? for EA experts RE: minivan availability

[BWVDenise]

I've only used National's EA once, so I don't have much experience and my SIL has a question for you...
They will be arriving Nov 3rd (Sat) in Orlando and would like to use EA. They will have 6 in the party, including 2 children in child seats. They feel they will need a van but are worried that one will not be available. What are the chances that there won't be one there? Last time we were there, there was a whole aisle of minivans but it wasn't at a busy time. This will be "jersey week."
Any thoughts?
Thanks!

 

[Gillian]

Just one thought -- Reserve a van!! With 6 people it's not worth taking a chance that you won't get what you really need. I don't know if full size cars even hold 6 people anymore. Do they still have front bench seats?

Reserve a van, choose Emerald choice, and they will be able to choose their own van.

 

[sgtdisney]

You are only guaranteed a full size care. Many 'full size' cars only seat 5 people. If you have to upgrade at the counter to a minivan you will pay big $$$$$. Save yourself the possible hassle and just reserve a minivan now. If you shop around enough you may be able to find one at an OK price. This is, of course, just my opinion.

 

[DebbieB]

When I arrived on Saturday, May 12, around noon there were no vans in the aisle. About 10 full size sedans & 2 pick-ups. I walked by again when I returned it on Friday May 18, there were only 4 or 5 full size, 2 SUV's and a P/U. On the other hand, the aisle was loaded with vans when I was there in February.

Are there 2 adults with 2 different EA cards? How about making 2 reservations and then use a pay phone to cancel one when they get there after they check the aisle.

 

[Beverly Lynn]

when we used them last feb it was SUV heaven! it was all suv's one cadillac and one pick up truck. when we returned the blazer mon morn it was all full size and one mini van and one SUV, one pick up. so I guess it is the luck of the draw.

 

[grumpyandbashful]

I agree with the others - to be sure, she'd better reserve a minivan! Dollar often has good weekly rates (try KISS or FVG code). Or bid on priceline. We have 5, and are hoping there's a least a premium on the aisle when we arrive in June. It's all we're going to be able to do to fit all of us and all our bags in a full-size!

 

[cindala]

We rented a compact (got a Neon) for 4 of us two years ago. We were surprized what we fit in the trunk, and what didn't fit in the trunk, we put in between people in the back seat or on their lap. It was only tight with the luggage, but once we were checked in, the car was a perfect size.

So if you can manage the ride from the airport, a smaller car might work for you.

 

[Lewisc]

National says a full size car is a Regal (or similar) and seats 5. You should NEVER reserve a car smaller than you need. Free upgrades (including EA) are not guaranteed. Many people have reported min-vans on EA, others (including myself) have found no extras on EA. Reserve a min-van, keep trying for better rates. Alamo just had a 199 rate for a minivan, you might also try Hotwire or Priceline