1. Burbank Charter Bus /
  2. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Burbank Charter Bus Rentals

Burbank Charter Bus is your go-to source for safe and reliable group transportation in Burbank, California! We specialize in providing charter bus rentals, minibuses, and shuttles for all types of local and long-distance trips. Whether you’re planning a corporate event to the Burbank Marriott, a wedding at Magnolia Park, a school field trip to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, or airport transfers to Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), we have the perfect bus for you. Our network includes modern buses with great amenities and drivers ready to get your group where they need to go. Call us at 818-900-4840 for a free, 30-second quote and let us help you with your next trip!

747-588-6450
1

What Does a Charter Bus Look Like?

A charter bus is a large, motorcoach-style vehicle designed for comfortable long-distance travel. It looks similar to the big buses you see on highways but is privately rented for group use. Charter buses have a sleek, modern exterior and can be white, black, or even custom-branded with your company or event logo. The front usually features large panoramic windows for great sightseeing, and the back has storage compartments for luggage. Inside, you’ll find plush, reclining seats arranged in rows with an aisle down the middle. Overhead bins are above each seat for personal items, and amenities like onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, and entertainment screens are common. A charter bus driver’s seat is at the front with a door for passengers to enter just behind it. Overall, a charter bus is a spacious, comfortable, and amenity-rich vehicle perfect for group travel.

2

What is the difference between a coach bus and a charter bus?

The terms “coach bus” and “charter bus” are often used interchangeably, but there are slight differences. A coach bus generally refers to a long-distance, luxury bus designed for comfort on intercity or interstate trips. It emphasizes amenities like reclining seats, onboard restrooms, entertainment systems, and luggage storage. A coach bus is built for touring and sightseeing with features to enhance the travel experience.

A charter bus is a broader term that means any bus rented (chartered) for private group use. It can be a full-sized coach bus or a smaller shuttle bus. The key point is that a charter bus is not on a public route but is privately hired for a specific group, event, or itinerary. So, while all coach buses can be charter buses, not all charter buses are coach buses. For example, a 15-passenger shuttle van rented for an airport transfer is a charter bus but not a coach bus.

In practical terms, when people say “charter bus” in Burbank, they usually mean a full-sized coach bus suitable for school trips, corporate events, and tours. When they say “coach bus,” they emphasize the comfort and amenities of the bus for long-distance travel. For your group transportation needs in Burbank, we can provide both full-sized coach buses and smaller shuttle options depending on your requirements.

3

How Many Seats Are on a Charter Bus?

A standard charter bus in Burbank typically seats between 47 and 60 passengers. The most common models are 56-passenger and 57-passenger buses. These full-sized charter buses are ideal for large groups such as school field trips, university sports teams, corporate conferences, and wedding guest shuttles. The exact seating capacity depends on the bus manufacturer and model. Some buses have 47, 48, or 49 seats if they include an onboard restroom, as the restroom takes up space that would otherwise be used for seating. For example, a 56-passenger bus without a restroom might be replaced by a 48-passenger bus with a restroom for comfort on longer trips.

For smaller groups, we also offer minibuses and shuttle buses. A minibus usually seats between 25 and 35 passengers, making it perfect for medium-sized corporate outings, airport transfers for large families, or small school groups. Shuttle buses and sprinter vans are even smaller, with capacities ranging from 12 to 24 passengers. These are great for airport shuttles, hotel transfers, or small group tours around Burbank.

When booking your bus, consider the total number of passengers, including any children who may require booster seats or car seats (which can reduce total capacity). Our reservation specialists can help you choose the right bus size to ensure everyone travels comfortably.

4

What types of buses can I rent in Burbank?

In Burbank, you can rent several types of buses to suit your group’s needs:

  • Charter Buses (Full-Sized Motorcoaches): These are the largest buses, seating 47 to 60 passengers. They’re perfect for school field trips to the Autry Museum, university shuttles to CSUN, corporate events at the Burbank Marriott, or large wedding groups. Full-sized charter buses offer maximum comfort and amenities for long-distance travel across California.
  • Minibuses: Minibuses seat between 18 and 35 passengers and are ideal for medium-sized groups. Use a minibus for company shuttles, small school outings, sports team travel, or private tours of Burbank’s media studios. Minibuses are easier to maneuver in city traffic but still provide a comfortable ride.
  • Shuttle Buses: Shuttle buses typically seat 12 to 25 passengers. They are commonly used for airport transfers to Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), hotel shuttles for conferences, or small group outings. Shuttle buses are also popular for events at Starlight Bowl or Flappers Comedy Club.
  • Sprinter Vans and Passenger Vans: For very small groups, sprinter vans and passenger vans are available. These vans seat 8 to 15 passengers and are great for executive travel, small family trips, or VIP airport transfers. They offer a quick and efficient way to get around Burbank.

