Orlando Airport (MCO) Car & Van Rentals – Compare Suppliers
Why rent a car at Orlando Airport
Getting your car at Orlando Airport is a breeze with AVR. Simply input Orlando (MCO) as your pick-up location, select your dates, and hit search in seconds you’ll see live deals from all the major car rental brands (and some local gems). Filter by vehicle type if you already know you need a minivan for the family or perhaps a convertible to enjoy that Florida sunshine. Our booking process is straightforward and secure. Most rentals at MCO require no upfront payment you pay when you pick up the car and come with free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance. This means you can lock in a great rate now, even if your itinerary isn’t 100% set. We know plans can change (especially with kids or if the weather forecasts a hurricane more on that later), so we give you the flexibility to modify or cancel without penalty in most cases. With AirportVanRental, there are no surprise charges we clearly show taxes, airport fees, etc. before you book. In just a few clicks, your car will be reserved. Upon landing at MCO, you’ll be ready to grab your bags, hop on the shuttle to the rental car center, and then drive off to start your Florida fun!
- Welcome to Orlando the Theme Park Capital of the World and gateway to sunny Central Florida! Whether you’re here to experience the magic of Walt Disney World, the thrills of Universal Studios, or the natural beauty of Florida’s coasts and Everglades, having a rental car will make your trip infinitely easier. At AirportVanRental (AVR), we are your trusted partner to find cheap Orlando car rentals with zero hassle. As an OTA dedicated to great deals and customer service, we compare multiple suppliers at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and around the city to get you the best prices. Plus, we ensure a smooth booking with no hidden fees, and most rentals come with pay-at-pickup and free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up. Orlando is all about family fun and freedom, and we want you to start your adventure the moment you land. From economy cars for couples to spacious minivans for big families, we’ve got you covered and at rates that leave more money for Mickey Mouse ears and Butterbeer. Let’s gear up for your Orlando adventure with savings, flexibility, and the confidence that AirportVanRental has your back on the road!
- Connect All the Theme Parks & Attractions: Orlando’s star attractions Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld, International Drive are spread out over a large area. There’s no comprehensive public transit connecting all these spots conveniently. Hotel shuttles might run infrequently or only to certain parks, and ride-shares for a week can rack up a big bill. With a rental car, you can easily drive from Magic Kingdom to Universal CityWalk (about 20 minutes apart) on your own schedule. Want to hit multiple parks in one day? With your own car, you can for example, start your morning at Animal Kingdom, hop over to Universal’s Islands of Adventure in the afternoon, then catch the fireworks at Epcot at night. No waiting on buses or paying for separate Ubers between each location. For families, this is huge: you can come and go from parks for naps, pool breaks, or dining off-property without hassle.
- Explore Beyond the Resorts: There’s so much more to Central Florida than just the major resorts. If you have a car, you can venture out to see a different side of Florida. Fancy a beach day? Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic is about an hour’s drive east (great for surfing or visiting the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop). Or drive ~90 minutes west to the Gulf Coast Clearwater Beach and St. Pete offer beautiful white sands and warm Gulf waters. Nature calls? Take your car to the Everglades Headwaters or do an airboat ride at places like Boggy Creek about 45 minutes south, where you can see wild alligators. And of course, the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral is just an hour away an easy drive to see NASA’s launch pads and maybe even a rocket launch if timing is right. Without a car, these sidetrips would be expensive or impossible. With one, you can turn your Orlando vacation into a full Florida road trip experience.
- Flexibility for Dining and Shopping: Orlando isn’t a very walkable city attractions are in pockets separated by highways. Having a car means you’re not confined to eating at your hotel or in the parks. You can drive to Restaurant Row (Sand Lake Road) for a great meal, or head to Disney Springs or Universal’s CityWalk in the evening for dozens of dining and entertainment options regardless of where you spent your day. Feel like some shopping? With a car, you can easily hit the Orlando International Premium Outlets or Mall at Millenia (both about 15-20 minute drives from the theme park area). You’ll save on souvenirs and have trunk space to stash all those bargains from the outlet malls. Essentially, a car lets you enjoy the whole Orlando area, from trendy local brunch spots in Winter Park to late-night mini-golf on I-Drive, without juggling multiple transport arrangements.
