Renting a charter bus is the easiest way to enjoy a group trip in Chicago. The other option would be to travel back and forth in separate cars or vans which would cause so much hassle to you and to your group. Chances are, you won’t be able to enjoy the trip the way you’re supposed to!
So save yourself all the stress and rent a charter bus.
Why You Should Rent a Charter Bus
Whether you are arranging a school trip, a family get-together or a tour with your co-workers, you can enjoy your outing by renting a charter bus. It is simply the best way to move any large group because everyone gets on and off together. There is less stress in trying to keep track of everyone which means that there is more time to enjoy the food and sights of your destination.
There’s also a lot of options when it comes to charter buses both in the size of the bus as well as the amenities offered. If you are traveling with a small group, there are bus rental services that offer a minibus which can accommodate 26 to 30 passengers. For a larger group, you can also rent buses that can accommodate up to 56 passengers.
These buses are equipped with a customized VCR, DVD player, and TV monitor to deliver entertainment for your ride. The larger motor coaches even have on-board restrooms so you and your group don’t have to worry about stopping the tour to go find a restroom. The smaller minibuses on the other hand have no restroom and have less storage space than the larger buses which means that they are better suited for short trips.
It is also one of the easiest ways to travel. With a charter bus, you only need to be there 15 to 30 minutes before departure and your driver and our guides will handle all the details. All you have to do is to enjoy the tour and take lots of pictures!
And lastly, traveling together by bus is an eco-friendly option. Imagine the difference you can make when the thirty to fifty of you leave your cars at home and tour Chicago by bus. You’ve cut carbon emissions in multiple folds!
So, it’s settled! You will be renting a charter bus on your upcoming trip to Chicago.
Next question is, how much does it cost?
Five factors that affect bus rental prices
There are many variables in estimating the cost of a charter bus. Here are the five main factors that affect bus rental prices.
Bus size
Not surprisingly, a 56-passenger motor coach costs more than a 28-passenger mini bus.
Our full-day excursion charter rate (~10 hours) on a 56-passenger motor coach is $1109 excluding gratuity. This service is only for driving around the Chicagoland area. The same charter for a 28-passenger mini bus is $889.
You only spend $220 more for twice the number of passengers. For larger groups, the savings help keep costs down. Not everyone needs the larger charter buses.
Distance
Another thing that the transportation company will need to know is how far and how long you will be traveling. Be sure that you are prepared to give them all the pickup and drop off locations as well as the time.
For out of state trips that require an overnight stay, there are additional costs. Drivers are required to take an 8-hour break after driving for 10 consecutive hours. If your itinerary requires more than 10 consecutive hours of driving, an additional driver will be supplied by the company. A second driver will, of course increase your cost but you and your group will be safer with drivers who are well rested. You will also need to pay and book your drivers hotel accommodation if you are going on out-of-town overnight trips.
Another part of the equation in distance is the number of miles driven. If the driver needs to go 10 miles back and forth to the destination, it is different from trekking across the country.
The drive from Chicago to Milwaukee is 98 miles. Let alone lengthier trips to other states. The longer the trip, the more the cost due to gas and other wear and tear on the bus.
Time
If we just need to shuttle a group there and back in 4 hours, the cost could be different than if it is a 10-hour trip. It depends on how long the driver has to wait and what the cost of parking is in that area.
Additionally, time also refers to the time of year. Costs possibly change at certain seasons due to additional charges. For example, the holiday season might incur overtime charges if you want a driver for Christmas or the New Years.
Fees
Also, the destination might have separate charges. For example, both O’Hare and Midway Airport pickups have a $54 Airport Fee. The City of Chicago charges a $9 City Fee whenever you pick up or drop off a charter group.
Also, some amenities on our bus come extra. For example, Wi-Fi costs vary based on usage.
There isn’t a one-price-fits-all when it comes to charter bus cost so the best way to know is to contact the bus rental company and inquire about their pricing. In the Chicagoland Area, Chicago Motor Coach, Inc. is one of the most referred Bus Rental Companies. You can choose from their minibuses which can accomodate 26 to 36 people to their motor coaches which can board up to 56 passengers. All you have to do is to call them up at 847-260-9797 and give them the following details:
- Dates
- Group size
- Occasion
- Pick up/drop off location(s)
- Destination
If you want to arrange a trip to see the best of The Windy City, the Chicago Motor Coach Inc. will help you organize the group transportation for your tour. For further questions about our prizes, please contact us at 847-260-9797 and let us know how we can help you.