Bus Rentals: Why and How to Choose One

When to rent a bus?

When you go for renting a bus for your trip or event you need to think about two factors: a) how many people will need to be transported and b) how long will the passengers be travelling for. Out there, you will find wide variety of comfortable and affordable bus rental options to lodge the needs of any party and provide the best in suitable group travel solutions.
The best thing about bus rentals is how adaptable they are! From weddings and sports groups to student and tours, buses can help accommodate several kinds of group travel. As a matter of fact, charter buses are among the safest and most cost-efficient means of group transportation that’ll get you from point A to B (and back again!) as simply as possible.

We’ve put together some occasions for which bus rentals would be perfect.

For group of students and school events

Student life is vibrant and jammed with events. Whether these are happening on campus or away from the school ground, there are benefits to chartering a bus for the purposes of student groups, university events, or large group trips. It’s not always easy to find transportation for large groups, but when chartering a bus, the problems disappear.
Students can be transported in a comfortable way to their campus events such as sports games, concerts, etc. The charter bus company can also help with organizing transportation for other groups on campus such as faculty members and alumni who want to attend these special events. Charter buses can also be used by universities that have students studying abroad in another country so they can come back home for special school events like graduation ceremonies. Charter buses make traveling with large groups very convenient and organized. This is especially true if you’re renting from a professional charter bus company that has been doing business for many years and knows what it takes to get people where they need to go in an efficient manner without any hassle involved.

Tour group bus

These buses are almost identical to transport rentals; they’re just meant for larger groups or families that want extra room. Tour bus rentals can hold up to 45 people, but are typically loaded with amenities—they come with GPS, overhead lights, DVD players, a restroom and more. Be prepared for lots of questions about why you need such a big bus when you fill out your reservation form. It’s helpful to think through all of your options when planning your trip so that you can decide what sort of space will fit your group best.

Bus for wedding events

Wedding buses are becoming more popular for couples looking for a fun way to get from their ceremony to their reception. These kinds of transportation can be used for bridal parties, wedding guests, families or anyone else that is attending a wedding celebration. If you’re planning on taking part in a tour group, choosing a bus might be your best option if you need to travel with lots of people but don’t want them taking up too much space in your vehicle. Since these types of rentals are so versatile, they’re usually quite affordable and there is no limit as to what they can transport or how many people they can carry. One thing that you will want to consider when renting an entire bus is what kind of amenities it comes with.

Corporate events

If you’re planning a business meeting or retreat, there are plenty of ways to make your trip efficient and successful. One way is to book a bus for corporate events. This has several advantages over flying or taking multiple taxis, including less work for attendees who need to book their own flights, fewer worries about airport delays or lost luggage, and lower costs than traveling individually by car or renting a limo service. Instead of having different people check into hotels around town during an event or tour group rental, everyone can stay in close quarters on your private bus tour. If you don’t think it will fit in your budget, try looking at charter services like party buses that are popular with bachelor parties as well as bachelorette parties.

Bus for sporting teams

When it comes to sporting teams bus rentals is the best to choose. A tour group rental is perfect for a group traveling together with amenities like luggage, tour guides, and activities to look forward to along the way. Buses can provide special touches for road trips.
Coach buses are ideal for offering many modern comforts and tournament travel. They are the best for travelling longer distances, while school bus rentals are more affordable solutions for local away games. Coach buses for sporting events are also very effective way to get your team to its destination on time. They have plenty of options to set aside storage space for sports equipment.

Kinds of vehicles you can rent

You should choose different types of bus according to your occasion needs. Starting from sprinter vans to full-sized coach buses. There is a type for each individual trip needs.
Each vehicle comes with its own set of amenities and advantages.

 

Sprinter Vans

Sprinter vans are an economical way to transport smaller groups and can accommodate between eight and 15 people at a time. Sprinter van is the perfect balance between a minivan and a bus. It includes such facilities as air conditioning, baggage storage, and sometimes Wi-Fi.
Sprinter vans are an economical choice because drivers aren’t required always.
There are three of the most popular sprinter van options, according on your desire and needs. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the Ford Transit Passenger are basic and more cost-efficient than other options.

