You know how traveling isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, right?

When you’ve got to deal with so many different variables like the cost, whether the flights will be non-stop or not, and even just trying to get to the airport in the first place, you can get overwhelmed quickly. If you’re traveling to Disney World, chances are that you’re going to go through the Orlando International Airport (MCO) and it can definitely be a hassle to go through, but don’t worry! We’ve got your back with some tips that’ll help you navigate MCO like a pro!

As we were saying, since teleportation isn’t a thing yet, you’re most likely going to have to face the sometimes daunting task of trying to navigate the Orlando International Airport (MCO) on your way to Disney World. Don’t worry though. I’ve got your back. Let’s go over some tips and tricks to help you breeze right through the airport.

The Airport Is Huge

Listen, MCO is HUGE and in some ways, it feels like a maze, which might have you feeling lost and confused (especially for people who are used to flying in and out of a smaller airport back home).

It’s not just one floor or one terminal. Take this for example you’ll need to take a monorail from your gate AND change floors to get to Mears Connect, a rideshare service, or just to grab your bags.

If you’re feeling lost, take a beat, follow the signs you see around the airport, or ask an employee for help if you’re really lost. Don’t worry, they can help you get where you’re going! Also, have a look at this map for future reference:

As you can see, there are three levels. Here are some areas to note: Ground transport is on Level 1. Baggage Claim is on Level 2, and Check-In, the Food Court, and the Gates are on Level 3. Also, Terminals A & B are on opposite sides of the same building.

You may also want to download the Orlando MCO Airport App beforehand, which can come in handy when you’re at the airport for tips on navigation.

Getting To and Fro

So you made it to the airport. You navigated the maze and got your luggage. Now how are you getting out and to Disney World? Well, you’ve basically got three options: Mears Connect, Lynx Bus (public bus), and Rideshare. (Of course, you also have the option to rent a car, but let’s forget that option for this post.)

Option 1 – Mears Connect

Mears Connect is a good option for going in between Disney World and the airport if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. Tickets for kids are $13 each way, and adults can grab tickets for $16 each way. However, if you’re in a rush to get to either location, you’ll want to beware. 

Mears Connect makes a LOT of different stops at hotels around Disney World, so it could be over an hour until you actually get off the bus at yours, and then you’ve still got to take free Disney transportation to the park you’re trying to get to.

We’ve also heard some reviews that have complained of the buses being late or not showing at all, although it does seem more rare. It is something to keep in mind when you’re booking, however!

I Encountered 5 Annoying Problems Trying To Get from the Orlando Airport to Disney World and Now You Can Learn from My Mistakes

Option 2 – Lynx Bus

Lynx, the public bus system in Orlando, recently added a route that runs from Disney Springs to Orlando Airport without you needing to transfer to a different bus. The new route is called Link311, and it runs 7 days a week, every 30 minutes between 5AM and 11PM. The fare is $2 for the ride.

The actual bus trip takes about an hour in each direction — and that’s about the same time you could expect on Mears Connect shuttles from the airport. But the trip is not “easy” and may not work for everyone. Check out our post on our experience with taking the Lynx bus from the airport.

2 Reasons the Bus From the Orlando Airport to Disney World Isn’t the Hack That Everyone Thinks It Is

Option 3 – Rideshare

Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft can be very convenient. You just have to really watch out for SURGE PRICING. For example, if you’re grabbing rideshare around a busy time, such as lunch or rush hour, you’ll notice prices SKYROCKET for rideshares.

Unfortunately, there’s really no way around this one, other than to ensure you’re booking your rideshare earlier or later than these busy times, even if it means you’ll need to sit at the airport for an additional hour or so (always better to be early rather than late). While you’re home before your vacation begins, you can also check what times the prices around Orlando shoot up to prepare in advance!

10 Disney World Rideshare Tips We Learned the Hard Way

Those are just a couple of tips that will hopefully make your experience a bit smoother and there’s more where that came from! We’re always here to help you plan for your next Disney World trip.

Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest travel news to help you plan!

We Experienced a MAJOR Problem With a New Baggage Process at the Orlando Airport

What are your favorite tips and tricks to make traveling easier? Tell us in the comments!