CAR HIRE GUIDE

Getting Around Orlando

Whether you prefer the freedom of your own rental car or the convenience of Uber and Lyft, we've got you covered. Compare car hire companies and learn about alternatives like Uber and Lyft.

Do You Need a Rental Car?

The answer depends on where you're staying and what you plan to do. Here's a quick guide to help you decide.

Rent a Car If...

  • Staying at a villa or off-site hotel
  • Visiting multiple theme parks (Disney, Universal, SeaWorld)
  • Want to explore beaches, outlets, or restaurants
  • Travelling with young children (car seats are easier)
  • Want flexibility to come and go as you please
  • Planning to do a grocery shop (essential for villas)

Consider Uber/Lyft If...

  • Staying on-site at Disney (free buses, monorail, boats)
  • Only visiting Disney parks (don't need to leave the resort)
  • Don't want to drive on the right side of the road
  • Staying at a Universal hotel (walking distance to parks)
  • Want to avoid parking fees at theme parks
  • Prefer to relax after a long day without driving

Theme Park Parking Costs ()

  • Disney World: $35/day standard, $50-60/day preferred (FREE for Disney resort guests)
  • Universal Orlando: $35/day standard, $50-60/day prime (FREE after 6pm)
  • SeaWorld: $30-35/day standard, $45-50/day preferred

Parking Cost Calculator

Enter how many days you'll be parking at each park to calculate your total parking costs.

$35/day (FREE if staying on-site)

$35/day (FREE after 6pm)

$35/day

Disney: $0
Universal: $0
SeaWorld: $0

Total Parking Cost

$0

Prices based on standard parking. Preferred/prime parking costs more. Disney resort guests get free theme park parking. Universal parking is free after 6pm.

RENTAL CARS

Car Hire Companies

All major car hire companies operate at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Most UK visitors book through comparison sites to get the best rates and insurance packages.

Compare & Book

We recommend using comparison sites to find the best deals. These sites search across all major providers and often include better insurance packages for UK drivers.

Book Direct with Car Hire Companies

Vehicle Categories

Economy / Compact

Ideal for 2 adults + small luggage

e.g. Nissan Versa, Toyota Corolla

Intermediate

Good for 2-3 adults + luggage

e.g. Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata

Full-Size SUV

POPULAR

Best for families (4-5 + luggage)

e.g. Ford Explorer, Chevy Traverse

Minivan

Max space for large families

e.g. Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Caravan

TAXI APP ALTERNATIVES

Uber & Lyft in Orlando

Both Uber and Lyft operate throughout Orlando and are a great alternative if you don't want to drive. They can work out cheaper than car hire if you're staying on-site at Disney or Universal.

U

Uber

Most popular taxi app

  • Dedicated pickup zones at all theme parks
  • UberXL available for larger groups (6 passengers)
  • Airport pickup at MCO (Level 2 Ground Transportation)
  • Reserve rides in advance for peace of mind
L

Lyft

Great alternative to Uber

  • Often cheaper than Uber (compare both!)
  • Lyft XL for larger groups
  • Same pickup locations as Uber at parks
  • Scheduled rides available

Typical Uber/Lyft Costs ( estimates)

Airport → Disney

$30-45

~25-35 mins

Airport → Universal

$25-40

~20-30 mins

Disney → Universal

$20-35

~15-25 mins

Disney → I-Drive

$15-25

~15-20 mins

Prices vary based on demand (surge pricing), time of day, and exact locations.

Download Both Apps

Compare prices before booking - one is often cheaper than the other!

Car Seats

Florida law requires car seats for children. Bring your own or request one (limited availability).

Park Closing Time

Expect surge pricing and long waits when parks close. Leave 15 mins early or wait 30 mins after.

DRIVING TIPS

Tips for UK Drivers in Florida

Driving in Florida is easier than you might think. Here's what you need to know before you hit the road.

Drive on the Right

Americans drive on the right side of the road. The steering wheel is on the left. It feels strange for 10 minutes, then becomes natural!

Right Turn on Red

You can turn right at a red light (after stopping) unless there's a sign saying "No Turn on Red". Check for traffic first!

4-Way Stops

At junctions with stop signs on all corners, whoever arrives first goes first. If you arrive at the same time, the car on the right goes first.

Use GPS

Essential! Use Google Maps or Waze. Florida roads are well-signposted but a GPS makes navigation stress-free. Download offline maps as a backup.

Toll Roads

Florida has many toll roads. Most rental cars include a SunPass or similar. Check your rental agreement - you may be charged fees for each toll.

Afternoon Storms

Florida has daily afternoon thunderstorms in summer. They're intense but short. Pull over if visibility is poor - they usually pass in 20-30 minutes.

Important: Car Hire Insurance

US rental car companies will try to sell you expensive insurance at the counter. Before you travel:

  • Check your travel insurance - many policies include car hire excess cover
  • Book through UK comparison sites - they often include comprehensive insurance
  • Consider standalone excess insurance - companies like iCarhireinsurance.com or Questor offer cheap annual policies
  • Credit card coverage - some premium cards include rental car insurance (check terms carefully)

Ready to Calculate Your Holiday Cost?

Use our free Package Calculator to estimate the total cost of your Florida holiday, including flights, accommodation, tickets, and car hire.

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