If you're planning a trip with a bunch of friends or a big family, you'll need a ride that can fit everyone and everything. The big question is – should you go with a minivan rental, or is it better to book two small cars?
Both options have their good sides, but they also come with things to think about. Let’s break it down – cost, parking, fuel, and comfort – to help you figure out what’s best for your group.
Minivan rental vs two small cars – what’s better for your group?
Cost – who saves more?
At first glance, two small cars might seem cheaper. Sometimes they are. But when you add up everything – like rental price, insurance, tolls, and parking – a minivan rental often comes out on top. Why?
Because you're only paying for one rental. One lot of insurance. One fuel tank to fill. One toll bill. That can add up to a fair bit of savings.
If your group is happy to split the costs, a minivan rental is usually the better deal. It’s one car, shared costs, and no juggling receipts or fuel stops across two vehicles.
Parking – finding a spot
Let’s be honest. Parking a minivan isn’t always fun. In tight city spots, especially in places like central Cairns or busy parts of Townsville, squeezing into a small car space with a van can be tricky.
That’s where two small cars win. They’re easier to park, especially in places with limited parking or narrow streets. If you’re planning a lot of city stops, that’s something to think about.
But if you’re heading to open spaces, beaches, or scenic drives with plenty of parking – like Port Douglas or the Tablelands – a minivan rental will be just fine. Plus, most newer vans are easier to park than you think. Many come with reverse cameras, sensors, and good visibility.
Fuel – what guzzles more?
People often think minivan rental means you'll spend a fortune on fuel. But newer vans are surprisingly fuel efficient. Sure, two small cars might use slightly less fuel overall, especially if they’re tiny hatchbacks. But remember – you’re running two engines, not one.
If both cars are full and doing the same trip, you might actually use more fuel in two cars than one minivan rental. It depends on the distance, how packed the cars are, and how people drive. Either way, it's not a huge difference, but worth thinking about if you're doing long drives across Queensland.
Comfort – the real deal breaker
This is where minivan rental usually wins, hands down. Being in the same vehicle means you’re all together. You can chat, play road trip games, share snacks, sing along to terrible music – all that good stuff.
In two small cars, your group is split. You can’t all hang out at once. You miss those silly in-jokes, group playlists, and bonding moments that make road trips special.
A minivan rental also means more space. More legroom. More boot space. No one has to squash in the middle seat or sit on a suitcase. If you're bringing lots of bags, beach gear, or even camping stuff, a minivan handles it easily. No need to Tetris-pack every morning.
Convenience – keep it simple
Let’s face it – keeping track of one set of keys is easier than two. With a minivan rental, there’s only one car to worry about. One car to fuel up. One car to clean at the end. One car to return. It’s just simpler.
Travelling in one vehicle also means no one gets lost. No one has to follow maps separately or keep up with the lead car. No awkward “where are you?” phone calls when someone took the wrong turn.
If you're heading out to places like Cape Trib or driving through the Outback near Mount Isa, mobile reception isn’t always great. Staying in one car removes that hassle.
The vibe – together is better
Road trips aren’t just about getting from A to B. They’re about the laughs, chats, and silly snacks eaten in the back seat. A minivan rental lets the whole crew stay connected for the whole ride.
Plus, it’s easier to coordinate stops. No need to wait for the other car at every servo or lookout. Everyone’s already there.
And let’s not forget – group photos are better when you all arrive together.
So, which is better?
If you’re just a couple of mates doing a city trip with light luggage, two small cars might work fine.
But if you’re a family, a group of friends, or a team heading off for a proper trip – minivan rental makes life easier. You save money, stay comfy, and keep the group together.
At the end of the day, road trips are better when no one gets left behind at the petrol station because they took the wrong exit.
Try minivan rental with 1300 Meteor Rentals
At 1300 Meteor Rentals, we’ve got you sorted. We offer minivan rental across Cairns, Townsville, and Mount Isa. Our vans are comfy, clean, and perfect for groups.
We’ve been doing this for over 35 years, and we’re still going strong. Whether you're off to explore waterfalls, heading to a family event, or moving a crew across town, our minivan rental options are ready when you are.
You can book online, check out our full range, or swing by and chat to our friendly crew. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for updates, tips, and the odd funny road trip video.
Next time you’ve got a group on the move, give minivan rental a go. Keep it simple, stick together, and make some memories on the road.
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 "Minivan rental vs two small cars")
