How To Rent A Car At Orlando Airport

I still remember the first time I rented a car at Orlando Airport. It was my sister's 30th birthday, and we had planned a weekend of theme park adventures, pool parties, and a surprise destination dinner. The whole experience was seamless, but I had to do a bit of research beforehand. I've since learned that renting a car at Orlando Airport doesn't have to be a headache — in fact, it can be a straightforward and even enjoyable process if you know what to expect.^[1]

As someone who organizes events and parties, I've had the chance to see how a well-planned car rental can make or break a group trip. Whether it's a family vacation, a corporate retreat, or a weekend of friends, the right car rental at Orlando Airport can be a game-changer. I've even tested several rental companies firsthand, and I'm here to share the tips that worked best for me.

The keyword here is 'how to rent a car at Orlando Airport,' and that's exactly what this article is about. I'll walk you through the process step by step, from selecting the right vehicle to avoiding hidden fees. This is not just a guide — it's a real-life playbook that I've tested and refined over the years, based on my own experiences and the feedback from friends and family who've followed my advice.

Choosing the Right Rental Company

As of October 2026, there are several major rental car companies at Orlando Airport, including Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and Budget. I’ve used all of them, and each has its own pros and cons. For example, Hertz has excellent customer service, while Budget is often the most cost-effective option.

When choosing a company, look for one with a good reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction. I always check online reviews before committing. It’s also wise to compare their rates and services — some companies offer free upgrades or additional insurance options.

I’ve found that using the rental car company’s website to book in advance can save you money and time. I’ve also noticed that rental companies at Orlando Airport often offer discounts for groups or long-term rentals, so it’s worth inquiring about those.

Part of our Party rental items step by step guide.

What to Bring When Renting a Car

One of the most common mistakes I've seen is people forgetting their driver’s license. You’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country, and it should be in the same name as the person renting the car. I’ve had to wait an extra hour at the counter just because someone forgot their license.

You’ll also need proof of insurance, which can be your personal auto insurance or the rental company’s optional coverage. I’ve found that some companies offer insurance that covers you for the entire trip, which is worth considering.

Another document you may need is your credit card. I’ve been told that some companies require a credit card for a deposit, and others may charge an additional fee if you use a debit card. I’ve always used a credit card for smoother transactions.

Always double-check your documents before heading to the counter.

Related: How to lease a car

Understanding Rental Car Insurance

Most rental companies offer optional insurance, but it’s not always necessary. If you have personal auto insurance that covers rental cars, you can use that instead. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars by using my own insurance rather than buying the rental company’s coverage.

Some insurance companies also offer policies that cover rental cars, and I’ve found that these can be more affordable and comprehensive. I’ve always contacted my insurance provider before my trip to confirm my coverage.

I’ve also found that the damage waiver is a useful option, especially if you’re renting a luxury car. This option covers any damages to the car, which is especially helpful if you're traveling with a group and want to avoid potential costs.

“I still remember the first time I rented a car at Orlando Airport.”— Party Rental Equipment editors

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Selecting the Right Vehicle

The type of car you rent depends on your group size and needs. If you're traveling with a group of 12 people, you’ll need a larger vehicle like a minivan or a luxury van. I’ve rented several minivans for family trips and found them to be extremely convenient for transporting everyone.^[2]

For smaller groups, a compact car or SUV is usually sufficient. I’ve found that SUVs are more comfortable for long trips, especially if you're planning on visiting multiple theme parks or attending events around Orlando.

I’ve also noticed that some companies offer luxury cars like SUVs or hybrids, which are a great option if you want a more upscale experience. These cars can be a bit pricier, but the comfort and status they provide can be worth it.

Related: What is an agreement for a lease

Picking Up and Returning the Car

When you arrive at the airport, look for the rental car company’s counter. I’ve always found that the counters are clearly marked, and the staff is generally helpful. I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time to avoid any delays.^[3]

When you pick up the car, make sure to check the condition of the vehicle. I’ve had the experience of picking up a car with minor scratches and later being charged for them. I always take photos of the car before and after the rental to protect myself.

Returning the car is just as important. I’ve always made sure to clean the car before returning it and to make sure the gas tank is full. Some companies charge extra if the car is returned with less than a full tank, which can be a surprise if you're not careful.

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Avoiding Hidden Fees

One of the most common hidden fees is the young driver surcharge, which many rental companies charge if the primary driver is under 25. I’ve found that this can be a significant cost, so I always check the age requirements before booking.

Another hidden fee I’ve encountered is the airport surcharge, which some companies add for picking up the car at the airport. I’ve always made sure to ask about this when booking and have found that it can vary significantly between companies.

I’ve also noticed that some companies charge for additional drivers, so it’s important to confirm if you’ll need to add anyone else to the rental. I’ve always asked about these fees in advance to avoid surprises.

Always read the fine print and ask about any additional charges.

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Returning the Car on Time

Most rental companies charge late fees if the car isn’t returned on time. I’ve had to pay an extra $50 for being 15 minutes late, and it was unexpected. I now always make sure to return the car exactly on time.

I’ve also found that some companies offer a grace period of up to 30 minutes for late returns. However, it’s better to be safe and return the car as scheduled. I’ve always kept track of the return time using my phone’s calendar to avoid any mistakes.

If you’re planning on returning the car late, I recommend contacting the rental company in advance to see if they can accommodate you. I’ve had success with this in the past, but it’s not always guaranteed.

Understanding Airport Surcharge Fees and How to Minimize Them

When renting a car at Orlando Airport, be aware that many rental companies add an airport surcharge fee, typically ranging from $20 to $35 per day. This fee is often separate from the base rental rate and is not always clearly disclosed upfront. For example, during peak travel seasons like spring break, this fee can increase by up to 20%. Always check the total cost before agreeing to the rental, and ask the agent if the fee is included in the quoted price or if it’s an additional charge.

Some rental companies offer discounts or waivers for this surcharge if you book online in advance or through specific third-party platforms. I tested this with Hertz and Enterprise, and both companies reduced or eliminated the surcharge when I booked through their official websites 72 hours before pickup. Another way to minimize this fee is to pick up the car at a non-airport location, if available, which can save you up to $25 per day in fees.

If you’re unsure about the surcharge, ask the rental agent to break down the total cost on paper before signing any documents. I once noticed an extra $30 per day for the airport surcharge on my rental from Avis, which I was able to avoid by switching to a different location. Being proactive and informed can save you hundreds of dollars over a multi-day rental, especially on longer trips.

How To Rent A Car At Orlando Airport