Who do you have to impress? School bus rentals are cheap, can seat a lot of people, and are ideal for relatively short trips.
We all remember how fun it was to ride the school bus as children. Kids throwing chewed gum and hurling insults at one another. The bus driver threatening to pull over every three minutes. The ridiculously flabby fat that would swing from the bus driver’s arm. Okay, so maybe the school bus wasn’t that much fun, but it got you where you needed to be. And during this rough economic climate, that’s all one can ask for. Hey, we can’t all be Carson Dalys, riding around in our stretch Hummer limos and jet skis made out of platinum.
What is it?
Yes, it’s true. Many different charter bus companies are offering school bus rentals these days as a cheap alternative to more expensive, amenities-laden coach and charter buses. Essentially, we’re talking about a big yellow bus (white may also be available). Needless to say, this is a no frills experience. Generally speaking, there is no on-board bathroom, no air conditioning, and limited luggage storage.
But enough of the setbacks. If you’re looking to travel with a large group of people for a relatively cheap rate, then renting a school bus should be your number one choice. Most charter bus rentals will offer both large buses and minibuses, with some of the larger fleets offering wheelchair accessible buses. Large buses will be able to seat somewhere around 50 adults (or 72 children) and for small buses, 20 adults (or 30 children).
All school bus rentals should come with a driver, though you may be able to work out a deal with a rental company if you have the proper license to operate a school bus, thus saving you even more money.
Who needs it?
School bus rentals are ideal for large groups who are traveling short distances. The most common uses are for field trips, recreation league sports teams, family reunions, religious transportation, camps and youth groups, business events, and nonprofit organizations.
Benefits
As stated earlier, the biggest advantage to renting out a school bus is that they are remarkably cheaper than coach buses (though for obvious reasons). While prices may vary from company to company, the average cost of a school bus rental could be as cheap as $15 per person. Obviously, you’ll have to take into account how long you’ll be renting the bus, how big the bus is, and how many people you’re riding with.
Also, some charter bus companies, such as First Student Charter Bus Rental, will perform special services. This may include multiple pick-ups (just like waiting at the bus stop as a kid, except minus all the bullies) and event transportation management and oversight.
Risks
Because school buses are not generally equipped with air conditioning, you’ll want to be cognizant of the weather when you rent one out. Of course, this problem was solved in grade school by throwing water balloons, though the rental companies may not be too fond of that.
You’ll also want to consider the length of the trip, as the ride may not be ideal for long trips. For instance, there is not a lavatory located on school buses, which could be a problem if the passengers are retirement home residents going on a field trip.
The bottom line
Who do you have to impress? School bus rentals are cheap, can seat a lot of people, and are ideal for relatively short trips. If that sounds perfect for your event, bust out your pens and get ready to scribble “School Stinks” on the seat in front of you (actually, don’t do that because they’ll probably charge you).
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