It shouldn’t feel like rocket science to book quality group transportation. There’s a better way, and CharterUP has built it. We’ve created this straightforward guide that goes over some of the most common questions we get about charter bus rentals, so you can book with confidence and avoid the delays and hassle traditionally associated with coordinating group transportation.

When you’re ready to get started with your charter bus rental, just give our 24/7 team a call at 1 (855) 920-2287 or download our app for a free, transparent charter bus price quote in under 60 seconds. 

Charter Bus Types

What is a charter bus?

A charter bus, also known as a motorcoach or coach bus, is a vehicle used for private transportation by organizations, businesses, and groups of all sizes. Unlike other group transportation options, like splitting up into multiple cars or taking public transportation, a private charter bus with a driver will keep everyone together while following a custom schedule tailored to your group.

How many seats are on a charter bus?

A full-size charter bus typically has around 56 seats, but can vary anywhere from 36 to 60 seats depending on the manufacturer and model.

Does a charter bus come in multiple sizes?

Yes! In addition to the full-size charter bus, our network of bus rentals includes a number of different minibus models for compact transportation solutions. These vehicles range from an efficient 15-passenger minibus all the way to a 35-passenger minibus. These models are a great choice for a wedding party shuttle, an Orlando bus rental for family vacations to Disney World, and much more.

What is the difference between a charter bus, minibus, party bus, and entertainer bus?

While a charter bus, minibus, party bus, or entertainer bus rental from Charter UP all offer streamlined group transportation with the services of a professional charter bus driver, they are each designed with different trip types in mind.

A full-size charter bus is optimal for large groups of 36 or more who need storage space for luggage or an onboard restroom, neither of which are available on minibuses. These amenities also make it a recommended option for long-distance journeys.

A minibus rental can accommodate between 15 and 35 passengers, and is much more compact than a full-size motorcoach. This makes it ideal for quick trips around the city or as part of a larger fleet for an efficient construction crew shuttle service around large worksites.

A party bus is similar in size and seating capacity to a minibus, but its seats are arranged along the edge of the bus to create an open space in the middle. This extra space allows groups like bachelor or bachelorette parties to chat, dance, or play games while traveling.

An entertainer bus is similar in size to the full-size charter bus, but is designed for artists and celebrities on long-distance tours rather than large groups. An entertainer bus provides luxury accommodations for 8 to 12 passengers like a primary suite, sleeping bunks, lounge area, kitchen, restroom, storage compartments, satellite TVs, WiFi, and more. 

What does a charter bus look like?

From the outside, charter buses feature large, panoramic windows, allowing passengers to enjoy the view and some natural light during the day. Underneath the windows, you’ll notice doors that open to a large undercarriage storage space for luggage and equipment. In some cases, the exterior will also be painted with the company’s logo.

Once inside, you’ll see the driver’s seat right up front with rows of plush, comfortable seats for passengers behind it throughout the rest of the motorcoach. Above the seats, overhead bins offer storage space for personal items, keeping them safe and secure for the entire ride. Depending on the vehicle, there may also be a restroom at the very back of the coach bus.

What kind of groups use a charter bus?

All kinds of organizations utilize charter buses to easily transport groups of people around town and across the country, like sports teams, school groups, and businesses, to name a few. Here are some examples of trips we can help organize:

Charter Bus Amenities

What amenities are included in a charter bus rental?

Amenities will vary between vehicles, but most charter buses can come equipped with:

  • Cushioned, reclining seats
  • Air conditioning
  • A compact restroom
  • TV monitors
  • A DVD player
  • AM/FM radio
  • A PA system
  • Power outlets and USB ports
  • Overhead storage compartments
  • An undercarriage storage bay for luggage and other large items

Let your reservation specialist know about any amenities or features your group needs when you call so we can be sure to match you with the right bus rental.

What amenities are included in a minibus rental?

Minibuses are proof that good things come in small packages, and can come equipped with many of the same premium amenity options as our full-size motorcoaches, including:

  • Cushioned, reclining seats
  • Air conditioning
  • TV monitors
  • A DVD player
  • AM/FM radio
  • A PA system
  • Power outlets and USB ports
  • Overhead storage compartments

It is important to note that minibuses do not offer an undercarriage storage bay or onboard restroom. These features are only available on a full-size coach bus.

Do charter buses have WiFi?

Most modern buses have wireless internet, as well as power outlets and USB ports to keep personal devices charged while online. Be sure to confirm your rental has WiFi (and power outlets!) when booking if this is something that is important to your group.

Does a charter bus have storage space?

Yes, a full-size charter bus offers ample undercarriage storage for luggage and equipment as well as overhead storage bins, like the ones found on planes, to store personal items you might need during the ride. Plus, a charter bus doesn’t have any limitations on liquids, so you can bring that big bottle of shampoo along without worrying about it getting taken by TSA.

Does a minibus have storage space?

A minibus features overhead storage compartments, but does not have undercarriage storage, which is important to keep in mind if you’re traveling with bulky items like equipment and gear for sports team transportation.

Are there beds on a charter bus?

