Budget Car Hire Cairns
Looking for affordable car hire in Cairns? With Budget, you’ll get great value on a wide range of vehicles — from compact city cars to rugged 4WDs — plus flexible booking options, easy pick-up locations, and no surprises.
Pick up and go from Cairns Airport or the city
Touching down at Cairns Airport? We’ve got you covered. Our Cairns Airport car hire location is just minutes from baggage claim, so you can hit the road without delay. Prefer to pick up in town? Choose our convenient city location and explore at your own pace.
No matter where you're headed: Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas, or the Atherton Tablelands, hiring a car is the easiest way to explore Cairns on your terms.
Cars, SUVs, 4WDs and more — vehicles for every kind of trip
Budget Car Hire Cairns offers a wide selection of reliable, well-maintained vehicles, depending on the type of trip you are taking we have something for everyone!
Explore more of Tropical North Queensland
Hiring a car in Cairns means you can go beyond the city limits and really explore. Here are just a few ideas to kick-start your itinerary:
- Drive the Great Barrier Reef Drive — one of Australia’s most scenic coastal roads
- Visit Kuranda via the Skyrail and return by road through rainforest views
- Head to Palm Cove for a laid-back beach day
- Take a day trip to the Daintree Rainforest and spot crocodiles on the Daintree River
- Explore the Atherton Tablelands, known for waterfalls, crater lakes and rolling green hills
No matter where you go, Budget gets you there — with local knowledge and a reliable set of wheels.
Why choose Budget for car hire in Cairns?
- Easy pick-up at Cairns Airport or in town
- Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
- Flexible rental periods and vehicle upgrades
- Earn Qantas Points when you book
- Local support and service if you need help on the road
Book online and save
Booking your Cairns hire car online is the fastest way to lock in a great rate and secure the right vehicle for your trip. You can also manage your booking online, choose add-ons like car seats and update your pick-up time if your plans change.
FAQs about car hire in Cairns
Where can I pick up a Budget rental car in Cairns?
You can pick up your Budget rental at Cairns Airport or from our Cairns city location. Both offer a wide range of vehicles and fast, friendly service.
Can I hire a car in Cairns and drop it off in another city?
Yes — one-way rentals are available between many Budget locations. Just enter your return city when booking to see your options.
What types of vehicles are available for hire in Cairns?
We offer everything from compact cars to SUVs, 4WDs, vans, and electric vehicles. Check our vehicle range here.
Can I use a debit card to hire from Budget in Cairns?
Yes, a valid debit or credit card can be used at the time of pick-up. See our bookings page for more info.
Budget Blog - Escape to the Daintree Rainforest
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable Australian rainforest road trip, skip the crowds and head north from Cairns into one of the oldest and most biodiverse landscapes in the world — the Daintree Rainforest.
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