How to Save Money on Flights to Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Tips for finding cheap flights into Orlando International Airport, best days to fly, and more.
Looking to save money on flights to Orlando? In this guide, I’ll show you how to search for and book the best airfare deals to MCO.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the tenth busiest airport in America with 60 over carriers and it’s the 30th busiest airport in the world.
Two airlines in particular, jetBlue and Southwest have made MCO a mini-hub and both have some of the best fares in and out of Orlando International Airport.
Orlando is a mini-hub for jetBlue and Southwest. Fierce competition often means fare sales.
Tips for finding cheap airfare
No matter which airline you choose to fly, spend a little time doing some research and check back frequently. Airfare to and from Orlando has been on the rise for the past 5 years but you can still find some cheap seats on your flight to MCO by taking a few simple steps.
Orlando International Airport
How to search the web for airfare deals
About 95% of bookings are made online, according to FareCompare.com. Start with the airlines’ official website because it will have more flight options at similar fares.
Also, try websites that allow you to compare deals from multiple airlines. My favorite is Google Flights but also try Airfarewatchdog and FareCompare.
Cheapest days to fly to Orlando
In most cases the cheapest days to fly are Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday. Monday and Friday are usually the most expensive.
If you can, be flexible with your travel dates, try to shift your dates around by a day or two.
Just confirm that there is availability at your Walt Disney World Resort hotel before getting locked into to a non-refundable flight.
Split up large groups
Many people flying into Orlando International Airport are traveling as a family.
Try breaking up your family into smaller groups when shopping around.
For example, if there are only 2 cheap seats left on a flight and your search is for 4 seats, the website will give everyone the higher fare.
Try searching for one seat first, then add other members of your family to see what happens to the fares.
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Orlando International Airport
The best day of the week to book a flight
Fare sales can appear anytime but I recommend signing up for fare alerts with the airlines you are shopping.
You can sign up for fare alerts on the airline’s website and customize your alert for the exact route you want to fly.
Some travel websites offer fare alerts as well.
The best time to shop for airfare is Tuesday afternoon, this has been the industry standard for the past several years.
Wednesday morning is also a good time to shop for Orlando flights.
Use Google Flights to shop for cheap flights
Use Google Flights to find the cheapest fares to/from Orlando! Google Flights searches most airlines using the power of Google.
Some airlines allow you to book a flight right through Google, others will require you to book directly on their website but it's a convenient way to search multiple airlines at once.
Check for a lower price even after you book your flight
After you book your air travel, check back to see if fares have dropped for your flight.
Jetblue will issue you a credit towards a future flight on the difference. Other airlines might have similar programs.
If you see that the cost of airfare has dropped since you booked, give the airline a call.
If your airline doesn’t offer any price protection, try calling your credit card company. Some offer travel perks which might include price guarantees.
Even more ways to save money on flights
What about airline credit cards for frequent flyer miles?
jetBlue, Southwest, and British Airways have some of the best credit card programs available.
You can read more my article, Tips for Earning Frequent Flier Miles to Orlando International Airport.
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
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How to get to Walt Disney World from Orlando International Airport (MCO)
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Tags: Orlando airfare deals, cheap flights to Orlando, cheap flights, Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando
How to Use Mears Connect Service Between Orlando International and Walt Disney World
Mears Connect Standard Service - Standard Service is a shared ride service, similar to Magical Express, on a Mears Connect coach bus or van. The shuttle makes limited stops at a few other hotels along the way.
Mears Express Service Express Service is a direct route between MCO and your Disney World hotel, typically in a van. This is similar to hiring a town car.
Mears Transportation is the leader in airport transfers between Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World Resort. It was Mears who operated Disney’s Magical Express Service for Disney World when it began in 2005. When Disney canceled the complimentary shuttle program in 2022, Mears changed their name to Mears Connect and removed the Disney World livery from all buses.
Mears has many years of experience shuttling guests between the airport and Walt Disney World. They even bought out their competition, Sunshine Flyer, which lasted only 16 months in Orlando.
Let’s take a look at how Mears Connect operates today.
Mears Connect buses waiting for passengers at Orlando International Terminal B
Mears Connect provides 2 airport shuttle options:
Standard (shared) Service
Express (private) Service
Mears Connect Standard Service
Standard Service is a shared ride service, similar to Magical Express, on a Mears Connect coach bus or van.
