Each year, Orlando International Airport (MCO) sees millions of visitors, many of whom are filtering through to visit Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and other Central Florida tourist attractions.

Baggage claim!

However, many of those travelers believe things about the airport that have no basis in truth.

“You Don’t Need to Book a Security Line”

Sure, you CAN arrive at MCO without booking a time to go through security, but expect a decent-sized wait, especially during busier seasons. Or instead, you can use the MCO Reserve System. Powered by CLEAR, the system allows you to skip the lines for free at a pre-appointed time. 

TSA lines at MCO

MCO Reserve is open from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and if your flight is set to depart between 6:30 AM and 8:30 PM, you are eligible to use this service.

You’re Making 3 BIG Mistakes at the Orlando Airport

“All the Terminals are the Same”

There are some big differences between MCO’s three terminals: A, B, and C. The terminals aren’t connected, and each features its own security lines. In other words, the last thing you want to do is go all the way through security…only to end up in the wrong terminal and have to go through the process all over again to make it to the right one. 

Terminal C at Orlando International Airport

This is why it’s integral to make sure to check which terminal — A, B, or C — is your flight’s location.

The New Rules You HAVE To Follow at Terminal C In the Orlando Airport

“There’s Nothing to Eat”

MCO offers a litany of food options across its terminals, including Wine Bar George, Provisions by Cask & Larder, Sunshine Diner by Chef Art Smith, Orange County Brewers, Cask & Larder Public House, Barnie’s Coffee & Tea Co., Cucina & Co., Orlando Brewing Bar & Bites., Chipotle, Outback Steakhouse, Wendy’s, and Nathan’s among others. Certainly not your grandpa’s airport food.  

Wine Bar George

On top of that, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) recently approved another expansion of Phase 2 under the MCO Concession Master Plan, which will bring more than 40 new retail and dining locations to Orlando International Airport.

Where to Eat at the Orlando International Airport

“You Can’t Find Last Minute Souvenirs”

Whether you’ve forgotten that one gift you need to buy or simply want to pick up one final goodie for yourself, both Disney and Universal have full stores at MCO.

Orlando International Airport’s Terminal C

In our experience, the prices have been about the same as we’ve seen at the souvenir shops at Disney World and Universal Orlando, but be warned — there isn’t as much variety!

Your Disney World Packing List Could Get You Stopped by Security

Next time you find yourself scheduled to fly through MCO, be sure to keep these important truths about the airport in mind to keep your experience running as smoothly as possible. Stay tuned to DFB for further Florida travel tips.

Sorry, But You’re Doing the Orlando Airport All Wrong

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