Standard charter buses and minibuses do not offer beds, but do have plush, reclining seats so passengers can rest while traveling.

If your group needs beds, we recommend chartering an entertainer coach, which typically offers between 8 to 12 bunk beds as well as a primary suite in the back.

Things to Know Before You Go

Is there anything I can’t bring on a charter bus?

Weapons, explosives, flammable materials, and dangerous chemicals are all prohibited on charter buses. If you aren’t sure about a particular item, just ask; your charter bus service provider will be happy to explain the policies further. Smoking is also prohibited on charter buses, but you are allowed to step out for a smoke break at rest stops along the way when the bus is stopped.

Are pets allowed on charter buses?

Most bus companies have a no-pets policy, so your furry friends will need to stay home. Service animals, on the other hand, are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act and are allowed to ride on the bus with a person who is disabled.

What are the restrooms like on a charter bus?

Onboard restrooms offer a toilet and a hand washing station, but are quite compact as space on the bus is limited, and it can be difficult for some passengers to navigate this space while the bus is moving. If possible, let your group know to take full advantage of the more spacious restrooms at fuel stops rather than relying heavily on the onboard restroom.

Can I drink alcohol on a charter bus?

Most charter bus providers are happy to allow passengers 21 and older to drink alcohol onboard as long as you respect the vehicle and keep it clean. Your provider may also require an additional, refundable deposit to cover any potential damages.

Can passengers bring food and drinks on a charter bus?

The majority of charter bus companies allow food and drinks onboard, but be sure to verify this with your bus company before your trip. Don’t forget to pick-up any trash or wipe up any spills before the end of your trip, as you may be charged a cleaning fee if there’s a mess left behind. Most buses have a small trash can at the front of the vehicle, but consider bringing a trash bag with you just in case there isn’t a trash can available on the bus.

Can I book more than one bus at a time?

Absolutely! With our transparent, online marketplace, you can easily create a custom fleet for anything from transportation for large conferences to tour group shuttle bus rentals in Chicago for your travel agency.

Are charter buses safe?

There are risks with any type of travel, whether you’re going by bus, plane, train, or automobile. However, we do our best to mitigate any potential risks and hold each charter bus provider in our network to the highest federal safety regulations so you can travel with peace of mind. Your charter bus rental can also come with additional safety features like seatbelts, GPS tracking, and more for enhanced security on the road. Don’t forget you’ll also have access to our 24/7 white glove support before, during, and after your trip for anything you may need.

Are charter buses wheelchair accessible?

All charter bus companies are required by law to provide ADA-accessible coaches upon request, but that doesn’t mean every single vehicle will have the ADA-compliant features your group needs. Make sure to let us know at least 48 hours in advance of your departure date if this is something your group requires, and we’ll connect you with an appropriate ADA-compliant bus rental at no extra cost.

Who drives a charter bus?

Each reservation with CharterUP includes the services of a licensed, professional charter bus driver to safely take you between each destination. This driver will have a Commercial Driver’s License with the coveted Passenger Endorsement, a clean background check, and spotless motor vehicle history record.

I have a CDL, can I drive the charter bus?

No. For everyone’s safety and convenience, passengers are not allowed to drive their vehicles. Each CharterUP bus rental includes the services of an experienced charter bus driver to take care of the navigation and traffic so you can relax and enjoy the ride.

Get Started on Your Charter Bus Reservation Today

How far in advance should I book my charter bus?

To get the best vehicle at the best rate, we recommend booking at least 1 to 3 months in advance. If you’re traveling during busy months like May or December, it’s ideal to book at least 6 to 9 months in advance if possible. No matter how far out you are from your group trip (even if it starts tomorrow!), our 24/7 team can match you with a charter bus rental in under 60 seconds.

Can I make changes to my itinerary after I book?

Absolutely! You can modify your trip at any time by calling our team or by managing your trip in the app. You can also talk to your charter bus driver if there are changes you want to make from the road, like adding an extra stop. Just know that any changes may affect the cost of your bus rental.

How much does a charter bus cost?

The cost of a charter bus rental can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including vehicle size, trip mileage and duration, and amenity requests. Thankfully, we make it easy to calculate the cost of your charter bus trip with transparent pricing and free, no-obligation quotes that you can get in under 60 seconds. Check out our handy charter bus pricing guide for more information on factors that can affect the price of your charter bus rental.

Do I need to tip my charter bus driver?

Tips are not required, but they are a great way to thank your driver for a job well done. If you would like to leave a tip, industry standard is 5-10% of the cost of the bus rental in cash.

How do I rent a charter bus?

It’s easy to rent a charter bus when you use our online quote builder! To get started, just be prepared with the key details of your trip:

  1. How many passengers are in your group?
  2. What are the addresses of your trip’s destinations, and what are your pickup and dropoff times?
  3. What day does your trip begin, and what is the duration?
  4. Will any members of your group require an ADA-accessible bus?
  5. Are there any bus amenities your group needs?

From there, we can get you connected with a quality charter bus rental that fits your group’s needs in under 60 seconds.