When planning a special event, one of the most memorable ways to transport your group is by renting a party bus. These luxury vehicles have become increasingly popular for birthdays, weddings, proms, and other celebrations, offering a fun and safe way to travel together.
However, the cost of renting a party bus can vary widely depending on several factors.
This guide will break down the elements that influence party bus costs, helping you make an informed decision for your next event. While we are based in Austin, Texas, you’ll find this information helpful for where ever you plan on booking.
Overview of party bus costs
In general, if you book with an affordable party bus company like Fly-Rides, you can expect to pay around $125-$175 per hour. However, if you want a bunch of bells and whistles you will probably be paying something like $225 per hour or perhaps even over $300 per hour for larger buses in big cities.
Weekends, holidays, and special events will typically increase the price and you need to be aware of any hidden costs like gratuity, services fees, etc.
Tip: Use the party bus calculator to get an estimate of how much you can expect to pay!
Factors Influencing Party Bus Costs
If you’re curious about the cost of renting a party bus, know that the price is influenced by multiple factors.
Below, we will show you how to break down these factors so that you’ll know exactly what to expect when it comes to the cost of your next party bus rental.
The type of company you book with
The biggest factor in the cost is what type of company you go with.
Fly-Rides is designed to be affordable while other companies know people will pay a premium. The differences can be pretty dramatic. For example, a six hour rental with us in Austin can be as cheap as $700. Meanwhile, one local competitor will charge you $1,260, so you’re potentially spending up to $500 more for your transportation!
So if you’re looking for a budget friendly rate, try going with a company known for being affordable like Fly-Rides. Start your booking here.
Size of the Party Bus
Another big factor affecting the cost is the size of the bus.
Party buses come in various sizes, typically accommodating groups ranging from 10 to 50 passengers. For your typical six hour outing, a 24 passenger party bus/van with a bunch of bells and whistles may cost you around $1,200 to $2,000.
But if you went with something like a 50 passenger bus at Fly-Rides, you’d be looking at a price range of $700 to $1,000 on a weekday or $1,000 to $1,200 on a weekend. So as you might expect the price per passenger drops down quite a bit with the larger buses.
Duration of the Rental
The length of time you rent the bus is another important factor. Some companies have a minimum rental time, usually 3 to 5 hours. For your average party bus outing, you’re probably looking at a booking of six hours.
Sometimes companies offer pretty straightforward pricing that you can workout on a per hour basis. Budget-friendly companies like Fly-Rides are generally charging around $125-$175 per hour. Meanwhile, other companies could easily be charging $225 to $300+ an hour.
Additionally, some companies offer discounts for longer rentals. At Fly-Rides, we offer a bundle discount on longer bookings that may span multiple days or a weekend. Start your booking here.
Day of the Week
The day of the week you choose can have a major impact on the cost of a party bus.
Renting a party bus on a weekend, particularly on a Friday or Saturday, will typically be more expensive than on a weekday.
This is due to higher demand for party buses on weekends when most people are holding events.
Just how big can the difference be?
Well, you could be looking at an increased price of 30% to 50% when booking on a weekend versus a weekday. It all depends on the company.
If you’re looking to save money, consider planning your event on a less popular day, such as a Monday through Thursday.
Time of Year
Seasonality can play a role in pricing as well.
Party bus rentals may be more expensive during peak seasons, such as the summer months or around major holidays.
For example, during prom season (April to June), prices often see a noticeable increase as high school students across the country rent buses for their big night. In some states, October is a popular month for weddings due to favorable weather, leading to increased demand and higher prices during this time as well.
Additionally, college and university events such as sorority and fraternity rush weekends can drive up costs, especially in college towns where party bus rentals are popular for these types of events.
Certain holidays, like Halloween and Christmas, also tend to have higher rental rates since everybody is feeling all kinds of festive. (Fly-Rides actually offers a special Halloween discount during October.)
During the holiday season (November to December), many companies hold year-end parties, and families organize holiday gatherings, both of which often require group transportation. This increased demand can result in higher prices.
Location
The cost of renting a party bus can vary depending on your geographic location. In larger cities with higher living costs, such as New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago, you can expect to pay more for a party bus compared to smaller towns or rural areas.
And when we say a lot more we mean a lot.
For example a New York City party bus company is charging $3,500 for a six hour 50 person bus. Compare that to our highest price which is at $1,200. What a difference location can make!
Additionally, if your event requires the bus to travel a significant distance, you may incur additional fees for mileage.
For example, if your round trip is something like 60 miles, Fly-Rides will not charge you for the distance. But if you need to go from San Antonio to Austin, then you’ll need to cover an additional expense for that extra mileage. This may add something like $100 to your cost but it’s best to just talk to the rental company to work that out.
Amenities and Features
Party buses come equipped with various amenities, which can significantly impact the cost. Luxe buses with premium amenities like a dance floor, karaoke machines, bars, and even hot tubs will come at a higher price.
This is where Fly-Rides stands out as a budget-friendly option for party buses. We provide you with the core party bus experience (transport, music, and fun) so you can save a lot and spend that money elsewhere like on your special event or when you’re having fun bar hopping – whatever your preference.
Our philosophy is that no amount of flat screen TVs or lava lamps is going to help you connect better with your friends so that’s the way we approach the business.
Additional Costs
Beyond the base rental fee, there may be additional costs or even hidden fees to consider:
- Gratuity: Many companies automatically add a gratuity charge for the driver, typically around 10-20% of the total cost. Here’s how much you should really tip.
- Fuel Surcharge: If the bus needs to travel a long distance, you might be charged a fuel surcharge.
- Cleaning Fees: Excessive messes or damages may result in additional cleaning fees.
- Overtime Fees: If your event runs longer than expected, you may incur overtime fees, which can be higher than the standard hourly rate.
How to Save Money on a Party Bus Rental
While party bus rentals can be expensive, there are several ways to save money:
a. Book an affordable company
Like we mentioned, I think about what you really want out of the party bus experience. If it’s really about having a good time with your friends, jamming out to some music, and not having to worry about driving and parking, then why not save hundreds of dollars going with an affordable party bus company?
b. Share the Cost
If you’re celebrating with a large group, splitting the cost among all passengers can make the rental more affordable per person. For example, if a bus costs $1,000 for the night and you have 20 passengers, each person would only need to contribute $50. For that reason, party buses can be incredibly cost-effective.
c. Be Flexible with Timing
If your event doesn’t need to happen on a specific date, consider being flexible with the timing. As mentioned earlier, weekday rentals and off-peak seasons can offer lower rates. Make sure you are aware of any special events happening in the city plan on looking to avoid those high prices.
d. Limit the Extras
While luxury amenities can enhance the experience, they also come at a cost. Consider what features are essential for your event and which ones you can do without to keep costs down.
e. Compare Prices
Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Contact multiple rental companies to compare prices and services. Some companies may be willing to negotiate or offer discounts, especially if you’re renting during a slower time.
Conclusion
Renting a party bus can be a fantastic way to elevate any event, offering a unique blend of transportation and entertainment. However, costs can add up quickly depending on the size of the bus, duration of the rental, and additional features.
By understanding the factors that influence pricing and following some cost-saving tips, you can ensure that your party bus rental is both enjoyable and within your budget. Whether you’re celebrating a wedding, birthday, or just a night out with friends, a party bus can provide an unforgettable experience worth the investment.