RatPack Campervan Hire Cairns

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5.0

1,600+ Google & Facebook reviews

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  • Australia
    • Adelaide
    • Alice Springs
    • Brisbane
    • Cairns
    • Darwin
    • Gold Coast
    • Hobart
    • Perth
    • Melbourne
    • Sydney
  • New Zealand
    • Auckland
    • Christchurch
    • Queenstown
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Drop Off
  • Australia
    • Adelaide
    • Alice Springs
    • Brisbane
    • Cairns
    • Darwin
    • Gold Coast
    • Hobart
    • Perth
    • Melbourne
    • Sydney
  • New Zealand
    • Auckland
    • Christchurch
    • Queenstown

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CUSTOMER REVIEWS

From our RatPackers

5.0

1,600+ Google & Facebook reviews

5.0

1,600+ Google & Facebook reviews

Absolutely recommended to anyone wanting to take the stress out of booking a camper van! Ben made the process for me so smooth and he genuinely cared for what my trip entailed and catered right to it! Blown away with his kindness and couldn’t be more happy with the price and deal we go for our van!

10/10 service! So helpful and friendly! Looking forward to heading on the trip already 😊

Chiara Ocampo
30 May 2024

Jenna & Ryan are very professionals and helpful. Wish them the best

This shout out is for James! He took all of our worries,stress and anxiety about our up coming snow road trip and chucked them out the window. In under 30 minutes he had us booked with a better deal,upgraded vehicle and many laughs. Just for his service alone we will be back for every holiday! Thanks heaps James we look forward to our holiday because of you, now I can drive to Sydney today with a clear mind and no worries of having to sleep on my bike in the middle of the snow ⛄️ I have to mention his concern for safety was top notch with not wanting myself or my partner to have a bed fall on our heads again 😂

Lucy Sudworth
29 May 2024

Jenna and Ryan were very helpful from the beginning to the end of the booking process. They shared all the details needed for our trip and in good time. Once our trip had been confirmed Ryan supported us through the phone call explaining next steps, payment and the process. We are very happy with the service we received! Thank you again and we look forward to our trip!

Rachel Boyd
29 May 2024

Ben made our camper van booking experience a breeze, very professional and easy process, would be happy to recommend to anyone!

Chloe Brough
29 May 2024

Mikey was very efficient and easy to deal with, we booked a camper and the whole process took around 1 hour from him getting us prices, speaking to different dealerships and us paying our deposit. He was happy to answer any questions we had and shared lots of information regarding routes, campsites and the day to day travel in a camper. We would definitely recommend!

ross leondiou
29 May 2024

They were super helpful in finding me a motor home at the last minute—-received great assistance from James

Cathy A
28 May 2024

Ben from Ratpack Travel was absolutely amazing in helping find the perfect van & best deal for our dream WA holiday. Best customer service ever! They know their products inside out & I would use them again & again!

Blake Seers
27 May 2024

George was awesome to deal with! Really knowledgeable and very helpful. Highly recommend!

Laila Keller
27 May 2024

The service at RatPack-Travel is absolutely great! Ryan took a lot of time to answer all my questions and always clarified everything very quickly. The telephone consultations were easy to understand and everything was clearly explained. Even when my plans changed and I had to adjust my booking, he clarified everything directly with the car rental company and I was able to adjust my booking very quickly and without any problems. I always received an answer within minutes. I am extremely satisfied, thank you Ryan from RatPack-Travel!

James Help us in all the proces and was an absolute Legend! He found the best deal posible for what we wanted to do and withing the buddget. Also provided us with some helpfull information for sugesting itinerarys on things to do and see, as well of apps for finding campsites and campervan sites. 1000% recomended! what a grat custumer service And if this wasnt enought all the service was free!

Deb Barnes
24 May 2024

Thank you Lucas for making it easy to book mum and my camping holiday. You were patient and a joy to deal with. You were able to get a great rate of payment and your help was much appreciated.

eden nimmo
24 May 2024

Anna was so helpful and kind, she helped me book a van for my friend and I. She was on top of all my questions and was so lovely to work with 😁

Just booked a van for NZ for 2 weeks. Ben made the booking so easy and hassle free, will definitely be recommending RatPack in the future

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We provide the wheels.
You hit the road.

Blending freedom and flexibility with open road travel and anywhere accommodation is why campervan hire in central Cairns is the dream experience for young travellers seeking independence and lifetime memories.

Whether you are embracing the vibrant city vibes, or going on a thrilling adventure through Cairn’s natural wonders, take charge of your dream journey, and create an unforgettable, timeless experience.

