Car Rental Sydney Airport
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides since 1999.
Sydney Airport is a major hub for car rentals, with numerous international and local companies offering a wide selection of vehicles to suit every need and budget. Upon arrival, you’ll find rental desks conveniently located in all three terminals, making it easy to pick up your car right after landing.
Most Popular Rental Cars
The most commonly rented cars at Sydney Airport include compact sedans like the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai i30, which are ideal for city driving and fuel efficiency. Families and groups often choose larger SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4 or Kia Sorento, while road-trippers and adventure seekers frequently opt for 4WD vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser or Mitsubishi Pajero. For luxury travelers, premium brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW are also available.
Top Destinations by Car
Driving from Sydney Airport opens up access to some of Australia’s most iconic destinations. Popular routes include:
- The scenic drive to the Blue Mountains (about 100 km west), which takes roughly 1.5 hours and offers breathtaking views and hiking trails.A coastal journey to the Hunter Valley (about 160 km north), famous for its wineries and gourmet food, which takes around 2 hours
- The coastal road to the Royal National Park (about 70 km south), perfect for nature lovers and beachgoers, which takes about 1 hour.
Insurance and Tips
Most rental companies offer several insurance options, including basic liability coverage and more comprehensive packages that cover damage, theft, and personal injury. It’s advisable to review the details of each policy and consider adding extra coverage if you plan to drive in remote areas or off-road. Always check for hidden fees, such as airport surcharges or additional driver costs.
Tips
-Bring your passport and a valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit may be required for non-Australian licenses).
-Take photos of the car before driving off to document any existing damage and avoid disputes later.
-Fill up the tank before returning the car to avoid refueling charges, which are often higher than local petrol stations.
Renting a car at Sydney Airport is a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace, with a wide range of vehicles and destinations to choose from.
Book now your rental car at Sydney Airport (SYD).
Car rental companies
In Sydney Airport you can find the following car rental companies:
ACE
Alpha Car Hire
Avis
Budget
Enterprise
Europcar
Hertz
Sixt
Thrifty
LOCATION
Car rental counters are located in the arrivals hall of the international terminal T1. After collecting the keys, you will be directed to the ground level of the multi-storey car park P7. It is opposite the international terminal T1. If you are picking up your rental car at domestic terminals T2 or T3, follow the signs for rental cars in the arrivals hall.
Opening hours: From 6:00am to 23:00pm (some of them are opened 24 hours).
