Car Rental in Townsville

Cheapest car rental rates
Toyota Yaris
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


MG 3
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


MG 5
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Kia Stonic
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


MG HS
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Suzuki Swift
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX3
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Corolla
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Corolla
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Corolla
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Polestar 2
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Kia Cerato
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX-3
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


MG 3
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX-3
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX-30
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX-30
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX5
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Kia Stonic
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Yaris Cross
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX-5
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Hilux
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Corolla
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Kia Sportage
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Yaris
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


MG HS
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX-5
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


MG 3
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Kia Sportage
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Camry
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Suzuki Swift
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Kia Sportage
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX5
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Yaris Cross
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Corolla
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Subaru Crosstrek
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX5
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Hyundai Kona
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Polestar 2
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Kluger
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX5
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota RAV4
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Mazda CX-3
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Kluger
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota RAV4
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Kluger
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Toyota Corolla
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Kia Sorento
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Subaru Crosstrek
If the exact model isn’t available, you’ll get a car in the same category that’s the same size and has the same number of doors, transmission type, and features. This is standard for most car rental suppliers.


Why book with us?




- Cheapest car rental rates
- Why book with us?
- Travel information
- Why rent a car in Townsville?
- One-way car rentals in Townsville
- Top ways to enter Townsville
- Top sights and activities
- Traffic and parking
- Toll roads
- Car rental prices in Townsville
- Top 20 cities near Townsville
- Top 20 locations near Townsville
- Map of top car rental locations
- When to book in Townsville and for how long?
- Car rental information
- Most popular car models of rental suppliers
- Here's what travelers say about renting a car in Townsville
- Car rental statistics
- Top 11 suppliers in Townsville in 2026
- Award-winning service
Travel information
Why rent a car in Townsville?