Buzzing for the vibe? Get in touch today.

Book a campervan
Why Book with us?
The booking process
Campervan options
Trip preparation
Places to visit
FAQs

Why book your campervan with RatPack?

So, what makes RatPack any better than your average rental in Cairns or campervan hire?

Well, a few things:

We’re cheaper than booking online

Booking doesn’t have to be gnarly. Our travel gurus get the best rates from the best operators. And once you’re satisfied, we provide a discount, making it even cheaper than booking online.

Come rain or shine, we only book you a campervan rental in Cairns if we can make it cheaper than the online rate. That’s the RatPack guarantee!

Zero charges for date changes

As travellers ourselves, we appreciate that dates can change while you’re out doing your thing and living your best life. That’s why we don’t charge for any late cancellations or amendments, giving you more dollars to spend on the important stuff.

Personalised service

When it comes to Aus, we’ve been there and got the t-shirt. Our travel guru team comes with bags of lived travel experience. We have excellent knowledge of the best travel routes and cheap campervan hire providers in Cairns, making sure you strike the best deal for a once in a lifetime trip.

5-star reviews

Since launching in 2016, we’ve received more 5-star reviews than any other Aussie travel agent! And it all comes down to our approach. We believe in going above and beyond for your trip down under.

We combine our awesome camper hire knowledge and experience with our passion to deliver an amazing experience for our clients. No exceptions.

The RatPack Promise

We know what it feels like to have a negative travel experience. It blows. In fact, it’s one of the core reasons we founded our business in the first place. The good news is we’re here to give you the best campervan hire service and deals.

Rather than trying to be the biggest at what we do, we made it our mission to become the best. It’s this philosophy that’s allowed us to make so many longstanding relationships with every reputable campervan rental and tour guide in the game.

Based on these principles with the values of backpack travel, we live and breathe campervan hire every day from our HQ in Byron Bay.

So, if you’re ever passing through, drop in and say hey. We’d love to hear about your adventures.

How our campervan hire works: The process from start to finish

Getting started is a piece of cake. We arrange for our roadies to pick up their perfect campers from the following locations:

Australia East Coast Locations

  • Adelaide
  • Brisbane
  • Cairns
  • Gold Coast
  • Melbourne
  • Sydney

Australia East Coast Locations

  • Alice Springs
  • Darwin
  • Cairns
  • Perth
  • Hobart (Tasmania)

New Zealand Locations

  • Auckland
  • Christchurch
  • Queenstown

Next you simply let us find you the best rates.

1) You submit your travel dates, locations and number of people travelling

2) We search the market for the best-rated and most affordable campervan rental options

3) We will send you the best options. Once you’re happy, we’ll provide a discount.

The RataPack Promise: cheaper than booking on the comparison sites! Guaranteed. 

Campervan rental Cairns options: Which campervan will you choose?

Regardless of your budget and preferences, we’ll partner you with the ideal camper that meets your requirements.

Here is a list of our classic campervan options.

The 2-seater, 2-sleeper

With a cosy bed in the back, the two-berth campervan rental is super easy and ideal for two people planning a short campervan road trip through Cairns.

The Hi Top

With space to stand, cook and lounge, this three-berth beaut of a camper is perfect for two or three setting out on a long adventure. Now, that’s a bit of us.

The Motorhome

A boujee choice providing you with a new luxurious home on wheels, a six-berth motorhome rental is the best option for large groups/families regardless of how long you expect to be on the road.

All You Need To Know For Your Cairns Camper Adventure

Hey there, adventure seeker!

Welcome to Cairns, the tropical paradise of north Queensland! With its easy-going vibes and access to the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics, this place is an Aussie gem waiting to be explored.

And what better way than hitting the road on an adventure packed road trip! Whether you choose to dive into the lush rainforests, chase waterfalls, or venture into the vast outback, a camper hire gives you the freedom to explore it all!

We offer a range of options to suit every budget, from brilliant basics to all-inclusive packages at affordable prices. So hire a camper through RatPack and start your unforgettable Cairns adventure today!

Book a campervan

What to see and do with your Cairns motorhome hire: Cheap campervan hire in Tropical North Queensland 

So, you’ve rented your camper, and are now looking to embark on an unforgettable adventure with a plethora of sights and activities to explore.

But, where to start?

Cape York

For the more adventurous campervan enthusiasts who are up for a real Aussie challenge, we’ve got the destination that’ll surely blow your socks off!