The shuttle makes limited stops at a few other hotels along the way.
Mears Express Service
Express Service is a direct route between MCO and your Disney World hotel, typically in a van. This is similar to hiring a town car.
Mears Connect Orlando
Frequently Asked Questions about Mears Connect
Are car seats provided?
Florida law does not require car seats in coach buses. Mears will store your car seat in the luggage area of the motor coach if you have one. Car seats are not permitted inside the bus.
Car seats can be used in Mears Express vans. You’re welcome to use your own or request a car seat in advance.
Do I retrieve my own luggage at the airport?
You will need to stop at baggage claim to retrieve your checked luggage.
Once you have your bags, you will proceed to the Mears Welcome Center on the Ground transportation level.
Where do I board Mears Connect at Orlando International?
Terminal A: Go to Level 2 if you have checked bags and pick up your luggage. Then go up to Level 3, and cross over to the B-Side of the airport. Then go down to Level 1 and locate the Mears Welcome Center. (Just follow signs for Ground Transportation on the B-Side).
Terminal B: Go to Level 2 if you have checked bags and pick up your luggage. Then go down to Level 1 and locate the Mears Welcome Center.
Terminal C: Go to Level 6 if you have checked bags and pick up your luggage. Then go down to Level 1 and locate the Mears Welcome Center.
Mears check in area at Terminal C inside Orlando International Airport.
When will Mears Connect pick us up for the return flight?
Your resort departure time is scheduled based on your scheduled flight departure time and will be printed on your confirmation.
Mears will pick you up approximately 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight time for domestic flights and about 4 hours prior for international flights.
You should be at the pickup location 15 minutes prior to allow time to load luggage and get everyone onboard in time.
Pick-up locations are located outside the lobby at Disney World hotels.
Will wheelchairs be accommodated?
Yes, Standard and Express service will be able to accommodate wheelchairs.
Be sure to mention this when making your reservation or let your travel advisor know in advance.
Do you tip Mears Drivers?
Yes, it’s customary to tip your driver for good service.
According to Mears, most people give 10% to coach bus drivers and 20% to van, drivers.
Is Mears cheaper than Uber and Lyft?
A typical ride-share service will cost about $40 - $60 each way. But this doesn’t include surge pricing in Orlando or Uber Car Seat. Both add significant costs to your fare. Read more about using ride-share services in Orlando here ▸
Mears Connect generally works out better because you won’t have to deal with car seats or wait for a car that can fit your party size.
Uber drivers have various skills. While I believe they have good intentions, some don’t know their way around Disney World property too well. I had Uber cars in Orlando that smelled unpleasant or never showed up only to cancel on me.
While a Mears shuttle might take longer than Uber, it’s a far more consistent and professional service.
How do I reserve a ride on Mears Connect?
Your Disney travel advisor can make your reservation for you. Just provide your airline and flight numbers. You can book directly on the Mears Transportation website
Mears Connect Phone Number
(407) 423-5566
What are the operating hours for Mears Connect?
Mears is a 24/7 service. In cases where your flight gets in very late due to a delay, Mears will probably send you to Disney in one of their taxis or vans when you arrive rather than a coach bus.
What hotels does Mears Connect service?
All of the Disney World hotels. There…That was easy! But here’s where it gets more interesting:
Disney Springs (only these hotels)
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando Disney Springs
Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace
Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista
Holiday Inn Orlando Disney Springs
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs
Bonnet Creek Resort Area
JW Marriott
Signia by Hilton Bonnet Creek
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek
Other Areas
Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World
Gaylord Palms Resort
Marriott World Center
Shades of Green Resort
Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve
Have a question about using Mears Connect or any other type of ground transfer service in Orlando? Use the comments section below.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 12 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Mears Transportation and Sunshine Flyer Have Merged
Today, Mears Connect and Sunshine Flyer announced that they are merging. Mears will continue to provide roundtrip transportation between Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World Resort hotels.
Today, Mears Connect and Sunshine Flyer announced that they are merging. Mears will continue to provide roundtrip transportation between Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World Resort hotels.
The merger brings a new name: Mears Connect Driven by Sunshine, guests will still have access to the following service:
24/7 service
Express service
Pickup from terminals A, B, and C
Sunshine Flyer will no longer offer train-themed motorcoaches.
Guests arriving and departing in July will take their trip with the Sunshine Flyer as planned.