Minibus

The best option for corporate events, field trips, and tours is a minibus. It seats up to 21 people and is suited for trips where the distance travelled is short and with several stops. Equipped with a school bus layout but smaller, the minibus is a convenient and versatile bus rental with an economic and efficient design. Not needing a separate driver in addition to the one driving the bus, you can quickly load and unload passengers without hassle. The minibus also has good visibility from the inside and it’s safer than traveling on busier roads or highways. Plus, it also has better fuel economy than the larger buses. So, it’s ideal if you’re looking to save money on transportation costs.
One way to cut costs is to go with a budget-friendly minibus instead of something more expensive. The Ford E450 minibus, for example, comes with some basic amenities to help keep you on budget, such as air conditioning, baggage storage, and a driver. Despite this, buses with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and DVD capabilities can be booked by special request. As well, some companies offer other nice touches such as satellite radio or television screens for passengers.

Coach Bus

When it comes to group transportation, the coach bus is widely known for its superior amenities, so it’s perfect for those traveling long distances. In addition to seats, the coach bus provides amenities that many other types of bus rentals don’t have. As a result, the coach bus is one of the most convenient and comfortable modes of group transportation. Several of these benefits include free Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, reclining seats with footrests, air conditioning, and restrooms on board. Beyond these, there are also a few other perks you might take advantage of such as a tour guide or audio guides available in multiple languages. If you’re planning a large group trip, then you’ll definitely want to consider renting a coach bus!
This vehicle is spacious enough to accommodate up to 55 people and includes a variety of features like audio-visual equipment, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, onboard bathrooms, and more comfortable seating. However, it is the driver’s time that is the biggest factor in the cost of your bus rental. For example, if you’re scheduling an all-day tour, you might want to consult an experienced professional who knows where and when to stop for bathroom breaks or food breaks on your route. If you want to keep a tight schedule but also want to be comfortable, try renting a luxury coach bus equipped with features like reclining seats and wireless Internet access.

Mini Coach Bus

Enjoy the various amenities of the coach bus, but in a more compact package with a mini coach bus rental. The mini coach bus can be used for both shorter hops and longer distances. This vehicle seats up to 31 people, offering a perfect in-between a minibus and a coach bus. The mini coach bus comes equipped with both overhead and undercarriage storage and is a great choice for weddings, sports trips, and corporate events which may require space for various equipment.
The mini coach bus boasts a wide range of amenities, including air conditioning, power outlets, and hi-speed Wi-Fi. In some cases, these rentals even come with TV and DVD configuration, making your trip all the more pleasant. However, the mini coach bus does not come with onboard restrooms, whereas a full-sized coach bus does — something to keep in mind during longer trips.

Mini coach bus can also be used as a school bus. 

How to decide what type of bus to choose

To get the best of coach buses when you travel in groups or in case you organize a trip for your employee, have these three steps as decision making method.

 
Step 1: Calirfy the time-length of the trip
Of all the variables to consider when renting a bus, one of the most important is how long you will be on the road. In other words, you need to find out the duration of your trip to plan the perfect bus. A Google Maps search will be handy, giving you a brief look at how long your travel time might be. Typically, a school bus is more efficient for shorter trips, while a coach bus is better for trips over three hours.

 
Step 2: What bus comforts do you need
The next thing to do is to figure out which features will work best for your group. Buses can come with the bare necessities or a range of extras like fast Wi-Fi, onboard bathrooms, TVs, and air conditioning. Since it’s the driver’s time that has the biggest impact on your bus rental quote, the price difference from option to option will be less when amenities are included. When including all the amenities, the coach bus is the most comfortable choice for your travel.

 
Step 3: Get an accurate headcount
You can pick between different options such as shuttle buses, sprinter vans, charter buses, motorcoaches, and party buses. Be careful of the capacity! It’s illegal to transport more than a car can handle. As an example, if your group is over 20 people, then renting a coach bus may be a better option. For small groups of people less than 20, rent a minibus, a van, or a mini coach bus.

Benefits of bus rentals vs other means of transport

Every form of transportation has its pros and cons.

