How to Find the Cheapest Flights To Orlando in 2024

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Your dream vacation to Orlando is closer than you think. Securing budget-friendly flights from the UK to Orlando in 2024 is entirely possible with a dash of planning and a sprinkle of savvy shopping. This guide unveils the best times to book, the top airlines to consider, and where to hunt down those elusive cheap flight deals. If you’ve been a long-time reader of this blog, you’ll know I’ve been to Orlando, Florida over 25+ times, and I have a lot of Orlando experience to share with you all! So, if you’re eager to experience the white-knuckle fun of Orlando without splurging on airfare, this is what we’ll cover in this blog:

1. What month is cheapest to fly to Orlando? 
2. How far in advance can you book flights to Orlando? 
3. Which airport is cheapest to fly to Orlando? 
   1. Orlando International Airport 
   2. Sanford Orlando International Airport
   3. Tampa International Airport
   4. Melbourne Orlando International Airport 
4. The best airlines to fly to Orlando from the UK in 2024 
5. How to find cheap flights to Orlando in 2024 

What Month is Cheapest to Fly to Orlando?

When it comes to nabbing cheap flights to Orlando in 2024, timing is everything. Winter is the cheapest time to fly, but if you prefer nicer weather, consider flying between March and May. During these months, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. Just avoid the Easter holidays, as flight prices tend to go up. You can use tools like Skyscanner or Kiwi.com to compare prices and find the best deals – keep reading for some tips on finding the best flight deal and what tools are best to use.

Autumn, from September to mid-November, is another good time to find reasonable flights to Orlando from the UK. The weather is still comfortable, but keep in mind that this is hurricane season in Florida, which lasts from June to November. So, it’s a good idea to check the weather before you book. On the bright side, you might find last-minute offers on flights during this time. I’ve been to Florida during hurricane season many times (I was even there when Katrina was supposed to hit Orlando head on, but adjusted it’s path last minute), and it hasn’t massively hindered my holiday. Orlando is well equipped for hurricanes and usually it just means 1-2 days of your holiday will be very rainy. The perfect day to spend indoors at a mall or chilling in your hotel.

Your hotel choice is imperative for rainy days in Orlando, read my guide on whether it’s better (or cheaper) to stay on International Drive or in Disney Hotels. 

Summer is a busy and expensive time to fly due to school holidays. If you plan to visit Orlando in the summer, it’s wise to book your flight as early as possible. Once you’re there, expect hot and humid weather with temperatures often above 30 degrees Celsius.

How Far in Advance Can You Book Flights to Orlando?

When it comes to snagging cheap flights to Orlando in 2024, timing is your ally. US airlines typically begin selling tickets around 330 days before the flight. But don’t rush to book just yet; being an early bird here might not get you the best deal. Going.com found that the real deals happens closer to your travel date. They identified a ‘Goldilocks Window’ for booking flights.

This has usually been my experience when booking flights to Orlando, flights tend cheapest around 4 month beforehand, but this can fluctuate depending on a few factors like time of year, public holidays or school holidays. For international flights, like those from the UK to Orlando, I’d recommend a window of 2-6 months ahead of your travel date to hit the sweet spot. This window allows for a good balance between reasonable prices and a decent selection of flight times and dates. However, there are exceptions. If your Orlando adventure falls around popular holidays or peak travel times, or if you have non-negotiable travel dates, it’s wise to start your flight search earlier. A good rule of thumb is to hunt for summer travel deals around the Christmas season, and vice versa.

You might have heard that last-minute bookings can save you a pretty penny on flights to Orlando from UK. However, that’s more myth than reality. While there are occasional last-minute steals, I’ve found they’re mega rare. Most often, ticket prices climb as the departure date approaches, especially within the three-week mark before departure. Sometimes, if an airline struggles to fill seats on a particular flight, a short-lived price drop may occur a few weeks out. But it’s a gamble, as this is never guaranteed.

In essence, to score cheap flights to Orlando 2024 from the UK, initiate your flight search within the 2-8 month window before your desired departure date, adjusting your strategy if your travel dates are during peak seasons.

Which Airport is Cheapest to Fly to Orlando?

When hunting for cheap flights to Orlando 2024 from the UK, the airport you choose to land at can impact the overall cost of your trip. Orlando boasts several airports, with each having its own set of advantages.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary gateway to the city’s enchanting attractions. However, exploring alternative airports like Sanford International (SFB) or Tampa International (TPA) could unveil cheaper flight options. It might mean a slightly longer drive to your Orlando destination, but the savings could be well worth it.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Just a short drive of around six miles southeast from downtown Orlando, MCO is a major public airport and one of the largest commercial airports in the USA, spanning over 13,302 acres. As a significant international gateway for the mid-Florida region, it hosts flights from major international destinations. While it caters to a mix of airlines, some low-cost carriers also operate here, offering more budget-friendly flight options for those flying from the UK. MCO is served by airlines like British Airways, Norse and Fin Air, where you can get deals for around £500 return from London depending on when you go.