Now, fair warning, this trip is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re prepared, get ready to discover a gem like no other. Explore breathtaking landscapes, visit quaint coastal towns, relax on perfect sandy beaches, and discover hidden islands.

Take a dip in crystal-clear waterholes and get up, close and personal with the unique wildlife that call this place home.

Whether you choose to walk or drive, there’s an array of unforgettable tracks that will leave you in awe. So buckle up, gear up, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in this rugged and untamed part of Australia. It’s time to embrace the outback spirit and make memories that will last a lifetime!

https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/travel/travel-destinations/2017/07/exploring-cape-york-10-places-you-dont-want-to-miss/

The Great Barrier Reef

This one is a real gem – the Great Barrier Reef! This is an absolute must-see on your Cairns motorhome holiday road trip. As a World Heritage Site and one of seven wonders of the natural world, it’s a sight that’ll leave you in awe.

The Great Tropical Drive is your ticket to explore this incredible wonder, stretching up to 2000 km. So, if you’re up for the full Aussie-experience, we defo recommend planning for at least two weeks of pure adventure.

Dive into the Coral Sea and marvel at the world’s largest coral reef system. Get ready to encounter marine life like never before – it’s a dream come true, whether it’s your first or tenth time exploring its wonders.

Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is another absolute must-visit on your self-drive camper holiday in Cairns! It’s part of Australia’s largest continuous rainforest, covering around 1200 km of stunning natural beauty.

There’s so much to explore and discover in this lush rainforest paradise – from dense greenery to unique breathtaking wonderland. It’s like stepping into a new world, and it’s sure going to be an adventure you’ll never forget.

https://australianphysicalenvironments.weebly.com/daintree-rainforest.html

Cairns Botanical Gardens

If you’re looking to explore the beauty of native Australian gardens without having to venture too far, the Cairns Botanical Gardens is the place to be. Spread across a whopping 38 hectares, this place is a true tropical paradise with the most stunning collection of plants in all of Australia.

https://www.viator.com/en-GB/Cairns-and-the-Tropical-North-attractions/Cairns-Botanical-Gardens/d754-a13047

Travel Tips for Cairns

Campervan Hire Cairns: When is the best time for a camper road trip in Cairns?

You might be wondering – when is the best time to embark on your Aussie adventure through Cairns? Well we’ve got the deets to keep you in the loop!

The dry season between April and September is the prime time to visit Cairns – and for good reason. The weather screams perfect summer vibes, ideal for any outdoor activities!

But if you’re keen on saving a few bucks and don’t mind some tropical rain, the wet season between November and March can be more budget-friendly.

How long do you need in Cairns for a campervan holiday?

Visiting Cairns in the summer is where the real fun begins. Renting a campervan in Cairns is the holiday of a lifetime, with you embarking on epic road trips across northern Queensland. But how long do you need a rental campervan in Cairns to really enjoy this adventure?

Cairns and its surroundings have something for everyone – whether you have a week or two to explore. Let’s break it down:

For a week in Cairns, you will want to hit the must-see spots in town including diving into the Great Barrier Reef for a wicked snorkelling adventure. You can even head inland to the Atherton Tablelands for stunning waterfalls at Millaa Millaa Circuit. There is so much to see and do when you hire in Cairns!

https://drinkteatravel.com/visit-atherton-tablelands-cairns-australia/

You could even head north to the enchanting Cape York Peninsula and immerse yourself in the tropical wilderness. For this incredible road trip we would defo recommend allowing up to 5 days – it’ll be an experience you’ll never forget, that’s for sure!

If your vibe is more relaxed and carefree, then two weeks is the optimal time for your Aussie road trip. Explore Mouth Hypipamee, Wooroonooran, Granite Gorge, and more. Venture further out to the Undara Lava Tubes or visit Mission Beach for a more tranquil vibe.

https://www.tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/things-to-do/geological-wonders/lava-tubes/

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring the outback, or lounging on tropical beaches, Cairns has it all.

So, gear up and get ready to explore the beauty of Cairns with your trusty camper for an unforgettable Aussie adventure – the adventure awaits!

A Guide to Driving Your Cairns Motorhome Hire

When hitting the roads in Cairns and Northern Queensland, it’s essential that you stay safe and savvy. Here are some tips to get you cruising along like a pro:

Firstly, pay close attention to the staff when you pick up your hired campervan. Take notes and listen to the experts – the staff know their stuff!

Speed limits vary, so keep an eye out for those signs. In residential areas, it’s usually 50 km/h, while the CBD drops to 40 km/h – remember, keep it legal!

