Credit: Inside The MagicAs the holiday season approaches, travelers to Disney World and other Orlando-area destinations will need to plan ahead for a surge of crowds at both Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Orlando International Airport (MCO).
How to Prepare for the Holiday Travel Rush at Tampa and Orlando Airports as Disney World Guests
With the Thanksgiving holiday marking the start of a busy travel period, both airports are expecting a significant increase in passenger traffic, making it crucial for travelers to know how to navigate these bustling hubs.
Each Disney World park will be busy, with large crowds expected at every Disney Park, including Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom. Lightning Lane is selling out at every Walt Disney World Resort theme park, which could make things a little more difficult for guests, aside from the airport lines.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) Braces for Record Crowds
Tampa International Airport is expecting one of its busiest holiday travel seasons to date. Leaders at TPA are preparing for the follow-up to last year’s record-breaking Thanksgiving rush, with estimates predicting 80,000 passengers per day during the holiday travel period, which runs from Thursday through December 2. However, Sunday, the busiest day of the 13-day window, is expected to see nearly 86,000 travelers passing through.
With such large numbers of people moving through the airport, TPA officials have shared key advice for those flying during this period. According to one official, “This is a time of year that we see people traveling that don’t travel all year.
Some people haven’t traveled in years, and that can be very frustrating for people who are frequent travelers through the airport.” To avoid the stress of holiday travel, here are some tips to make your airport experience as smooth as possible.
Consider Ride-Sharing or Traveling Light
For those flying out of TPA with only carry-on luggage, the airport suggests using the Blue Express curbsides for drop-off and pick-up. This is a quicker, more efficient option that can help streamline your journey through the airport. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft also serve this area, helping avoid the hassle of parking altogether. If you’re planning to use a ride-share service, be sure to communicate clearly with your driver to ensure a smooth pick-up.
Be Prepared for Construction Delays
While TPA has been making efforts to enhance its facilities, several ongoing construction projects may cause delays, especially in areas like security lines and shuttle services. Officials warn that shuttle replacement and other projects could slow things down, so passengers should allow for extra time when navigating through the airport. Patience will be key, and travelers should be prepared for possible hiccups as they go through security or wait for their terminal shuttle.
Book Disney World Parking in Advance
Parking at Tampa International can be a challenge during the busy holiday season, particularly as passengers flock to the airport in greater numbers. To avoid the frustration of driving around for a spot, it’s strongly recommended to book your parking in advance. This will ensure you have a designated place to park upon arrival, eliminating the stress of searching for a space.
However, if you do find yourself unable to park in a reserved lot, be aware that TPA may direct you to overflow parking, which requires taking a bus to the terminal. If you choose this option, TPA urges travelers to arrive early to ensure they have enough time to park, board the shuttle, and reach their gate.
Arrive Early – Plan for Busy Lines
With 80,000 people expected to pass through TPA daily, long lines at check-in counters, security, and baggage claim are almost a given. To ensure you have enough time to get through all the necessary procedures, officials at TPA recommend arriving at least two hours prior to domestic flights and three hours ahead of international departures. This will give you enough cushion to handle any unexpected delays and avoid the stress of rushing through the airport.
Stay Updated on Flight Delays for Your Disney World Trip
No one wants to be stuck at the airport for hours because of an unexpected flight delay. One way to avoid this is by checking the status of your flight ahead of time. Many airlines now offer real-time flight updates via apps or websites, so make sure to check for any changes before heading to the airport. This will give you a heads-up if there are any significant delays or cancellations, allowing you to adjust your plans accordingly.
Orlando International Airport (MCO): A Major Hub for Disney World Travelers
As a gateway for those heading to Disney World and other popular Orlando destinations, Orlando International Airport (MCO) sees its own holiday rush each year. Similar to TPA, MCO is expected to experience an influx of travelers during the Thanksgiving and early December period.
While MCO’s size and layout are different from TPA’s, the same general rules apply. If you’re flying into MCO, plan for crowds and prepare for the long lines that can form, especially at peak hours. Here are a few tips for navigating Orlando International during the holiday rush:
Use Airport Amenities to Your Advantage
MCO has several amenities to help streamline the travel process. For example, travelers can utilize its efficient security screening systems, such as the TSA PreCheck lanes, to speed up the check-in process. If you haven’t enrolled in TSA PreCheck yet, consider doing so for future travel, as it can save you a lot of time in the security line.
Explore Additional Transportation Options
Although MCO is well-served by ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft, it’s also connected to a variety of other transportation methods, including shuttles, taxis, and rental car services. If you’re planning to take a shuttle to your hotel or Disney resort, be sure to book in advance to ensure a timely pick-up, as these services can fill up quickly during peak travel times.
Keep Track of Your Terminal and Gate
MCO has four terminals, and with the influx of holiday travelers, it can be easy to lose track of your gate or terminal. Make sure to double-check your flight details and keep an eye on the airport monitors for any gate changes. Staying informed can help reduce confusion and keep you on track during your trip.
Conclusion: Be Prepared and Plan Ahead
With both TPA and MCO seeing record crowds this holiday season, planning ahead is key to a smooth travel experience. By arriving early, checking for delays, booking parking in advance, and staying patient, you’ll be able to enjoy your holiday travel to Disney World or other Orlando attractions without the stress. Remember, the holiday rush is temporary, and with a little preparation, you’ll be well on your way to creating magical memories in Orlando.