Located about 10km west of Townsville, Queensland, the Townsville Airport serves as the major airport for the region. Offering flights from both domestic and international destinations, it is no surprise that this busy hub sees a considerable amount of traffic throughout the year. It's equipped with modern facilities and offers car rental services for easy transportation.
Renting a Car at Townsville Airport
Several leading car rental companies operate out of Townsville Airport's terminal building, including Europcar, Hertz, Budget, and AVIS. Depending upon your travel plans and preferences, you can choose from a variety of car classes ranging from compact and economy cars that are perfect for solo travellers or couples, to larger SUVs and minivans that cater to families or groups.
Fueling Up
There are several petrol stations located near the airport, including Caltex Woolworths and United Petroleum. You can refuel your rental car before returning it to your selected rental company.
Driving in Australia
- Drive on the left: As in the UK, Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road. This should be an easy transition for British drivers.
- Speed limits: Speed restrictions vary across regions. Typically on open roads, the speed limit is 100 km/h. Within towns and cities, the standard limit is 50 km/h, unless pavements are signed otherwise.
- Seat Belts: In Australia, seat belt use is mandatory for all passengers.
- Drink Driving: The legal limit in Australia is a blood-alcohol content of 0.05%; hefty penalties apply for driving under the influence.
Exploring Queensland
Townsville provides a great starting point to explore the wonderful state of Queensland. From here, you can drive down to the picturesque Townsville city, take a tour to the Great Barrier Reef, trek through national parks, and even explore neighbouring cities like Cairns and the Whitsunday Islands.
Currency Matters
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). It's recommended to have some local currency, especially for smaller purchases or in local markets that might not accept plastic money. ATMs and currency exchange bureaus are available within the airport for your convenience.
Prepare for the Weather
With a tropical climate, Townsville has sunny weather nearly all year around. However, its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef can sometimes bring in showers, so pack a light rain jacket just in case. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the Australian sun!
Embrace the ease and flexibility that comes with having your own set of wheels. Dive into your Australian adventure with Townsville Airport as your starting point. Happy travels!
