Updated July 7, 2025
So, you’ve done your research and found a cheap flight to Orlando International Airport (MCO). All that’s left to do is show up at your local airport, have a fun vacation, and fly home…right?
Well, almost.
MCO is a sprawling airport. It’s the busiest in Florida and the ninth busiest in the United States.
The hustle and bustle can disorient and exhaust arriving and departing flyers alike. Before getting to the airport, it’s important to have a game plan.
Here are six tips for getting through Orlando International Airport like a pro.
Key Takeaways
1. Download the MCO App
Not only is MCO crowded — it’s also massive. At 21 square miles, it’s the third largest airport in the country — big enough to make you wish you had a map in your pocket.
Luckily, there’s an app for that!
In addition to helping you get around the airport, the MCO app provides estimated security line wait times and updates on your flight.
Keep track of parking availability and find precisely where you left your car to save time driving and wandering around the parking lots.
You’ll also find information on shopping, dining, and ground transportation options.
The app is free and available to both Android and iPhone users.
2. Arrive Early
In 2024, MCO served over 57 million travelers. 2025 is expected to surpass that record-setting number.
That’s a lot of people, and many are young flyers still learning the ins and outs of air travel. As a result, getting through security can take longer than other airports.
The general rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight’s departure time.
MCO officials, however, recommend getting to the Orlando airport 3 hours in advance. Doing so will ensure you have ample time to check any bags, get through security, and find your gate.
3. Know Your Terminal and Gate
With the opening of Terminal C in 2022, MCO now has three terminals split between two buildings.
Each terminal is accessible only via one of the airport’s Automatic People Movers (APMs). If you board the wrong APM, you’ll spend precious time backtracking.
And depending on where you end up, you may need to go through security again to get where you’re headed.
The moment you arrive at the airport, verify your terminal and gate information on the airport display system. Then use the MCO app to find the right place.
Driving to the airport and flying from Terminal C? Be sure to park in a Terminal C parking lot for extra convenience.
4. Pack Souvenirs Wisely
Many travelers view their Orlando vacation as a chance to shop ‘til they drop.
As you pack your sweet souvenirs, remember some items need to go in checked luggage.
One of the TSA’s best-known rules is the 3-1-1 rule, which states that you can bring a single 1 qt. bag of liquid goods on the plane with you. Each item in it needs to be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.
Of course, 3-1-1 applies to things like perfumes, wine, and bottled water.
Gels such as fruit preserves or some deodorants also fall under the rule.
Other liquids may not be so obvious.
For instance, your standard magic eight ball holds 3.5 oz. of liquid and will need to go in a checked bag. Glowsticks you picked up at the parks will count toward the 3-1-1 rule. And any snow globes in your carry-on will need to be 3.4 oz. (about the size of a tennis ball) or smaller.
When packing up your new finds, also consider the following:
Inflated balloons are not allowed on airplanes.
However, you can stop by the Disney Store in the main terminal before security and ask them to deflate your Mickey balloon before boarding. When you arrive at your destination, have your local party supply store refill it.
Many toy weapons, like foam swords and Nerf guns, need to go in a checked bag. However, Harry Potter wands and Star Wars lightsabers are allowed in your carry-on.
Wait until you get home before wrapping any presents you bought in Orlando. Otherwise, you may find a hardworking TSA agent undoing your hard work.
Another option is to wait and buy your souvenirs at the airport. Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld each have shops in all three terminals at MCO.
5. Skip the Security Line
With so many awesome stores and restaurants in Orlando International Airport, you’ll want to minimize your time in the security line and maximize your time in your terminal.
Luckily, MCO offers a few options to get you shopping and snacking in no time.
TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck lets qualifying flyers zip through security, usually in 5 minutes or less. And all without having to take out your 3-1-1 bag or laptop and remove your shoes, belt, and jacket.
This members-only program is open to U.S. citizens and nationals and lawful permanent residents.
To join, you’ll need to visit an application center close to home. The application costs $78 and entails a short form, background check, and fingerprinting.
Most applications are approved in 3-5 days, at which you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). When booking flights with a participating airline, provide your KTN when prompted.
Your TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years, at which you’ll fill out a new application and pay a $70 renewal fee.
Citizens of the United Kingdom, Mexico, Brazil, and 11 other countries may qualify for Global Entry, a program granting you the same benefits as TSA PreCheck.
CLEAR Plus
In 2010, Orlando International Airport became the first to adopt CLEAR Plus, a biometric program that gets you to the front of the security line.
CLEAR Plus memberships cost $199 per year, but some flyers may qualify for a discount.
You can register online or at a participating airport. When you get to airport security, approach a CLEAR kiosk and scan your boarding pass, then your fingerprints or irises.
You’ll be escorted to the front of the line and then complete the security screening as usual.
RESERVE by CLEAR
While TSA PreCheck or CLEAR Plus can be a worthwhile investment for frequent flyers, those who rarely fly may not be able to justify the cost.
Luckily, Orlando International Airport is one of seven American airports that have adopted Reserve by CLEAR.
This free program allows you to reserve a specific time to go through a CLEAR-only security lane.
You can choose your appointment time up to 72 hours before your flight, and one person can make a reservation for up to 10 people. Once at MCO, your group can enter the CLEAR lane up to 20 minutes before or after your chosen time.
6. Bring Your Appetite
Eating at the airport can save you time and gives you something to do if you make it to your terminal early.
MCO has some great dining options that reflect the culinary diversity and quality of the city at large.
Terminal A features familiar favorites like Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, and Chipotle for grab-and-go-meals.
It’s also home to specialty restaurants like Cask & Larder, a brewpub owned by culinary power couple James and Julie Petrakis.
Camden Food Co. serves custom and pre-made salads and sandwiches in Terminal B, or enjoy casual dining options like Ruby Tuesday, Outback Steakhouse, and Bahama Breeze.
Over in Terminal C, you’ll find loads of local flavor. MCO’s newest terminal has a second Cask & Larder location, Sunshine Diner by Chef Art Smith, and other exciting options.
You’ll also find brand new restaurants representing local culinary hot spots like Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream, Maxine’s on Shine, 4Rivers, Smoke & Donuts, and more.
Prepare for a Comfortable Takeoff at Rosen Plaza
Rosen Plaza is the perfect hotel to rest up before your departure to your next destination.
Our Orlando hotel is in the heart of the city and offers amenities like a free Universal Orlando shuttle, making it easy to explore.
Take time to enjoy our onsite dining, lounge by a crystal-clear pool, and explore the best entertainment Orlando has to offer.
When your time in The City Beautiful comes to an end, you’ll be just 15 minutes away from Orlando International Airport.
