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Car Hire Rockhampton

Rent a car on Turo, the world's largest car sharing marketplace

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The perfect Rockhampton car rental alternative on Turo

Looking to experience the best of Central Queensland? Car hire Rockhampton gives you the keys to Australia's beef capital, brimming with rustic charm, riverside views and historic treasures. Located 600 kilometres (roughly an eight-hour drive) north of Queensland's capital city, Rockhampton boasts up to 300 days of sunshine annually and warm subtropical temperatures year-round.

Plus, Rockhampton is connected to several of Queensland's major highways (including the A1, A3, A4 and A5), making for the ideal start to your road trip around Central Queensland. Ready to explore more of the Sunshine State as a local or traveller? Start your adventure by renting a car in Rockhampton on Turo.

Rockhampton car hire: How it works

Wondering how car hire in Rockhampton works? Whether you want the ability to book in minutes, to be spoilt for choice of cars, or you're just looking for a way to skip the Rockhampton car rental counter, Turo takes the guesswork out of finding your perfect drive. Planning a scenic weekend getaway out of Brisbane or a jam-packed adventure along the Capricorn Coast? There is something on Turo for every journey. Take your trip to the next level with everything from beach towels to portable barbecues and even baby seats available as optional extras for your hire car.

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Find your car: 

Enter a date and location in Rockhampton (or beyond) and browse thousands of cars shared by local hosts.

Book with Turo: 

Book on the Turo app or online, choose a protection plan, and say hi to your host! Cancel for free up to 24 hours before your trip, and get discounts if you book early or for a longer duration!

Hit the roads of Rockhampton:

Have the car delivered or pick it up from your host. Check-in with the app, grab the keys, and hit the roads of Rockhampton!

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Try car sharing in Rockhampton

Things to do and places to see in Rockhampton

Are you curious about what to do in Rockhampton? Known as Australia's Beef Capital, the region boasts a rich cattle-farming history along with charming heritage architecture and historical landmarks (keep your eyes peeled for the six life-size bull statues located throughout the area!). Found on the Tropic of Capricorn, Rockhampton and its unique landscape act as a gateway to the natural wonders of Northern Australia. From the refreshing waters of the Southern Great Barrier Reef to the traditional homeland of the Blackdown Tablelands, the region offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. Whether it's exploring the region's rich history or relishing in the natural surroundings, there is lots to see and do in Rockhampton:

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A photo of palm trees in Rockhampton, a popular attraction for visitors who hire a car.

Rockhampton Museum of Art (Rockhampton Art Gallery):

Playing a significant role in the town's cultural landscape, the Rockhampton Museum of Art is home to an impressive collection of international and local artworks.

Rockhampton Botanical Gardens:

Established in 1869, the Rockhampton Botanical Gardens are some of the oldest in Australia. Open year-round the gardens lie on the banks of the Fitzroy River, surrounded by tropical and sub-tropical Australian native greenery.

Rockhampton Zoo:

Situated within the lush surroundings of the Rockhampton Botanical Gardens, the Rockhampton Zoo is home to both native Australian wildlife and exotic creatures.

Skip traditional Rockhampton car rental and book a car on Turo

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More bang for your buck

Find deals on all kinds of cars to rent in Rockhampton and throughout Australia - from the everyday to the extraordinary - complete with a better, more convenient experience versus rental car companies. Find the perfect vehicle for your budget.

Free cancellation

Skip the rental counter and ditch the hassle of renting a car through a traditional Rockhampton car hire company. Cancel your booking for a full refund up to 24 hours before your Rockhampton trip starts. Because life happens and it helps to be flexible when it does.

Convenient delivery options, wherever you are in Rockhampton:

Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest in Rockhampton, like airports, train stations, and hotels.

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Top tips for hiring a car in Rockhampton

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Rockhampton Road Rules

Remember to drive on the left side of the road in Rockhampton, adhere to the speed limit by following road signs and be aware of pedestrian crossing and school zones in neighbourhood areas. Plus, fully licensed drivers must stick to the legal Blood Alcohol Concentrate (BAC) limit of under 0.05.

As Rockhampton is considered a rural and mostly remote area, road conditions differ as you venture further from Brisbane or surrounding cities. Along the way, you might encounter unsealed and less maintained roads and passing native wildlife (especially in the early mornings, late afternoons and nights). Always be cautious when driving in remote areas to avoid collisions.

