Renting A Car On The Gold Coast, Queensland in 2025
Are you thinking about renting a car on the Gold Coast? You’ve landed in just the right spot.
I’ve spent a delightful nine days with my family exploring this stunning part of Australia, and I’m here to share all the ins and outs of car rental on the Gold Coast.
From my experience, I know how crucial it is to have reliable wheels to enjoy everything this region offers fully.
By the end of this post, you’ll be well-versed in renting a car in Gold Coast, equipped with practical tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Whether it’s understanding the best rental deals or navigating the local roads, I’ve got you covered.
BEST AUSTRALIA CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS
For your car rental needs in the Gold Coast, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They compare offers from both global and local Australian companies, ensuring you snag the best deal. Plus, they offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before your rental begins.
If you’re sifting through heaps of information on car rentals in the Gold Coast, it’s easy to get tangled in a web of conflicting advice.
But don’t fret – I’m here to streamline this for you. We’ll delve into everything from choosing the right rental agency to understanding Australian driving nuances.
And if you’re concerned about hidden fees or insurance requirements, I’ll shed light on those, too.
So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a journey of discovering the ease and freedom of renting a car on the Gold Coast with Discover Cars, starting with my first-hand experience and wrapping up with a handy FAQ section. Let’s dive in!
Renting A Car on the Gold Coast With Discover Cars
Having explored the Gold Coast extensively, I’ve come to appreciate the freedom and convenience of having a rental car.
In my travels across this vibrant region, I’ve found that renting a car is the key to unlocking all the hidden gems the Gold Coast offers.
When booking a car rental on the Gold Coast, my go-to choice is always Discover Cars.
They’ve consistently offered me the best deals, and their flexibility is a huge plus – especially with free cancellations up to 48 hours before the reservation.
Here’s a breakdown of the straightforward process I follow each time to secure my rental car:
1. Booking Your Gold Coast Car Online via Discover Cars
Starting your Gold Coast adventure begins with a visit to the Discover Cars website. You’ll enter your travel dates and choose your preferred pick-up location here.
For most, this is usually the Gold Coast Airport, also known as Coolangatta Airport.
When I booked through Discover Cars, I noticed that East Coast Car Rental offered some of the most affordable car hires on the Gold Coast.
East Coast Car Rentals’ exceptional customer service, particularly their convenient shuttle service, stood out.
Here’s what made East Coast Car Rentals a standout choice for us:
Free Transfer Shuttle Service: They provide a complimentary shuttle from the airport to their nearby rental office. This service is not just convenient but also easy to use.
Efficient Communication: You’ll receive an SMS text 24 hours before your pickup time, which includes a link to the shuttle requesting system.
Once you’ve got your bags or cleared customs, click the link to order your shuttle.
Responsive Shuttle Bus Drivers: The drivers respond promptly to your requests, and the system even offers walking directions to the shuttle collection point.
Helpful Customer Support: If you encounter any issues with the online system, East Coast Car Rentals has a responsive reservations team available via a toll-free number or an international line.
This level of service, especially the shuttle system, made our experience with East Coast Car Rentals incredibly smooth and hassle-free.
It’s a perfect example of getting more than what you pay for, proving that a budget-friendly option doesn’t have to compromise on quality or convenience.
2. Choosing Comprehensive Coverage through Discover Cars
Whenever I rent with Discover Cars on the Gold Coast, I opt for their Full Coverage insurance.
It’s a choice echoed by many travellers, and for good reason.
For approximately 13 dollars a day, this coverage provides an extensive safety net that’s hard to overlook.
Here’s a breakdown of what the Full Coverage includes based on our recent booking:
✅ Included Insurance: This encompasses Collision Damage Waiver with a deductible of A$ 5500, Theft Protection, and Third Party Liability (TPL).
✅ Full Coverage (Limit 4900 AUD): This covers many potential issues, including refundable theft deductible, damages to the car’s body, undercarriage, windshield, windows, mirrors, wheels, and tyres.
It also covers towing expenses, taxi expenses in case of a breakdown, costs associated with lost keys or lockout fees, administration charges, and even the supplier’s loss of use fees during repair.
With this comprehensive coverage, your risks are well taken care of. Additional insurance might be offered at the rental desk.
Still, with this level of coverage, you can confidently decline these offers, knowing your risks are already covered.
This peace of mind is invaluable, especially when exploring the beautiful Gold Coast.
What’s Covered and Not Covered with Discover Cars
When renting a car through Discover Cars, it’s crucial to understand what’s included in their Full Coverage and what isn’t.
This clarity ensures you’re well-prepared for any situation during your Gold Coast adventure.
What’s Covered:
- Refundable Theft Deductible
- Bodywork and Roof
- Windshield and Windows
- Mirrors
- Wheels and Tyres
- Undercarriage
- Lost Keys or Lockout Fees
- Taxi Expenses
- Towing Expenses
- Administration Charges
- Loss of Use Fees
The rental company will initially charge you for these, but Discover Cars will compensate you afterwards.
What’s Not Covered:
- Rental Agreement Violations: Damages occurring from not adhering to the rental terms.
