Gold Coast Airport

1 Eastern Avenue

Returning your rental car.

Ready to pack it in and leave the Gold Coast behind? Drop off your vehicle by following the signs for car rental returns at Gold Coast Airport and parking in the designated Redspot bays. A member of our team should be there to greet you. If no one is there, just head to our desk at the airport and drop off your key. 

After hours pick-up.

Flight landing late? Get in touch with our Gold Coast team and we’ll see what we can arrange for you! Contact us at 1300 668 810 or email [email protected]

After hours drop-off.

For the night owls and late flyers, you can find an after-hours drop box available 24/7 at the Redspot counter in the Gold Coast Airport’s main Arrivals Terminal. Drop in and hit the road any time of day! 

One-way car hires.

Ready to turn in at the end of your trip? At Redspot, we offer one-way car hires, depending on availability. Contact us by phone or email and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible! 

A Long Tradition of Happy Campers, Happy Customers

Our team at Redspot has been proud to offer our rental expertise to travellers adventuring across Australia for over 35 years. Here’s what some of our satisfied customers had to say:

Load up with Redspot’s red-hot value packages!

We’ve got your back with 24/7 roadside assistance so you never have to worry about being stranded. For an even smoother car rental experience, we have designed three packages for damage and liability coverage and extra services!
Package prices will be calculated based on the rental period and the vehicle you select. Proceed to the car rental booking page for a quote. 

Standard Package

Need something a little more simple but with all the expert local support? Redspot’s Standard Package might be for you. This includes:

  • No hidden costs, we are upfront about the inclusions in this package!
  • $5,200 to $6,200 damage liability excess*
  • GST-inclusive
  • Unlimited km allowance
  • Additional drivers fee
  • No cancellation fees
  • No amendment fees
  • Contract fee **
  • Premium location fee***
  • Registration recovery fee****
  • Book now, pay later

Super Package

More cover, less cost. Redspot’s Super Package gives you reduced damage liability and extra perks—perfect if you want more peace of mind without going all-out. This includes:

  • No hidden costs, we are upfront about the inclusions in this package!
  • $1,950 to $2,750 damage liability excess*
  • GST-inclusive
  • Unlimited km allowance
  • Free additional drivers
  • No cancellation fees
  • No amendment fees
  • Contract fee **
  • Premium location fee***
  • Registration recovery fee****
  • Book now, pay later

Executive Package

This iconic Redspot package stands strong as the first all-inclusive car rental product in Australia! Designed with peace-of-mind built-in, our good value car rental package includes:

  • No hidden costs, we are upfront about the inclusions in this package!
  • $0 standard liability excess*
  • Additional windshield and headlight cover
  • GST-inclusive
  • Unlimited km allowance
  • Free additional drivers
  • No cancellation fees
  • No amendment fees
  • Contract fee **
  • Premium location fee***
  • Registration recovery fee****
  • Book now, pay later

Terminology Key.

Let us break down our package terms so you know exactly what may appear on your invoice:

*Damage liability excess: ‘Amount reduced by’ is dependent on the vehicle type and hire itinerary selected. See our Car Rental Cover page for more information.
**Contract fee: We have a small surcharge to cover our costs to draw up our rental agreement with you.
***Premium location fee: Sometimes a premium airport or downtown location will charge us an additional surcharge for each rental and we are upfront about this cost in your package! The price will depend on the location selected.
****Registration recovery fee: We pay a surcharge to cover our vehicle registration and compulsory third-party insurance costs and we highlight this clearly in your package breakdown.

At Redspot, we believe in straight-up honesty! Just so you’re in the loop, all the nitty-gritty on damage liability and extra charges can be found in our terms and conditions.

The Power of Partnerships.

Redspot are proud to partner with Sunshine Coast Lightning. We share a passion for high performance, community spirit, and supporting women in sport.

Sunshine Coast Lightning

Redspot are a trusted supplier of car rental services to NSW Government agencies. We’re proud to support essential services across the state and beyond.

New South Wales Government

Redspot are proud to sponsor Melbourne Storm. We share a strong devotion to Australian families, grassroots sport, and community values.

Melbourne Storm

Redspot Driver Facts.

Share the ride with additional drivers:

We can easily add additional drivers to your car rental booking. The driver will need to show their full valid driver’s licence in any branch and provide a credit card for a daily surcharge. Too easy!

Rev-Up for Young Drivers:

We are one of the few car rental companies to have a minimum driver age of 21!
Note that drivers under 25 will pay a daily surcharge on their car rental fee. Car hire is limited to small to medium-sized sedans and hatchbacks.

Don’t sweat the paperwork:

If you are a first-time renter, all we need is one (1) document with your address on it. Returning customers, all you need to bring for collection is your valid driver’s licence and credit card. If it’s your first time renting locally, you’ll also need to bring a third form of identification like a current utility bill. We will take care of the rest!

