A few MCO questions

As we're off to see the mouse again in a couple of weeks I've started thinking about what we need to get ready for the trip (I'm a PM and can't help myself). Part of this thought process led me to think about our previous trips to MCO and this raised a few questions.

First, is there still a scrum at the gate at Gatwick or have they finally got priority boarding sorted out.

Second, I read somewhere that they were going to do away with the second bag drop at MCO. Is this true and if so how does it work?

Third, This time we're travelling with some relatives one of whom has arranged assistance with VS. When we get to MCO would we be better going with them through immigration etc. or meeting them at the bag carousel?

Last, do they still do early check in at DTD and is it in the same place?

Thanks

Miopyk[8D]

On my last couple of trips priority boarding has been in place and worked pretty well.

You can now pick up your luggage at the carousels just after immigration and keep it with you. You will have to carry it yourself onto the satellite train as no trolleys are allowed. If this is difficult for you then just pick up at the second point as before.

If a wheelchair is required all the way to car rental then it may be best to meet them there. Even though they will be last off the plane they may by-pass any queues and be taken through the US citizens line, my answer would depend on how many there are of you in total.

DTD check in still operates from near Cirque du Soleil at Disney Westside from 8am - weather permitting.

Jilly

[buns]

Miopyk

I think this topic is the one you recalled about the second drop at MCO going.

I for one can't wait to make use of this advance. Alan A's post also gives hope that the current process of getting landside will improve further over time.

As you are travelling with relatives who require assistance, the current offer by MCO of "carry your own bags" may not be such a help in your case

buns

DTD check in doesn't open until 8.30am.

I quite like the whole set up at MCO, I don't mind at all dropping my bags so the conveyor can take them whilst I make my way to the train, very civilised I think.

Originally posted by AlecK
DTD check in doesn't open until 8.30am.

....... and its now $10 per person unless you are VH, Upper or Gold.

Thanks for your replies. Can I ask one more?

This year we're using Dollar Car Rental and I seem to be getting the impression that the pick up is now in the airport. Is this right or do you still get the bus to the place up the road? Any information on this subject would be most appriciated as I've looked at the Dollar website but they just list the Airport address as the pick up point.

Thanks again.

Miopyk[8D]

[buns]

Originally posted by miopyk
Thanks for your replies. Can I ask one more?

This year we're using Dollar Car Rental and I seem to be getting the impression that the pick up is now in the airport. Is this right or do you still get the bus to the place up the road? Any information on this subject would be most appreciated as I've looked at the Dollar website but they just list the Airport address as the pick up point.

Thanks again.

Miopyk[8D]

Last time I was there (august this year) the rental counter was on the lower level within the airport.

However, it can be a bit of a bun fight with three VS 747's arriving in quick succession[n]

For that reason, i always pick up rental car the next day

buns

If you haven't been to mco for a while, there is a new set of lifts just a few steps away from the baggage belts. Just go past the little counter thing next to the belts and they are behind it. Takes you down to the car rental level where dollar is 2nd on the right afer you leave the lifts.

Very handy.

David

(i don't think dollar have ever been offsite at mco but could be mistaken[?])

Originally posted by David
(i don't think dollar have ever been offsite at mco but could be mistaken[?])

Oh yes they have. There was time when there were no rental counters or cars on-site and ALL collections had to be done via a shuttle to a near by pickup location

Two tips for you
1) Even if you opt for the second bag drop skip the collection and go straight to the dollar rental desk. Once you have your paperwork go back up to baggage claim and retrieve your luggage which should now be there

2) Check Dollar's website. I don't know if this is possible but I just took a rental with Alamo and was able to 'check-in' online - In fact the check-in didn't work properly but it still allowed me to pre-register my details and then use a touch screen at the desk skipping the line instantly. - It may be the case you can do the same with dollar

Paul

It might be worth joining Dollar Express
http://ww2.dollar.com/Express/LearnMore.aspx
as they have a seperate shorter queue at MCO for these card holders

Once again thanks for you help. I'm in Dollar express so I guess I'll go down to the rental desk and get the car organised while the others are getting the luggage.

Miopyk[8D]

It might be worth joining Dollar Express
http://ww2.dollar.com/Express/LearnMore.aspx
as they have a seperate shorter queue at MCO for these card holders

This sounds great can it be used if you book through airline-network or is it just for direct bookings?

I've booked through Airline Network and shown my Dollar express card at the desk, - Airline Network said they would add it to my booking, they never did but Dollar still let me use the express queue.

The only site I know who definitely show your express card number on the voucher is http://www.floridahire.com - although recently they have actually been a bit cheaper with Alamo rather than Dollar car hire.

Jilly

[buns]

Miopyk

Whilst not having a desire to wish away your holiday, one tip when returning your car (particularly if you have relatives who require assistance) is to drop off everyone at the main level and then return the car to the garage alone.

The queue to return cars can take some time and without any air con you can get stressed out just waiting to be processed, never mind the trek back up to the upper level check in with bags, children and the like.

buns

Still a good option even if you use DTD checkin.