- Comfort, Especially for Families: If you’re traveling with kids (or a big group), you know how much stuff comes along strollers, diaper bags, change of clothes, snacks, souvenirs... With a rental minivan or SUV, you can load everything up and have it with you. No need to carry everything on your person all day or worry about renting lockers at the parks. It’s a lifesaver to be able to leave the stroller in the trunk until you need it, or have a cooler with water and snacks waiting in the car for when you exit the park (saves you $$ and keeps everyone happy). Also, after a long day at Disney when the kids (and adults) are exhausted, the last thing you want is to wait in a long taxi line or cram onto a packed hotel shuttle. Having your own car means you can get in, blast the A/C, and decompress on the ride back to your hotel or vacation home. It’s your private space let the kids fall asleep in their car seats; no sweat. Many Orlando resorts have free parking for guests (some charge a fee, but it can be worth it for the convenience). In short, a car adds comfort and ease to what can be a hectic (but fun!) family vacation.
Top Car Rental Deals at Orlando (MCO) Airport
Orlando is one of the world’s busiest car rental markets, which is great news for you: lots of competition = great deals. Here are some sample Orlando car rental deals by category. These “from” prices were recently found your rates will vary by date, but it shows how affordable renting can be:
- Compact Car from $17/day.Example: Nissan Versa or similar. Easy to drive and super fuel-efficient (great for those drives up and down I-4 between parks). A compact is perfect for 1-2 travelers or a small family with light luggage. You’ll appreciate zipping into tight parking spots at crowded theme park lots or malls. Despite their small size, most compacts comfortably seat 4 and have modern features and at around $17 a day, it’s often the cheapest option.
- Midsize Sedan from $22/day.Example: Toyota Corolla or Hyundai Elantra. A bit more room for luggage and legs compared to a compact. Midsize sedans are a popular choice for small families or groups of 3-4. They handle highway driving smoothly (you’ll likely be on highways frequently, e.g., driving from MCO airport to Disney is via FL-528 and I-4). For just a few dollars more than the economy cars, you get extra comfort, which on a week-long trip can be well worth it. Plenty of trunk space for those outlet shopping hauls!
- Minivan from $39/day.Example: Chrysler Voyager or Dodge Grand Caravan. The quintessential Disney family vehicle. Seats 7-8 and has room for all the luggage, strollers, and giant stuffed Mickeys you accumulate. Orlando deals on minivans are often quite good because so many families rent them $39/day for a multi-passenger van is a steal (split between, say, 6 people that’s like $6.50 each!). Many minivans also have DVD players or Apple CarPlay, which can be a sanity-saver to keep kids entertained en route to the hotel or beach. These tend to get booked up during holidays, so snag them early.
- Convertible from $45/day.Example: Ford Mustang Convertible. Add some top-down fun to your Orlando trip! While not practical for a big family, a convertible is a blast for couples or solo travelers who want to soak up the Florida sun in style. Imagine cruising International Drive or heading to Cocoa Beach with the wind in your hair. At around $45 a day, it can be an affordable luxury. (Just remember sunscreen and a hat that sun is strong). Convertibles also make the mundane (like driving to the grocery store) feel like part of the vacation.
(“From” rates exclude taxes/fees. Orlando rentals have a few extra fees like a $2/day state rental surcharge and airport concession fee, but don’t worry we show all those in your quote. Prices fluctuate with seasons: expect higher rates in March-April (spring break) and June-July (summer vacation), also around the winter holidays. Off-peak times like September or early January often have lower prices. Pro tip: consider a longer rental if you’re staying a while weekly rentals can average out to less per day than a 3-4 day rental. And with AVR, you always get free unlimited mileage on standard rentals in Florida, so drive as much as you want from Orlando to Key West if you like!)
