A few of the companies we’ve worked with
Flying into Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL)
For the ultimate convenience, flying directly into Lakeland Linder International Airport (3900 Don Emerson Dr, Lakeland, FL 33811) is the best option for groups looking to stay local. Home to the annual SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, this airport is a hub for aviation enthusiasts and is increasingly becoming a destination for commercial travel with carriers like Avelo Airlines offering direct flights to several U.S. cities. Because LAL is smaller than its neighbors to the east and west, the pickup and drop-off process here is significantly faster and less chaotic.
When you book a charter bus rental with Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland for a pickup at LAL, you avoid the long walks and confusing terminal maps associated with major hubs. Your driver can coordinate with your group leader to meet you curbside or at the nearest designated commercial vehicle area. We monitor flight statuses to ensure that even if your arrival is delayed, your transportation will be there waiting for you. Whether you are heading straight to a hotel in downtown Lakeland or directly to a meeting at the RP Funding Center (701 W Lime St, Lakeland, FL 33815), we ensure a smooth transition from air to road. The airport is conveniently located near the Polk Parkway, allowing for quick access to all points in Polk County.
Navigating Orlando International Airport (MCO) Transfers
Many groups visiting Lakeland choose to fly into Orlando International Airport (1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827) due to the sheer volume of flight options and international connections. Located approximately 55 miles northeast of Lakeland, MCO is one of the busiest airports in the country. Navigating ground transportation here requires expertise, and that is exactly what Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland provides. The drive from MCO to Lakeland takes about an hour via FL-528 and I-4 West, though traffic conditions can vary.
At MCO, commercial vehicles, including charter buses and minibuses, are required to use specific lanes on the Ground Transportation Level (Level 1) of both Terminal A and Terminal B. When you book with us, we will provide you with specific instructions on which door number to meet your driver at. We handle the coordination so your group isn't left wandering the terminal. Once aboard, your group can relax in air-conditioned comfort, utilize onboard WiFi to check emails, or recline their seats for a nap after a long flight. Instead of worrying about the notorious I-4 traffic, you can enjoy the ride while a driver handles the navigation to your Lakeland destination, such as Florida Southern College (111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland, FL 33801) or a local resort.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) Shuttle Services
To the west lies Tampa International Airport (4100 George J Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL 33607), another fantastic option for groups traveling to Lakeland. Located about 40 miles away, the trip from TPA to Lakeland usually takes around 45 to 50 minutes via I-275 and I-4 East. TPA is consistently rated as one of the most user-friendly airports in the country, and Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland ensures that your ground transportation experience matches that high standard.
Upon arrival at TPA, groups are met at the commercial vehicle quadrangles located at the ends of the baggage claim levels. Because parking a full-sized motorcoach requires specific staging areas, communication is key. The drivers stay in touch with your group contact to ensure the bus pulls up exactly when you are ready to load. This eliminates unnecessary waiting time in the Florida heat. With a private shuttle, you have plenty of storage space for luggage, golf clubs, or equipment if you are in town for a tournament. We can whisk you away from the coast and have you checking into the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lakeland (511 W Lime St, Lakeland, FL 33815) or exploring Hollis Garden (702 E Orange St, Lakeland, FL 33801) in under an hour.
The Benefits of Private Airport Shuttles vs. Public Transit
While public transportation options exist in Central Florida, they are not designed for the efficient movement of large groups with luggage, especially when traveling between cities. There is no direct train or rapid transit line connecting MCO or TPA directly to downtown Lakeland. Relying on public buses often involves multiple transfers, long wait times, and carrying heavy bags through the heat. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are convenient for solo travelers, but for a group of 20, 40, or 50 people, the costs and logistics of summoning multiple vehicles can be a nightmare—not to mention the risk of surge pricing during peak travel times.
By choosing Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland, you secure a private, dedicated vehicle for your group. This means everyone travels together, ensuring no one gets lost or left behind. Our buses offer ample undercarriage storage for suitcases, meaning your legroom isn't compromised by carry-ons. Inside, you have climate control—a non-negotiable necessity in Florida—as well as power outlets to charge devices before you reach your destination. It is a cost-effective, stress-free solution that prioritizes the comfort and safety of your group.
Corporate Travel and Executive Pickups
Lakeland is a growing hub for business, largely due to the presence of Publix Super Markets headquarters and a booming logistics industry. For corporate groups traveling to Lakeland for conferences, site visits, or board meetings, first impressions matter. Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland offers a fleet of sleek, modern vehicles perfect for executive transport. Whether you need a sprinter van for a small leadership team arriving at LAL or a full-sized charter bus for a convention delegation landing at MCO, we provide professional, punctual service.
Your team can turn travel time into productive time. With onboard WiFi and tray tables, employees can finalize presentations, answer emails, or hold impromptu briefings while en route to the RP Funding Center or local hotels like the Terrace Hotel Lakeland, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (329 E Main St, Lakeland, FL 33801). We understand that corporate schedules are tight. The drivers are committed to arriving early for pickups, ensuring that your itinerary stays on track. We can also arrange shuttle services between your hotel and corporate venues throughout your stay.
