If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, flying with a budget airline can seriously cut down your costs. You’ll still be just as close to the city’s famous theme parks and attractions.
The best budget airlines operating in Orlando include Frontier, Spirit, and Allegiant, offering affordable flights from many U.S. cities. These folks are known for low base fares and frequent sales—sometimes it feels like there’s always a deal if you look hard enough.
Orlando International Airport is a major hub for these carriers, so you get plenty of route options. Whether you’re here for the theme parks or just a quick break, these airlines make it easier to find a flight that fits your schedule—and your wallet.
Learning how to spot the best deals and knowing what to expect from budget airlines can really smooth out your trip.
Key Takeaways
- Budget airlines like Frontier and Spirit offer lots of cheap flights to Orlando.
- Orlando International Airport connects you to key destinations.
- Knowing how to hunt for deals helps you save even more.
Top Budget Airlines Operating in Orlando Florida
You’ll find several budget airlines with nonstop flights to Orlando International Airport. They’ve got low fares and a bunch of routes, so it’s easier to compare and snag a good deal.
The main options? Southwest Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and a few others that try to balance value and convenience.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is a favorite for its mix of affordability and reliability. Cheap flights from Orlando to many U.S. cities are pretty common.
Southwest doesn’t charge for checked bags, which is honestly a lifesaver if you tend to overpack.
Their flight schedules are frequent, giving you flexibility for your trip. Southwest uses Orlando International Airport as a key hub, so you get easy connections.
Their no-change-fee policy means you can adjust your plans without a headache.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue is another solid budget airline flying to and from Orlando. You’ll find good prices, especially if you book early.
JetBlue sweetens the deal with free Wi-Fi and snacks, which is a nice touch for budget travel.
You can compare JetBlue flights online alongside other budget options. Their routes include a bunch of domestic and some international destinations.
JetBlue also has a rewards program, which can help you save on future flights if you travel often.
Best Value Features
When you’re picking a budget airline for Orlando, don’t just look at the ticket price. Free services like checked bags, seat selection, and in-flight perks can make a difference.
Southwest gives you two free checked bags, while JetBlue offers free Wi-Fi and snacks. Not bad for budget carriers, right?
Check flight times and how often flights run. More flights mean you can pick a schedule that actually works for you.
Also, look for airlines with straightforward policies on changes and cancellations. Extra fees can sneak up on you if you’re not careful.
| Airline | Checked Bags | In-flight Wi-Fi | Snacks | Flight Frequency at Orlando |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest | 2 free | No | Paid | High |
| JetBlue | Paid | Free | Free | Medium |
Routes, Destinations, and Flight Options
You’ve got a lot of choices when flying from Orlando. Direct or indirect flights, popular cities, or even using airports near Orlando for better deals.
Direct and Indirect Flight Options
Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers tons of direct flights to popular destinations across the U.S. and even internationally. That means nonstop flights to places like Miami, Tampa, and a few international spots.
Direct flights save time—no layovers, less hassle.
If you’re trying to save money or travel farther, indirect flights with one or more stops are an option. Sometimes you’ll connect through hubs like Fort Lauderdale or Atlanta.
Indirect flights might take longer, but they often cost less. Not always fun, but sometimes worth it.
You can buy one way tickets from Orlando or round-trip tickets, depending on your plans. Budget airlines usually offer both, so check each to see what’s cheapest.
Popular Destinations from Orlando
Orlando has flights to a bunch of popular vacation and business cities. Direct flights to Miami and Tampa are easy to find, and those cities offer more connections.
Destinations in South and Central America are pretty accessible with budget airlines using Orlando as a starting point. Cancun and Bogotá pop up a lot for affordable getaways.
You’ll also find cheap flights to Caribbean islands and even some European cities, especially with seasonal or limited direct flights. Spirit and Frontier keep updating their routes, so it’s worth checking back often.
Nearby and Alternative Airports
If flights at Orlando International Airport aren’t working for you or seem pricey, check out nearby airports.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is about 30 miles north and serves several low-cost carriers. You might find a cheaper or more direct flight there.
Other options include Tampa International Airport and Miami International Airport, both 1-2 hours away by car. These airports offer more flight choices and sometimes better prices, especially for international trips.
Using nearby airports can give you more options for your return flight from Orlando or a one way ticket. Always compare prices and connections before booking.