Driving in Orlando: What to Know
Driving in Orlando is generally easy and convenient, but the area is busy with tourists and has some unique features (hello toll roads!). Here are key things to know to make your Orlando driving experience smooth:
- Traffic & Roads: The main artery through Orlando is Interstate 4 (I-4), which runs roughly northeast-southwest, connecting the Disney area (southwest of downtown) through downtown Orlando and up to Daytona Beach. I-4 is infamous for congestion near the attractions and downtown during rush hours (7:00–9:30 AM and 4:00–7:00 PM). It’s not unusual to hit stop-and-go traffic around exits for Disney (exits 62-64) or near the downtown interchange at those times. Plan a bit of extra time if you have to be somewhere during peak periods. Aside from I-4, you’ll likely use toll roads: FL-528 (Beachline Expressway) from MCO airport towards I-4 (if you’re going to Disney/Kissimmee or to Cape Canaveral eastbound), FL-417 (Central FL Greeneway) which is a beltway around the city, or FL-408 (East-West Expwy) through downtown. These toll roads can actually be your friend to avoid I-4 traffic, as they’re often less congested. Just remember they cost a few bucks (more on tolls below). Overall, Orlando’s roads are well-marked. Watch out for sudden lane changes by drivers who realize last-minute they need the next exit (tourists unfamiliar with the area). Drive defensively around the attractions where excitement (or distraction) is high. Also note: when parks close (typically 9-10 PM for Disney, various times for others), the surrounding roads get a burst of traffic. It’s well-managed by deputies but be patient or plan to leave a little before closing rush if you want to beat the crowd.
- Toll Roads & SunPass: Central Florida has an extensive network of toll roads. Key ones: 528, 417, 408, and portions of FL-429 near Disney. Many of these toll roads still have some cash toll booths (especially 417 and parts of 528), but a growing number of exits are electronic-only. The local electronic toll system is called SunPass. As a visitor in a rental car, you have a few options: (1) Use the rental car’s toll program. This is simplest you can drive through the SunPass lanes without stopping and the tolls (plus a small daily fee for each day you use a toll, often $3-5) will be charged to your card. This is great if you plan to use toll roads a lot (likely, yes, unless you want to take longer back roads). (2) Pay cash where available. Some toll plazas have attended booths or exact change lanes. Keep a bunch of quarters and dollar bills handy if you choose this. Note: some exits are exact change only (unattended machines) they usually require coins, no change given. (3) SunPass Mini technically you could buy a SunPass sticker for $5 and load it, but in a rental car this is usually not practical (and not allowed to stick things on the car). So we suggest sticking with option 1. The 417 route from MCO to Disney has two main tolls ($2.50 total). 528 to I-4 has two tolls (~$2 total). It’s worth a couple bucks to save time. Pro tip: sometimes taking 417 (the Greeneway) around the south side is faster than I-4 when heading to Disney, despite extra distance, because I-4 traffic can be brutal your GPS will usually know best. Also, note some new express lanes on I-4 through downtown are being added; these will be toll lanes when open. If you accidentally drive through a toll without paying, don’t panic the camera will bill the rental company who will then charge you (with a fee). It’s best to just opt-in upfront and enjoy the convenience of zipping through SunPass lanes, especially if you’re going to places like Kennedy Space Center (via 528) or Legoland (via 417 to I-4).
- Parking at Theme Parks: All the big parks have ample parking, but it isn’t free. For instance, Walt Disney World charges around $25–$30 per day for standard parking at its theme parks. That one fee covers all day and you can leave and come back or hop to another Disney park without paying again (keep your receipt). Disney runs trams from the parking lots to the park entrances because the lots are huge make note of your section (Snap a photo of the row number/name like “Pluto 18”) so you can find your car later. Universal Orlando has parking garages, about $27/day for general parking (and they often have moving sidewalks to shuttle you in). SeaWorld is about $25/day. At water parks or smaller attractions, it might be cheaper or free. Many hotels and resorts in Orlando offer free parking for guests, but some (especially around Disney Springs or Universal area hotels) charge $10-30 per night check your hotel’s policy. If you plan to visit International Drive attractions (like ICON Park, museums, etc.), there are usually free parking lots or garages provided. Downtown Orlando: if you happen to go downtown (maybe for a Magic NBA game or a concert at Amway Center), expect to pay ~$10-20 in event parking lots. One nice thing: parking at the beaches (Cocoa, Clearwater) usually has reasonable public lots ($2-3/hour or a flat ~$15/day). And if you venture to places like Kennedy Space Center, parking is free on-site. Overall, budget some money for theme park parking in your trip, and allow a little time to park and get to the entrance (especially at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, where you park at the Transportation Center and then take a monorail/ferry to the park factor in that extra 20 minutes).