Overseas visitors welcome:

Explore every Aussie hotspot with Redspot! Temporary overseas visitors can hire a car with:

  • A full valid driver’s licence and passport
  • Licences must have photo identification
  • If the licence is not in English then you will need an official translated document from your embassy or road traffic authority in your home country
  • Some countries may need to apply for an international driver’s permit

Family-friendly car hire:

Redspot is a family-run business and selects modern SUVs, sedans and people carriers for family comfort. With a range of baby, child and booster seats available to hire, the little ones don’t miss out.

Credit Card Condition:

Cover your back and ours. All rental cars require a credit card at pick-up for a pre-authorisation.

Fuel Flexibility:

Pre-pay, post-pay or refuel your rental car yourself. Redspot makes it easy to keep a full tank for an Australian adventure.

Local P-Platers and Full Licences:

Redspot Car Rentals gives P-platers the green light – one of the few Aussie companies that do! Our safety rules include:

  • You must hold a Provisional P2 driver’s licence (green Ps).
  • Your full driver’s licence must be valid for a minimum of 12 months from the date of rental collection.

Maximum age is no barrier:

With Redspot, age is just a number! There is no maximum age to hit the road.

Toll-road Tricks:

Buy peace of mind with a Redspot toll road waiver and say goodbye to unexpected charges.

Meet Our Fleet.

From the Hard Rock Cafe to Kirra Beach, we’ll be red-y with the right vehicle for your needs! Whether you want a five-seater sedan for your whole family or a compact car that can fit into any beach parking, Redspot has the perfect car for you. 

Redspot: Where every rental is spot-on.

Fully Aussie-owned and operated 

Founded, owned and operated by local Aussie family for over 35 years!

Personalised care

Our small, dedicated teams in over 40 spots around Australia are here to help out wherever the road takes you.

Amazing value

Get the most bang for your buck with our all-inclusive packages and customisable options in between. 

No hidden costs

All taxes and GST with no extra fees are included in our rates.

24/7 roadside assistance

All our rental cars are covered by 24-hour mechanical breakdown assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What documents do I need to hire a car?

To hire a car with Redspot, all you need is:

  • A valid credit card or purchase order/voucher
  • A valid driver’s licence from you and anyone else driving the rental
  • Proof of address if it’s not on your licence (like utility bills or house payments)

Your passport, if you are not an Aussie citizen.

Do I need an international driver’s licence to drive in the Gold Coast?

If you do not own an Australian driver’s licence, then yes, you will need a valid international driver’s licence to get moving on the Gold Coast. If your licence isn’t in English, you’ll also need an official translation. 

Are there toll roads in the Gold Coast?

There are no toll roads in the Gold Coast itself, but there are tolls in Brisbane and the surrounding areas. When you arrive at the Respot counter, you will be asked if you would like to pre-purchase a toll pass waiver for a small daily fee. With this waiver, Redspot will cover your toll charges during your hire period.

How far is it from the Gold Coast to Brisbane?

Brisbane is approximately 90 kilometres north of the Gold Coast. Planning a journey to/from Brisbane from the Gold Coast? Check out our toll road guide to make sure nothing catches you off guard!

Explore Gold Coast with Redspot

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise

No trip to the Gold Coast could be complete without a visit to one of Australia’s most famous destinations! Surfers Paradise is a sprawling metropolitan beachside with world-renowned attractions that make it perfect for a fun day out. From Ripley’s Believe It or Not, to Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant, you’ll find something for everyone in Surfers Paradise!

Dreamworld

Looking for more speed than we can give you? Dreamworld is Australia’s biggest theme park, with over 40 rides and other attractions! From high-flying rollercoaster tailor-made for the most extreme adrenaline junkies like the Steel Taipan or The Giant Drop, to more scenic and child-friendly rides like the Dreamworld Express, you won’t regret spending your day at Dreamworld.

Dream World Gold Coast
Cavill Avenue Surfer Paradise

Cavill Avenue

Need to get your shopping fix? Cavil Avenue is the Gold Coast’s premium shopping destination, with over 75 specialty shops spread along a stunning walk right next to the beach on The Esplanade. Located in Surfers Paradise, Cavil Avenue is the perfect place to find the Gold Coast’s best restaurants, services and other conveniences.

Warner Bros. Movie World

Located a stone’s throw away from Dreamworld, Warner Bro’s movie world is your perfect escape into an exciting world of roller coasters, movies, and more! Take a break from the beach and come and see your favourite Warner Brothers characters from Batman to Scooby Do in one of the East Coast’s favourite theme parks!

Movie World Gold Coast

Red-hot Gold Coast tips from our local staff!