- Unforeseeable Events: Damages from uncontrollable events.
- Interior Damages: Cleaning costs or interior damages.
- Third-Party Damages: Any damages caused to other parties.
What You Need to Know:
Contact Discover Cars to extend Full Coverage and your rental.
A deposit is required at pick-up, unaffected by Full Coverage. In case of charges, you’ll be reimbursed after filing for compensation.
Full Coverage can be cancelled by contacting Discover Cars before the rental pick-up time.
Claims are reviewed and approved typically within 48 hours.
Required documents include the rental agreement, car condition assessment, invoice for charges, payment proof, bank or PayPal details, incident description, and a police report, if applicable.
Understanding these details ensures you can rent with confidence, knowing exactly what your coverage entails and how to handle any situations that may arise.
Acceptance of Discover Cars Policy by Rental Companies
From my experience, car rental companies on the Gold Coast have always accepted the third-party policy offered through Discover Cars.
This is a key reason I recommend choosing a well-rated rental company known for its excellent customer service.
When I rent a car, the company typically attempts to sell their insurance, which I usually decline.
The policy from Discover Cars meets all the legal requirements for car rental insurance in Australia.
If you opt out of the rental company’s insurance, they might place a hold on your credit card – this is standard practice and is fully refunded if you return the car without any damage.
Should there be any damage upon return, the cost is deducted from your deposit.
In such cases, you can file a claim with Discover Cars, and they are efficient, often processing allegations within 48 hours.
Filing a Claim with Discover Cars: A Simple Process
The process is straightforward if you need to file a claim with Discover Cars.
You can log in using the credentials provided in your booking confirmation email, accessible on a laptop and through the Discover Cars app (available for Android and Apple devices).
The Full Coverage Policy from Discover Cars, costing around 13 AUD per day, is significantly more affordable than the options usually offered by rental companies.
However, if you prefer, you can still opt for full coverage insurance directly from the rental company and enjoy Discover Cars’ competitive rates and flexible cancellation policy.
Important Disclaimer: My Personal Experience
Please note the insights shared here are based on my personal experiences of renting cars multiple times in various Australian cities.
While I can’t predict how your rental experience will unfold, I hope this information proves helpful for your trip to the Gold Coast.
For any specific queries about Discover Cars, I recommend contacting them directly.
You can also check out their reviews on TrustPilot, which boast a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from over 130,000 reviews.
Do I need Car Insurance For Gold Coast?
When planning a road trip on the Gold Coast, one question often arises: Do I need car insurance? The short answer is yes, and here’s why.
In Australia, it’s mandatory to have basic car insurance, known as Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance. This is usually included in your car registration.
However, CTP only covers injuries to other people if you’re involved in an accident. It doesn’t cover damage to property or other vehicles or protect your vehicle.
That’s where additional car insurance comes in. When renting a car on the Gold Coast, you’ll find that most rental companies offer various insurance options.
These can range from basic coverage, which might only cover damage to the rental car, to more comprehensive policies that include damage to other vehicles, theft, and more.
From personal experience, opting for additional coverage through a rental company or a third party like Discover Cars can be a wise decision.
It adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind while exploring the stunning beaches and hinterland of the Gold Coast.
For instance, I chose a comprehensive insurance package through Discover Cars during my last trip.
This covered not just any potential damage to the rental car but also included theft protection and coverage for damages to other vehicles.
The reasonable cost provided significant peace of mind, allowing me to enjoy the scenic drives and attractions without worrying about the financial implications of unexpected incidents.
In summary, while basic CTP insurance is a legal requirement in Australia, it’s highly advisable to consider additional car insurance when renting a vehicle on the Gold Coast.
It ensures compliance with rental agreements and safeguards your journey against unforeseen events.
10 Gold Coast Driving Tips
Navigating the roads of the Gold Coast, filled with stunning coastal views and lush hinterland, can be an exhilarating experience.
However, it’s important to be prepared. Here are ten essential driving tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey on the Gold Coast:
1. Drive on the Left
In Australia, always remember to drive on the left side of the road. It can be challenging if you’re used to driving on the right, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly.
2. Speed Limits
Speed limits vary, typically 50 km/h in urban areas and up to 110 km/h on motorways. Look for signs, especially in school zones where limits drop during certain hours.
3. Seat Belts are a Must
All passengers must wear seat belts. Children under seven must be in a child restraint appropriate for their age and size.
4. Be Aware of Trams
Trams are common in areas like Surfers Paradise and Southport. Give way to trams and be cautious of tram tracks, especially in wet conditions.
5. Watch for Wildlife
Look for wildlife crossing roads during dawn and dusk. Hitting an animal like a kangaroo can be dangerous.
6. No Mobile Phones
Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal and attracts fines. Use a hands-free system if you need to make calls.
7. Alcohol Limits
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. If you plan to drink, it’s best to avoid driving altogether.
8. Parking Rules
Pay attention to parking signs. Parking can be limited and often regulated in popular areas like Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.
9. Roundabouts
Give way to vehicles already on the roundabout, and remember to indicate when exiting.