Sanford/Orlando International Airport (SFB)

Located northeast of Orlando, Sanford/Orlando International Airport (SFB) is an alternative to Orlando International Airport (MCO) for travellers on a budget. It’s slightly further out than MCO, and will usually be around 30 mins drive into Orlando, depending on where you’re staying.

When looking for the most flights to Orlando Sanford Intl, timing is essential. I’ve mentioned you should be looking at prices for flights around 2-6 months in advance, however, on average, the cheapest flights to Sanford are found about 15 days before departure. As always though, keep an eye on the flight prices or set up an alert to keep track of any deals. You can set up easy flight alerts on Skyscanner, which I’ll explain how to do below.

It’s important to note that most flights from London to Orlando Sanford may involve at least one self-transfer. This means you’ll need ample time during your stopover to check in for your next flight. These flights are better suited for travellers without checked luggage as it eliminates the need to collect and re-check bags during the stopover. Additionally, some flights might require an airport change during the stopover. For instance, you might land at John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) in New York and have a connecting flight out of Newark Liberty Airport (EWR) in New Jersey. In such cases, shuttle services like the ETS Airport Shuttle can transport you between the airports within about an hour.

While there are no direct flights from the UK to Orlando Sanford International Airport anymore, you can find direct flights to MCO. Some of these flights could occasionally be cheaper. It’s worth comparing the prices to both airports to determine which option offers the best value for your journey.

Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Flying into Tampa airport presents a less hectic alternative to Orlando’s busy airports. Known for its ease of navigation, one of Tampa’s highlights is its hassle-free car rental process. Upon arrival, a short walk across the road gets you to the car rental services. Utilising online check-in with companies like Alamo or National can further streamline the process, allowing you to hit the road quickly.

Tampa airport is serviced by British Airways, Finair, and Virgin Atlantic, offering direct flights from London. Although direct flights from smaller UK airports are less frequent, the options available make it a viable entry point. Once in Tampa, a drive of about an hour and a half will get you to Orlando. If the flight prices are comparable and especially if Tampa is part of your itinerary, flying into Tampa International Airport could be a convenient choice. This alternative could offer a smoother start to your Florida adventure while still providing reasonable access to Orlando.

Melbourne Orlando International Airport

Opting to fly into Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) from the UK can be a favourable alternative to the often busier Orlando International Airport (MCO). With various UK departure points like London and Manchester offering flights to MLB, travellers have a chance to experience a less hectic arrival. The airport’s location, about an hour’s drive from Orlando, not only facilitates a quieter entry but also a scenic drive through Florida’s picturesque landscapes. A great way to see some of the sights outside of your busy Orlando trip.

The lesser crowd at MLB usually means shorter queues at immigration and car rental counters, potentially saving travellers valuable time upon arrival. Additionally, flights to MLB might occasionally come with competitive prices, especially during Orlando’s peak travel seasons. The airport’s proximity to other attractions like the Kennedy Space Center and the Atlantic coast beaches offers a broader scope for exploration beyond Orlando. Airlines such as TUI (mentioned below) operate flights from the UK to MLB.

The Best Airlines to Fly to Orlando from the UK

Virgin Atlantic – around £500

Virgin Atlantic often has special offers and reward programs which can lead to significant savings. They have partnerships with other airlines which can also lead to better deals on connecting flights.

UK Departure Points: Virgin Atlantic offers a range of one-stop flights to Orlando from various UK cities including Aberdeen, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Durham, Humberside, Inverness, London City, Newcastle, and Norwich in partnership with Air France and KLM.

Average Cost: Virgin Atlantic is known for its cost-effective flights from the UK to Orlando, with an average return ticket price ranging from £400 to £500. Despite the affordable rates, the airline doesn’t compromise on service.

Flying Experience: Known for its excellent service, comfortable seating, and high-quality in-flight entertainment. Passengers can enjoy a range of in-flight movies and a satisfying catering service during their journey. Here’s a breakdown of their seating options:

• Economy Light Seats: Standard seating with a choice of seats at check-in. Seat width of 17 to 17.4 inches, recline of 4 to 6 inches, and a seat pitch of up to 31 inches. USB power, pillow, blanket, standard headphones, and a 13.3-inch touchscreen entertainment screen.
• Economy Classic Seats: Similar amenities to Economy Light but with the flexibility to pick your seat anytime.
• Economy Delight Seats: Extra legroom with a seat pitch of up to 34 inches. Other amenities mirror those of Economy Classic.
• Premium Seats: Luxurious leather seats with extra legroom. Seat width of 18 to 21 inches, recline of 7 to 8 inches, and a seat pitch of up to 38 inches. 110V UK/US control plug, premium headphones, among other enhanced amenities.
• Upper Class Seats: Transformable seats that lay flat for a bed, with a seat pitch extending to 6 feet, 7 inches in bed mode. Premium amenities including a larger 18.5-inch touchscreen entertainment screen for a lavish in-flight experience.

