If you have a late flight from Orlando International Airport (MCO), heading straight to the airport after checking out of your hotel may seem like the easiest option. But there’s a catch: arriving at MCO early doesn’t necessarily mean your airline will let you check your luggage right away.
Here’s what Orlando travelers should know about checking bags early at MCO — and what you can do instead of spending half your day at the airport.
How Early Can You Check Bags at MCO?
There isn’t one universal baggage check-in time at Orlando International Airport. MCO is open 24 hours a day, but individual airlines determine when their check-in counters operate and how early they will accept checked luggage.
That means the earliest you can drop off your bags depends on the airline you’re flying.
For example, Southwest states that checked baggage at its ticket counter is accepted no earlier than four hours before scheduled departure. American Airlines currently states that passengers departing MCO cannot check bags more than six hours before departure.
Because policies can vary by airline and may change, always check directly with your carrier before heading to MCO.
What If Your Hotel Checkout Is Hours Before Your Flight?
This is especially relevant in Orlando, where travelers frequently check out of hotels, resorts and vacation rentals in the morning but have flights departing MCO much later in the day.
Imagine checking out at 11 a.m. for an 8 p.m. flight. Even if your airline accepts luggage four hours before departure, you could still have several hours when you’re responsible for your suitcases.
You have a few options. Your hotel may hold your luggage after checkout, although policies vary. You could also head toward MCO and wait until your airline accepts your bags.
Or, you can use those hours to enjoy more of Orlando without taking your luggage with you.
Send Your Luggage Ahead to MCO
Instead of building your final day around your suitcases, Bagzee offers luggage pickup and airport delivery in Orlando.
Bagzee can pick up luggage from your hotel, Airbnb, vacation rental or other Orlando address and deliver it to secure pre-TSA airport luggage storage at MCO. When it’s time for your flight, retrieve your luggage at the airport and check it with your airline as usual.
Bagzee does not check your luggage onto the flight for you. You still need to collect your bags, complete your airline’s normal baggage check-in process and go through security.
Make the Most of Your Last Day in Orlando
If you suddenly have several luggage-free hours, your checkout day can become part of your vacation instead of a day spent waiting.
Have lunch at Disney Springs, explore International Drive, walk around Lake Eola, shop for last-minute souvenirs or simply enjoy a few more hours at your resort area.
Then head to MCO at the appropriate time, collect your luggage and check in for your flight.
Instead of going to Orlando International Airport hours too early just because you have luggage, send your bags ahead — and make the most of your final hours in Orlando.