10 Essential Tips for Planning Your Charter Bus Trip

Planning a charter bus trip can be exciting, but there's a lot to think about. We've been helping folks in Salt Lake City plan their group travels since 2014, so we know a thing or two about making these trips smooth and fun. Here's what you need to know to get your charter bus adventure rolling!

1. Choosing the Right Bus for Your Group

You need to pick the right bus. It's like choosing the perfect shoes for a hike; you want something that fits just right. We've got all sorts of buses, from cozy minibuses that seat about 18-25 people to big coaches that can fit up to 56 passengers. Think about how many friends you're bringing along and how much stuff you'll all have.

For smaller groups or short trips, a minibus might be just the ticket. But if you've got a big crew or you're going on a long journey, you might want to spring for a full-size coach. These big buses come with lots of space and cool stuff like bathrooms on board - super handy for those long rides!

When selecting your bus, consider not just the number of passengers, but also the duration of your trip and the amenities you'll need. For example, if you're planning a corporate retreat, you might want to opt for a bus with tables and power outlets for laptops. For a school field trip, a bus with a DVD player and screens could be ideal for educational videos en route. Explore our fleet to find the perfect match for your group's needs.

2. What to Pack for Your Bus Trip

Packing for a bus trip is a bit different from packing for other types of travel. You don't have to worry about tiny airplane bottles or heavy suitcases you can't lift. But you still want to be smart about what you bring. Most of our buses let you bring 1-2 big bags per person, plus something to carry on the bus with you.

Think about bringing stuff that'll keep you comfy and entertained. A soft pillow, a cozy blanket, and some snacks are always good ideas. Don't forget to pack your phone charger - most of our buses have outlets so you can keep your gadgets juiced up. And maybe bring a book or download some movies to your tablet for the ride.

For longer trips, consider packing a small toiletry bag with essentials like a toothbrush, deodorant, and any medications you might need. It's also wise to bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey. If you're traveling with kids, pack some quiet activities like coloring books or card games to keep them entertained.

3. Planning Your Trip Schedule

When you're planning your trip, it's good to think about more than just where you're going. You'll want to plan for breaks too. Even though our buses are comfy, everyone needs to stretch their legs now and then. Plus, you'll need to stop for food and bathroom breaks if you're on a long trip.

Try to plan your stops about every 2-3 hours. This keeps everyone happy and helps the driver stay fresh too. Speaking of drivers, all of ours have special licenses called CDLs, so you know you're in good hands.

When crafting your itinerary, consider the interests and needs of your group. If you're traveling with seniors, you might want to plan more frequent, shorter stops. For a youth sports team, you could schedule stops at parks where they can stretch and play. Don't forget to factor in time for unexpected delays or traffic. It's always better to arrive at your destination a bit early than to feel rushed.

4. Booking Your Charter Bus

Ready to book? Here's how it works. First, you'll want to get a quote from us. You can do this by giving us a call or filling out a form on our website. We'll ask you about when you want to travel, where you're going, and how many people are coming along.

Once you've got your quote and you're ready to book, we'll usually ask for a deposit. This is usually about 30% of the total cost. The rest of the money is due about 30 days before your trip. Remember, the price can change based on things like how long your trip is, how far you're going, and what time of year it is.

To ensure you get the best deal, consider booking during off-peak seasons if your schedule allows. Weekday trips are often less expensive than weekend trips. If you're flexible with your dates, ask about different options to find the most cost-effective choice. Also, be sure to inquire about any group discounts or special promotions we might be running.

5. Special Needs and Requests

We want everyone to have a great trip, so if you or someone in your group has special needs, just let us know. We have buses that are easy for people in wheelchairs to use. These buses have lifts and special spots for wheelchairs inside.

If you need anything else special for your trip, like extra storage space or specific entertainment options, just ask. We'll do our best to make it happen!

Our commitment to accessibility extends beyond just wheelchair accommodations. We can also arrange for buses with features like larger text displays for visually impaired passengers or assistive listening devices for those with hearing impairments. If anyone in your group has dietary restrictions, we can help plan stops at restaurants that cater to those needs. Don't hesitate to discuss any special requirements with us - we're here to ensure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable journey. .

Charter Bus Types and Passenger Capacities

Full-Size Coach

Minibus

Mini Coach

Shuttle Bus

School Bus

6. Fun Things to Do on Your Bus Trip

Long bus rides can be a blast if you plan some fun stuff to do. You could have a singalong, play some games, or even watch a movie together if your bus has TV screens. It's a great chance to chat with your friends or make new ones if you're traveling with a group you don't know well yet.

If you're the quiet type, our buses are comfy enough for napping too. Just remember to be respectful of others - use headphones if you're listening to music or watching something on your device.

For group activities, consider bringing along some travel-friendly games like trivia cards or a deck of playing cards. If your group is up for it, you could organize a bus-wide scavenger hunt, where passengers look for specific landmarks or items along the route. For longer trips, you might want to create a shared playlist that everyone can contribute to, ensuring a diverse mix of music for the journey.

7. Wrapping Up Your Charter Bus Plans

Planning a charter bus trip doesn't have to be hard. Just remember to choose the right bus, pack smart, plan your schedule with breaks, and book early. Whether you're heading out for a school trip, a family reunion, or a big corporate event, a charter bus can make getting there half the fun.

We've been helping folks in Salt Lake City and beyond have great bus trips for years. So if you have any questions or you're ready to book your trip, just give us a shout. We're here to help make your next group adventure awesome!

Remember, the key to a successful charter bus trip is in the details. Make sure everyone in your group is informed about the itinerary, what to pack, and any rules or expectations for the trip. Consider creating a shared document or group chat where you can communicate important information and updates. If you're planning a trip for a large group or organization, you might want to designate a point person for questions and concerns.

Key Points for Charter Bus Trip Planning

• Choose the right bus: Full-size coaches, minibuses, mini coaches, party buses, or sprinter vans
• Pack smart: Comfortable clothing, snacks, water, chargers, headphones, and entertainment devices
• Plan your schedule: Include regular breaks for restrooms, food, and stretching
• Book early: Get a quote, pay deposit (30%), full payment due 30 days before trip
• Consider amenities: WiFi, power outlets, TVs, restrooms, and luggage storage
• Respect fellow passengers: Use headphones for music or videos
• Budget wisely: Consider trip duration, distance, seasonality, bus size, and amenities
• Check luggage allowance: Typically 1-2 large bags per person plus carry-on
• Professional drivers: CDL-licensed drivers provided for all trips
• Accessibility options: ADA-accessible buses available upon request

Happy travels, everyone!

Back