungella National Park – 80 km, 1.5 hours, Pioneer Valley

  • Airlie Beach – 150 km, 2 hours, Bruce Highway

  • Sarina – 35 km, Bruce Highway

Car Rental Driving Distances from Mackay MKY Airport, Australia

FAQs

Can I pick up at Mackay Airport and drop off in Airlie Beach or Proserpine? Yes, one-way rentals between these locations are available, though extra fees will apply.

What documentation do I need to rent a car at Mackay Airport? A valid driver's licence, a credit card in your name and ID matching your booking are required. An International Driving Permit may also be necessary if your licence isn't in English.

How early should I arrive to return my rental car before my flight? Plan for at least 30 minutes to return your vehicle before domestic flights and follow standard airline check-in recommendations.

Are child seats available at Mackay Airport rental companies? Yes, they are available and must be pre-requested. Bringing your own can save costs on long rentals.

Can I modify my rental if my flight is delayed? Yes, but it's important to notify the rental company as soon as you become aware of changes.