How to Find the Lowest Fares and Best Flight Deals
If you want the cheapest flight tickets from Orlando, you’ve got to keep an eye on prices, know when to book, and be ready to adjust your plans. Price alerts and flight calendars are your friends here.
Being flexible with your dates and ticket types can really open up more savings.
Comparing Flight Prices
Start by searching flights everywhere with a few different sites and airlines. Budget carriers like Spirit Airlines and Frontier usually have the lowest fares, but watch out for baggage fees and other extras.
Use tools that show prices across lots of dates. This way, you can spot the cheapest days to fly.
Some sites let you sort by the cheapest ticket or the fastest route. Check both roundtrip and one way ticket prices—sometimes two one ways are actually less.
When to Book for the Cheapest Tickets
Booking your flight tickets from Orlando about 1 to 2 months in advance usually gets you the best deals on domestic flights.
For international flights, start checking 2 to 3 months ahead. Last-minute bookings almost always cost more.
Sometimes booking super early—like 6 months out—pays off, especially for popular routes.
Flying mid-week? That’s often cheaper than weekends. Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to have the lowest flight deals from Orlando.
Using Price Alerts and Flight Calendars
Set up price alerts so you’ll know when flight prices drop. Most travel sites and apps let you do this for your preferred route and dates.
Flight calendars are great for seeing prices over a whole month. You can pick the cheapest days to fly without a ton of searching.
Price alerts plus calendars? That combo makes it way easier to catch a good deal.
Flexible and One Way Ticket Strategies
If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you’ll get access to more cheap tickets. Try moving your departure or return by a few days to see if it saves you money.
Booking one way tickets instead of roundtrip can sometimes be cheaper. Especially with budget airlines, separate tickets might beat roundtrip prices.
Consider flying out of different airports near Orlando or mixing airlines. Flexibility here often leads to better deals and lower fares.
Additional Travel Tips and Services for Orlando Visitors
When you’re visiting Orlando, it pays to plan your ground transport, pick the right place to stay, and maybe consider travel insurance or a flight upgrade for a smoother trip.
Knowing the main attractions and how to get around can save both time and money.
Car Hire and Ground Transportation
Renting a car is often the easiest way to explore Orlando and the surrounding area. Major car hire companies are at Orlando International Airport, with everything from economy to luxury.
Booking ahead usually gets you a better rate.
If you’re not into driving, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are everywhere. Public transportation exists but isn’t always convenient. Some hotels offer shuttles to theme parks or the airport, which can be a nice perk.
Watch out for parking fees, especially near theme parks and downtown spots like Lake Eola Park. Planning your routes in advance helps avoid surprises and extra costs.
Hotels in Orlando
Orlando’s got a huge range of hotels, from budget inns to luxury resorts. Staying near the theme parks saves time, but it might cost more.
Downtown hotels put you close to local attractions and dining.
Look for hotels with free breakfast or shuttle services to attractions. Booking early can get you discounts, especially during slower seasons.
Many places have free Wi-Fi and pools, which is always a bonus if you want to relax.
Vacation rentals are great for longer stays or bigger groups. Always check reviews and cancellation policies before you book.
Travel Insurance and Upgrades
Travel insurance can protect you from unexpected stuff like cancellations or medical issues. It’s worth considering, especially if you’re booking business class flights from Orlando or premium economy seats.
Upgrading your flight class adds comfort on longer trips. Business class means extra legroom, better meals, and priority boarding.
Premium economy is a nice middle ground—wider seats and some perks without the full price of business.
Check if your credit card or airline program includes travel insurance or upgrade deals. Sometimes bundling services saves you money and makes things easier.
Top Attractions and Experiences
Orlando’s theme parks—think Walt Disney World or Universal Studios—are legendary. Tickets aren’t cheap, so it’s smart to grab them early or hunt for multi-day deals if you’re hoping to save a little cash.
But Orlando isn’t just about roller coasters. Lake Eola Park sits right in downtown and feels like a breath of fresh air. You’ll find walking paths, swan boat rentals, and even a farmers market on Sundays.
If you’re looking for something easier on the wallet, check out local museums or gardens. Shopping centers can be fun to wander, too. Mixing free spots with paid attractions? That’s probably the best way to make your budget last.