Gold Coast Airport Car Hire

From the golden beaches of its coastlines to the lush green forestry of its hinterlands, it is no wonder the Gold Coast region is one of Australia's top holiday destinations for locals, interstate visitors, and international guests.

With the Gold Coast Airport being a bustling hub of activity as it welcomes and farewells many visitors each and every day, car hire is a popular choice for many travellers to the region. Offering a wealth of flexibility and greater convenience for making spontaneous plans, it will allow you to experience more and indulge in all the amazing array of attractions, endless choice of activities, and the chance to explore captivating and inviting landscapes.

So to help you achieve more out of your time on the Gold Coast, we have provided some tips below for comparing, booking, and saving with a cheap car rental deal.

Booking your car hire early means you can access the best rates, have a bigger selection of cars to choose from, and can ensure that when you arrive at the airport, you have a car to pick up.

If your holidays are planned at peak travel season, then this is even more reason to ensure you start comparing and booking not only your car hire but all accommodation and ticketed events well before your departure date.

If you are unsure which car rental suppliers are servicing the Gold Coast Airport, you are best to compare your options through a comparison website such as, Car Rental Buddy. Some important information to note is that there are two types of suppliers servicing the Gold Coast Airport - those that are located on-site and ones that are located close or nearby to the airport.

On-site suppliers will have the depot positioned at the airport so you can conveniently fly in and drive away. If you choose a rental package from a supplier located at the airport, you will incur an extra charge known as an airport fee. So depending upon your budget and whether convenience is a top priority for your travels, you can choose a hire deal direct from the airport or opt for a supplier located just off-site.

Off-site suppliers will generally provide a free shuttle service to and from their depot and you won't be charged any airport fees.

Below is some extra (and helpful) information from Car Rental Buddy.

1. Who We Compare at the Gold Coast Airport
   • Apollo Rental Cars
   • Budget
   • Avis
   • Europcar
   • Redspot
   • Thrifty
   • Ace Rental Cars
   • East Coast Car Rentals
   • + more!


2. Other Options We Provide
   

   In addition to the optional extras and special equipment suppliers offer direct to you, we provide you the choice to include Allianz Excess Reimbursement Insurance as part of your car hire deal. From as low as $12.65 per day, you can add peace of mind to your car hire experience. If you have any questions or need further assistance, then give our friendly team a call on 1300 737 400 (or +61 2 8228 1898). We are available 24 hours a day!

   Please Note: Allianz Excess Reduction may not be available for some international customers, for certain locations, and for specific rental packages. Always read the PDS and ensure you choose insurance that is right for your travel needs and personal circumstances.


3. Top Tip for International Travellers
   

   Arriving from overseas? When conducting a quote, ensure you correctly select your country of residence. Most suppliers have fantastic rental deals designed specifically for international travellers - so you can enjoy exceptional prices and great inclusions.

   To find out more information and to help with understanding the presentation of rental deals for international travellers, check out our article Best Car Rental Deals in Australia for US Residents.

If you have booked with an on-site airport supplier, you will find their rental desks located near the domestic baggage collection area. Please see the map below for further information.

Click on map to enlarge.

Map Courtesy of Gold Coast Airport

Booked with an off-site supplier? Suppliers that offer a shuttle service will advise within the confirmation email / booking voucher what number to call to let them know that you are ready to be picked up. Certain suppliers may even have a free courtesy phone available within the airport to call on.

As each supplier is different, it is always best to review your confirmation email. Booked through Car Rental Buddy and have some questions or concerns? Then give our friendly staff a call - we are available 24 hours a day! If you prefer, you may like to contact the supplier directly (we provide their full contact details within your booking voucher).

When making the trip back to the depot, there are a few tips you should keep in mind that will help ensure you have a hassle free drop off.

If you will be travelling during a peak period, add extra time to your trip to count for any delays you may experience. Also, if you have booked a rental package that has a policy of 'Pick Up Full, Return Full', make certain you incorporate the time to fuel up and you choose a route that has a fuel station along the way. If you are unsure about the Gold Coast area, then ask the supplier at the time of pick up where the best nearby service location is. Remember, if you don't return the vehicle full, you will incur additional fees.

Also, allow extra time for you to comfortably collect all your belongings from the car hire vehicle. Check all compartments, seats, boot storage area, and even do a quick check beside and underneath the seats.

Had a bad or an exceptional customer service experience? If you have a moment, please provide feedback direct to the supplier or the car hire comparison supplier that you booked with and let them know about your car hire experience . It will help to outline areas they need to improve on or can aid in illustrating what they are doing right!

Take care and enjoy your Gold Coast travel adventure!