Sunshine Flyer will reach out to all guests who currently have reservations explaining what they need to do.
Related:
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
If you currently have a reservation with Sunshine Flyer, you can visit their FAQ page here. in most cases, the merger will have minimal impact on reservations.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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International Guests Can't Wait to Visit Orlando
The U.S. has reopened to travelers from around the world. Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort are ready to show them a good time!
The U.S. has officially reopened to travelers from around the world. Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort are ready to show them a good time!
British travelers arrive in Orlando, Florida for the first time in 19 months.
A Virgin Atlantic flight from the United Kingdom touched down in Orlando, Florida on Monday – the first time in 19 months. The flight, was completely sold out, according to Virgin.
This marks another milestone in economic recovery from the pandemic and one more way Orlando is returning to normal.
Maybe our International exchange hosts will return to Epcot, it’s not the same without them.
This is going to be very good news for Orlando’s theme parks. I am seeing pent-up demand from European travelers and I think this is contributing to Disney and Universal’s hotels being 90% sold out this holiday season.
International travelers tend to stay longer too. For example, the average Canadian resident spends about 10 days in Orlando and the average UK visitor will spend 2 weeks here, or a “fortnight” as they like to say. I love that term!
So much has been added to the theme parks in the past 19 months! There are also some safety protocols in place. If you have questions about traveling to Orlando from abroad, please feel free to comment below or contact me directly.
For the best price and best advice on your next Orlando vacation, contact me today!
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 12 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN ORLANDO
How to save money on car rentals in Orlando. Driving directions to Walt Disney World from the Orlando International. How to handle tolls in Florida with a rental car.
Orlando International Airport is home to the largest rental car market in the world. Renting a car at the airport is often cheaper than renting from an off-airport location.
Rates are highly competitive compared to other cities, so you definitely want to shop around.
A good price for a standard car is about $30 per day but you might be able to do even better. Fun Fact: it usually costs less to rent a car than a stroller at Walt Disney World!
Car rental counters are all on one level at Orlando International Airport
Renting a car saves time getting around Walt Disney World.
Disney transportation is a reliable way to get around Disney, but think of it as public transportation: it will get you there, just not as fast as your own car.
Renting a car also allows you to go between hotels, something Disney transport does not offer.
Often guests need to travel between hotels for dining reservations.
Tip! Book your rental car several weeks in advance but check back often, especially 5 weeks prior to your arrival.
Fare wars are common among rental companies at Orlando International but they can actually increase too, like when a convention comes to town or if it's a holiday weekend.
Avoid pre-pay discounts, if rates go down, you won't be able to rebook!
Many of the car rental companies in Orlando offer an automatic billing option for tolls in Florida. It may not be necessary to stop at a booth.
RENTAL CARS AND FLORIDA TOLLS
Most major rental car companies now offer their customers the option of automatically billing tolls to the credit card they used to rent the vehicle.
You can use the SunPass lanes on 417 (my recommended route) and other toll roads in Florida.
Some rental companies offer SunPass rentals, usually free of charge, other charge an additional fee.
GETTING TO DISNEY FROM ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
There are two main routes you can take: Route 417 or I-4. Avoid I-4, the stretch between the airport and the theme parks is always heavily congested. 417 has a few inexpensive tolls.
To take 417, follow signs for the South Exit of the airport. Then, simply stay on 417 to either exit 6 or 3, depending on where your hotel is located.
Signs on 417 will tell you which exit to take based on theme park and/or resort hotel.
Walt Disney World is about 20 minutes from Orlando International.
When going back to the airport, follow signs in Walt Disney World for Osceola Parkway.
Once on the parkway, follow signs to Route 417 towards the airport. If you follow the airport signs in Walt Disney World, most of them will take you on I-4 which you want to avoid.
Costco Wholesale has consistently offered some of the best rental car rates in Orlando.
They contract exclusively with Alamo, Avis, Enterprise and Budget. Costco's rates usually beat special offers found on the rental agency's official website and the travel websites like Expedia.
A Costco membership starts at $55 but you don't need to be a member to view rates.
If you're not a member, check to see how much you'd save, the savings might actually pay for your membership.
BJ's Wholesale Club is also a good place to check for rental car discounts, though we have found that Costco rates are usually better. A BJ's membership is $50 per year.
BOOKing DIRECT FROM THE RENTAL CAR COMPANIES
This option will almost always cost more than if you book through a third-party unless you have credit card points or other perks to use, this could be a good option.