- Driving Etiquette & Safety: Orlando’s driving style is a mix you have locals who know where they’re going, and a lot of tourists who don’t. This can lead to sudden lane changes, inconsistent speeds, and some confusion on the roads. Stay alert, especially around the theme park exits. Use your turn signals (not everyone does here, but we encourage it!). Expect that some drivers will slow down a lot when looking for their exit or hotel it’s common around International Drive and Disney resort areas. Just go around them when safe. Flashing lights: Florida law allows you to briefly flash your headlights to signal intent to pass you probably won’t need this in Orlando, but don’t be startled if someone flashes you on the highway; they’re likely indicating “I’m coming through” (or reminding you to move from the left lane if you’re going under the flow). Right on red: Florida allows right turns on red after a complete stop (unless a sign says no turn on red). It’s common, so don’t be surprised if the car in front of you turns even with red light (assuming it’s clear). Pedestrians: In tourist areas like around hotels, people sometimes jaywalk or cross when they shouldn’t. Around International Drive or hotel strips, go slow and be ready to stop for folks crossing mid-block. Cyclists: Not too many, but you might see some around downtown or college areas. Give them room. Florida’s Move Over Law if you see emergency vehicles or a disabled vehicle on the roadside, move over a lane or slow significantly if you can’t. And unique to Florida: rain. Orlando gets brief but intense thunderstorms, especially in summer afternoons. When it rains, it pours visibility can drop. If it’s really bad, put your hazard lights on only if you’re pulled over (Florida law says don’t drive with hazards on). If you keep driving, just slow down, increase following distance, and keep your low beams on. The good news: these downpours often end in 20 minutes, leaving behind steamy sun. Roads can temporarily puddle avoid hydroplaning by easing off the gas if you hit water. One more safety tip: hurricane season is June 1 Nov 30 (peaks in Aug/Sep). Big hurricanes are rare in Orlando but do happen (they’re far less frequent than coastal hits). If one’s forecast, follow official guidance often you’ll have days notice. Our flexible cancellation will help if you need to adjust plans. But for most, a Florida vacation will just include a daily 4pm rain shower and nothing more extreme. Drive safe, keep calm (hey, you’re on vacation!), and you’ll be fine. Millions of visitors successfully drive around Orlando every year.
Popular Road Trips from Orlando
Orlando’s central location makes it a perfect springboard for Florida road trips. Whether you’re craving beach time, space exploration, or a journey to the Old South, here are a few exciting road trips you can take with your rental car:
- Space Coast Excursion (Orlando ➜ Kennedy Space Center & Cocoa Beach)~60 miles one-way (1 hour to KSC) Great day trip.
Route: From Orlando, take FL-528 East (Beachline Expressway) straight toward Cape Canaveral. (Heads-up: 528 is a toll road as mentioned.) About an hour later, you’ll reach the turn-offs for Kennedy Space Center (KSC) at Cape Canaveral. After exploring KSC, you can continue 20 minutes south on A1A to Cocoa Beach for a beach break, then head back to Orlando via 528 West.
Highlights:Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-do for space enthusiasts. You can see the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis up close, touch a moon rock, and if timing allows, even witness a rocket launch (they happen quite often; check the schedule!). They offer tours that bus you to the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where a gigantic Saturn V moon rocket is on display. Don’t miss the Rocket Garden or the astronaut training simulators. It’s educational and awe-inspiring for adults and kids alike. After getting your fill of space, drive to Cocoa Beach, the quintessential Florida beach town. Visit the historic Cocoa Beach Pier grab a drink or ice cream overlooking the Atlantic and watch surfers (Cocoa Beach is known for surfing and was home to legendary surfer Kelly Slater). There’s also the Ron Jon Surf Shop, a 24-hour surf megastore that’s a bit of a tourist attraction in itself. And of course, enjoy the beach: soft sand, rolling waves, and if you look north you might see the launch pads in the distance.
