Car Rental at Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) from $60

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Top Car Deals in Cairns Intl.

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Mon, Aug 10 to Tue, Aug 11

Midsize Commercial Van/Truck

Toyota Hiace
  • 2 people
  • 94 free miles/total
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Toyota Hiace

$77

includes taxes & fees
$47 per day
found 12 hours ago
Midsize Commercial Van/Truck Toyota Hiace
Wed, Aug 12 to Thu, Aug 13

Economy Special Offer Car

  • 0 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)

$60

includes taxes & fees
$49 per day
found 15 hours ago
Economy Special Offer Car undefined
Wed, Aug 12 to Thu, Aug 13

Fullsize

  • 0 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)

$74

includes taxes & fees
$62 per day
found 15 hours ago
Fullsize undefined
Mon, Aug 10 to Tue, Aug 11

Standard Commercial Van/Truck

Hino 20 Foot Box Truck
  • 2 people
  • 94 free miles/total
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Hino 20 Foot Box Truck

$98

includes taxes & fees
$62 per day
found 15 hours ago
Standard Commercial Van/Truck Hino 20 Foot Box Truck
Fri, Aug 14 to Sat, Aug 15

Special

Mystery Car
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Mystery Car

$110

includes taxes & fees
$69 per day
found 9 hours ago
Special Mystery Car
Fri, Aug 14 to Sat, Aug 15

Compact SUV

Kia Stonic
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Kia Stonic

$117

includes taxes & fees
$74 per day
found 9 hours ago
Compact SUV Kia Stonic
Fri, Aug 14 to Sat, Aug 15

Premium SUV

Toyota Prado
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Toyota Prado

$159

includes taxes & fees
$103 per day
found 9 hours ago
Premium SUV Toyota Prado
Fri, Aug 14 to Sat, Aug 15

Compact Elite SUV

Q3 35 TFSI Sportback
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Q3 35 TFSI Sportback

$216

includes taxes & fees
$143 per day
found 9 hours ago
Compact Elite SUV Q3 35 TFSI Sportback
Fri, Aug 14 to Sat, Aug 15

Midsize Elite SUV

Audi Q5 Inc. GPS
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Audi Q5 Inc. GPS

$239

includes taxes & fees
$159 per day
found 9 hours ago
Midsize Elite SUV Audi Q5 Inc. GPS
Wed, Aug 12 to Thu, Aug 13

Premium Elite SUV

Premium 4WD - Toyota Landcruiser 200 Series
  • 7 people
  • 125 free miles/total
Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)
Premium 4WD - Toyota Landcruiser 200 Series

$320

includes taxes & fees
$216 per day
found 15 hours ago
Premium Elite SUV Premium 4WD - Toyota Landcruiser 200 Series

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Lowest prices found within the past 12 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Cairns Intl. car rental

Reasons to book a car rental at Cairns International Airport

Renting a car at Cairns Airport (CNS) is a practical choice for tourists looking to explore the wonderful attractions around Cairns at their own pace. With the convenience of picking up your rental vehicle right after your arrival, you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans. This option is particularly appealing for those interested in friendly encounters and excursions in the area.

Having a rental car allows you to visit popular spots like the Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Marlin Marina, and Esplanade Lagoon, all located about 3 miles from the airport. You can also explore the vibrant city of Cairns, featuring beautiful Palm Cove Beach. Additionally, the nearby neighborhood of Aeroglen, less than 1 mile away, offers quick access to these attractions. For business travelers or those staying in the Cairns Central Business District, which is also 3 miles away, a rental car provides a convenient way to navigate between meetings and leisure activities. Overall, renting a car enhances your experience by offering the freedom and flexibility to enjoy the stunning sights around Cairns at your leisure.

Most popular car rentals near Cairns Airport

  • Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a balance of space and comfort, providing ample room for passengers and luggage while allowing you the freedom to explore the attractions around Cairns airport at your own pace.
  • Compact SUV: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the Compact SUV can fit 5 travelers with up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is great for those who want a smaller vehicle that is easy to maneuver and park, while still offering enough space for your belongings. Renting a Compact SUV allows for flexible travel plans as you navigate the Cairns area.
  • Fullsize SUV: If you're traveling with a larger group, the Fullsize SUV is the perfect choice, accommodating up to 6 travelers with the capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This vehicle provides added space and comfort, making it an excellent option for families or groups who want to enjoy their journey together while exploring all that Cairns has to offer.