Pick a Side – North is Theme Parks, South is Chill
Heading north? You’ve got Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild and all the adrenaline. Heading south? Hit up Burleigh, Currumbin, and Coolangatta for laid-back beach towns and epic surf. Pick your vibe, then hit the road.

– Maddie, Gold Coast Desk Pro & Weekend Explorer

Your First Stop Should Be Sunscreen – Not the Beach
“The Goldie sun doesn’t play nice – even on overcast days. Grab a bottle of SPF 50 at the servo and lather up like it’s your job, or spend your holiday looking like a cooked prawn.”

– Damo, Returns Crew & Former Lobster Tourist

Toll Roads? Not Around Here – Cruise Stress-Free
“Good news – you won’t hit any toll roads driving around the Gold Coast. Just load up your playlist, wind the windows down, and coast from beach to beach without worrying about sneaky toll fees.

– Tracey, Fleet Coordinator & Map Nerd

Coolangatta to Surfers? Take the Ocean Route, Not the Highway
“If you’ve got time, skip the M1 and hug the coast. Cruise through Kirra, Burleigh, and Miami – with loads of spots to pull over for a swim, coffee, or Instagram-worthy lookout. It’s what the hire car was made for.”

Jules, Customer Service & Scenic Route Enthusiast

Theme Parks Get Busy – Go Early and Bring Water
“If you’re doing the big-name theme parks, get there early (like, gates-open early), especially during school holidays. And bring your own water – $6 for a bottle hurts more than the rides.”

– Lachie, Weekend Staff & Rollercoaster Veteran

Hinterland Drives Are the Gold Coast’s Best-Kept Secret
“Want to escape the crowds? Take your hire car up to Springbrook or Tamborine Mountain – waterfalls, lookouts, wineries, and way cooler air. It’s less bikini, more boots and bushwalks.

– Tam, Rental Agent & Rainforest Junkie

Airport Drop-Off Is Easy – But Don’t Leave It to the Last Minute
“Our Gold Coast Airport branch is easy to access, but on weekends and school holidays, traffic near the terminal can back up. Leave a buffer, fuel up beforehand, and return your car with time to spare – not mid panic.”

– Chris, Returns Manager & Traffic Dodger

Gold Coast Car Hire – Sunny Roads Ahead!

Whether you’re a new traveller to Queensland or a seasoned local needing a reliable ride, Redspot is the right hire car service to suit your needs. Our expert team is ready and able to help you with all your rental needs whenever we can!

With our wide and versatile range of vehicles, we can cover all your transport needs. Looking for a leisurely vehicle for absolute comfort on a long road trip? Or maybe a sturdy van or truck? Our fleet is ready to take on any task. 

Want to have a Gold Coast adventure but are under 25? At Redspot, we allow provisional licence holders and under-25 drivers to rent our cars. We don’t have a maximum age restriction on our services. 

Our team will make sure your ride goes off without a hitch with outstanding 24/7 roadside assistance for breakdowns. Want even more peace of mind? Check out our premium roadside assistance offer! 

Book your Redspot Gold Coast rental today, and get Red-y to hit the beaches in style! 

Compact SUV Hybrid Car Hire

Compact SUV Hybrid

Kia Niro Plus or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • Automatic
  • 2 Large, 2 Small
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
Additional Features
  • 2 Small Bags
  • 2 Large Bags
  • Hybrid
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
  • Airbags - Front Driver
  • Airbags - Front Passenger
  • Airbags - Front Side Curtain
  • Airbags - Rear Side Curtain
  • Standard License
  • Age Restriction 25+ years
SUV Car Hire

Premium SUV

Skoda Kodiaq Style or similar

  • 5 Passengers
  • Automatic
  • 3 Large, 2 Small
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
Additional Features
  • 2 Small Bags
  • 3 Large Bags
  • Petrol
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Smoking
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • 5 Star
  • Airbags
  • Airbags - Front Driver
  • Airbags - Front Passenger
  • Airbags - Front Side Curtain
  • Airbags - Rear Side Curtain
  • Fog Lamps
  • Satelite Navigation
  • Standard C Class
  • Age Restriction 26+ years
minivan hire

8 Seat Minibus

Kia Carnival or similar

  • 8 Passengers
  • Automatic
  • 2 Large, 2 Small
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
Additional Features
  • 2 Small Bags
  • 2 Large Bags
  • Petrol
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • MP3 Player
  • USB
  • CarPlay
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Airbags
  • Airbags - Front Driver
  • Airbags - Front Passenger
  • Airbags - Front Side Curtain
  • Airbags - Rear Side Curtain
  • Fog Lamps
  • Satelite Navigation
  • Age Restriction 25+ years

You can rely on Redspot.