When entering the Rockhampton region, you may pass by gravel roads and driveways. Make sure to look out for 'no through road' signage, as this may be considered private property.


Airport advice: Navigating in and around the airport

Flying into Rockhampton airport? Once you've picked up your luggage from baggage claim, you'll spot a range of hire car companies located inside the terminal building (right next to the East St Cafe).

Want to skip the hassle of a rental car desk? Book ahead and get your Turo host to deliver your car directly to the Rockhampton airport car park.

Alternatively, you can grab a taxi or Uber into the city or even take the public shuttle bus straight to your accommodation. This means you can check-in to your hotel or holiday rental sooner, and your Turo host can drop your ride directly to wherever you're staying in Rockhampton.


Parking in and around Rockhampton

In and around Rockhampton, there are various free and paid parking options. Both on-street parking and parking lots are conveniently located within the city.

Some of the most convenient parking locations include:

- Quay Street and surrounding areas have on-street parking spaces, but availability may be limited during peak hours.

- Some attractions, like the Rockhampton Art Gallery and Pilbeam Theatre, have designated parking areas or nearby street parking.

Some areas might have time restrictions on parking, and some spots could be reserved for specific purposes, like disabled parking or loading zones, depending on the time of day. Make sure to check signage and remain aware of timing when parking in the city centre.


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Frequently asked questions and things to know about Rockhampton car hire

Rockhampton hire car types

Discover an extensive range of car hire types to experience Rockhampton your way. Turo's unique booking system offers the best car hire deals to match every occasion and budget.

Whether you need to rent a car to navigate the city centre or a powerful 4WD for your rural adventure, you can expect to find your perfect ride with Turo.

On Turo's car-sharing platform, browse and choose from hundreds of cars, including:

Electric cars: Zip around Rockhampton in a shiny new Tesla or fully-electric BYD.

7 seaters and people movers: Travelling with a large group? Book a Kia Carnival or people mover to keep your crew together.

Sports cars: Tackle Rockhampton's roads in a stylish, performance-driven sports car.

Vintage cars: Turn heads in historic Rockhampton behind the wheel of a vintage classic car.

Exotic and luxury cars: Add a touch of prestige to your trip with a luxurious exotic car.

Vans: Moving interstate or need extra room? Hiring a van in Rockhampton ensures your journey is smooth and spacious.

Utes: Get off the beaten track and explore regional QLD behind the wheel of a commanding ute.

Rockhampton car hire for any occasion

Renting a car in Rockhampton has never been easier, with Turo offering a range of Rockhampton car hire options for every occasion.

- Holiday car hire: With Turo's car hire deals, you can discover what Rockhampton has to offer at your own pace.

- Long-term car hire: For extended visits to Rockhampton, Turo offers long-term car hire options as a more cost-effective and convenient choice. If you're after more space, consider checking out cars with external roof racks or even upsize with van hire options.

- Formal car hire: Explore Rockhampton in style and opt for comfort and class with Turo's range of luxury cars and classic cars - perfect for a formal occasion.

- Wedding car hire: Complete your special day and make a grand entrance to remember with a classic car, deluxe and super deluxe vehicle or vintage vehicles, all available through Turo.

Rockhampton's peak hour and busiest roads

Being Australia's beef capital, road trucks and heavy vehicles are no strangers to the region. On average 2,640 heavy vehicles travel through Rockhampton daily.

With the Bruce Highway/A1 connecting most major cities along the East Coast of Queensland, it is certainly one of the busiest and most used in the state. Renting a car with inbuilt GPS can be a big help in beating the rush when navigating Rockhampton during peak hours or seasons.

Toll roads in Rockhampton and QLD

Within the Rockhampton city itself, there are no toll roads. However, when travelling to and from Rockhampton, you will experience tolls on major material highways (A1, A3, A4 and A5) as well as any motorways, bridges or tunnels situated closer to major cities in Queensland.

Getting around Rockhampton - do I need to hire a car?

Located hours away from the Queensland capital of Brisbane, Rockhampton is best explored with the keys to your own car.

Hiring a car with Turo well ahead of time is the best way to secure your perfect ride (with booking in advance highly recommended if you're planning to visit during peak season, typically from December to February).

Plus, make sure to confirm your car is fitted out with air conditioning, as temperatures can climb to an average of 32° during the summer months.

Croc Country - Are there crocodiles in Rockhampton?

Like most of Queensland, Rockhampton is considered 'croc country'.