One of the main cities and regional centre of North Queensland, Townsville is best known for its nearby natural attractions. The cozy city of 180,000 souls offers access to the southern portions of one of the world’s natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef, as well as the amazing Magnetic Island, the famous Outback and the northern Australian rainforest. There’s no need to be in a great rush to leave the city, though, as there’s also plenty of attractions inside its borders, such as heritage sites, beautiful public beaches, and lots of art and culture.
One-way car rentals in Townsville
The most popular one-way rental options for pick up in Townsville and drop off in another city include:
- From Townsville to Cairns - 26 offers from $97.58 per day
- From Townsville to Sydney - 26 offers from $113.94 per day
Top ways to enter Townsville
- Townsville Airport. Serving about 1.6 million travelers every year, this cozy airport offers access to Australian metropolises like Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, as well as more exotic and isolated destinations like Mackay, Toowoomba, and Palm Island. Located about 7 km (4.3 miles) west of the city center, the airport can be reached in ten minutes.
- Cairns Airport. The biggest airport of North Queensland, it serves plenty of domestic destinations, as well as flights to and from China, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, and Papua New-Guinea. Located some 350 km (217 miles) north of Townsville, the trip between the two takes about four and a half hours, and most of the drive takes you near the coast, passing attractions like Mission Beach and Hinchinbrook Island along the way.
Top sights and activities
- Museums. Despite its relatively small size, Townsville has a decent amount of interesting museums. The standout amongst them is the Museum of Tropical Queensland with its impressive collections of corals, other marine flora and fauna, and artifacts from the wreck of the famous HMS Pandora. Others include the Army Museum of North Queensland, the Maritime Museum (located in the Townsville Harbour area), and the Rolling Stone Park Museum and community markets.
- The Strand. One of the most famous city beaches in Australia, the Strand is characterized by its golden sands, surrounding gardens, impressive views, and relaxed atmosphere. The ocean is generally very calm here and safe to swim in at many places along it. Located in the suburb of North Ward, The Strand can be easily accessed from anywhere in the city.
- Reef HQ. While many trips and tours to the Great Barrier Reef depart from Townsville, the first impression of that unique ecosystem can be gained without leaving the city. An impressive aquarium, the Reef HQ has not only corals, but also other mesmerizing ocean dwellers like sea cucumbers, urchins, and stars. Other sections of the aquarium house the impressive blacktip reef and leopard sharks, as well as the Turtle Hospital dedicated to the recovery of injured marine animals. Visit the aquarium's official site to learn more about opening hours, tickets, and the conservation efforts of the center.
- Magnetic Island. A stunning tropical island located just a short 40-minute car ferry away from Townsville. “Maggie” as locals call it, is known for its crystal clear waters, abundant wildlife, and secluded bays. This is often recommended as a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Townsville. Find out more in this great guide to Magnetic Island.
Traffic and parking
- As a moderately sized Australian city, traffic congestion is generally not as severe as in larger cities like Sydney or Brisbane. The road network is also well maintained.
- There is free and paid parking available in the city. Generally, the free parking is found a few streets back from the Strand. There are plenty of spots usually available near the Ross River, within walking idstance of the main attract
- One of the largest road hazards in Australia is the wildlife. Take extra caution when driving in bad weather or after dark as this is when most of the collisions with wildlife take place.
- Mobile coverage is very rarely available outside of major highways and population centers, so take extra caution when traveling in rural areas.
- Another great risk when traveling outside of main highways is the heat. The temperatures can reach extremes very easily, especially during the summer months and in inland areas. Always stay properly hydrated and plan your route in advance to be able to supplement your water supplies.
- Laws concerning driving under the influence differ from territory to territory in Australia. In Queensland, the legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.00% for novice drivers and drivers with provisional licenses. Exceeding the limit can lead to large fines and a driver license ban.
- Proof of insurance and the car’s documentation need to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
- When driving, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
- The primary, nationwide emergency number in Australia is 000.
Toll roads
There are a number of toll roads in Australia, mainly in the states of New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. In New South Wales, there are nine currently active toll roads, which is more than in the rest of the country combined.
Most toll roads in Australia use an open toll system with mainline barrier toll points. All toll roads in Australia use a cashless payment system. You can purchase a prepaid pass for most toll roads. Some rental cars in Australia are equipped with electronic transponders, the price of which may or may not be included in the rental price. Ask your car rental provider about it in advance.
Different toll roads are operated by different companies, so there is no nation-wide fee system in place.
The main freeway bypassing Townsville is called the Townsville Ring Road, which forms the new A1 motorway connecting the southern Queensland cities to Cairns. This is a toll-free road, and tolls in general are not found in the Townsville region.
For more information about the toll roads in the state of Queensland, visit the state’s toll road website.