Tips: Start early KSC can easily take 4-6 hours to fully experience. Parking at KSC is $10 and very straightforward (right by the entrance). Bring sunscreen and maybe bug spray (the space center is amid coastal marshland in summer there can be mosquitoes if you do the outdoor tours). If a launch is scheduled, expect large crowds and traffic but it’s a bucket-list experience (just know that launches can be delayed). At Cocoa Beach, parking near the pier or at public beach accesses is generally paid (bring a few dollars or card for the meters). The 528 Beachline has a few tolls (approx $2.50 each way) totally worth it for the convenience. On the drive, you’ll cross over the Indian River and Banana River keep eyes peeled for wildlife; folks have spotted dolphins or manatees from the causeways. If you have time, on the way back detour to Port Canaveral (the cruise port) there are fun waterfront seafood restaurants like Fishlips where you can watch cruise ships depart (usually late afternoons). Lastly, summer storms often roll in mid-afternoon on the Space Coast, so plan beach time in the morning or early afternoon, and maybe head back toward Orlando if dark clouds gather (storms blow over quickly though). This trip offers a perfect mix of high-tech wonder and laid-back beach vibes, all in one day.
- Gulf Coast Getaway (Orlando ➜ Tampa & Clearwater Beach)~85 miles to Tampa (1.5 hours); +25 miles to Clearwater (0.5 hr) Doable as a long day trip or overnight.
Route: Take I-4 West from Orlando straight into Tampa (about 1.5 hours without heavy traffic). In Tampa, follow signs for downtown or specific attractions. To continue to the beach, from Tampa you can take FL-60 West across the Courtney Campbell Causeway into Clearwater, or I-275 across the Bay and then west to Clearwater Beach. Return via I-4 East back to Orlando (or take the slightly longer but scenic I-275 south across the Sunshine Skyway and then east, if you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind an extra 30 minutes).
Highlights:Tampa offers a variety of attractions. If you love theme parks, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is known for its thrilling roller coasters and African safari-themed animal exhibits (a nice complement to Orlando’s parks, and typically less crowded). Downtown Tampa’s Riverwalk is a beautiful place to stroll you can see the historic University of Tampa minarets across the river, visit the Florida Aquarium (great for kids, with a focus on sea life of the Gulf), or explore Ybor City, Tampa’s historic Cuban-American district known for its cigar factories and vibrant nightlife (try a Cuban sandwich at the century-old Columbia Restaurant!). Sports fan? Tampa Bay Lightning hockey and Buccaneers football play here (seasonal). After Tampa, head to the Gulf Coast beaches. Clearwater Beach is consistently rated among America’s best beaches powdery white sand and gentle Gulf of Mexico waters (usually warmer and calmer than the Atlantic). Pier 60 at Clearwater has a nightly sunset festival with street performers and craft vendors a fun way to spend the evening. You can also take a dolphin-spotting boat tour from the marina, or just relax on the sand. Further south, St. Pete Beach or Pass-a-Grille offer slightly quieter beach scenes if Clearwater is too bustling. And St. Petersburg’s downtown (across the bay from Tampa) has the famous Dali Museum (Salvador Dali’s art) if you’re into art.