Within the region, the Fitzroy River is a typical habitat for crocodiles. However, no naturally occurring waterway in crocodile country is ever guaranteed to be free of crocodiles. It is important to practice croc-wise behaviour while visiting or relaxing near waterways, including:

- Obey all warning signs
- Assume crocodiles are present in all waterways even if there are no warning signs
- Be cautious around water at night
- Camp at least 50 metres away from the edge of the water
- Never leave food scraps, rubbish or bait near water, campsites or boat ramps

Other places to explore and things to do in Rockhampton

Quay Street: At the heart of Rockhampton, Quay Street is considered the cultural hub of the region. Home to various cultural and artistic institutions, boutique shops, galleries and cafes the historic street is popular for locals and tourists alike. The area is often a focal point for seasonal community events, festivals and markets that showcase the town's best produce, live entertainment, and market stalls.

Koorana Crocodile Farm: If you're looking to get up close and personal with one of Australia's largest predators, the Koorana Crocodile Farm is just a 30-minute drive from the heart of Rockhampton. Home to 3,000 crocs, visitors can learn about crocodile biology, behaviour, and conservation efforts through guided tours and interactive experiences within the farm.

Rockhampton Heritage Village: Featuring more than 20 restored heritage buildings, the open-air museum offers a glimpse into the region's history and heritage. Replicating a historic village setting, costumed volunteers portray different eras in time and host educational tours, special events and railway tours.

The Southern Great Barrier Reef: Spanning over several islands, coastal cays and reef systems, the Southern Great Barrier Reef is known for its vibrant reefs and incredible marine biodiversity. During a day on the reef, visitors can choose from a variety of activities including snorkelling and diving tours, whale-watching experiences, glass-bottom boat tours and eco-tours.

Explore Rockhampton’s Surroundings - Day trips and road trips

From the serene waters of the Fitzroy River to the rugged ranges of the Carnarvon Gorge, Rockhampton's surrounding locations offer some unmissable experiences.

For the nature enthusiasts visiting the region, there's no shortage of diverse nature walks, heritage and Indigenous sites, wildlife experiences and picturesque views to discover.

Emerald and Sapphire Gemfields: At the heart of Central Queensland, the town of Emerald is the gateway to all things gems. Within the Sapphire Gemfields, visitors can learn about the rich gemstone mining history and participate in fossicking for gems, panning for gold, exploring the gemstone sites or taking a guided tour through the area.

Byfield and Mount Archer National Parks: Located just outside of Rockhampton, Byfield National Park and Mount Archer National Park invite visitors into a natural oasis of serene natural beauty. Within both parks, you'll find several walking trails, picnic spots, beaches and coastline views surrounded by tropical flora and fauna.

Capricorn Caves: Located 23km north of Rockhampton, discover stunning limestone formations and ancient underground caves during a guided tour or adventure caving experience.

Mount Morgan: Situated 32 kilometres south-west of Rockhampton on the Dee River, experience the rich mining history of Mount Morgan. Stretch your legs at Stopford Way Scenic Lookout or set off on a geo-journey with guided mine tours and gold panning experiences.

Best driving roads in Rockhampton

Surrounded by several of Queensland's major highways, there are many great drive trips around Rockhampton.

Here are some of the best driving roads along the Capricorn Coast that can be accessed from the Rockhampton region:

The Leichhardt Highway: A significant road in Queensland connecting the city of Brisbane to the town of Goondiwindi near the New South Wales border over 800 kilometres.

Australia's Country Way: Stretching over 4,000 kilometres of scenic and diverse driving routes through Queensland and New South Wales, the Country Way offers travellers a comprehensive experience of rural and regional Australia. Best explored in a 4WD, this route takes roughly eight days to navigate. But you'll be rewarded with natural swimming waterholes, lush bush walks and waterfalls throughout your journey.

Pacific Coast Way: A coastal road trip spanning over 1,800 kilometres along the eastern seaboard of Australia, from Sydney in New South Wales to Cairns in Queensland.

The Great Inland Way: An iconic inland journey that encompasses 2,956 kilometres of rural road distance from Sydney, New South Wales, to Cooktown, Queensland.

What documents do I need to rent a car in Rockhampton with Turo? 

To book a car on Turo in Rockhampton, you must create a Turo account, be 21 years old or older, have a valid, unrestricted driver’s licence, and get approved to drive on Turo. When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s licence and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for every future road trip, business trip, and family holiday!

