How to find a cheap car hire deal in Orlando International (MCO)
In search of a cheap Orlando International rental car? With prices averaging R 1,845 a day, big savings are just around the corner. Whether you're after a zippy little number, a spacious family car, or something else entirely, we compare all the top deals to land you a bargain.
R 99 is the cheapest daily price offered for a rental at Orlando International.
Planning to spend longer in Orlando? Grab a weekly rental from R 689 and squeeze in some detours or road trips.
If you want to get the best price, book your MCO car hire around two weeks in advance.
At Orlando International, you can pick up a ride from leading rental brands such as Sonic, Dollar and Budget.
Always check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Orlando International car hire policy, whether you book with Sonic or any other supplier. Some may charge separately for it instead of including it in the base rental.
Booking a one-way car hire can be your secret weapon for finding a deal. Simply check 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in MCO. Providers often need to move vehicles between branches, which means you can score some fantastic one-way prices.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Orlando International with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. No surprise fuel add-ons when you hand back the keys either.
Pack more into your journey by picking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can go as far as you want without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average R 356 a day.
Not too far behind, this provider offers daily rates of around R 1,015.
The third option also makes the list of budget-friendly suppliers. Cruise away in one of their rentals for roughly R 1,082 a day.
The Compact rental category is a reliable choice if you're not quite sure which wheels are right for you. It's also the vehicle type that's booked more than any other at MCO.
Compare car hire types from Orlando International (MCO)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Orlando International rental car makes getting around affordable and hassle-free. These nimble, fuel-efficient rides are great for city driving and short trips.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, fuel efficiency and comfort. Easy to handle in traffic and with enough space for longer drives, they're well-suited to most travel needs.
Large: Offering a more comfortable driving experience and extra tech features, this MCO car hire option includes full-size cars. With larger back seats and plenty of storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: When wanderlust strikes, an SUV is ready to roll. It's your ultimate road trip companion, ready for highways, backroads, and anything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Orlando International that makes light work of heavy loads. With options like commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to transport more, whether that's equipment, luggage or whoever's along for the ride.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't mandatory, but is something to think about. If your ride is damaged, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a hefty excess fee. Different MCO car hire providers have different insurance policies and cover levels, so check the terms before booking.
From navigation systems to reverse cameras, the right extras can seriously upgrade your ride. Consider which features will help you make the most of your trip when you rent a car in Orlando International.
Good to know
Typically, you have to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle in the United States. Being younger doesn't always disqualify you — just expect some extra rules or charges. Check the suppliers' terms and conditions before you book.
Add a car seat to your MCO car rental booking if you're bringing the kids. Rules change from one location to another, but using a child seat suited to their age, size and weight is always the safest way to travel.
You'll need to hand over a few things when picking up your rental car: a valid driver's licence, extra photo ID, and a credit card to cover the deposit amount. Debit cards aren't commonly accepted. Any additional requirements will be listed in your booking.
Take a few moments to get used to your rental. Adjust your seat and mirrors, learn where everything is, and get comfortable with its handling before you set off. And remember to stay on the right side of the road in the United States.
Make sure you follow the local speed limits. In general that's around 40kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways, unless signs say otherwise.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% applies in the United States. The only sure way to stay legal to drive is to skip the drinks.
You'll be using the United States dollar (USD) for everything you buy here. You may find it useful to carry a mix of cards and cash so you always have a backup option.
Drive smarter from the start
Once you've collected the keys to your MCO car hire, it's time to write your own itinerary. Central Orlando is about 19 kilometres northwest and a drive of around 25 minutes if that's where your trip starts.
Aim to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a faster run. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
You can also grab a car hire in Orlando. If you don't need a vehicle as soon as you land, hold off until you're in the city and save on rental costs.
For even more variety, browse the car hire options at Orlando Sanford. This airport also serves Orlando.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Orlando International (MCO)
Before you move on, sightsee around Orlando first. Well-known attractions like Hogwarts and Universal's Islands of Adventure set the tone for your whole journey.
Navigate your way to Palm Bay. Around 80 kilometres southeast of MCO, you'll find must-see sights like Turkey Creek Sanctuary and Sakura Dreams Butterfly and Wildlife Habitat.
Or pick up your Orlando International car hire and head for Lakeland. Around 72 kilometres southwest of the airport, Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Centre and Annie Pfeiffer Chapel,Lakeland.FL are popular attractions that make the extra drive worth it.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to St. Petersburg, around 153 kilometres southwest of MCO. Make your first stop Chihuly Collection, then follow it up with St. Petersburg Pier.
