The Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) bills itself as the “most user-friendly airport in Central Florida.” The airport began as a US Naval Air Station and was claimed by the City of Sanford after the base’s closure in 1969. Its central location makes it the perfect landing spot for travelers heading anywhere in the Sunshine State. Getting around Florida is best done by rental car (with a pocketful of change—or an EZ Pass device—for toll roads).
Car Rental Counter (Photo: Autorentals Corportation via Flickr/ CC BY 2.0)
Traveling families are an important part of SFB’s mission and the airport offers kids programming, shorter security lines, historical and educational displays, and short walks to terminals. Rental agencies are housed in the airport terminal and there are two rental car lots at SFB. The primary car lot is located directly across from baggage claim on level one and a smaller lot is located near long term parking. Both provide easy access to the terminal upon return.
To determine which rental car companies offer the best vehicles across our three categories (Most Affordable, Best for Luxury, Best for Minivans), Travelmag.com has carefully researched the prices, availability, policies, and customer reviews of the seven car rental companies operating out of Orlando Sanford International Airport. Here are our findings:
Most affordable: BUDGET
While comparing prices for week-long rentals from airport agencies we found a deal offered by Budget knocking the price of an intermediate unit like a Ford Escape down 47 percent. This sale made Budget the obvious choice for those looking to save money on a rental while visiting Florida. The Escape rate posted at $229 per week and a Ford Edge from Budget granted the same discount at $259 per week. Budget also offered a nine percent discount for the same rental period on their Ford Fiesta or Focus inventory.
Best for luxury cars: ENTERPRISE and ALAMO
A visit to Florida is an opportunity to ride in style and we found the exact same quote for a Cadillac XTS from Enterprise and Alamo. Equipped with a powerful V6 engine, smartphone-like functionality, and front bucket seats with 22-way adjustability and massage feature (on some models), the XTS offers both comfort and power in a luxury automobile. Breaking the tie is Alamo as the company slightly nudges out the competition in customer satisfaction. Both companies offer unlimited mileage for cruising the Florida highways.
Best for Minivans: ALAMO
Alamo also qualifies for our recommendation in the minivan category with a great rate of $439 per week for a Dodge Grand Caravan. In the premium category, Alamo offers a Buick Enclave for $484 per week. Both vehicles seat seven, have plenty of room for luggage, and the family will love the spacious interior. A minivan rental at the Orlando Sanford International Airport is an easy way for families to get to and from Walt Disney World Resort, an hour drive from the airport.