Alamo Rent A Car is the official rental car agency for Disney with two offices located right on Disney World property.
Offices are located at the Walt Disney World Car Care Center near Disney's Polynesian Village Resort.
Alamo Rent A Car has an Office on Disney World Property
Another office is located at the Walt Disney World Dolphin, near Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts and Epcot.
Alamo operates free shuttles that service the Walt Disney World hotels. If you need to be picked up, or if you’re dropping your car off, you can get a ride!
Check Alamo rates through Costco, they are usually very good.
Alamo has recently reduced the number of online offer codes, opting to post discounts on its Alamo Insiders Club website. Membership to Alamo Insiders Club is free.
Alamo shuttle at Walt Disney World
A great feature that Alamo offers is pre-arrival check in. You can complete all the rental car paperwork online, in advance.
All you need to do at the airport is walk over to the garage, choose a vehicle, then stop drive through window to check out.
Super fast and convenient - plus it's nice to be able to choose your own car. Avis offers a similar program.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car is located inside the Orlando International Airport and have a reputation for renting new, high-quality vehicles.
The checkout process is painfully slow compared to the other rental agencies but they offer some of the best customer service in the rental car market.
Someone is going to help you locate your vehicle and go over all its features with you.
Sure it's great service, but not ideal if you just want to get your car and hit the road.
Budget Rent A Car is located at Orlando International Airport with an additional office at the DoubleTree Hotel - Walt Disney World, 2305 Hotel Plaza Blvd, Orlando, FL (just outside of Disney Springs).
Cars tend to be slightly older with higher miles and have a reputation for having poor customer service.
E-Z Car Rental is a smaller company but offers competitive rates.
They are located on airport property - no shuttle bus is required. They are pretty good about offering upgrades at a discounted rate.
Just ask at time of check in. The issue with E-Z is that it's a slow process to rent a car once you arrive at the airport.
First you need to check in at the desk inside the airport. They will spend a lot of time typing on the computer while you stand there and wait.
Then, you walk outside to the garage and stop and another desk for your keys. If they are busy, this can take a long time.
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
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What it’s Like to Fly to/from Orlando International Airport Today
What is it like to fly to/from Orlando International Airport these days? It’s terrific! Yes, i’m actually saying air travel is great. I don’t think I’ve ever said that before. Imagine that the airport exists only for you. It’s truly the best experience I’ve ever had flying.
Here’s a quick photo story from my recent journey on a flight from Orlando International to New Jersey.
Orlando International Airport Security check
On a typical July day here in Orlando, you could expect to see crowds of people and strollers in line waiting for the security screening. Lines average 30-45 minutes. Today, there was no wait. The entire process took less than 5 minutes.
Jetblue terminal at Orlando International Airport
Once again, I just want to reiterate that this is July…in Orlando International Airport! We had the place to ourselves. That’s some carpet, isn’t it? Only a few of the restaurants were opened, Burger King, McDonalds and Starbucks. They were minimally staffed so there were short lines.
Plenty of seating at the Jetblue terminal - Orlando International Airport
The terminal was quiet and relaxing. You could actually hear the music playing. At the gate there was plenty of seating. The entire boarding process took less than 1o minutes we left the gate ahead of schedule. It felt more like a VIP/corporate airport than Orlando International. By the way, did you know there are real fossils imprinted in the floor tile all over the airport? I didn’t either, but a Jetblue employee pointed that out to me. I’m sure it would be cost-prohibitive to do that today.
Onboard one of Jetblue’s newest planes. The blue lighting is a nice touch.
There were only 10 other people on the plane, all distanced appropriately. Not quite 6ft apart, but we were free to move and find an empty row if we wanted once we got in the air. Some passengers took the entire row to lay down. There was all the overhead luggage space you could possibly imagine. Masks are required for the entire flight except for eating. Everyone followed the rules. Jetblue made a point of telling us the air is NOT recirculated on the plane. They have fresh air intakes and they filter the air. Snacks come in a prepackaged bag with a bottle of water.
Deplaning was a breeze. We were off the plane in less than 5 minutes. That’s always the worst part for me, I can’t wait to get off once we land.
If you have any questions about flying to/from Orlando International, use the comments section below. For current Walt Disney World offers, visit the offers page.
Guide to virtual queues at Disney World