If you are planning a trip to Southeast Queensland, understanding car hire in Brisbane helps you budget properly, whether you are flying into Brisbane Airport or heading down to the Gold Coast for a beach holiday. Rental prices vary depending on vehicle type, rental duration, and pickup location, so knowing what drives the cost lets you compare offers with confidence.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Car Hire in Brisbane?
Several factors influence what you will pay:
- Vehicle type: compact cars and utes cost less than SUVs, minivans or eight-seaters
- Rental duration: weekly and long-term car hire in Brisbane usually works out cheaper per day than daily bookings
- Pickup location: airport pickups at Brisbane Airport or Gold Coast Airport often carry a small surcharge, while office pickup is typically free
- Season: rates rise during peak holiday periods and major Queensland events
Average Car Rental Rates Across Brisbane and the Gold Coast
| Vehicle Type | Seats | Daily Rate From |
| Ute / Small Car | 2 | AUD $50 |
| Sedan / SUV | 5 | AUD $59 |
| Minivan | 8 | AUD $75 |
| 8 Seater Car | 8 | AUD $89 |
| 12 Seater Van | 12 | AUD $149 |
Rates are indicative and can shift with the season, availability , and rental length.
Extra Costs to Factor into Your Brisbane Car Rental
- Airport pickup or drop off charges
- Extra services such as navigation devices and child seats may affect the overall cost.
- Fuel and toll expenses
Why Car Hire in Brisbane and the Gold Coast Stays in Demand
Brisbane’s visitor economy is booming. In the year ending June 2025, the city welcomed 594,000 international holidaymakers, a surge of 15 per cent year on year, according to Tourism Research Australia data reported by the Brisbane Economic Development Agency. This steady rise in visitors, paired with strong holiday traffic to the Gold Coast, keeps competitive rental pricing available for business and leisure travellers alike across South East Queensland.
Whether you need a rental for a weekend escape or an extended stay, comparing rates against your travel dates and pickup point makes it easier to secure affordable car hire in Brisbane without unexpected costs.
Find the Right Car Hire in Brisbane with Viz Car Rentals
Viz Car Rentals offers a well-maintained fleet of over 100 vehicles across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. Whether you are looking for an affordable Brisbane car hire for a quick city visit or a premium vehicle for a more comfortable road trip, our team can help you make the right choice. Call us today to check current rates and availability or browse the fleet online to find the right vehicle for your next trip.
FAQs
How much does a car hire in Brisbane cost per day?
Expect daily hire rates to vary, with smaller vehicles often starting at around $50 and larger vans reaching $150 or more during certain seasons.
Is airport pickup more expensive than office pickup?
Yes, collecting a car from Brisbane Airport or Gold Coast Airport usually includes a small surcharge, while office pickup is often free.
Does weekly car hire in Brisbane cost less than daily rates?
Yes, weekly and long-term rentals generally reduce the average daily rate compared with booking day by day.
What services and inclusions come with a rental car booking?
Most rentals include basic insurance cover, unlimited kilometres and roadside assistance, with extras like GPS or child seats available for an added fee.
