Booking a party bus for your next big event can be an exciting way to ensure your group has a fun and memorable experience. However, while you may have budgeted for the initial rental cost, there are often numerous hidden fees that can catch you off guard if you’re not careful.
At Fly-Rides, we don’t hit you with any hidden fees.
But other party bus companies might try to sneak in some hidden fees.
Understanding these fees upfront can help you avoid any unpleasant surprises when it’s time to pay the bill. So here are nine common hidden fees associated with booking a party bus that you should be aware of:
1. Fuel Surcharges
One of the most common hidden fees associated with party bus rentals is the fuel surcharge. Even if the rental company advertises a flat rate, you may find an additional charge for fuel added to your final bill.
It’s completely understandable for a party bus company to charge extra when you’re asking to get picked up way outside of their service area. But some companies will charge extra even if you’re getting picked up in their backyard!
Make sure to ask whether the quoted price includes fuel or if it will be charged separately. (Fly-Rides always includes the cost of fuel in your quote and it’s not an extra charge.)
2. Gratuity for the Driver
Gratuity for the driver is another fee that can sneak up on you. Many rental companies automatically add a gratuity fee to your bill, often ranging from 15% to 20% of the total cost.
While tipping is customary and expected, it’s important to know if this fee is already included or if you’re expected to tip the driver separately.
At Fly-Rides, we don’t include the tip as we trust our riders to make the call themselves – we know you’ll have an awesome time! Plus, our drivers are very experienced and know how to make sure you’ll have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Read more about tipping your drivers here.
3. Cleaning Fees
After a night of fun, the last thing you want is to be hit with an unexpected cleaning fee.
Pretty much every rental company is going to charge an extra fee if the bus requires more than a basic cleaning. This could include anything from spilled drinks to trash left behind – or in some cases, bodily fluids that escape (gross, we know).
Fly-Rides makes these fees very clear and you’ll see them listed in all caps on your contract. “THERE WILL BE A $200 FEE FOR EXCESSIVE TRASH LEFT ON BUS.” So there’s no surprises here.
The good news is that you can easily avoid these fees by helping to keep the bus clean throughout the ride and abiding by common party bus rules.
4. Overtime Fees
Party bus rentals typically come with a set number of hours included in the price. If your event runs longer than expected and you need to keep the bus for additional time, you may be charged an overtime fee.
Overtime fees can be steep, so it’s wise to plan your schedule carefully and build in a buffer to avoid this extra cost.
Fly-Rides will do our best to be flexible for you. If you need to change last minute we will work with you as long as we have availability. You will need to pay for the additional time which usually is around $200/hour but we do not set steep overtime fees.
5. Additional Mileage Fees
If your party bus rental includes a mileage limit, exceeding that limit can result in additional mileage fees. These fees are usually charged per mile and can add up quickly if you’re traveling a long distance.
Be sure to clarify the mileage policy with the rental company before booking, especially if your event involves traveling outside the city.
6. Alcohol Permits
Some party bus companies require you to purchase a special permit if you plan to consume alcohol on board. This fee can vary depending on the company and the local regulations.
It’s important to inquire about this fee in advance, as failing to comply with the company’s alcohol policy could result in additional fines or even the cancellation of your reservation. You don’t ever have to worry about this with Fly-Rides and we are BYOB friendly!
Want to book a party bus? Get a quote from Austin’s most affordable party bus company, Fly-Rides. We’re truly the “Costco of Party Buses.”
7. Parking and admission
Some party bus rentals may involve additional hidden costs for parking and admission fees at certain venues or destinations.
These fees can add up quickly, especially if your event includes multiple stops or visits to popular locations. It’s important to clarify with the rental company whether these costs are included in your package or if they will be charged separately.
Fly-Rides will always take extra effort to help you account for these potential expenses when planning your event to avoid any surprises on your final bill.
8. Booking Fees
Some companies charge a non-refundable “booking fee” or “service fee” when you reserve your party bus. This fee is often not included in the advertised price and can range from a small administrative charge to a significant percentage of the total cost. Always ask about any booking fees upfront so you can factor them into your budget!
We don’t mess around with these type of fake fees so you’ll never be surprised by these when you book with Fly-Rides.
9. Peak Time Surcharges
If you’re booking a party bus during a high-demand time, such as holidays, weekends, or special events, you may be subject to a peak time surcharge. This fee reflects the increased demand for party bus services during these times and can increase the cost of your rental.
Prices for our party buses may increase during high demand times but you’ll see this price reflected in your quote.
Planning your event during off-peak times can help you avoid the increased costs.
When booking a party bus, it’s important to be aware of these hidden fees to avoid any surprises. By asking the right questions and reading the fine print, you can ensure that your party bus experience is both fun and budget-friendly.
Always clarify the total cost with the rental company before signing any agreements. With a little preparation, you can enjoy your event without the worry of unexpected expenses.
And if you want to book a party bus experience without worrying about hidden fees, contact us today for a free quote.