How to Hire a Tour Bus
If you are hitting the road for a tour and need a mode of transportation that is comfortable and spacious, consider renting a tour bus instead of flying or traveling by car. Traveling by tour bus can cost the same as traveling by car or plane when you factor in the money you will save on hotel rooms. Many bus companies will also provide extra perks like roadside assistance in case you get lost or break down so you can feel confident that you won't be stranded without a ride to your destination.
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Instructions
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Count the number of people in your group so you know how big of a bus you'll need. Most tour buses seat nine to 12 people comfortably. Determine for how long you will need the bus and how far of a distance you will be traveling. These factors will affect fuel and overall rental costs.
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2
Search a directory site such as www.busrates.com or www.charterbusamerica.com for a bus company that fits your needs. The sites offer a list of numerous bus companies and let you compare prices and company information.
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Contact each company and ask them to quote you a price. Rates and deposits often depend on the model, make and condition of the bus. Also ask how much of a security deposit the company requires. Inquire about extras such as who pays for the driver's accommodations, parking fees or tolls.
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Ask if the bus you are considering comes with air conditioning, a television, a DVD player and on-board restrooms as well as private sleeping areas.Though most tour buses come fully equipped, always double check.
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Ask for proof of insurance, driver's safety records and details about the cancellation policy. You don't want to get stuck with an expensive repair or a bad driver. Find out if you will get your deposit back if you cancel the deal.
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Narrow down the list to three bus companies. Eliminate the companies that are too expensive or don't provide the accommodations that you need. From that list, choose the bus company that best suits your needs. Pay your deposit and get all of the details and specifics of the deal in writing.
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Clean the bus and return it on time after your trip. These are common requirements in bus rental contracts, and failing to fulfill them will often result in a cleaning fee and a late fee being tacked on to your bill.
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Tips & Warnings
Give the bus company an itinerary of your trip so they are thoroughly prepared and have the route, travel time and distance calculated ahead of time.
References
- Photo Credit Bus. Bus in parking area/ parking lot/ car park image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com
