Quick Summary:
- Follow Ground Transportation signs to lifts, then the covered walkway.
- Allow 10 to 20 minutes from arrivals, longer at peak times.
- Use lifts instead of escalators, and keep right on moving walkways.
- Collect bags first, then head to Level 1 for Rental Cars.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is designed to be workable with a pram, pushchair, or wheelchair, but the route to the rental car centre can feel long after a flight. The good news is that you do not need a shuttle for on-airport car hire, you can reach the rental car counters in the main terminal buildings using lifts and a covered connection.
This guide walks you step-by-step from arrivals through to the rental car centre, with practical timings, where lifts are, and how to avoid common bottlenecks when you have mobility needs or lots of luggage.
Before you start: know which terminal side you are on
MCO has two main terminal sides, Terminal A and Terminal B, connected within the main terminal. Most passengers arrive at a gate in an Airside (1 to 4), then take an airport tram down to the main terminal for baggage reclaim and exits. The rental car counters are in the main terminal, so once you are back in the main building, you are on the right track.
If you are arranging car hire at MCO through Hola Car Rentals, you will typically be heading to the on-airport rental car centre rather than an off-site shuttle. You can compare options on Orlando MCO car rental and also review the dedicated airport and Disney area overview on car hire airport and Disney Orlando MCO.
Step-by-step route from arrivals to the rental car centre
Step 1: Exit the plane and take the airport tram to the main terminal. After landing, follow signs for the tram and Main Terminal. This first stage is fully accessible, with level boarding and designated spaces on the tram. If you are travelling with a pram, keep it folded only if you need to manage tight crowds, otherwise it is usually fine as-is.
Typical time: 5 to 10 minutes from gate area to main terminal, depending on distance and tram wait.
Step 2: Follow signs to Baggage Claim. Once you arrive at the main terminal level from the tram, you will see signs for Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation. Use lifts if you are changing levels. If you are on a wheelchair or pushing a pram, the lift is the simplest option even if escalators look quicker.
Tip: If you are travelling with a family group, agree a meeting point by the lift doors, it is easy to split up in the flow.
Step 3: Collect luggage first, then head towards Ground Transportation. Baggage reclaim can be busy, and the car hire route is easier once you have everything with you. If you need a baggage trolley, grab one before you collect the last bag so you are not doubling back through the crowd.
Typical time: Highly variable. Add 15 to 40 minutes depending on your flight, immigration, and bags.
Step 4: From Baggage Claim, go to Level 1 for Rental Cars. In MCO’s main terminal, the rental car counters are accessed from the Ground Transportation level. Follow the overhead signs for “Rental Cars”. You are aiming for the lift or ramp access down to Level 1 (Ground Transportation). Lifts are available throughout, and the signage is generally clear.
Walk and lift time: 3 to 8 minutes from the edge of baggage reclaim to the right lift, longer if you are manoeuvring a trolley and pram together.
Step 5: Take the accessible walkway to the rental car centre. Once on Level 1, continue following “Rental Cars”. You will use a wide, covered walkway with moving walkways in places. This is the part that feels longest, but it is step-free and designed for wheeled luggage, prams, and wheelchairs. Keep to the right on moving walkways so faster walkers can pass.
Typical time: 6 to 12 minutes, depending on walking speed and crowding.
Step 6: Choose a counter, then head to the lifts for the garage level. The rental car centre has a bank of counters. If you already know your provider, head straight there. After paperwork, you will go to the lift down or up (depending on area) into the parking structure where the vehicles are located. Lifts here are large enough for most wheelchairs and prams, but allow an extra minute because they can be busy after multiple flight arrivals.
Tip: If you need extra space for family gear, it can help to check vehicle categories ahead of time, for example on minivan rental Disney Orlando MCO or the UK-facing equivalent on minivan hire Disney Orlando MCO, so you are not trying to repack bags in a tight bay.
Lift and accessibility tips that save time
Prioritise lifts early. At MCO, escalators can look like the fastest route but they create delays if you have to search for the lift afterwards. If you are on wheels, commit to lifts from the start and you will keep a steady pace.
Manage moving walkways carefully. Most wheelchairs and prams handle moving walkways fine, but keep wheels straight, enter slowly, and avoid sudden stops. If it feels uncomfortable, you can usually walk on the static floor beside them.
Allow for pinch points near doorways. The busiest parts tend to be where the walkway narrows near automatic doors and where people stop to read signs. Keep valuables secure, and if you need to reorganise bags, pull to the side rather than stopping in the centre.
How long does it take in real life?
For most travellers, the time from reaching the main terminal to arriving at the car hire counters is about 10 to 20 minutes, plus whatever time you spend at baggage reclaim. With a wheelchair, a pram, or reduced mobility, it is sensible to budget 15 to 30 minutes for the same route, especially during peak arrival banks.
If you are travelling with children, add a buffer for toilet stops. The rental car centre has facilities, but it is easier to use the toilets near baggage reclaim before starting the longer walk.
Pram and wheelchair practicalities at the rental car centre
If you have a pram: Keep it set up until you reach the counter area, then decide whether to fold it while you do paperwork, especially if you are in a queue. When you get to the vehicle bays, folding it can make loading safer and faster.
If you use a wheelchair: Plan for the transfer space you need at the vehicle. The garage bays can be noisy and busy, so take your time and ask staff to pause traffic if you are repositioning. If you need hand controls or specific adaptations, confirm those arrangements in advance with your rental provider, as availability and installation timing can vary.
Small planning choices that make the route easier
Keep essentials in an accessible bag. Have passports, driving licence, payment card, and booking details ready before you join any queue. If you are handling a pram or wheelchair, stopping to search through multiple bags is frustrating.
Pick a vehicle that reduces loading effort. If lifting into a high boot is difficult, a minivan can be easier for sliding bags in at a lower height. Equally, if you prefer a simpler step-in height, consider what works for your mobility rather than only price.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a shuttle to get to the rental car centre at Orlando Airport?
A: No, the on-airport rental car centre is connected to the main terminal by a covered, step-free route using lifts and walkways.
Q: How long should I allow from arrivals to the car hire counters with a wheelchair or pram?
A: Budget 15 to 30 minutes from the main terminal area, plus baggage reclaim time, as lifts and walkways can be busy.
Q: Are there lifts the whole way, or will I need to use escalators?
A: Lifts are available throughout the route, including down to Ground Transportation and within the rental car centre garage areas.
Q: Is the route suitable for a mobility scooter or larger wheelchair?
A: The walkways and lifts are designed for accessibility, but allow extra time at busy periods and take the static path if moving walkways feel tight.
Q: What is the easiest way to manage luggage while pushing a pram?
A: Use a baggage trolley, keep one small essentials bag accessible, and stop only in wider areas to reorganise items safely.