Tips:I-4 Traffic: The stretch between Orlando and Lakeland can get congested, especially on Friday afternoons or Sunday evenings (weekenders heading to/from the beach). Try leaving early morning from Orlando to avoid slowdowns, or consider taking the tolled 417 south to connect to I-4 closer to Lakeland and miss some Orlando metro traffic. Once in Tampa, local traffic can also build up around rush hour. Parking in downtown Tampa: plenty of garages (~$2 per hour, $10-15 daily). At Busch Gardens, parking is about $30 and the lot is large (trams available). Clearwater Beach parking: arrive early if on a weekend, as lots fill by late morning. Expect to pay ~$20 for a day in public lots/garages. Bring quarters or use the ParkMobile app for street meters. The Gulf Coast sun is strong (and reflects off water and sand) double up on sunscreen. Also, be prepared for late afternoon thunderstorms in summer (much like Orlando’s pattern). If you want a pro tip: consider staying overnight at the beach so you can enjoy the gorgeous sunset and not have to drive back tired; then you can drive back leisurely the next morning. Lastly, if you’re a seafood lover, try some Gulf shrimp or grouper at a local restaurant it’s a regional specialty. This Gulf Coast trip gives you a taste of Florida’s city life and its tranquil beaches in one go a fantastic change of pace from the theme parks.
- Southern Charm Road Trip (Orlando ➜ Savannah, GA)~285 miles one-way (4.5 hours) Ideal for a 2-3 day excursion.
Route: Head north from Orlando on I-4 East to I-95 North (near Daytona Beach). Then take the straight shot up I-95 through northeastern Florida, past Jacksonville, and into Georgia. Savannah is just across the GA state line (about 2 hours north of Jacksonville, ~4.5 from Orlando). Once in Savannah, most attractions are in the historic downtown. Park the car and explore on foot or by trolley tour.
Highlights:Savannah, Georgia is a city that drips with historic charm a world away from the theme park hustle. Think Spanish moss hanging from giant oak trees, stately historic squares every few blocks, antebellum architecture, and a rich (sometimes haunted) history. Take a stroll in Forsyth Park, with its famous fountain and shaded paths. Each block in the Historic District has a square (park) with monuments and benches Chippewa Square is notable as the spot from Forrest Gump’s bench scene (the bench is now in a museum, but the square is lovely). The Savannah riverfront (River Street) is fun to walk, with cobblestone streets and old cotton warehouses converted to shops and restaurants grab some pralines (local candy) from a confectionery for a true taste of the South. You can take a trolley tour or horse-drawn carriage ride to learn about Savannah’s history from Revolutionary and Civil War events to its spooky haunted lore (ghost tours at night are popular!). Food is a highlight in Savannah: try southern classics like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, or a low-country boil at places like The Olde Pink House or Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room. If time allows, a 20-minute drive out to Tybee Island gives you a small beach town experience with a lighthouse and pier a nice bonus. On your way back, you could stop by St. Augustine, FL (just off I-95 south of Jacksonville) it’s the oldest city in the U.S., with a 17th-century Spanish fort and charming old town (definitely worth even a short visit if you can).
Tips: This is a longer drive, but I-95 is a smooth, straight interstate. You’ll pass a lot of Florida/Georgia rest areas and tourist stops (yes, “South of the Border” is a famous kitschy stop on the Carolinas border, but not on this shorter route; instead, look for the Florida-Georgia border Welcome Centers they often have free OJ in Florida’s!). Gas is usually cheaper in Georgia than Florida due to lower tax, so consider refueling after crossing the state line. Savannah’s Historic District has mostly street parking and some garages the city uses meters (around $2/hour) and they’re enforced weekdays. Many B&Bs/hotels have their own parking arrangements. Once you’re there, you really won’t need to drive much; the district is walkable (wear comfy shoes for those cobblestones!). Climate: Savannah is hot and humid in summer much like Orlando, but spring and fall are gorgeous. If visiting in spring (March-April), you’ll catch azaleas blooming all over absolutely beautiful. Summers bring afternoon storms here too, but also high tourism; book accommodations ahead if staying overnight. Savannah is known for being quite safe in tourist areas, just use normal caution at night in quiet spots. Fun fact: Savannah allows “to-go” cups for alcohol in the Historic District you can sip a cocktail as you walk (legally) which many visitors enjoy during evenings. Just don’t drink and drive, obviously. The vibe in Savannah is slow down, relax, and soak in the history it’s a nice contrast to the adrenaline of Orlando’s attractions, and well worth the road trip to experience a bit of that classic Southern hospitality and scenery. You’ll likely return to Orlando feeling like you visited another era and place entirely (because you did!).
