When visiting Orlando, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to activities. From the famous theme parks of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios to the breathtaking natural scenery perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. However, if you’re wondering whether to rent a car or not during your stay, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll delve into the advantages and disadvantages of renting a car in Orlando, and provide you with helpful tips for making the most of your trip. And if you’re specifically interested in the U-haul car dolly rental price, check out our other article on that subject.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Should I Rent A Car In Orlando?
Yes, you should rent a car in Orlando. Orlando is a sprawling city with many attractions that are spread out, and a rental car will give you the flexibility to get around at your own pace. Public transportation in Orlando is limited, and many popular attractions are not easily accessible by bus or train. Having a car will also allow you to make day trips to nearby areas, such as the Kennedy Space Center or the beaches on the east coast of Florida.
However, if you’re only planning on visiting a few attractions in the city center and don’t plan on venturing outside of the city, you may not need a rental car. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Orlando, and there are also shuttle services that can take you to and from the airport.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Orlando will give you the most flexibility and allow you to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace, but it’s not necessary if you’re only staying in the city center.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Orlando
There are several benefits to renting a car in Orlando. First and foremost, it provides you with the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Many of the popular attractions in Orlando, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, are located outside of the city center and can be difficult to reach without a car. With a rental car, you won’t have to worry about transportation schedules or finding a ride to these attractions.
Renting a car also allows you to explore other areas of Orlando, such as the scenic Winter Park area or the charming town of Celebration. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, a rental car can be more comfortable and convenient than public transportation.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Orlando provides flexibility, allows you to explore outside the city, and can be more comfortable for groups and those with a lot of luggage.
The Cons Of Renting A Car In Orlando
While there are benefits to renting a car in Orlando, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Orlando is a popular tourist destination, and rental car rates can be high, especially during peak season. Additionally, parking can be expensive at some attractions, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
Orlando is also known for its traffic congestion, especially during rush hour. If you’re not used to driving in heavy traffic, it can be stressful and time-consuming. Additionally, parking can be a challenge in the city center, especially in areas like International Drive.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Orlando can be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging, especially in the city center.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Orlando Airport?
Yes, renting a car at Orlando International Airport is a convenient option, as many of the major car rental companies have locations at the airport. If you’re flying into Orlando, renting a car at the airport will allow you to start your trip right away without having to worry about transportation to your hotel.
However, rental car rates at the airport can be higher than at off-airport locations, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal.
Additionally, if you’re not comfortable driving in a new city, you may want to consider taking a shuttle or taxi to your hotel and renting a car from a location closer to your accommodation. This will give you time to get familiar with the area before hitting the road.
Bottom line: Renting a car at Orlando International Airport is convenient, but rates can be higher. Consider your comfort level with driving in a new city before renting at the airport.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car In Orlando
If you’re planning to rent a car in Orlando, finding the cheapest deal is probably on your mind. Here are some tips to help you save money on your car rental:
- Compare prices: Before booking a rental car, compare prices from different rental companies. Websites like Kayak, Expedia, and Rentalcars.com allow you to compare rates from multiple companies at once.
- Book in advance: Booking your rental car in advance can often save you money, as rates can be higher if you wait until the last minute.
- Consider off-airport locations: Renting a car from the airport can come with additional fees, so consider renting from an off-airport location. This can often be more cost-effective, especially if you’re staying in a hotel near the attraction you want to visit.
- Look for discounts: Check for discount codes online, which can save you a percentage off the rental price. You can also check for discounts through organizations you’re a member of, such as AAA or AARP.
- Avoid add-ons: Rental companies may try to upsell you on additional features like GPS or insurance. Consider whether you really need these extras before agreeing to them.
Bottom line: To find the cheapest way to rent a car in Orlando, compare prices, book in advance, consider off-airport locations, look for discounts, and avoid add-ons that you don’t really need.
Rent A Car In Orlando
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Orlando:
- Alamo: starts at $36 per day
- Avis: starts at $41 per day
- Budget: starts at $37 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $38 per day
- Hertz: starts at $42 per day
- National: starts at $40 per day
- Dollar: starts at $36 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $38 per day
Bottom line: To find the best deal on renting a car in Orlando, compare prices from different rental companies, book in advance, and consider renting from a location outside of the airport or popular tourist areas. Additionally, look for discount codes and avoid add-ons that you don’t really need. When filling up the gas tank, be aware of the varying gas prices depending on the location and try to find the cheapest option.
Tips For Driving In Orlando
If you’re planning to rent a car and drive in Orlando, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Watch for pedestrians: Orlando is a busy city with lots of foot traffic, especially around tourist areas like theme parks and shopping districts. Be aware of crosswalks and pedestrians to avoid accidents.
- Use your GPS: Orlando can be a confusing city to navigate, so make sure to use your GPS or map app to help you get around.
- Be prepared for tolls: Many highways in Orlando have tolls, so make sure to have cash or a transponder handy to avoid delays.
- Avoid rush hour: Like any busy city, Orlando can experience heavy traffic during rush hour. Try to avoid driving during peak traffic times if possible.
- Observe parking regulations: Pay attention to parking regulations, especially in popular tourist areas, to avoid getting ticketed or towed.
Bottom line: If you’re driving in Orlando, watch for pedestrians, use your GPS, be prepared for tolls, avoid rush hour if possible, and follow parking regulations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, renting a car can be a convenient and efficient way to explore Orlando. To get the best deal on a rental car, it’s important to compare prices, book in advance, avoid renting at the airport, use discount codes, and avoid unnecessary add-ons. When driving in Orlando, it’s important to be aware of local driving conditions such as hills, traffic congestion, and parking regulations. By following these tips and being mindful of local driving conditions, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience driving in these cities.