Car rental prices in Townsville
- Medium cars - from $43 per day
- Large cars - from $46 per day
- SUVs - from $50 per day
- Vans - from $166 per day
- Premium cars - from $117 per day
- Station wagons - from $148 per day
- Small cars - from $68 per day
Learn more about our Editorial Policy.
Top 20 cities near Townsville
- Proserpinefrom $43.16 per day230.5 km / 143.23 miles away
- Airlie Beachfrom $36.57 per day232.4 km / 144.41 miles away
- Cairnsfrom $35.11 per day281.1 km / 174.67 miles away
- Mackayfrom $84.96 per day327 km / 203.19 miles away
- Port Douglasfrom $116.02 per day338.7 km / 210.46 miles away
- Emeraldfrom $54.51 per day500.1 km / 310.75 miles away
- Rockhamptonfrom $68.06 per day597 km / 370.96 miles away
- Gladstonefrom $59.97 per day688.4 km / 427.75 miles away
- Mount Isafrom $41.52 per day777.8 km / 483.3 miles away
- Bundabergfrom $48.72 per day847.1 km / 526.36 miles away
- Hervey Bayfrom $48.71 per day909.9 km / 565.39 miles away
- Noosa Headsfrom $42.90 per day1,023.6 km / 636.04 miles away
- Marcoolafrom $34.90 per day1,040.9 km / 646.79 miles away
- Maroochydorefrom $40.48 per day1,044.8 km / 649.21 miles away
- Currimundi1,056.8 km / 656.67 miles away
- Caloundrafrom $38.70 per day1,060.3 km / 658.84 miles away
- Toowoombafrom $37.75 per day1,062.1 km / 659.96 miles away
- North Lakesfrom $55.66 per day1,091.3 km / 678.1 miles away
- Ipswichfrom $54.10 per day1,112.2 km / 691.09 miles away
- Brisbanefrom $34.23 per day1,112.5 km / 691.28 miles away
Top 20 locations near Townsville
- Townsville Airportfrom $43.28 per day1.3 km / 0.81 miles away
- Whitsunday Coast Airportfrom $43.16 per day230.5 km / 143.23 miles away
- Airlie Beach Downtownfrom $36.57 per day232.4 km / 144.41 miles away
- Cairns (Downtown)from $35.11 per day281.1 km / 174.67 miles away
- Cairns Airportfrom $87.50 per day285.6 km / 177.46 miles away
- Mackay (Downtown)from $100.82 per day327 km / 203.19 miles away
- Mackay Airportfrom $84.96 per day328.6 km / 204.18 miles away
- Port Douglas Downtownfrom $116.02 per day338.7 km / 210.46 miles away
- Emerald Airportfrom $54.51 per day500.1 km / 310.75 miles away
- Rockhampton Airportfrom $68.06 per day597 km / 370.96 miles away
- Gladstone Airportfrom $59.97 per day688.3 km / 427.69 miles away
- Mount Isa Airportfrom $41.52 per day776.7 km / 482.62 miles away
- Bundaberg Downtownfrom $48.72 per day847.1 km / 526.36 miles away
- Bundaberg Airportfrom $48.72 per day848.1 km / 526.98 miles away
- Hervey Bay Downtownfrom $51.14 per day909.9 km / 565.39 miles away
- Hervey Bay Airportfrom $48.71 per day920.5 km / 571.97 miles away
- Noosa Heads Downtownfrom $42.90 per day1,023.6 km / 636.04 miles away
- Sunshine Coast Airportfrom $34.90 per day1,040.9 km / 646.79 miles away
- Maroochydore (Downtown)from $40.48 per day1,044.8 km / 649.21 miles away
Map of top car rental locations
When to book in Townsville and for how long?
What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Townsville?
Car rental prices in Townsville vary by time of year. This graph shows the average prices per month to help you find the best time of year to rent.
Saver's insights
| Cheapest monthAugust | Most expensive month July | ||
| Average price $71 | A good deal $70 | Cheapest supplier Bargain Car Rentals | Cheapest car type Medium cars |
$61
in January
$68
in February
$66
in March
$56
in April
$55
in May
$58
in June
$69
in July
$40
in August
$41
in September
$47
in October
$44
in November
$52
in December
The cheapest month to rent a car in Townsville is August (when prices average $39.79 per day). This is 44% cheaper than the yearly average and 43% cheaper than renting in July (when prices average $69.39).
This information can help you identify the low season. But these are only average numbers. How much your car rental will cost will depend on the type of vehicle you rent, how long you’ll rent it for, and how far ahead you book. Simply enter your dates in the form at the top of the page to see the exact prices.
What's the most popular month to rent a car in Townsville?
Based on the number of searches by our customers, the most popular month for renting a car in Townsville is October, and the least popular is June.
Same as average in January
0.8 times in February
1.2 times in March
0.8 times in April
0.8 times in May
0.6 times in June
0.8 times in July
1.2 times in August
1.1 times in September
1.6 times in October
Same as average in November
1.1 times in December
What’s the usual rental length in Townsville?
How long travelers keep their rental cars for varies from month to month: in February, the average renter keeps their car for 8 days, and in January, they keep their car for 5 days.
5 days in January
8 days in February
6 days in March
7 days in April
6 days in May
5 days in June
8 days in July
7 days in August
6 days in September
8 days in October
7 days in November
6 days in December
Car rental information
| 📍 Car rental locations | 2 |
| ✈️ Airport locations | 1 |
| 🔥 Popular suppliers | Bargain Car Rentals, Thrifty, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise |
| 🚗 Popular car types | SUVs, medium cars, large cars, small cars |
| 🤑 Lowest price | $43 per day |
| 👛 Cheapest supplier | Bargain Car Rentals |
Most popular car models of rental suppliers
| Rental Supplier | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bargain Car Rentals | MG 3 | 5 | 1 | Medium car |
| Bargain Car Rentals | Kia Stonic | 4 | 2 | SUV |
| Bargain Car Rentals | MG HS | 4 | 2 | SUV |
| Bargain Car Rentals | MG 5 | 5 | 2 | Large car |
| Bargain Car Rentals | Maxus G10 | 3 | 5 | Medium car |
| Bargain Car Rentals | LDV D90 | 5 | 2 | SUV |
| Bargain Car Rentals | Toyota Hilux | 2 | 3 | Large car |
| Bargain Car Rentals | LDV Deliver 9 | 5 | 2 | Van |
| Budget | Kia Cerato | 4 | 2 | Large car |
| Dollar | Toyota Corolla | 4 | 2 | Medium car |
Here's what travelers say about renting a car in Townsville


Car rental statistics
Top 11 suppliers in Townsville in 2026











Award-winning service
Highly recommended by our customers
Save even more with our mobile app



Sign up for our newsletter