10. Enjoy the Scenery, But Stay Focused
The Gold Coast offers some breathtaking views, but keeping your eyes on the road is crucial. If you want to enjoy the scenery, find a safe place to park and take it all in.
Following these tips will ensure a safe and pleasant driving experience on the Gold Coast.
Whether cruising along the coastal roads or exploring the hinterland, always drive responsibly and enjoy the journey!
BEST AUSTRALIA CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS
For your car rental needs in the Gold Coast, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They compare offers from both global and local Australian companies, ensuring you snag the best deal. Plus, they offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before your rental begins.
East Coast Car Rental Review
I recently had the pleasure of using East Coast Car Rental for my trip to the Gold Coast, and I must say, the experience was thoroughly satisfying.
The customer service was top-notch, which is always a big plus in my book. But what stood out was their shuttle service, which offers convenient transportation to and from the airport.
This added a layer of ease to our journey, smoothing the whole process.
The East Coast Car Rental depot is conveniently located just a 4-5 minute drive from the Gold Coast Airport.
When it was time to return the car, the process was straightforward.
We parked at the depot and waited our turn. The staff efficiently checked the car, and once they confirmed everything was in order, they promptly informed us that we could take the shuttle back to the airport.
They also sent us the check results, a nice touch for transparency.
Regarding the financial aspects, we paid a deposit of $1000 when picking up the car.
I was pleased to find that the deposit was swiftly returned to our account, as there was no damage to the vehicle.
Every step was smooth and hassle-free, from picking up the car to returning it.
Based on my experience, I highly recommend East Coast Car Rental for anyone looking to rent a car on the Gold Coast.
Their excellent customer service, convenient shuttle service, and efficient processes make them a standout choice.
Renting A Car On the Gold Coast FAQs
How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car On The Gold Coast?
The cost of renting a car on the Gold Coast varies depending on factors like the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the time of year.
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $100 per day. Prices are higher during peak tourist seasons and for larger or luxury vehicles.
Is It Cheaper To Rent A Car Or Uber On The Gold Coast?
Whether it’s cheaper to rent a car or use Uber on the Gold Coast depends on your travel plans.
For short distances or infrequent trips, Uber might be more cost-effective.
However, renting a car can be more economical, offering flexibility and potentially lowering overall costs for more extended stays or if you plan to explore extensively.
Do I Need To Rent A Car In Gold Coast?
Renting a car on the Gold Coast is unnecessary, but it’s highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main tourist areas.
Public transport covers many popular spots, but a rental car offers the freedom and convenience to discover hidden gems and scenic spots at your own pace.
Does Car Rental Include Fuel?
Car rentals typically do not include fuel in the cost. You’re expected to return the car with the same fuel as when you picked it up.
Some rental companies offer a pre-purchase fuel option, but generally, it’s more cost-effective to refill the tank yourself before returning the vehicle.
With East Coast Car Rental, we picked up the car with a full tank and returned it with a full tank.
Is Renting A Car In Australia Worth It?
Renting a car in Australia is often worth it, particularly if you’re planning to explore beyond the major cities.
It offers the flexibility to travel at your own pace and access areas that might be difficult to reach with public transport.
Especially in vast and scenic regions like the Gold Coast, a rental car can enhance your travel experience significantly.
How Can I Save On A Car Rental In Australia?
To save on a car rental in Australia, consider booking in advance, especially during off-peak seasons.
Comparing prices from different rental companies can also help you find the best deal. Opting for smaller, economy cars usually results in lower rental rates.
Additionally, check if your credit card or travel insurance offers rental car coverage to avoid paying extra for insurance through the rental company.
Do I Need To Buy Additional Insurance When Renting A Car In Australia?
While buying additional insurance when renting a car in Australia isn’t compulsory, it’s frequently advised for extra reassurance.
Rental vehicles usually include basic insurance, but this often doesn’t cover all types of damage and might have a substantial excess.
Adding extra insurance can significantly lower your financial risk in an accident or theft. It’s a valuable option for numerous travellers.
Another alternative is to opt for a travel insurance policy that covers your rental car.
For instance, purchasing CoverMore travel insurance, Australia’s leading travel insurance provider, can offer comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle.
➡️ Click here to get your FREE quote with CoverMore Travel Insurance.
What Documents Do I Need To Rent A Car In Australia?
You’ll need a valid driver’s licence to rent a car in Australia. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is also required if your licence is not in English.
Additionally, most car rental companies require a credit card for the security deposit.
You should also have your passport or another form of identification and any booking confirmation details if you’ve reserved the car in advance.
Ready to book your car on the Gold Coast?
Final Thoughts: Car Hire In The Gold Coast
In wrapping up, renting a car on the Gold Coast through Discover Cars is a fantastic way to experience all the Gold Coast offers.
It provides the liberty to explore this breathtaking region at your leisure, from its sun-kissed beaches to its vibrant hinterlands.
Equipped with the insights on rental costs, insurance, and essential driving tips shared in this post, you’re set for a memorable and hassle-free journey.
For more insights and tips on making the most of your Gold Coast adventure, check out my other blog posts about this beautiful part of Australia.
They’re packed with helpful information to help you plan your perfect trip.