Remember, you’re Down Under now, do drive on the left side of the road. If this isn’t what you’re used to, try and get some practice in one of the quieter streets before venturing further out – practice makes perfect, mate!

Up north, you are likely to encounter more remote areas. Be prepared with lots of food and water in case of any breakdowns, and watch out for any wildlife along the roads.

With these handy tips, you’ll be all set for an epic road trip in beautiful Cairns and beyond.

Parking Your Cairns Campervan Rental

Best places to park your Cairns Campervan Hire

The last thing you are going to want to have to think about when you’re exploring Cairns with your campervan rental or motorhome hire is parking – but don’t worry. The Cairns City Council has got you covered!

There is a designated short-term parking bay at the corner of Sheridan Street, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the city centre, waterfront, tasty restaurants, and top-notch cafes.

And if you head further outwards to Miller Street, you will find RV parking bays, with easy access to recreational facilities and public toilets. Plus it’s only a short walk away from the charming historic town centre. Sounds like the perfect place to get out and stretch your legs if you ask us!

Where can you park your Cairns campervan hire overnight?

You’re in for a wicked time in Cairns with your campervan booking! And when it comes to finding a top-notch spot to park up for the night, you’ve got heaps of choices.

Whether you are keen to wake up to a beautiful beach or are in need of an electric hook-up for some extra comfort, Cairns has it all!

Campsites and tourist caravan parks are scattered all around, so you’ll have no worries finding a ripper spot to call home for the night. Get ready to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the stunning surroundings of Cairns while you’re on your campervan adventure.

National Parks to Visit Around Cairns

Frankland Islands National Park

Looking for a true island paradise? Then a trip exploring the Frankland Group National Park is a no-brainer.

Nestled amidst the largest coral reef system, these islands boast rocky outcrops, lush rainforests, and mangroves, creating a haven for all sorts of wildlife. From curious critters to colourful birds, you’ll be surrounded by the finest Aussie wildlife.

To truly experience the magic of this diverse island paradise, hop on a day trip with a top-notch commercial tour operator. They’ll show you the best spots, share fascinating stories, and make sure you have an unforgettable experience!

So pack your sunscreen and snorkel, and get ready to explore this hidden gem in the Great Barrier Reef!

https://curiouscampers.com.au/frankland-islands-tour/

Daintree National Park

If you’re up for an epic adventure where the rainforest meets the reef, Daintree National Park is the place to be. It’s a journey back in time to the oldest surviving rainforest on the planet, where you’ll walk paths that dinosaurs once trod.

The lush greenery will surround you as crystal-clear water tumbles over massive boulders along the river. Get up close and personal with it all by taking a bushwalking track from the Mossman Gorge Centre.

You can even dive deep into the rich Aboriginal culture with a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk. Listen to the captivating stories and legends of the Kuku Yalanji people – it’s an experience that’ll leave you in awe of this ancient land.

https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/visit-daintree-rainforest-australia

Wooroonooran National Park

This hidden gem of a national park might not be on everyone’s radar, but that’s what makes a day trip to it all the more special. Welcome to a land of pure awe and wonder – Wooroonooran National Park!

At Babinda Boulders, take a dip in the crystal-clear waterhole, and be completely surrounded by lush rainforests. It’s like a slice of paradise! And for a bit of extra fun, slide down the rocks at Josephine Falls – but only if you are feeling really adventurous!

If you are in the mood to be a true explorer, head to the Johnstone River Lookout Walk and soak in those jaw-dropping views. This place is a playground for adventure seekers, with surprises at every turn! So grab your gear and get ready for a wild ride in this hidden treasure of a national park!

https://littlegreennomad.com/2015/09/08/11-reasons-to-visit-wooroonooran-national-park/

Barron Gorge National Park

If you’re after a scene straight outta Jurassic Park, look no further than Barron Gorge National Park. A breezy 40-minute drive down the east coast from Cairns city, this misty and rugged wonderland sits right within the world-heritage-listed Wet Tropics.

The star of the show? Barron Falls! These bad boys put on a jaw-dropping display, especially during the summer seasons. The cascade of water through the gorge will give you chills (the good kind)! t

And for all you adrenaline junkies, hold onto your hats! The Barron River offers epic white-water rafting tours that’ll get your heart pumping’ and your soul screaming’ with joy. It’s a wild ride you won’t soon forget!

Undara Volcanic National Park

And don’t forget about the unmissable Undara Volcanic National Park – an absolute must to put on your to-do list! This park is home to one of the longest lava tube cave systems on Earth – how epic is that?