We can also provide ADA-compliant vehicles, luxury coaches with premium amenities, and specialty vehicles upon request. Let us know your group size, trip type, and any special requirements, and we’ll recommend the best bus for your Burbank travel needs.

5

What kind of amenities are available on your Burbank charter buses?

Charter buses in Burbank come with a range of amenities to make your group travel comfortable and enjoyable. Common features on a full-sized charter bus include:

  • Reclining Seats: Plush, high-back seats that recline to help passengers relax on long trips.
  • Overhead Luggage Racks: Storage bins above each seat for personal belongings, similar to airplane overhead bins.
  • Undercarriage Luggage Bays: Spacious storage compartments under the bus for large suitcases, equipment, or gear.
  • Onboard Restroom: A small restroom at the back of the bus for convenience on long-distance trips (available on many full-sized coaches).
  • Wi-Fi Internet: Free onboard Wi-Fi to stay connected and browse the web during the ride.
  • Power Outlets and USB Chargers: Charging ports at each seat to keep devices powered.
  • Entertainment Systems: TVs with DVD players or screens showing movies, often with PA system for driver announcements.
  • Climate Control: Individual air conditioning vents and heating controls for passenger comfort.
  • PA System: A microphone system for the driver or tour guide to speak to passengers clearly.
  • Additional Amenities: Some buses offer extra features like leather seating, hardwood floors, onboard TVs, and premium sound systems.

For shorter, local trips around Burbank, you might not need all these amenities. But for longer journeys to destinations like San Francisco, Las Vegas, or San Diego, having onboard Wi-Fi, a restroom, and reclining seats makes a big difference. When you call to book your bus, ask about specific amenities to get a bus that matches your group’s needs.

6

Do your charter buses come with restroom facilities?

Yes, many full-sized charter buses in our Burbank fleet come equipped with onboard restroom facilities. These restrooms are typically located at the rear of the bus and include a toilet and sink in a compact, private space. Having a restroom on board is especially beneficial for long-distance trips, such as travels to San Francisco, Las Vegas, or even cross-country. It allows passengers to use the facilities without needing to make frequent rest stops, which can help your group stay on schedule and enjoy a more continuous journey.

For shorter, local trips within Burbank or to nearby areas like Glendale or Pasadena, some groups opt for buses without restrooms since rest stops can be planned easily. Buses without restrooms usually have a slightly higher seating capacity (up to 60 passengers) compared to those with restrooms (around 47-49 passengers), as the restroom takes up space that would otherwise be used for seating.

If an onboard restroom is important for your trip, just let our reservation team know when you book. We’ll make sure to assign a bus that includes this amenity so your group can travel comfortably and with peace of mind.

7

Can I rent a charter bus with onboard Wi-Fi?

Yes, most charter buses available for rent in Burbank come with the option of onboard Wi-Fi. Free Wi-Fi internet access is a standard amenity on nearly all modern charter buses, especially full-sized motorcoaches. Having Wi-Fi on board allows your passengers to stay connected to the internet during the trip, which is great for browsing the web, checking emails, streaming music or videos, and staying in touch with friends and family.

Onboard Wi-Fi is particularly useful for long-distance trips from Burbank to destinations like San Diego, Las Vegas, or San Francisco, as it helps pass the time and makes the journey more enjoyable. It’s also valuable for corporate groups who need to stay connected for work, or for students and younger passengers who want internet access during the ride.

When booking your charter bus, you can confirm with our team that Wi-Fi is included. While it’s standard on most buses, it’s always good to double-check if internet connectivity is important for your group’s travel plans.

8

Can I rent a charter bus with power outlets?

Yes, you can rent a charter bus with power outlets in Burbank. Most modern charter buses, especially full-sized motorcoaches, are equipped with power outlets and USB charging ports to keep your electronic devices charged during the trip. These outlets are usually located under each seat or between seats, and USB ports are often found alongside them. Having power outlets on board is a great convenience for passengers who want to charge their smartphones, tablets, laptops, or other devices while traveling.

Power outlets are particularly useful for long trips from Burbank to destinations like San Francisco, Sacramento, or even out-of-state journeys. They are also beneficial for business travelers attending corporate events at venues like the Burbank Marriott or for students on school trips who want to keep their devices powered for the duration of the ride. If you want to ensure your bus has power outlets, just mention this requirement when you book your charter bus, and we’ll make sure to provide a bus with this amenity.

9

How much luggage space is available on an Burbank charter bus?