TUI – around £800

TUI’s flights to Orlando in 2024 are, in general, slightly more expensive than booking with an airline Virgin Atlantic. However, TUI frequently offers package deals that include flights, accommodations, and sometimes even theme park tickets which can save significant money on bundles.

UK Departure Points: London Gatwick, Bristol, Glasgow, Manchester, Newcastle, Belfast & Birmingham

Average Cost: While the flight costs with TUI are on the higher side, around £800, the airline compensates by offering enticing package deals. Travellers can save significantly on hotels, theme park tickets, and car rentals when booking a bundle, making TUI an attractive option for those looking to manage their budget effectively.

Flying Experience: TUI provides a friendly service with the added benefit of a straightforward booking process via their website or through an external travel agent. Upgrading to a premium seat on TUI flights comes highly recommended by many travelers. The premium upgrade, easily selectable during the online booking process, unlocks a host of benefits like increased luggage allowance, fast-track security, UK airport lounge access and enhanced seat pitch for added comfort.

• Seating: Standard and Premium seating options available. Premium seats offer a larger seat pitch.
• Comfort: The 787 Dreamliner, used for selected long-haul destinations, is praised for its comfort and cleanliness.
• Premium Perks: Increased luggage allowance, fast-track security, and UK airport lounge access. Additional amenities like noise-cancelling headphones and priority boarding.

Norse Atlantic Airways – around £400

In May 2023, Norse Atlantic Airways announced they were starting flights from London to MCO, and they’ve proved a hit so far. They undercut Virgin and Tui by flight price alone right now, and are set to carry on this trend into 2024.

UK Departure Points: Currently London airports, given its prominence, although they may expand to other UK airports like Manchester soon.

Average Cost: Being a budget-friendly airline, Norse Atlantic Airways often has lower base fares.

Flying Experience: Norse operates a fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Boeing’s contemporary long-haul aircraft known for its bigger, electronically dimming windows and a lower cabin altitude that aims to mitigate jetlag effects.

• Seating: Diverse seating arrangements to cater to different budget and comfort preferences. Economy class has a nine-abreast seating configuration. The cheapest fares include one small under-seat bag, with additional luggage options available for a fee. Enhanced fare options like Economy Classic and Economy Plus bundle benefits such as seat selection, a meal service, and a checked bag.
• Premium Comfort: Premium cabin features a cozy setting with 56 seats in a 2-3-2 layout. Boasts the largest leg room among UK carriers with a seat pitch of 43″ and a recline of 12″, offering a markedly superior space compared to British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

British Airways – around £400-500

UK Departure Points: Many, including London Gatwick, London Heathrow or Manchester (via partner airline Aer Lingus).

Average Cost: The cost for a return flight typically ranges between £400 to £500, aligning with the pricing of Norse Atlantic and Virgin Atlantic. British Airways do tend to try and undercut Norse Atlantics profits (they’re petty like that) so there may be a deal on BA flights to Orlando in 2024 compared to Norse Atlantic.

Flying Experience: Renowned for its exemplary service, comfortable seating, and a wide array of in-flight entertainment options. British Airways has garnered a positive reputation for its service and in-flight entertainment, offering a variety of movies, music, and games to keep passengers engaged during the flight. The airline is appreciated for its warm, uniquely British welcome, and diligent customer service, comparable to that of Virgin Atlantic.

• Seating and Luggage Allowance: Enjoy the flexibility of free seat selection 24 hours before departure, along with a generous checked bag allowance and free hand baggage, ensuring a smooth and convenient travel experience.
• Onboard Catering: Quality on-board catering is a hallmark of British Airways, providing passengers with a variety of meal options and beverages during the flight.
• Air Quality: The cabins are equipped with HEPA-filtered air, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment onboard which is key on a long-haul, 9 hour flight.
• Customer Feedback: Despite occasional delays which are common across all airlines, the consistent good service, and comparable amenities with other reputable airlines make British Airways a favoured choice for many travellers.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Orlando in 2024

Before committing to flights to Orlando, it’s a good idea to shop around and even set up price alerts. Different platforms often have varied pricing and special offers that could save you huge amounts – which is great for those on a budget. While booking directly with airlines can be great for accumulating Amex points, if that’s not a priority, exploring these booking tools is the best option. Some platforms provide an all-in-one booking experience, bundling flights with hotel reservations and car rentals, potentially simplifying your travel and saving you some money. It’s all about finding the right balance between cost, convenience, and rewards as find your flights to Orlando in 2024 from the UK.

