Quick Summary:
- Most major brands operate at MCO, plus several value-focused options.
- Look for counters in Terminals A and B, then collect nearby.
- Off-airport firms exist, but require a shuttle and extra time.
- Compare fuel, tolls, and insurance terms before choosing car hire.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, so it is set up to handle a wide choice of rental providers. If you are wondering which rental car companies are available at Orlando Airport in Orlando, the short, practical answer is that you will find most of the best-known US brands on site, with additional options available via quick shuttles from nearby facilities. The real difference is not only the name on the desk, but also where you collect the car, what is included in the price, and how well the provider’s policies match your plans.
This guide explains the typical rental car company line-up at MCO, where to find the desks, and what to check when you compare car hire offers. It is written to help you choose based on convenience and total cost, rather than headline price alone.
On-airport rental car companies at Orlando Airport (MCO)
MCO hosts a strong selection of on-airport rental companies. While the exact line-up can change, you can generally expect the following well-known brands to be represented at Orlando Airport either directly on site or through an affiliated brand family:
Major “big brand” operators: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Sixt, and Thrifty are commonly seen at large US airports like MCO. These brands tend to cover everything from economy cars for city driving to larger SUVs that suit Florida’s highways and family luggage.
Value-focused options: Brands like Payless and Fox are frequently present at major airports or nearby facilities, usually competing on base price. If you choose a lower headline rate, spend extra time checking fuel rules, deposit levels, and any add-ons at the desk.
Specialty and local providers: Orlando is a major tourist market, so there may be smaller regional firms that serve the airport area. Some have desks in the airport, while others operate a short shuttle ride away.
If you want an easy point of comparison before you travel, it can help to review how different providers structure their inclusions at other airports. For example, you can compare car hire expectations and common extras on Hola Car Rentals airport pages such as Dallas DFW car rental or Washington IAD car rental, which highlight the same kinds of variables that matter at MCO.
Where to find rental car counters at MCO
At Orlando Airport, most on-airport rental car counters are located within the main terminal complex serving Terminals A and B. After you land, follow the signs for “Ground Transportation” or “Rental Cars”. In many cases, you will:
1) Go to the rental counter area to check in, confirm your driver details, and take any pre-paid voucher steps if applicable.
2) Proceed to the pick-up location which is typically in or near the terminal garages or a dedicated rental car facility area connected to the terminals.
The exact route can vary by terminal and provider, so the most reliable approach is to follow airport signage first, then your provider’s specific instructions second. Build in extra time if you are arriving late evening, travelling with children, or expect queues at the desks.
On-airport versus off-airport companies, what changes for travellers
The biggest decision is often not which brand you recognise, but whether you want an on-airport or off-airport collection. Both can be good value, but they suit different priorities.
On-airport car hire advantages: shorter transfers, easier navigation, and simpler returns if you are catching a flight home. This is particularly helpful if you have an early departure, a tight connection, or lots of luggage.
Off-airport car hire advantages: sometimes lower daily rates, sometimes more flexible inventory, and occasionally faster pick-up if airport desks are busy. The trade-off is time, because you must take a shuttle and you may need to plan for waiting.
If convenience matters most, start your comparison with the on-airport operators. If price is your priority, you can still check off-airport offers, but factor in transfer time, fuel to reach the site, and return logistics on departure day.
How to compare car hire at Orlando Airport like a local
Florida driving is generally straightforward, but the details of your rental agreement can make a big difference to total cost and stress levels. When comparing providers at Orlando Airport, focus on these practical points.
Insurance and damage cover, understand what you are buying
US rentals often describe protection in different terms from the UK. The key is to distinguish between protection for damage to the rental car, and protection for liability to others. Common terms include CDW or LDW for damage waivers, plus liability coverage and personal accident coverage.
Before you choose a deal, read what is included versus optional, and check any excess amount and exclusions. Also confirm whether your credit card is required for the deposit, and whether the provider requires the main driver to present the same card used to pay.
To get a feel for how big brands present inclusions and optional items, it can help to compare across similar airport pages. For instance, Enterprise car hire in Denver illustrates the kinds of cover and add-on choices that often appear across the same brand’s network.
Fuel policy, full-to-full is usually simplest
Fuel rules can change the cost more than you expect. Full-to-full, where you collect with a full tank and return full, is typically the easiest to manage. Pre-purchase or “return empty” options can work if you will drive long distances, but they are less predictable for a theme-park-focused itinerary where you may not use a full tank.
When you compare car hire prices, check whether fuel is charged at local pump prices or a premium rate, and whether there is a refuelling service fee.