Do I need my own insurance?

No, you don’t need personal insurance coverage to book a car on Turo.

What protection plan options are available on Turo in Rockhampton?

When booking a car in Australia, you’ll also choose between the Premier (if available), Standard, and Minimum protection plans. Each plan includes varying limits on financial responsibility for damage to a host’s vehicle. All trips include up to $20,000,000 (per event) in legal liability protection. Legal liability protection protects against damage to other people’s property and death or bodily injury (where the legal liability is not covered or capable of being covered by any statutory or compulsory scheme) as a result of an accident involving the vehicle. All protection is provided by Turo Travels Mutual.*

How do I get discounts on hire cars in Rockhampton?

On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promotions, discounts, and deals on car rental alternatives in Rockhampton!

When it comes to cheap car hire, frequent travellers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totalling 10 days in a 90-day period!**

Are there discounts on weekly or monthly trips?

Yes, many Turo hosts in Rockhampton offer discounted prices when you book trips lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days. Additionally, hosts can offer “early bird” discounts for Rockhampton trips booked a week or more in advance. So, get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips, at least a week in advance.

See more about promotions & discounts

How can I drive unlimited kilometres during my trip in Rockhampton?

Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.

What payment methods does Turo accept?

Turo accepts most credit cards issued by major financial institutions, including American Express and Discover cards, as well as debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard logo that are linked to a checking account.

Apple Pay and Google Pay on mobile devices are also accepted, but Turo does not accept cash or checks as valid payment methods.

What is the cancellation policy for guests on Turo?

You can cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours before your trip starts. If you book a trip with less than 24 hours’ notice, you have one hour after booking to cancel free of charge. If you cancel after the free cancellation period ends, you will be charged a small cancellation fee.

What are the cleaning and safety policies on Turo?

Under the enhanced cleaning policy, hosts are required to clean and disinfect their vehicles thoroughly before every trip, so you can feel safe and comfortable behind the wheel. Turo hosts have access to training materials on enhanced safety measures and cleaning practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 or other viruses.

Is Turo a car rental company?

No. Unlike car rental companies, Turo is a peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace where you can book directly from trusted local car owners in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Turo does not own any vehicles — Turo hosts share their own personal cars and set their own prices, discounts, vehicle availability, and delivery options.

Is there a fee to add additional drivers to my trip?

There is no fee or additional charge for adding a driver to your trip on Turo. Only the guest who booked the trip can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add any additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests in Australia can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.

To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s licence and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.

How much does it cost to hire a car in Rockhampton?

The cost of hiring a car in Rockhampton can vary depending on several factors, including the type of car, booking duration and whether you choose any optional extras.

When it comes to car hire deals, many hosts offer discounts on long-term trips. Plus, local hosts can offer early bird discounts if you're booking in advance.

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Rockhampton?

If you're a tourist or temporary overseas visitor in Queensland, you can drive if you have a valid interstate or overseas licence under the following conditions:

- Drive only the class of motor vehicle authorised on that licence

- Comply with your licence conditions (if any)

- Show your licence to a police officer when asked to do so

Within Queensland, road rules and regulations can differ between regions, so be sure to check the local laws for the area you intend to visit before you head off. If your driving license isn't in English, ensure you're carrying either an English translation or an International Driving Permit. This permit should be issued by the motoring association or embassy of the country where your license originated.

How far is it from Rockhampton to Mackay?

Further up the Eastern Coast, Mackay is approximately 330 kilometres away from Rockhampton.

On average, the drive from Rockhampton to Mackay can take 3.5-4.5 hours along the Bruce Highway/A1, depending on the number of stops you make along the way.

If you've got the time for a few detours, the Capricorn Caves, Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sarina Sugar Shed are some must-see stops on the Rockhampton to Mackay drive.

How far is Rockhampton from Brisbane?

If you're looking to visit Queensland's capital during your trip, Rockhampton is located approximately 600 kilometres from Brisbane.

There are a few Rockhampton to Brisbane drive routes, with the fastest and most common route following the Bruce Highway/A1. Over 7 hours and 33 minutes, you'll pass through popular pit stops Noosa, Bundaberg, Maleny, Hervey Bay, and Mooloolaba.

Being a longer drive through some of the major cities along the coast, driving distance and time can vary based on factors such as road conditions, traffic and speed limit, so it's important to plan your drive and consider what car may be best for your journey.