In comparison with other forms of transportation, bus rental is not only safe and reliable way to transport groups of people. Coach buses are more environmentally-friendly and allow you to enjoy a comfortable and spacious way of traveling with luxuries like DVD players for long journeys.
Bus rentals are convenient for group travel as they give you the possibility to have everything in control and well organized without having so much gas intervals and the risk of losing some members of the group. This, keeping your group in a single vehicle, will save you money, stress and time.

Bus rentals are more convenient for group travel as they replace the need for finding or renting a fleet of 5-6 cars. No need to argue over who the designated drivers should be, or pull up for gas at different intervals and risk losing the other half of your group. Instead, keeping your group together in one single vehicle will save you both time and money when organizing your trip.

With bus rentals, you can plan personalized routes around your own itinerary, or even organize a bus rideshare for a big event if that’s something that interests you. Bus rentals are also great for companies looking to give their employees an incentive trip; whether it’s a long weekend in Vegas or a retreat at some exotic locale, bus rentals are perfect for groups of all sizes. No matter what kind of group you have in mind, having someone else do all of the driving means you can focus on enjoying yourself! And don’t forget about tour group rental benefits—when renting buses with other people, it makes sense to share resources!

Find a Charter Bus Operator in Your Area

Get in touch with Elite Mobility whenever you need a bus, mini bus or van, or coach bus for your event and groups. The company operates in Albania, the Balkans and Southeast Europe. It has high level vehicle and professional drivers over these areas. So in any case you plan your events in the countries within the areas Elite Mobility will help you with excellence.  Place your request!

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Things to Know Before You Ride a Bus in the Balkans

  • Kristian Zara

Transport within the Balkans can be very challenging. There aren’t many options for budget flights between Balkan countries, and if you decide to travel within the region, going by bus is the best way to.

This region of the Europe is still in development, especially the transport and tourism sectors. There aren’t many options for budget flights between Balkan countries, and if you decide to travel within the region, going by bus is the best way to. While buses in the Balkans can be economical, sometimes they make your trips to be far from hassle-free, especially in countries where urban-structure is still old. However, as consequence of rising tourism most of the countries have started to organizing, recently. So, in order to get the best of the Balkans, if you decide to take a bus and travel between Balkan cities, we have some tips and things to help you through.

Find the route you need to take off, or the best one for you

There are some websites that can help you find out how to get around and ride a bus in the Balkans, but most of them aren’t complete and many things are missing out. This because Balkan bus companies either don’t have a website or their website don’t have great English content.

So, the best thing to do is to research online about the cities or places you want to visit, look specifically about your route by typing the names and attraction of the destination(s), write down the bus companies’ e-mail or phone number and don’t hesitate to call them and place your questions. Tell them where you want to go and also that you’re not a resident of the area (if so) as people in the Balkans are often very kind to help foreigners more than is expected. In addition, don’t forget also to ask locals for bus routes and timetables, bus stops, where to find tickets and other information. Because in some countries transport is a kind of unorganized properly, and locals know this better, do always ask them. They will certainly help you with joy – this is one of the best experiences that you will have when you meet Balkan people. 

Other thing that will help you, but it needs patience and a bit of language skills, is to read other people’s experiences about the same route; try to find forums about the destination you plan to go.

When it comes to take a bus to Albania or travel within the country, things get somehow harder. There is a lot of confusion sometimes and lack of information on the web flow. Asking locals is a must. Many bus companies have only phone number and an office somewhere in the city and Google maps don’t have much information about routes and trips. So, in this case the best you can do is getting the phone and call the company itself. For example: I use to travel within Albania and have done some trips in Southeast Europe. For both ways, inside and outside the country, I get in touch with Elite Travel Albania. The larger agency in the country, that has its own website Elite Mobility, and have always helped me to realize my trip perfectly. The company has its own buses and also collaborates with other private drivers and bus business operation within and without Albania. They will give you all the information you need, advice you about the route and will prepare everything needed for your tickets.

