Sleeping Pods At Mco: A Comfortable Layover?

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, offering a variety of amenities and services to travellers. While the airport does not have dedicated sleeping pods, it offers other amenities for passengers needing rest, such as lounges with comfortable seating, quiet areas, free unlimited WiFi, charging outlets, and spacious pre-security and airside areas with benches, armchairs, and couches. Travellers have reported sleeping in various spots within the airport, including the food court in the main terminal and the area around Gates 70-150, which has a long padded bench.

Sleeping in Orlando Airport

Sleeping in airports can be challenging, but Orlando International Airport (MCO) has been described as "certainly not the worst". The airport staff do not seem to mind sleeping travellers, and there have been no reports of safety issues within the airport. However, it is always good to take precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables.

Orlando Airport has an efficient hub-and-spoke layout, with the pre-security main terminal (North Terminal) acting as the hub, further divided into Terminals A and B. A separate Terminal C opened in 2022. From the North Terminal, there are four airside concourses, and you can either walk or take the elevated people mover to get around. The airport offers free, unlimited WiFi, and numerous charging outlets, especially in the secure areas. There are plenty of shops and dining options, both pre- and post-security.

While there are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones, there are some informal spots with padded couches around the terminal. The hotel atrium between Terminal A and Terminal B is also a relaxing spot to wait. If you prefer a more comfortable sleeping arrangement, you can book a hotel inside the main terminal, such as the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, located on level 4 above the security entrance to Gates 60-129. They offer day rooms between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. Several other nearby hotels also provide free airport shuttles.

If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are some spots in the airport where you can get some rest. The food court in the main terminal has some padded benches. The area around Gates 70-150 has a long padded bench that can accommodate multiple people. If you want to stay landside, the car rental level is a quieter and warmer option than the departures level. Additionally, some travellers have reported sleeping in the baggage terminal or finding a comfortable spot in the corner. Bringing a small pillow and a blanket can make your experience more comfortable.

To ensure your safety and the security of your valuables, it is recommended to stay near other travellers or close to security. Knowing where the security office is and looking for video cameras near your chosen sleeping spot can provide additional peace of mind. Keeping your valuables out of plain sight and considering padding locking your bag to something or sleeping with your bag against a wall can help deter potential thieves.

Safety precautions

Orlando International Airport (MCO) does not have sleeping pods, but travellers can rest in lounges with comfortable seating and quiet areas. While the airport staff do not seem to mind sleeping travellers, it is important to take safety precautions when sleeping in any airport. Here are some tips to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables:

• Know where the security office is and look for video cameras near your chosen sleeping spot. You can also ask security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
• Stay near other travellers or close to security, especially if you are travelling alone. Avoid secluding yourself.
• Hide your valuables and do not leave them in plain view. If you are a deep sleeper, consider padlocking your bag or sleeping with your bag up against a wall to prevent easy access to zippers and pockets.
• Stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Consume caffeinated beverages to help you stay sharp, and remember that you can always sleep on the plane.
• If you are sleeping in a public zone, you may be woken up early in the morning.
• MCO is strict about not letting people through security more than 3-4 hours before their flight departure, so plan your sleeping spot accordingly.
• The TSA stations close after the last flight of the day and don't reopen until 5 am, so make sure to clear security before they close for the night if you want to stay airside.
• If you have a long layover and can't stay airside, there are spots outside security where you can nap overnight.
• Consider bringing a small pillow and blanket for added comfort if you plan to sleep in the airport.

Sleeping spots

Orlando International Airport (MCO) does not have sleeping pods, but there are several lounges with comfortable seating and quiet areas. The airport staff do not seem to mind sleeping travellers, even those staying overnight. However, it is important to be cautious of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.

Landside and Airside Areas: The landside and airside areas have a range of wooden benches, armchairs, and small couches. The area around Gates 70-150 has a long padded bench that can accommodate multiple people.

