Are you planning a huge family reunion? Trying to get everyone together for a company retreat? Just trying to have some fun with your friends? No matter the reason or the occasion, renting a charter bus is often the first step in making your adventures simple and stress-free.
But wait, what if you've never used a charter bus before?
Not to worry--you've come to the right place. Today we'll help you get started on the right foot!
Charter Bus 101
The first thing you need to do--let's call it "step 0"--is learn what a charter bus actually is and whether it's right for your transportation needs.
Put simply, a charter bus is like a car rental--but instead of a minivan or a cool muscle car, you get one of several different kinds of buses. Another difference is that, rather than driving yourself around, you also get a designated driver who knows how to handle the bus on the road and can confidently navigate traffic, the best routes, and more.
Keep in mind that a charter bus doesn't have to look any specific way. You can choose different models depending on your needs (more on that later). There are generally four kinds available:
- School buses: Large, yellow, and instantly recognizable, school buses are an easy way to transport large groups--generally over shorter distances.
- Shuttle vans: Shuttle vans are your most compact option, but they're a great choice for small groups looking to navigate with more agility.
- Mini coaches: Mini coaches look somewhat like school buses, but they have different seating and are generally more comfortable. They can transport up to 30 passengers.
- Motorcoaches: These are the limousines of the charter bus world. A motorcoach is your best choice for large groups traveling long distances--and the comfort is unbeatable.
The Charter Bus Rental Process
With the basics out of the way, it's time to dive into the charter bus rental process. Here's what you should expect:
#1: Choose Your Bus
This is the official "Step 1," and it's maybe the most fun. That's because you get to look at different buses and decide which would be the best fit for your group and destination. Think about how long you'll be on the road, how many people will be with you, how much luggage you'll have, and whether you'll need any entertainment or other comfort amenities along the way. For example, if you're taking a big group, but you're only going across town, a school bus might be a great fit--but for a medium-sized group going to another state, you might want a motorcoach.
At this point, you'll also want to learn more about the costs of your trip. Charter bus prices tend to depend on the bus you choose, the length of your journey, and the dates of your travel. (Keep in mind that charter transportation also saves money on things like gas, parking, car rentals, and more!)
#2: Make Your Reservation
After you know the basics about your bus make and model, it's time to choose a charter transportation company. Remember to read reviews, peruse the website, and ask any questions you might have.
Once you've made a decision, you'll need to think about reservations. Unlike with rideshare apps, you can't call a charter bus on demand. It's critical to reserve your bus well ahead of time, especially if you plan to travel during a busy period, like Spring Break. Make sure you read and follow all reservation instructions--and in most cases, you should get a confirmation message that should be saved for future reference.
#3: Organize Your Group
Now that everything's all set, it's time to get your own ducks in a row--and in this case, the "ducks" are your friends, family, or colleagues. All travelers need to know things such as:
- When and where to arrive.
- Where to park personal vehicles.
- What and how much to pack.
- What amenities will be available on the bus.
- How long the drive will be.
#4: Relax
At last, it's time to enjoy your adventure. As soon as everyone's on the bus and ready to go, you can relax, look out the window, spend time with your group, take photos, or even play games. That's because your driver will handle everything, from navigation to parking.
Conclusion
Never rented a charter bus before? No problem! The process is easy--especially when you know what to expect. All you need to know is how many people you've got and where you're going, and we'll help with the rest.
Contact us today to get your adventure on the road!