Frequently Asked Questions
Great question! Orlando and central Florida have several toll roads (like SR 528, 417, 408, and Florida’s Turnpike). Most rental cars at MCO are equipped or enrollable in a toll program. Typically, if you drive through a toll and don’t pay cash (like on an all-electronic toll road or if you use the SunPass lane), the toll system will register the car and charge the rental company, which then passes the charge to you. Most companies charge the actual tolls plus a convenience fee (often around $3-5 for each day you use a toll, sometimes capped per rental). To keep it simple: you can drive through toll lanes without stopping and just pay the bill that comes via the rental. If you prefer to avoid fees, you can bring your own SunPass transponder (if you have one) and use that in the rental, but you must ask the rental agency to decline their program so you’re not double-charged. Alternatively, stick to cash lanes on roads where that’s an option (carry some change, e.g., some exits require exact coins). We usually advise renters: don’t stress too much about tolls. The fees are usually small relative to your trip, and sometimes taking a toll road can save you lots of time. Just be aware of your rental company’s policy (we provide info in the rental details, or ask at the counter). For example, Alamo/National/Enterprise in Florida typically use a program with a ~$3.95 daily fee only on days you incur a toll, plus the tolls themselves. If you know you’re going to be hitting many tolls (like daily runs on 417 to your hotel), it can be worth it. If it’s just one quick toll, you can also sometimes pay online by license plate within a certain time if you note the toll road’s website (this varies by agency). Overall: Orlando’s toll system is manageable, enjoy the drive and the time you save on those faster roads!
A lot, Orlando International (MCO) has one of the widest selections of rental agencies in the US. There are around 18-20 companies. Major on-site brands include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty, all with counters in the terminal and cars in the attached garages. There are also brands like Sixt and Fox with desks usually in the terminal and cars nearby. Additionally, a few value-oriented or niche companies (e.g. Payless, Advantage, Economy Rent-a-Car) operate off-site with shuttles. When searching on AirportVanRental, you’ll see offers from all these companies. The large number of options keeps prices competitive, which is great for you as a renter.
Absolutely, in fact it’s the most popular driving route! Orlando International Airport is about 15-20 minutes from Walt Disney World by car. Just hop on SR 528 West to I-4 West, or take the 417 South to World Center Drive, depending on where in Disney you’re headed. Renting a car for a Disney vacation gives you a ton of flexibility: you can come and go from the parks on your own schedule, visit off-property restaurants, or drive to other attractions like Universal Studios or SeaWorld. Disney does charge for theme park parking (around $25/day, unless you have a pass or stay on Disney property with free parking), but some folks find the convenience worth it versus shuttles. Also, note if you’re staying at a Disney resort hotel, they have their own transportation, but many still rent a car for trips beyond Disney (like Kennedy Space Center or a beach day). In short: yes, a rental car from MCO is your ticket to not only Disney, but all the other magic Orlando offers outside the Mouse’s domain.
In Florida (and Orlando specifically), the standard minimum rental age is 21. Renters age 21-24 are considered “young drivers” and will incur a young driver fee (usually around $25 per day, depending on the company). Additionally, under-25s might be limited to certain car categories typically economy through full-size cars and maybe standard SUVs. High-end luxury cars, specialty vehicles, or large 15-passenger vans often require drivers to be 25+. There are a couple of exceptions: a few agencies will rent to 19 or 20-year-olds with a surcharge, but these are less common and usually on a restricted fleet (often it’s easier if you’re a student or military in that age bracket with certain companies). If you’re 18 and on official military orders, some companies will rent to you (with documentation), but for leisure, 18-20 is generally not allowed. Every driver will need a valid driver’s license. International visitors: you can use your home country license; an International Driving Permit (IDP) isn’t legally required in Florida if your license is in English, but it can be helpful if not (to translate your info). When booking with AirportVanRental, we automatically factor in the young driver fee if you input your age, so you’ll see total costs upfront. We welcome young renters just drive responsibly and note that all the same rules (like credit card requirement and insurance needs) apply. And one more tip: at age 25 that fee disappears and your rental options broaden, something to look forward to!