Food Court in the Main Terminal: The food court in the main terminal has some padded benches.

Car Rental Level: If you prefer warmer temperatures, you can leave the Departures level and head to the car rental level.

Airport Hotel: The airport hotel used to offer "day rooms" for an 8-hour rental at a discounted rate. This option includes access to a shower, pool, and other amenities.

Hotel Lobby: You may be allowed to hang out in the hotel lobby, but staff may wake you up if you fall asleep.

Outside Security: If you need to exit security during your layover and cannot re-enter right away, there are spots outside security where you can nap overnight.

Additionally, some travellers have mentioned The Club Orlando (MCO) Airside 4 as a place to rest and freshen up before a flight. However, there is a mixed review about sleeping in this lounge. While one traveller mentions being able to sleep, another traveller mentions being woken up by staff. It is best to check the latest reviews and guidelines before planning to sleep here.

Remember to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your belongings. Stay alert, keep your valuables hidden, and consider sleeping near other travellers or close to security.

Amenities

Orlando International Airport (MCO) does not have sleep pods. However, the airport does offer various other amenities for passengers needing rest. These include lounges with comfortable seating, quiet areas, and free unlimited WiFi. The airport also has an efficient hub-and-spoke layout, with a spacious pre-security main terminal (North Terminal) that is split into Terminals A and B, and a new Terminal C that opened in 2022.

The airport offers a range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, as well as various shops, including duty-free stores, boutiques, and newsstands. Several lounges are available for passengers seeking a quiet and comfortable place to relax, with amenities such as free WiFi, snacks, beverages, and comfortable seating. The food court in the main terminal has some padded benches, and the area around Gates 70-150 has a long padded bench for many people to rest on.

MCO is dedicated to accessibility, offering facilities such as accessible restrooms, elevators, and assistance services for passengers with disabilities. The airport also provides multiple transportation options, including taxis, ride-sharing services, shuttle buses, and public transit. The SunRail commuter train and Lynx bus services connect the airport to downtown Orlando and other key locations.

While the airport does not have specific sleeping pods, travellers have reported being able to sleep in various areas of the airport. These include the food court, around Gates 70-150, and in the landside and airside areas, which have wooden benches, armchairs, and small couches. It is important to note that travellers should take certain precautions when sleeping in the airport, such as being aware of safety and security risks and hiding their valuables.

Food and drink

Orlando International Airport (MCO) does not have sleeping pods, but it does offer lounges with comfortable seating and quiet areas for passengers needing rest. The airport has a range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, catering to those seeking a quick snack or a full meal. Various cuisines are available to satisfy different tastes and preferences.

Several lounges in the airport provide access to free Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, and comfortable seating for passengers seeking a quiet and relaxing environment. These lounges can be a great place to unwind and recharge before your flight. Additionally, MCO offers a variety of shops, including duty-free stores, boutiques, and newsstands, allowing travellers to purchase travel essentials, souvenirs, or browse for leisure.

The spacious pre-security main terminal, known as the North Terminal, is divided into Terminals A and B, with a recently opened Terminal C. The airport's efficient hub-and-spoke layout provides ample dining options both pre-security and inside the secure areas. Travellers can also take advantage of the free, unlimited WiFi and numerous charging outlets throughout the airport, especially in the secure zones.

When it comes to specific food and drink options, MCO offers a diverse selection. The airport is known for its variety of cuisines, ensuring that travellers can find something to suit their tastes. From quick bites at the food court in the main terminal to the more relaxed atmosphere of the bar and restaurant located near the hotel, MCO caters to different preferences and budgets.

It is important to note that some travellers have reported instances of theft, so it is recommended to be cautious and keep valuables secure and out of plain sight. Additionally, staying alert and keeping an eye on your belongings is always a good idea when travelling. Overall, MCO provides a range of food and drink options to cater to different needs, whether you're looking for a quick snack on the go or a more substantial meal before your flight.

Frequently asked questions