How much does it cost to rent a car at Mackay Airport (MKY)?

On average, car rentals at **Mackay Airport (MKY)** cost around **AUD $101** per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from **AUD $56** per day.

Compare Car Hire Prices at Mackay Airport (MKY)

Q: Can I pick up at Mackay Airport and drop off in Airlie Beach or Proserpine?

Yes, [one-way rentals](page:rg/cars/rental/australia/one-way) between these locations are available, though extra fees will apply.

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Car Rental Locations & Options

Avis · Budget · Europcar · Hertz · Keddy by Europcar · Sixt · Thrifty

Car Hire Locations and Options

Provider	Pros	Cons
Avis/Budget	Loyalty programs with possible free upgrades Many different vehicles available Open 7:00-21:30	Often costs more than smaller companies Long waiting lines when many flights arrive
Hertz/Thrifty/Dollar	Counters next to each other for easy price checking Cars in good condition Gold/rewards programs for faster service	Extra airport fees added to prices Few special vehicles available
Europcar	Can return car to different locations Fair prices for mid-range cars Can cancel booking for free	Strict rules for late car returns Staff not always available
Sixt	High-end luxury vehicles available Good prices for luxury cars Newer car models	Less well-known in Australian market Few cheap economy cars

Terminal Layout

All car rental counters are in the arrivals area. After you get your luggage, turn right towards the exit. You will see rental desks along the wall. The rental car parking area is outside the terminal, a short walk from the counters.

Car Rental Prices

Average: AUD $101/day
From: AUD $56/day

Saving Tips

For Mackay, booking 1-3 months out usually gets you the best rates, especially for travel in the peak winter season (June-Oct). If you can, travelling in the quieter summer months (Dec-Mar) might also save you a few bucks.
Check the weekly rate. Sometimes renting for 7 days costs less than renting for 5. Play with the dates on our site to see if you can find a pricing sweet spot.
Always return the car with a full tank of fuel. The price you'll pay at a local petrol station is way better than the refuelling fee the rental company will charge.
Keep an eye out for 'Pay Now' deals. If your plans are locked in, paying upfront when you book can often unlock a lower rate.

Car hire prices at Mackay Airport (MKY) 2025/2026

Parking Tips

Area	Parking Options	Notes
Mackay Airport	Short-term parking	Close to terminal
Mackay Airport	Long-term parking	Located adjacent to short-term car park
Mackay City	Street parking	Look for P signs indicating time limits
Mackay City	Car parks	Available in CBD area
Shopping Centres	Shopping centre car parks	Abundant at Caneland Mall, Mount Pleasant Centre
Beaches/Parks	Public parking	Limited spaces at popular spots

Local Driving Rules

Drive on the left side of the road
Default speed limits: 40 km/h at airport, 50 km/h in town, 100 km/h on highways
School zones (40 km/h) operate during set hours on school days
Mobile speed cameras and red light cameras operate in the Mackay region
Random breath testing is common, along with a 0.05% blood alcohol limit
Mobile phone use while driving is strictly prohibited

Returning Your Rental Car

When returning to Mackay Airport, follow the "Car Rental Return" signs as you approach the terminal. The return area is clearly marked and located near the main car park. Allow 15-20 minutes for the return process. Several fuel stations are located within a few kilometres of the terminal.

Why rent a car in Mackay

Get a car so you can see:

Mackay City Centre – 4 km
Northern Beaches – 12–20 km, Slade Point Road
Cape Hillsborough – 50 km, Bruce Highway, Seaforth Road
Eungella National Park – 80 km, 1.5 hours, Pioneer Valley
Airlie Beach – 150 km, 2 hours, Bruce Highway
Sarina – 35 km, Bruce Highway

Local Rental Locations

Driving Distances from Mackay MKY Airport, Australia

FAQs

Can I pick up at Mackay Airport and drop off in Airlie Beach or Proserpine?

Yes, one-way rentals between these locations are available, though extra fees will apply.

What documentation do I need to rent a car at Mackay Airport?

A valid driver's licence, a credit card in your name and ID matching your booking are required. An International Driving Permit may also be necessary if your licence isn't in English.

How early should I arrive to return my rental car before my flight?

Plan for at least 30 minutes to return your vehicle before domestic flights and follow standard airline check-in recommendations.

Are child seats available at Mackay Airport rental companies?

Yes, they are available and must be pre-requested. Bringing your own can save costs on long rentals.

Can I modify my rental if my flight is delayed?

Yes, but it's important to notify the rental company as soon as you become aware of changes.