@bankr63 - You mention that the SunPass greatly reduces the tolls.. How much of a reduction is there? We normally only travel to Florida once a year. We spend maybe $5 to $10 on tolls each year. We've learned from past experience that it isn't worth the time to try avoid toll roads - the time saved was well worth it. We've only paid cash for tolls in the past though. This year I investigated the SunPass at the Florida Welcome Center, but I wasn't completely clear on how it worked, and if there was any potential savings.
As with all things Orlando, the answer is "it depends". There are actually two tolling authorities in the Orlando area, SunPass (state wide) and E-Pass (Central FL only). They do inter-operate, and as a matter of fact, portions of the 417 are run by both (SunPass at either end, and E-Pass in the middle). With a SunPass transponder you get a better reduction on the SunPass section, about 40% IIRC. There is also a toll reduction on the E-Pass section over cash, but not as significant. You probably save about $2-3 per trip over cash tolls, but there is the added convenience of flying by the toll plazas at 70 MPH instead of stopping, waiting, and fumbling with change.
We have the mini-transponder in both our vehicles ($5 ea) which sticks to the windshield behind the rear view mirror. You can also get a portable transponder for $20 and move it to any vehicle. Note that they will mail the transponders to Canada (for free) so you can be setup before you leave. Once you get the transponder, you register it to your vehicle online at the SunPass site (they accept out-of-state plates). If you register a Credit Card for EasyPay, the transponder will auto-refill as you use the funds, my account is set to the minimum $10 threshold, $10 top up, so I always have between $10-20 tied up on the pass. You can also add funds to the account manually if you prefer, but I like it easy. The mini pretty much pays for itself on one trip, although I'm in it for the convenience more than the savings.
One additional benefit is you can also use the pass for parking at MCO. Helpful if you are picking up family flying in/out at different times.
It does sound like a lot, but it is really easy to setup, and IMO worth it for the peace of mind. We only use ours about once a year (or less), although if the states ever pay attention to the bill that passed congress a few years ago mandating universal tolling we may be able to use our SunPass throughout the United States including visits to the North East states.
