Do's and Don'ts for Travelling by Air to Orlando, Florida

Air travel to Orlando is one of the most frequent airline stops in the United States. Each year millions of visitors, both domestic and international, arrive in Orlando, Florida by airplane.

Don't Assume the Package is the Best Deal

Travelers to Orlando should always shop around before purchasing airfare and accommodations. Many times, package deals are available, and they may seem like the easiest way to book a Florida vacation. Sometimes, they are, when savings for an airline and accommodations package is significant. Packages with airfare to Orlando included should always be checked, however, to see how it matches up with current airline rates. Once locked into a package deal with airfare, it can be difficult to cancel, and there may be financial penalties.

Do Comparison Shop for Airline Flights

The internet has made it possible for any traveler to Orlando to become their own travel agent for airfare. Orlando is one of the frequently traveled airlines destinations and there are often many different airlines to choose from for flights. Internet sites such as www.bookingbuddy.com are free and this site offers a number of links to internet flight comparison sites such as expedia.com, hotwire.com, and travelocity.com. All of these websites will provide information on flights to Orlando and some can even alert you to days when the price for a flight is lower. It pays to do a little research for flights before you book a flight to Orlando. Tuesdays are one of the cheapest days to fly to Orlando.

Don't Try to Save $20 on Flights with 4 Hour Layovers

The price savings may seem great when a flight is priced lower than the other flights listed, but buyer beware for the $20 that is saved by choosing a flight that may require extra time waiting for a connecting flight. Always do a price comparison for flights by following through to the final price. Connecting flights will have additional airport fees, related to the rates at the airport the flights connect at. The rates can vary, and the more connections on a flight to Orlando, the more additional airport fees attached to the final price. Most airline websites show an initial price for Orlando flights, but be sure to see what the additional airport fees are before purchasing. Pay attention to the layover times for flights. A flight that costs $15 more may be worth avoiding a long layover at an airport, waiting for a connecting flight.

Do look for Direct Flights

According to the Sierra Club, direct flights can also save travelers to Orlando by leaving less of a carbon footprint. Direct flights are the ideal way to travel by air to Orlando, and when offered, they are often worth the extra money. Many airlines offer direct flights to Orlando at reasonable rates. AIrlines such as Jet Blue and Southwest have several flights from the northeast to Orlando. Direct flights to Orlando can also save travelers the hassle of potential delays in connecting flight connections.

Don't Pack Everything on the Suitcase

Orlando weather can be very different from the weather at the airport of departure, and wise travelers to Orlando tend to plan ahead. One way to avoid being stuck in a winter coat and sweater when arriving in Orlando, is to use the layering technique. Visitors to Florida will be comfortable in lighter clothing the majority of the year, and by layering clothes before you go, layers of heavier clothing can be removed when arriving in Orlando. If everything is packed in the suitcase, there is always the risk that luggage will be delayed.

Do Bring a Carry On Bag with Essential Items

A carry on bag with some basic essentials for the flight to Orlando is a great idea. Flights to Orlando can seem long, especially for children, and a carry on bag with some snacks and things to do on the flight is recommended. Pack books, crossword or puzzle books, crayons, paper, small games, or other small items for entertainment on the flight to Orlando. Keep all important paperwork for your trip to Orlando on hand, or in a carry on, and not in the checked luggage.

Don't Wait to Book Transportation from the Airport

Orlando offers a number of car rental options right at the Orlando International Airport, as well as others which provide direct shuttles from the airport. The best rates for rental cars will not be when you arrive at the rental car counter at the Orlando International Airport. Rental cars and limousine services and transportation should be booked before your fly to Orlando for the best rates. Most rental car companies have online websites, and many offer coupon codes and discounts for pre-booked vehicles.

Do Look for the Best Value on Transportation from the Airport

Disney's Magical Express service offers guests staying at one of the Disney World Resorts, free transportation from the Orlando International Airport for both arrival and departure. In addition, free luggage pick up is available with this service. Visitors to Orlando, who are planning to stay onsite at Disney World should consider this option if they do not plan on renting a car. If planning to rent a car, it makes the most sense to rent one upon arrival to Orlando. Visitors who do not plan on using a rental car may opt for shuttle service, available for less than rental car prices.

Don't Assume Orlando Weather is Perfect

Orlando is known for the wonderful sunshine and tropical weather. Orlando weather, however, can be prone to occasional weather changes, especially during hurricane season. High winds, heavy rains and lightning, can delay arrivals and departures at the Orlando International Airport at times. Travelers by air to Orlando should check the weather forecast and flight conditions ahead of time to be prepared for delays.

Do Prepare for Potential Delays and Weather Problems

The weather in Orlando isn't the only cause for flight delays. Sometimes, a connecting flight will be delayed due to weather conditions at another airport, where the connecting flight to Orlando is leaving from. Winter weather can take its toll on airports prone to flight delays, such as popular connecting cities such as Baltimore, New York, Boston, and Philadelphia. Be prepared to deal with the weather conditions at connecting airports, and plan ahead for potential delays for your flight to Orlando.