Venture into the depths of the earth and witness the splendour of these awe-inspiring caves. The experience is nothing short of amazing! The woodland surrounding the caves is a sight to behold as well – a true Aussie bushland adventure awaits you.

So pack up your campervan and get ready for an outback journey you won’t forget. Undara Volcanic National Park is waiting to show you its wonders!

Campervan hire: Frequently asked questions

Now, just in case you have any questions, here are some classic campervan hire FAQs for you:

How much does it cost to hire a campervan?

The average price for hiring a campervan in Australia can vary between $100-$200 per day. But the overall price you pay depends on a few things:

  • Your campervan
  • When you booked (booking in advance is waaayyy cheaper!)
  • When you want to hire the campervan
  • Seasons of the year can dictate the price. For example, national holidays and Christmas will naturally be more expensive. So, just let us know your travel dates and locations, and we’ll get back to you as fast as we can with the cheapest options.

How old do I need to be to hire a campervan in Australia?

Most campervan hire companies in Australia only accept a minimum age of 21 to hire a campervan. However, some will allow the minimum age to be 18 but these are few and far between.

What driving licence do I need to rent a campervan in Australia?

You don’t need an Australian driver’s licence to hire a campervan, but you’ll need to present a standard driver’s licence that complies with Australian law when collecting the campervan.

So, providing you have a valid class C (car) driving licence, you’ll be good to go. And remember, always keep that licence on you!

What do I need to bring when collecting my campervan in Australia?

When collecting the campervan, you will need a credit or debit card in the name of the driver and all drivers are required to display their driver’s license valid within 12 months.

Is there a minimum rental period when hiring a campervan in Australia?

The minimum rental depends on the campervan hire provider, as some companies have minimum hire periods. Normally the minimum hire period is between 5-7 days. However, extensions can be arranged, especially over the holidays, with some providers allowing a full fortnight’s rental.

Just let us know your dates, and we’re sure we can find you the ideal provider.

Can you sleep anywhere in a campervan in Australia?

Unfortunately, you can’t just park where you want in Australia and sleep in your camper. Keeping your campervan in the wrong place can land you with some steep fines, like in parking lots or no parking zones in big cities.

So, try to find RV-friendly locations or campsites when you’re on the road. Permitted parking areas include national parks, roadside campervan camping, beachside locations, private parks for campervans and certain rest areas.

Can I pick up and drop off my campervan at different locations?

Yes. Depending on your preferred route, we arrange for you to pick up your campervan in one location and drop it off at a different destination.

Once agreed, you’re expected to deliver the camper at the designated time and location. If you want to change course for any reason, we’d need to communicate and agree with the campervan hire provider. We don’t recommend this approach as most providers won’t allow it, while it will potentially cost more.

So, be sure of your route and just hire another one in pursuit of your next adventure!

Are unlimited kilometres included in my Australia campervan rental?

Yes, unlimited kilometres are arranged with a campervan hire provider. Some campervan hire companies will allow unlimited kilometres for specific campervans and not others. For example, some will include unlimited kilometres in two-wheel drives but not four-wheel drives.

When is the best time to hire a campervan in Australia?

Regarding prices, the most cost-effective time to hire a campervan will be during the Australian winter months (June, July, and August). Christmas time and New Year is the most expensive time.

We recommend you travel during the autumn and spring months (March, April, and May – September, October, and November,) when it’s not too hot or as expensive.

What is the speed limit in Australia?

When hitting the open road, you can expect 100km/h in the city and 50km/h in suburban areas. Maximum speed limits in most states get capped at 110km/h.
Speed limits are well signposted, and with Google Maps or Waze, you can see the limits on your screen.

But hiring a camper is not about speed. So, just relax, enjoy the ride, and remember, there is more to life than making it faster!

What extra charges will I need to pay when I return my campervan?

Hopefully none. It’s really up to you. Return your camper in a nice clean condition without any fines and expect no additional charges. This standard includes cleaning and emptying the toilet, a full tank of gas and just a general tidy-up so the camper condition is what it was when you first picked it up. Simple.

But if you don’t return the camper in a respectable condition or it’s been damaged in any way, then no doubt expect some additional charges.

But hey. Accidents can happen, and it’s not the end of the world so don’t panic if it does. That’s what the deposit is for.

Just be careful, obey the laws and stay honest and respectable, like when borrowing anything from anyone.

And before you drive away, if you notice any defects, tell your provider there and then. If you see the odd chip or scratch later, take a picture and notify us. Most campervan providers will note all these features previously as a measure of good practice.

Operators

We get the best rates from the best operators in Oz & NZ!