Tolls in Orlando, plan your approach before you drive
Central Florida roads include toll routes, and many visitors end up using them to save time. Rental companies may offer toll programmes that charge a daily fee plus the tolls, or they may allow you to pay tolls as you go. Terms vary, so you should look for:
Whether toll transponders are pre-installed and how the account is billed.
Any administrative fees if tolls are incurred without a programme.
Your likely routes, for example airport to International Drive, Universal, Disney, or the Space Coast.
If you are trying to keep costs predictable, choose a toll approach that matches your itinerary rather than defaulting to the most convenient option at the desk.
Vehicle type, Orlando’s roads suit many choices
An economy car is often enough for two people with light luggage. Families and groups may prefer a midsize SUV or a minivan, especially if you will carry prams, multiple suitcases, or shopping. Orlando’s car parks are generally designed for larger vehicles, but you still want to consider hotel parking fees and ease of loading.
If you are planning day trips to beaches or natural parks, think about comfort for longer drives and whether you want extra boot space for coolers and bags.
Driver requirements and age rules
At MCO, most companies require:
A valid driving licence for every driver, with the main driver listed on the rental agreement.
A passport for identification if you are travelling internationally.
A credit card in the main driver’s name for the deposit, in most cases.
Age policies vary. Younger drivers may face surcharges or limited vehicle categories. If you will share driving, add additional drivers in advance where possible and confirm the cost.
Why brand families matter at the airport
Some rental brands operate as part of a larger group. That matters because it can affect where you collect, how loyalty schemes work, and what vehicle categories are available. For example, Alamo and National are related, as are Enterprise and some affiliated brands. Budget and Avis are related, and Thrifty and Dollar are linked in many markets.
Even if two brands share a parent company, the counter experience and pricing can differ. One brand might be positioned for quicker pick-up and business travel, while another competes more on price. If you are comparing offers, focus on the specific terms of the deal rather than assuming all sister brands are identical.
To see how a value-focused brand can differ in presentation and inclusions, you can review a comparable airport example like Budget car hire in Austin. The same kind of checks apply when you look at Budget in Orlando.
Timing tips, queues, flights, and return windows
MCO can be busy, especially during school holidays and weekend peaks. Your arrival time can affect how quickly you get on the road. If you land in the afternoon, expect more demand and potentially longer lines at the desks.
For returns, confirm your drop-off time window and how fuel is checked. Some providers treat late returns strictly, charging an extra day after a grace period, while others are more flexible. If you have a morning flight, aim to return earlier than you think you need, because traffic on approach roads can be unpredictable.
Car hire alternatives if you are staying on-site at theme parks
Some visitors skip car hire entirely if they are staying at a resort with shuttles and do not plan to explore beyond the main attractions. However, Orlando’s wider area is spread out, and taxis and rideshares can add up fast with multiple trips a day.
A rental car can be especially useful if you plan to visit multiple parks, shop at outlet centres, take day trips to Kennedy Space Center, Tampa, or the Gulf Coast, or if you prefer the flexibility of leaving when you want.
If you are weighing whether to rent, estimate your likely number of journeys and compare that cost to a simple car hire plan including parking and tolls. That comparison often clarifies the best option for your trip.
How Hola Car Rentals can help you compare options
Hola Car Rentals helps travellers compare car hire options across popular destinations. While this article focuses on Orlando Airport, the same approach to evaluating inclusions applies across airports and providers. Looking at other airport comparisons can help you recognise typical add-ons and policies, such as those you might see when reviewing Thrifty car hire in Las Vegas or similar airport locations.
When you compare, prioritise total cost, transparent insurance terms, fuel rules, and a realistic plan for tolls. Those are the items most likely to change what you actually pay at the end of your rental.
FAQ
Which rental car companies are available at Orlando Airport in Orlando? Orlando Airport typically offers major brands such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Sixt, and Thrifty, plus other operators that may vary by season.
Are the rental car companies located inside the terminal at MCO? Many rental counters are in the main terminal areas serving Terminals A and B, with vehicle collection in nearby garages or designated pick-up areas connected to the terminal.
Can I use an off-airport rental company from Orlando Airport? Yes. Off-airport providers often serve MCO via shuttle, which can be good value, but you should allow extra time for transfers and returns.
What should I check first when comparing car hire at MCO? Start with what insurance and liability cover is included, the fuel policy, deposit requirements, and how tolls are handled, as these items affect total cost most.
Do I need a credit card to hire a car at Orlando Airport? Most companies require a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit, though exact payment rules can vary by provider and rental type.
