Flights to Disney and Car Rental
Over the past eight years, we’ve traveled to Disney World four times, using different airlines, airports, and transportation options to get to our resort. This year, we flew out of Austin Straubel Airport (GRB) in Green Bay and rented a car for the week. It was by far our best experience, and here’s how everything came together.
Flying from Green Bay to Orlando (GRB → MCO)
Roundtrip flights between Green Bay and Orlando usually have limited options and higher prices compared to other airports, but this year was different.
In March 2024, United Airlines was facing a lot of operational issues, especially with its Boeing aircraft. I figured it might be a good time to book, as they were likely lowering fares to attract passengers.
That gamble paid off and we got our cheapest flights ever for any of our four trips. The total cost for five people was $1,186 (including taxes), and we used $450 in United credit card rewards, bringing the final price down to just $736.
Our Flight Schedule
Departure:
- 10:50 AM flight from Green Bay
- 55-minute layover in O’Hare
- 1:00 PM flight to Orlando
- Arrival: 4:30 PM (local time)
- Flights were all on time (and we even landed early in Orlando)
Return Flight:
- 12:20 PM departure from Orlando
- Almost a 3-hour layover in Chicago (the only thing I’d change)
- Final flight to Green Bay
Unlike previous years when we had to wake up at 4 AM for 6 AM flights, this schedule was so much better. The later departure times allowed us to enjoy our morning at the resort before heading to the airport, making for a more relaxed trip. If I could copy this exact itinerary for future trips, I would.
Renting a Car in Orlando
For our 2023 trip, we used Mears buses for transportation to and from the resort, but for the past two years, we’ve opted for a rental car instead. While Mears (and rideshare options like Uber, Lyft, and Minnie Vans) cost less, I prefer the freedom of having our own car.
Even though we typically use Disney’s monorails and buses to get around the parks, having a car means we can travel on our schedule if needed. The extra cost is worth it for the flexibility.
Our Alamo Rental Experience
I was initially hesitant to rent a car because of stories about long wait times and hidden fees at rental counters. However, Alamo was fantastic. Since I downloaded their app and provided all my details in advance, we were able to skip the counter and go straight to our car.
- No surprise charges—just a $23 toll fee, which I found reasonable.
- Friendly & helpful staff at Alamo.
- Smooth, hassle-free pickup and return.
How We Got the Best Rental Price
I started looking for rental cars six months in advance, checking prices weekly.For most of the time, rental prices hovered around $500+ for a standard car. Three months before our trip, I found a $411 rental with Budget and booked it (refundable, just in case prices dropped). One month before our trip, I saw that Alamo had a $335 rental, so I canceled the Budget reservation and rebooked with Alamo. This small effort saved us over $165 on the rental!
Using a Prepaid Toll Pass
One change I made this year was purchasing a Uni Prepaid Portable Toll Pass. You can buy them on Amazon and can be used with toll systems in many states.
- Cost: $15 for the device + $10 loaded for tolls
- Works with the Central Florida Expressway Authority
- Easy to add the rental car in the app (just remember to switch it back to your own car afterward!)
It paid for itself on this trip alone and will be useful for future travel. Highly recommend it for anyone renting a car in Florida or states with a toll system.
Final Thoughts on Travel
This was, hands down, our best Disney travel experience yet. Everything went smoothly, from flights to car rental, and the best part—it cost less than $1,500 in total for flights and transportation.
- United Airlines: Cheapest flights we've ever had + smooth experience
- Alamo Rental: No hassles, no hidden fees, and a great price
- Prepaid Toll Pass: Saved time and money
It felt stress-free, and I’d absolutely replicate this exact trip setup in the future. If you’re flying out of Green Bay (GRB) to Orlando (MCO), I highly recommend this approach!