Where to stay near Cairns International Airport

  • Cairns: Located close to the airport, Cairns offers a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on outdoor and family experiences. Visitors can explore the iconic Cairns Esplanade, perfect for scenic strolls, and enjoy the nearby urban park and beach. Dining options abound, making it a convenient spot for travelers seeking a lively city experience.
  • Cairns and Barrier Reef: Just 3 miles from the airport, this area is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in eco-friendly adventures. The Cairns Esplanade and Cairns Marlin Marina provide fantastic outdoor activities while the stunning rainforest adds to the locale's natural beauty. This region is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Cairns Central Business District: Situated 3 miles from Cairns airport, this neighborhood is bustling with shopping centers and theaters. The proximity to the Cairns Esplanade and Esplanade Lagoon offers visitors a mix of urban excitement and serene outdoor spots. Dining options are plentiful, making it an excellent base for travelers looking to explore the city and its attractions.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Cairns

  • Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for added luggage capacity, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best vehicle for your journey.
  • Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's usually advisable to reserve your CNS car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking your rental 1-3 months in advance is optimal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
  • Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your reservation.
  • Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are generally less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  • Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
  • Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits, and debit cards may not always be accepted.
  • Understand your insurance coverage: Purchasing car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to include car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  • Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend a lot of time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra costs on longer journeys.
  • Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

    • Best time to rent a car from Cairns Airport

    The best value period to rent a car from Cairns Airport is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February and March also offer good options, with slightly low prices and manageable demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, accompanied by slightly high demand. June also sees higher prices and demand, making it a busy time for rentals. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

    Car Rental Information

     
    Popular car types
    		SUV, Full Size, Economy
     
    Car suppliers available
     
    Our best deal of the day
    		$60
     
    Our second best deal of the day
    		$74
     
    Our third best deal of the day
    		$77
     
    From the airport to your hotel
    		Airport Transportation
     
    From popular domestic and international airports
    		Airport Car Rentals

    Frequently asked questions

    How much is a rental car per day from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
    Rates start at just $60 a day. That's based on prices found over the last seven days. If you're on a budget, renting a car from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) won't break the bank.
    Can I rent a car from Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)?
    Car rental suppliers at Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) can be found at the arrivals hall of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Here you can collect a great set of wheels from Budget, Avis or Europcar. Thrifty and Redspot/Enterprise also offer some excellent deals.
    What happens if I need to cancel my Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) car reservation?
    Most bookings can be canceled without penalty. If you've paid for your rental car in advance, you may qualify for a refund if you notify us a minimum of six hours ahead of pickup. Look through the rental policy for the terms and conditions. Our Customer Service Portal will have more useful information.
    How do I find the best car rental deals at Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) with Expedia?
    Whatever class of ride you're searching for, Expedia will help you find the best deal. Compare the offers from quality rental suppliers and book the option that's right for you. Like to drive away with even more in your wallet? Combine your Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
    What do you need to rent a car from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
    Generally, all you'll need is a valid driver's license and credit card in your name when collecting the keys to your vehicle. Proof of coverage may also be required if you choose to opt out of the company's insurance plan. These requirements often differ from rental company to rental company, so it's always wise to check while booking.
    What is the cheapest car rental at Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
    Based on prices within the past seven days, you can rent a car from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) from just $60 per day. Explore our impressive selection of vehicles and book your perfect ride today.
    Can I rent a car for a month or longer from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
    Yes, you can rent a car for a day or two, a month or even longer. We partner with various reputable providers that offer extended rental deals for many types of vehicles. Explore your options on our long-term car rental deals page and book your perfect ride today.
    Where can I find a Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) car rental if I am younger than 25?
    Whether you can rent a vehicle from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) will depend on the car rental company. Some outlets may accept drivers from the age of 21, or sometimes younger, but you'll need to read through the terms and conditions. Be mindful that surcharges often apply to people who are below 25. If that's the case, find out about all the costs before locking in your car.
    What insurance should I choose for my car rental from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
    It's smart to have a good level of insurance for your rental car to get you out of a challenging situation. That's why Expedia offers collision protection that can be added to your ride during the booking process. This protection offers primary coverage for theft, vandalism and collision damage for up to $35,000. It also offers 24/7 emergency assistance and a zero-dollar excess, so you can hit the road from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) with peace of mind.
    Can I drive near Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) with my current driver's license?
    If you don't hold a driver's license issued in Australia, then it's likely you'll need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence to be able to rent a car. You should also be aware that if an IDP is required, it won't be valid on its own. You'll have to show your current driver's license your passport and other forms of documentation as well. Lastly, it's important that the credit card you used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your driver's license and passport. Some other things to note for international car rentals are:

    • Age restrictions: You must be at least 25 in most countries to rent a car. If you're younger, it might still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to what kinds of cars you can rent.
    • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the fine print before you drive away. Typically, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or on certain types of rugged terrain with a rental car.

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