Bus and snacks

There are many places during the route where the bus will stop and you can buy snacks. Sometimes you’ll have time for full, sit-down meal. But sometimes you will go without a stop for long time, or have just 5 minutes stop, or the bus will stop after crossing the border to the other country. So, preparing you snack is very important. Many buses will allow you to have your own snack on board, but there might be some that don’t allow snacks on board so is best to ask the driver before you ride the bus.

Whenever you get on a Balkan bus, have snacks and drinks with you, since there’s always the potential that you’ll get delayed.

Clothes and what to take with you

Even though the Balkans are widely known for the Mediterranean clime, the temperature my change from country to country. The western part of the peninsula has the same clime, but the northeast of it changes a lot. So, in case your route crosses from side to side is better for you to check the weather forecast and be prepared by having some extra clothes with you according to the needs. 

I recommend to have a light jacket always with you. Because, there are moments when your bus may be late or delayed, and evenings are not always as kind as you may think. Also, there are buses of which temperatures may be uncomfortable. In some of them, in the summer, the air conditioning may barely work. While in the winter, the heater may be blasting at a level that means you’re boiling.

Depending to the season you are going to travel, you need to be able to dress up and down, and to keep yourself comfortable before, during and after your trip.

Things to look in advance – a must!

Depending on your destination, you need to think what might be necessary when you arrive there. If your route is within the same country perhaps you have thought about money and you don’t need to think more then just having some cash apart from bank cards. But if your route goes from one country to another, prepare yourself to have some cash with you that may be the currency used in the country you visit. Balkan countries do use their own currency and most of them do not accept other kinds.

Another important thing when it comes to money is that you’ll need always spare cash with you. Many shops, local shops, especially in countries where techno-structure isn’t that ahead to standard levels cash is always the way to buy anything. Keep some cash in your pocket!

Bus facilities and personal hygiene

All the companies are highly prepared when it comes to clean and safe bus environment. They follow H&S protocols and are well prepared to take care about their passengers. The only thing that may be missing in some buses, depending the country, is the toilet. So, always go to the bathroom before you leave. Many routes do have bathroom stops, but you may get to one that hasn’t.

At this issue, is best to keep with you some local currency coins as in some regions you need to pay to use the bathroom. While in other regions you don’t need to, because places where the bus will stop are usually Coffee & Restaurant which have free WC use for their clients.

For your personal hygiene, take with you a toilet paper and hand sanitizer as many buses and bus stations do not have these in custom.

Bus stations and timetable

I recommend to go to the station earlier. Balkan bus stations can be rambling places, or can be a parking lot at the hotel or in front of a local shop. Whatever the country, if you don’t have clear idea where to find the bus station ask locals for the route you need to take, arrive earlier at the station and check in with your bus company or the bartender who also lets people know when the bus comes.

While timetables in some countries are not that accurate, in other countries may be missing from the information board. Don’t expect timetable to be always accurate. Personally, I’ve ben on buses that left hours late, and I’ve been on buses that left the minute they supposed to. The arrival point can be the same when we talk about timetables. Is best to ask always about timetables when you call an agent to book your ticket, or go to the agency office and write down to a paper the times and hours of the route you may take.

Border crossing for those who travel from country to country

Across the Balkans, you will pass through a lot of borders. Each of them is unique in the way they operate and also in relationship between countries. Crossing from Greece to Albania, I’ve stayed on the bus while the driver took our passport at both borders. But, crossing from Serbia to Bulgaria, I had to get out and line up for passport check. Language is also an issue as in many borders they don’t speak much of English. Don’t worry, there will be always a kind man/woman that will get on to help you. As I said in the beginning, Balkan citizens are known to be very kind and helpful to all tourists or people who get to visit their lands.

Important to know – have your passport always with you. Some countries do not let you pass the borders only by showing your ID.

 
The last thing, be relaxed about safety. Balkans cities are very safe places to walk around. Things that will happen to your own country can normally happen here too. The only thing I can say that in most of the countries you don’t need a health insurance or international insurance to get a proper treatment, in case you find yourself in an emergency. However, travel insurance is of course the best to have before you travel to and within the Balkans.

Make a contact with them!

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About: Kristian

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