What is long-term car rental and who is it for?
Long-term car rental means hiring a vehicle for a month or more – all the mobility you need without the hefty purchase price or ongoing ownership costs. It’s popular for:
- Interstate professionals on extended work placements who need reliable transport between the Cairns CBD, construction sites in the Atherton Tablelands and mining operations toward Mount Isa.
- International backpackers and working holidaymakers staying for several weeks or months – especially during the dry-season reef tours or the lush, wet-season rainforest explorations around Cape Tribulation.
- Locals in transition, such as those waiting for a new vehicle to arrive or needing transport during major car servicing.
- People relocating to Cairns for roles in tourism, agriculture, or mining who want flexible mobility – ideal for exploring Palm Cove, getting familiar with suburbs like Redlynch and settling into their new lifestyle.
What types of cars are available to rent in Cairns?
Discover the right vehicle from our extensive range, carefully selected to accommodate different needs and budgets:
| Vehicle Type | Description | Ideal for |
| Compact cars | Fuel-efficient hatchbacks and sedans, ideal for navigating Cairns city streets and parking with ease. | Budget-conscious renters, city driving. |
| SUVs | Spacious, reliable models perfect for driving around Cairns or exploring the Atherton Tablelands and Daintree Rainforest. | Family travel, regional/rural exploration. |
| Luxury vehicles | High-end models from brands like Audi and BMW – designed for comfort and performance. | Business professionals, special occasions. |
| Commercial fleet | A robust fleet including utes, vans, trucks, 4WDs, buses and mine-spec vehicles – ready for long-term industrial or infrastructure use. | Ideal for construction crews, FIFO workers, tourism operators and logistics on extended projects. |
What’s included in a long term rental agreement?
1. Limited Liability Protection
Every Cairns long-term rental comes with standard ‘Limited Liability‘ protection. Want to cruise the Captain Cook Highway worry-free? Upgrade to our ‘Platinum Liability Reduction’ package for zero excess on our standard vehicle range and $1000 damage excess applies on our luxury range*.
*Contract terms and conditions still apply.
2. Regular servicing
Your rental stays in peak condition with our complimentary vehicle exchange every 90 days or 10,000km – perfect for those extensive Tablelands and Cape York adventures. We handle the maintenance, and you handle exploring everything from Mission Beach to Cooktown.
3. 24/7 emergency support
Round-the-clock roadside backup comes standard – because breakdowns don’t respect business hours, especially on remote Queensland roads. Whether you’re stuck near Kuranda or need help in Trinity Beach, professional assistance is just one phone call away, any hour.
4. Complimentary second driver
We make it easy to share the journey — every long-term rental includes a free second driver. From Port Douglas to the Atherton Tablelands, you can take turns at the wheel while keeping your rental experience stress-free and great value.
How to book a long-term car rental in Cairns?
Step 1: Explore Your Options
Check out our long-term rental fleet available to pick up from Cairns Airport. We’ll have your perfect vehicle match, from fuel-efficient compacts for city driving to roomy SUVs for family adventures.
Step 2: Quick and Easy Application
Complete our simple online form – we’ve cut out all the hurdles and kept only what’s necessary. No marathon paperwork sessions, just the basics to get you sorted.
Step 3: Tell Us Your Preference
Share your details and highlight which vehicle has caught your attention. Our helpful team will reach out to you promptly with the next steps.
Step 4: Fast Processing and Booking
We’ll quickly process your application, double-check your chosen vehicle’s availability, and handle all the booking arrangements for you.
Step 5: Start Your Journey
Collect your keys and begin discovering Cairns and Tropical North Queensland’s incredible destinations. That’s it – effortless, efficient and totally hassle-free!
Why choose Bargain Car Rentals?
- Unbeatable value: We deliver Cairns’ best long-term rental rates, ensuring maximum savings without sacrificing the quality of vehicles and service you deserve.
- Complete freedom: Our no-strings-attached policy means total flexibility – adjust your rental period, upgrade your vehicle or finish early without hidden fees or binding contracts.
- Convenient location: Drop off your vehicle at our Cairns Airport depot with free shuttle service included, making your departure as smooth as your arrival.
- Locally trusted choice: Seasonal workers, international visitors, and local residents needing temporary transport across Far North Queensland trust our service and vehicle range.
Ready to get started? Fill out our form to discover your long-term rental savings – transparent pricing with zero hidden costs.
Need more information? Browse our comprehensive FAQ section for detailed answers to all your questions.
Am I eligible to rent a car long-term?
You’ll need a valid driver’s licence (Australian or international), be over 21, and have a credit card for the security deposit. We welcome both Australian residents and international visitors planning extended stays in Tropical North Queensland. International drivers renting a luxury car will also need to present their passport upon arrival.
How much does it cost to hire a car long term in Cairns?
Long-term rentals start from around $800 per month for compact vehicles, with better rates for longer periods. Prices vary based on vehicle type, season (wet vs dry) and rental duration – the longer you stay, the more you save per day.
Can I rent a car long term for travel across Queensland from Cairns?
Absolutely! Our vehicles are perfect for epic Queensland road trips. Drive south to Townsville, west to the Outback, or (almost) anywhere across the state. Just let us know your travel plans when booking so we can ensure you’re covered.
What types of vehicles are popular for long-term hire in Cairns?
SUVs are incredibly popular for tackling Cape York adventures – just make sure you stick to sealed roads. Compact cars work brilliantly for city exploration and hopping between the towns in the Tropical North, while family vehicles suit those with kids who need a bit more room.