Absolutely. Orlando International Airport (MCO) has rental car services operating 24/7 to accommodate the huge number of flights at all hours. The major rental car counters at MCO (located in Terminal A and B on the Ground Transportation Level) are generally open around the clock or have staff on call for late-night reservations. If you have a confirmed booking, they will honor it even if your flight is delayed into the wee hours. One thing: be sure to provide your flight number when you book (if possible), or at least the airline and arrival time this helps rental staff track delays. If your flight is extremely delayed and arriving, say, at 2 AM when it was supposed to be 9 PM, it’s a good idea to call the rental location’s phone number to inform them, just for peace of mind. But in practice, Orlando’s a busy airport with people coming from all time zones, so late pick-ups are routine. When you arrive, follow the signs to the car rental center (MCO’s main rental desks are conveniently in the terminal, no shuttle needed for most on-airport companies). If for some reason a smaller off-airport company is closed, they often have an agent meet you if your reservation indicates a late hour again, confirm with them. For middle-of-the-night returns, MCO is also prepared: you can return cars 24/7. If an attendant isn’t present, you can drop keys in the after-hours drop box (though at MCO there’s usually someone, given flights start departing by 5 AM). Rest assured, Orlando’s hospitality industry knows no clock you’ll be able to get your wheels regardless of landing time. Just what you need after a long flight hop in your rental and head to your hotel (maybe stopping by a 24h drive-thru for a midnight snack!). Drive safe even if you’re tired; Orlando’s roads will be pretty quiet late at night, which is a plus.
It depends on your plans and group size, but here are some tips: If you’re mostly visiting theme parks and sticking to city driving, an economy or compact car works great for 1-2 people or a small family. They’re easy to park and good on gas (a plus with potentially lots of driving). Parking spaces at hotels and parks are standard size even a full-size sedan fits fine but sometimes those lots get busy, so a smaller car can navigate around easier. For a family of 4 with luggage and maybe a stroller, a midsize or standard sedan could be a comfortable minimum. If you have 5 people (or just want more room), consider an SUV or minivan. Orlando is minivan central you’ll see tons of them because families find the space so useful. A minivan or 3-row SUV is almost a must if you have 6-7 people. For 5 people, a midsize SUV like a RAV4 or Nissan Rogue can work, but with luggage it might be tight; a larger SUV (like Chevy Traverse) or minivan provides ample space for both passengers and baggage. Fuel economy vs size: gas in Florida tends to be moderate (around $3-4/gallon lately), and driving distances aren’t huge (most parks 10-20 miles apart, beach 60-70 miles). So fuel costs are not extreme. Still, if you plan to drive a lot (say multiple long day trips), something efficient might save a few bucks. Many Orlando rentals include hybrids or fuel-efficient models as options if you want. Convertibles: If it’s just adults or a couple and you want fun in the sun, a convertible can be lovely in Florida but remember, summers are very hot and humid, so you might only drop the top in mornings or evenings. Winters and spring are perfect for convertibles here. Luxury cars: Orlando has them too maybe you want to roll up to the Grand Floridian in a Jaguar. Totally up to personal preference and budget. One thing you don’t need is a 4x4 or heavy-duty vehicle specifically for terrain all the places you’ll likely go around Orlando are paved and flat (no mountains or off-roading necessary). In summer, an automatic transmission and good AC are blessings almost every rental car will have both. If you have small kids, you may need child safety seats you can rent those from the car rental company (for a fee) or bring your own. Florida law requires children 5 and under to be in appropriate car seats/boosters. When choosing car type, also factor in the amount of luggage: if you’re bringing golf clubs, a stroller, and multiple suitcases, don’t skimp on trunk space. Overall, pick a car that comfortably fits your group and stuff. We at AirportVanRental offer everything from compact cars to 12-passenger vans in Orlando, so you’ll definitely find a suitable ride. If in doubt, err on the side of slightly larger a little extra space can make those drives much more pleasant when everyone isn’t squeezed in like sardines after a long day at the park!