Bus rental costs
Are you considering renting a bus and wondering about the costs? You’re not alone! The most common question we get is “How much does it cost to charter a bus?”
In short, there are two types of charters; hourly-based rentals for local trips, mileage-based trips for longer, over-the-road trips.
The two biggest cost factors are the bus type and your location. Additionally, seasons and large events can drive the costs up.
Typical bus charter costs
Here’s a quick overview of prices to give you a rough ballpark idea of what your bus charter cost might be. It’s important to understand that these are just general rates.
| Type of Bus | Per Hour | Per Day | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charter bus | $150-$250 | $1,800-$2,450 | $4.00-$6.00 |
| Minibus | $125-$195 | $1,350- $1,900 | $3.00-$5.00 |
| 12-14 Passenger Van | $95-$145 | $900-$1,300 | $1.50- $3.00 |
| School Bus | $95-$125 | $850-$1,250 | $2.50- $3.50 |
Hourly rentals for local area charters
For shorter trips within a city or metropolitan area, or trips where the bus is waiting while your group is enjoying other activities, charter buses typically charge by the hour.
Most companies require a minimum booking of four to five hours and the industry standard is that the rental time starts and ends at the bus depot. The time an empty bus drives to or from your charter is called “garage time.” This will be factored into your bill and will count against the minimum rental time on shorter trips. Rest assured that our representatives will always do their best to minimize your costs.
For example, a 55-passenger coach bus might cost between $150 to $250 per hour depending on the location and season. If your event lasts five hours and you add one hour of garage time, the total cost could range from $780 to $1,110 for a standard charter bus. Shorter distances or smaller groups can opt for a minibus, which is often more affordable.
Mileage-based over-the-road charters
When traveling out of state or over long distances, charter bus companies typically charge by the mile rather than the hour. These longer trips are where charter buses really shine in terms of cost efficiency, especially for large groups. Per-mile rates range from $3.50 to $5.50 for a full-sized bus, and while this might seem high, dividing the total cost by the number of passengers often results in significant savings compared to flying. For groups such as traveling sports teams, who have a lot of cargo, charter buses can offer huge cost savings compared to trying to check tens of bags with an airline.
Additional Costs
Besides the base rates, you should be prepared for extra charges such as parking fees, tolls, and driver accommodations if the trip lasts multiple days. For example, you may be required to book hotel rooms for your driver(s) if the trip extends beyond one day.
Seasonal Pricing
Like many travel services, charter bus prices can fluctuate based on demand. Peak seasons, such as spring and summer, when school trips and weddings are most common, tend to see higher prices. Special events such as concerts and festivals in certain cities can also drive up costs, as buses become scarcer during high-demand periods.
Charter bus pricing in a nutshell
Though prices may vary, here’s a rough estimate of charter bus rental costs based on the type of trip:
- Local charter (per hour): $130 – $185 for a charter bus, $125 – $175 for a minibus
- Long-distance charter (per mile): $3.50 – $5.50 for a full-sized bus
- Additional fees: Parking, tolls, driver accommodations
Call us with all your questions!
And if at any point you’d like to speak with a person to talk about your specific trip, you can call us at 866-556-3545. Our representatives would be happy to talk through the details, help you craft an itinerary, and calculate a price for your budgeting.
Understanding how charter bus prices are calculated can help you make an informed decision and potentially save on group transportation costs. Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, a school trip, or a social event, knowing how bus companies set their rates can give you the clarity you need to budget effectively. Let’s break down the key factors that influence charter bus pricing, from hourly rates for local charters to mileage charges for long-distance trips.
Get a quoteWays to save on your charter bus
Think about per-person costs
We suggest booking your bus as early as possible. Ideally, chartering a bus three to six months before your trip will give you the best pricing and ensure your preferred bus type and size are available. If you have a last minute trip, don’t worry! Our representatives will do their best to find a bus for your that fits your needs and budget.
Think about per-person costs
While charter bus quotes may seem high at first glance, splitting the cost per passenger is often surprisingly affordable. When compared with other transportation options, charter buses often end up being more cost-effective per passenger—and they’re always more convenient!
Confirm your group size
For the most accurate quote, you’ll want to have a finalized number of passengers before booking. Each passenger will need their own seat, so you cannot exceed the seating capacity of the bus even if your group grows. So shoot for the bus that’s just big enough for your group, which will also give you the best per-person pricing.
Book in the off-season
If your schedule allows, you can save a lot by booking your bus outside the peak months of April, May, and June. Typically the charter prices are cheapest in the off-season (December through February). The shoulder seasons typically have the average rental prices.
Still unsure about what your trip might cost?
Get a no-obligation quote for your charter bus trip!
Call us at 866-556-3545 to talk with one of our helpful representatives to get an accurate, personalized quote based on your exact trip. By understanding how these costs are calculated, you’ll be better equipped to plan and budget for your next group outing.