About Party Buses in Los Angeles

In car-crazy Los Angeles, you can rent any kind of vehicle to take you in style to a party or ceremony. But how about having a party within the vehicle itself? Enter the party bus, which lets you and your friends celebrate before you reach your destination. Or better yet, make the bus the destination as it drives around picking up celebrants.

Description

Dance floor

A party bus is a "nightclub on wheels" that holds from 12 to 50 people. A professional driver ensures safety. At minimum, the vehicle contains lounge chairs, a high-end sound system, mood-lighting and an ice chest for drinks. High-end models can boast a bar, dance floor, disco lights, video screens, VIP room and even a bathroom, which is critical for longer trips.

Company

Lounge

Is the rental company a broker or owner? While a broker can have access to more buses, they add a layer of red tape between you and the bus company. On the other hand, by eliminating the middleman, an owning company can offer better prices and handle problems more efficiently. (LA Party Bus is an example of an owning company, with a link in Resources.)

Drinks

Water

Most party buses include water and soft drinks but not alcohol or food, which you need to provide. If you serve alcohol, all passengers must be 21 and over. You may want to forgo any included breakables, such as champagne flutes and wine glasses, because breakages are your responsibility. Bring your own instead. Find out how the rental company handles spills, accidents (such as throwing up) and other cleanup.

Cost

VIP room

Rental prices depend on the vehicle type and day of the week, with a minimum rental of 4 or 5 hours. Weekends costs are higher. For example, a 30-seat bus can cost $120 on a Tuesday, while a 44-capacity double-decker bus can cost $200 per hour on a Saturday night. This price may or may not include a tip for the driver, which is typically 15 percent and up. To reduce the cost, ask about any package deals such as for sporting events, casino trips and club tours.

Limitations

Second level partying

Any changes in route, number of hours or itinerary costs more, so discuss all possibilities ahead of time. Typically two pickup and drop-off points are included, with more costing extra. Find out what the limits are on number of miles traveled and the number of hours a driver can work per day. Overnight trips (such as to Vegas) require a room for the driver though many hotels offer a free room when you book a group.

References

• Prices
• FAQ
• LA Party Bus

Resources

• LA Party Bus