What to Consider When Planning a Bus Trip

Passengers on motorcoaches and bus trips log more than 60 billion miles a year, collectively, on coach bus rentals and trips. Traveling by coach is an excellent way to see the country, and it’s also a great way to transport a large number of people a short distance, such as to a wedding, party, or other event.

With that in mind, you might be thinking about planning a bus trip of your very own for an event, trip, or other gathering. There are some numbers to crunch and decisions to make before you book your trip. Here are a few recommendations on what to consider when planning a bus trip where you’ll need to book a tour bus rental.

Decide What Type of Coach You Need

Charter bus rental companies often offer a variety of vehicles from small buses to full-sized coach buses. Your rental company may even provide vehicles with different types of amenities or accommodations, which can influence the type and size of vehicle you require.

In addition to figuring out what type of conveyance you need, you’ll also need to think about whether you’ll need any equipment or specific amenities with your coach. For example, if you’re planning a sightseeing tour, you might have a tour guide schedule to accompany you on the journey. Will you need audio equipment to assist the tour guide?

If you have questions about which type of vehicle you will need, your coach bus rental company will have all the answers.

Consider the Needs of Your Travelers

Companies like Austin Charter Services provide many different amenities with each tour bus rental, but you may have specific issues that need to be addressed before you finalize which coach will serve you best.

For example, do you have anyone on the tour who may require assistance getting in and out of the coach? You might want to discuss renting a coach that offers mobility features or equipment. If you’re not sure if anyone will need assistance getting into the coach, it’s usually best to err on the side of caution and provide such accommodations.

Determine the Entire Cost for the Trip

Your charter bus company will provide a list of standard charges that you’ll see on your bill, but there are other costs that you may need to factor into your budget. You can usually clarify these charges by having these questions on hand when you contact your bus company:

• Are tolls and parking fees included with the price of the coach rental?
• Is a tip (or gratuity) required for the driver, or is this cost included?
• For overnight trips, are hotel/motel fees factored into the cost?

Experienced bus rental companies like Austin Charter Services should have all the facts and figures on hand when it comes to included and excluded fees.

Ask About the Coach Bus Company’s Safety Record

Just as your tour bus rental company should provide clear and concise numbers on fees and charges for your trip, they should also act transparent and forthcoming with their safety record. It’s your right and responsibility to inquire about items like safety and the experience of your driver.

You can get a good idea about your tour bus company’s commitment to safety by examining whether the company belongs to essential trade organizations and asking about the training each driver must complete before beginning work with the coach bus company.

Book Your Austin Charter Bus Rental

If you’re in the planning stages for a sightseeing tour or an event where you’ll need to transport several friends, family members, students, or coworkers, Austin Charter Services is here to offer you safe and experienced transportation. Contact us today to learn more about our charter bus transportation services, as well as to inquire about coach availability.