Handling Flight Delays and Schedule Changes
We know that air travel can be unpredictable. Weather delays, maintenance issues, and air traffic control holds can change your arrival time at a moment's notice. When you book with Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland, you don't have to panic if your flight schedule shifts. Our 24/7 reservation and dispatch team monitors flight information for all our airport pickups.
If your flight into Tampa is delayed by two hours, we adjust the driver's schedule accordingly. If your flight into Orlando arrives early, we do our best to have the bus ready for you sooner. We maintain open lines of communication with your group leader to adapt to these changes seamlessly. Our goal is to be the most reliable part of your travel day. You have enough to worry about when traveling; let us handle the ground logistics. Just give us your flight numbers when you book, and we will handle the rest.
Airport Transportation for SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo
One of the busiest times of the year for Lakeland is during the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, the second-largest event of its kind in the world. Thousands of visitors fly into LAL, MCO, and TPA to attend this week-long aviation spectacle. Hotels fill up quickly, and traffic around the airport can be heavy. Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland has extensive experience navigating the logistics of this major event.
We can organize shuttle loops for large groups attending the expo, transporting attendees from hotels in Tampa or Orlando directly to the expo grounds in Lakeland. By utilizing a charter bus, you reduce the number of vehicles on the road and avoid the headache of finding parking in crowded lots. We can also provide daily transport for exhibitors and VIP guests, ensuring they arrive at their booths or chalets refreshed and on time. If you are planning a trip for this event, we highly recommend booking your bus rental months in advance, as availability becomes limited during the expo week.
Book Your Lakeland Airport Transfer Today
Don't leave your airport transportation to chance. Whether you are landing at Lakeland Linder, Tampa International, or Orlando International, Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland has the fleet and the expertise to get your group to your destination safely and comfortably. We offer transparent pricing, modern amenities, and a commitment to customer service that is second to none. Our team is standing by 24/7/365 to answer your questions and build a custom itinerary for your trip.
Ready to get started? You can reach us by calling 863-213-3575. You can also use our online quote tool for instant online charter bus pricing in under 30 seconds. With just a few pieces of information, you can instantly see images and prices of available vehicles in your area. Let us take the wheel so you can enjoy your visit to beautiful Lakeland, Florida!
Frequently Asked Questions About Lakeland Airport Transportation
How much luggage can we bring on a charter bus?
One of the biggest advantages of renting a full-size charter bus is the storage capacity. Most 56-passenger motorcoaches feature spacious undercarriage luggage bays that can easily accommodate one large suitcase per passenger. Additionally, there are overhead bins inside the cabin for personal items like backpacks, purses, and laptop bags. If you are renting a minibus or sprinter van, storage space may be more limited, usually restricted to a rear cargo area. When booking, please let our reservation specialist know if your group will have excessive luggage or bulky equipment (like golf clubs or musical instruments) so we can recommend the correct vehicle size for your needs.
How far in advance should we book our airport shuttle?
We recommend booking your charter bus rental as soon as you have your flight details confirmed. Ideally, you should aim to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance. This is especially critical if you are traveling during peak seasons in Florida (spring break, winter holidays) or during major local events like the Detroit Tigers spring training or the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo. Booking early ensures you have the widest selection of vehicles and locks in the best possible rates. However, we understand that last-minute trips happen, and our 24/7 team will always do our best to accommodate short-notice requests.
Will the driver meet us inside the terminal at baggage claim?
Due to security regulations and commercial vehicle restrictions at airports like MCO and TPA, drivers are required to wait with their vehicles in designated commercial holding lots or loading zones. They cannot park and leave the bus to meet you at baggage claim. However, we make the meetup process easy. We will provide you with the driver's contact information and the bus number prior to your trip. Once your group has gathered their luggage and is ready at the curb, you call the driver, and they will pull up to the designated commercial loading zone to pick you up. At smaller airports like Lakeland Linder (LAL), curbside pickups are often much more direct and immediate.
Which airport is better to fly into for a trip to Lakeland: TPA or MCO?
Both Tampa International (TPA) and Orlando International (MCO) are excellent options, and the travel time to Lakeland is roughly similar (about 45-60 minutes) for both, depending on traffic. Your choice should largely depend on flight availability, price, and airline preference. MCO offers more international connections and a higher volume of flights, which might mean cheaper fares, but it can also be more crowded. TPA is often praised for its ease of navigation. Charter Bus Rental Company Lakeland provides service to both airports, so you can choose the flight that works best for your budget and schedule without worrying about ground transportation logistics.
What amenities are included on the bus for the ride from the airport?
Our fleet offers a variety of modern amenities to make your airport transfer comfortable. Most full-size charter buses and many minibuses come equipped with cushioned reclining seats, ample legroom, and powerful air conditioning—essential for the Florida climate. You can also request buses with WiFi and power outlets so passengers can charge their phones or catch up on work after their flight. Some buses also feature flat-screen TVs with DVD players and onboard restrooms (on larger motorcoaches). If you have specific amenity requests, simply mention them to our reservation agent when you call 863-213-3575, and we will match you with the perfect vehicle.
Bus types Available in Lakeland
We’re available everyday from 7am to midnight!