Skyscanner

By aggregating flight prices from a myriad of airlines and booking platforms, Skyscanner unveils a spectrum of cost-saving options, ensuring you don’t miss out on the cheapest flights to Orlando. One great feature is its Price Alerts, which you can set up for multiple airports, a bonus if you have access to more than one airport. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to Skyscanner and either sign in or create an account.

1. Enter your departure city and Orlando as your destination, then click on ‘Search Flights’.

1. Click on ‘Get Price Alerts’ in the upper left-hand corner to set up your alert.

Now, you’ll be notified when there are price changes for flights to Orlando. To manage your alerts, click on ‘My Account’ in the upper right-hand corner, then ‘Price Alerts’ to edit or delete.

Kiwi.com

Kiwi.com stands out for finding budget-friendly flights to Orlando due to its extensive search across various airlines including budget and charter carriers. Unlike many other platforms, it allows a mix-and-match approach, letting you combine flights from different airlines which can lead to better deals. Additionally, Kiwi.com offers a “Guarantee” feature for some peace of mind against flight cancellations or delays, ensuring you get rebooked or refunded.

Expedia

Expedia is not just for great hotel deals, it stands as a robust platform for unearthing economical flights to Orlando. It scours flights from a vast array of airlines, ensuring a broad selection while comparing prices for the best deal. Here are some strategies to leverage Expedia in finding lower-priced flights to Orlando:

Flexible dates: Fly on weekdays or during off-peak seasons to discover cheaper fares.

Airport choice: Consider flying into smaller airports; they often have lower landing fees translating to lower fares.

Airline variety: Be open to flying with different airlines as some offer lower fares than others.

Utilise filters: Use the filter options on Expedia to narrow down search results based on price, airline, or number of stops.

Sign up for alerts: Join Expedia’s email list for notifications on sales and promotions.

Bundle and save: Bundle your flight with hotel or car rental bookings in Orlando on Expedia for additional savings.

WayAway

WayAway is a convenient platform for those eyeing affordable flights to Orlando. It aggregates flight options from myriad airlines and travel agencies, showcasing the cheapest available flights. Simply input your departure point, Orlando as your destination, and travel dates; WayAway will list flights sorted by price. You can refine your search using filters like airline, number of stops, or cabin class. Features like price alerts (similar to SkyScanner) and a calendar of lowest fares are handy in snagging the best deals. Being flexible with your travel dates, considering flights into smaller nearby airports, and being open to multiple airlines can further drive down costs, making your quest for budget-friendly flights to Orlando a breeze.

By far the best part of WayAway is you can earn cashback credit on flight bookings which can be used for future flights.

1. Create an account, sign in, and choose the “Cashback” option while booking.
2. Select a cashback percentage between 1% to 5% – higher percentage means a pricier flight.
3. Post booking, credit (reflecting within 30 days post flight departure) accumulates in your account.
4. Utilise this credit for future bookings by selecting “Cashback” on the payment page. Cashback percentage varies with airline and booking time, is non-transferable, expires in 12 months, and can’t be used on already discounted flights.

Great news for bargain hunters: securing the best deals on your flights to Orlando is even easier with WayAway Plus. And you can use my promo code to get a 10% discount on a WayAway Plus membership, which opens up a treasure trove of premium flight deal discoveries. Not only do you save, but with every WayAway Plus membership purchased using the code TP-196673 you contribute towards ensuring the continuous flow of travel tips and deals here on Where’s Holly. The deal expires in April 2024, so seize this opportunity to unlock unbeatable flights to Orlando in 2024 with WayAway Plus. 👇

Check out my full guide on how to use WayAway for cheap flights here. 

Matrix ITA Software

For the tech-savvy traveler, Matrix ITA Software delves into fare structures, illuminating the most cost-effective days to fly. ITA Matrix is a robust tool to unearth budget-friendly flights to Orlando, although it might take a bit to get used to. I’ve managed to find super cheap flights to loads of different destinations using this software. Here’s a simplified guide to use it:

1. Visit ITA Matrix website.
2. Fill in departure, arrival airports (Orlando), and travel dates.
3. Hit “Search” and browse the list of flights by price.
4. Use filters like airline or number of stops to refine the results.
5. Click on a flight for more details, and “Book” to proceed to the airline’s site for booking.

Once you’ve got used to the interface (it’s quite intense using it for the first time) you can play around with it to find even better deals on flights to Orlando. You can do this by

• being flexible with dates, flying on weekdays or off-peak seasons might be cheaper
• exploring flying into smaller nearby airports for lower fares.
• not shying away from booking with different airlines if it saves money.

With a bit of practice, ITA Matrix can be a great ally in securing the most economical flights to Orlando in 2024.

Final Thoughts