A full-sized charter bus in Burbank offers ample luggage space for large groups. Underneath the main passenger cabin, there are usually two or three large undercarriage luggage bays (also called luggage compartments) that run along the sides of the bus. These bays provide enough room to store 20 to 30 large suitcases, golf bags, musical instruments, sports equipment, or other bulky items. The exact capacity depends on the size of the luggage and how efficiently it’s packed. Overhead, inside the bus, there are also luggage racks above each seat for smaller carry-on bags, backpacks, purses, and personal items. These overhead bins are similar to those on an airplane and can hold jackets, laptops, and small bags. The combination of undercarriage storage and overhead racks makes a charter bus ideal for trips where passengers have a lot of luggage, such as destination weddings, extended vacations, or tours. For example, a wedding group traveling from Burbank to Santa Barbara or a school band going on tour can easily store all their equipment and luggage without crowding the passenger area. When booking your bus, if you know your group will have extra luggage, sports gear, or equipment, mention it to the reservation team so they can ensure the bus has enough storage space.

10

Is a driver included with every charter bus rental?

When you rent a charter bus in Burbank, a professional driver is always included as part of the service. The driver is a licensed and experienced transportation expert who operates the bus and ensures your group travels safely and on schedule. You don’t have to worry about driving, navigating traffic, or finding parking. The driver handles all the logistics, including route planning, traffic, and stops.

Having a driver is especially important for group travel in and around Burbank, where traffic can be heavy and parking challenging. The driver will pick up your group at the designated location, follow the planned itinerary, and drop everyone off at the exact destination. This allows your passengers to relax, socialize, work, or enjoy onboard amenities without stress.

The driver is also responsible for the safety of the group and the vehicle, but they remain in the background unless needed. They will only assist passengers as necessary and will focus on getting your group to their destination safely and on time. If you have any special requests or changes during the trip, the driver can accommodate them as long as they fit within the schedule. Overall, including a driver with your charter bus rental provides peace of mind and allows your group to focus on enjoying the trip.

11

Do you provide charter buses for long-distance trips?

Yes, we provide charter buses for long-distance trips from Burbank to destinations across California and beyond. Full-sized charter buses are designed for comfort on long journeys and come equipped with amenities like reclining seats, onboard restrooms, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems to make the trip enjoyable. We regularly arrange transportation for groups traveling from Burbank to places like San Francisco, San Diego, Las Vegas, Palm Springs, and even out-of-state destinations. Whether you’re planning a cross-country tour, a long-distance corporate retreat, a wedding weekend getaway, or a school trip to Washington D.C., we can provide a bus and driver for the entire route. Our team will help you plan rest stops, meal breaks, and sightseeing along the way to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for your group. Just let us know your destination and travel dates, and we’ll handle the rest.

12

Do you have ADA-accessible or wheelchair-lift-equipped buses?

Yes, we can provide ADA-compliant charter buses in Burbank that are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps. These accessible buses are designed to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). An ADA-accessible bus will have a wheelchair lift or ramp, usually located near the front or middle door, which can be deployed to allow a wheelchair user to board the bus safely. Inside the bus, there is a designated space where the wheelchair can be securely locked in place for the duration of the trip. The rest of the seats may be removable or foldable to create enough room for one or more wheelchairs. Accessible buses also have features like handrails, wider aisles, and accessible restrooms (on full-sized coaches) to ensure comfort for all passengers. If your group includes someone who requires a wheelchair or mobility assistance, be sure to request an ADA-compliant bus when you book. Our reservation team will ensure that a suitable bus is assigned to your group with the necessary accessibility features.

13

What are the benefits of renting charter buses in Burbank?

Renting a charter bus in Burbank offers numerous benefits for group travel, including:

  • Convenience: A charter bus provides door-to-door service for your group, picking you up and dropping you off exactly where you need. You don’t have to worry about navigating public transit or arranging multiple cars.
  • Comfort: Charter buses are equipped with amenities like reclining seats, onboard restrooms, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems to make the trip enjoyable for everyone. Passengers can relax in plush seats and enjoy a comfortable ride.
  • Group Cohesion: Traveling together on one bus keeps your group united. Everyone arrives at the destination at the same time, which is great for events, tours, and conferences.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: For large groups, renting one charter bus is often cheaper than booking multiple taxis, rideshares, or rental cars. You save money on fuel, parking, and driver fees.
  • Safety: With a professional driver behind the wheel, your group can relax knowing they are in capable hands. The driver is experienced in handling the vehicle and navigating traffic.
  • Environmental Impact: Using one bus instead of many cars reduces your group’s carbon footprint, making it a more eco-friendly travel option.
  • Luggage Space: A charter bus offers ample storage for luggage, equipment, and gear, which is ideal for sports teams, bands, and wedding parties.
  • Stress Reduction: You don’t have to worry about driving, directions, or parking. The driver handles all logistics, allowing passengers to focus on enjoying the trip.

Whether you’re traveling to a local event, planning a corporate shuttle, or going on a long-distance tour, a charter bus rental in Burbank is the most efficient and comfortable way to move your group.

14

What factors should I consider when renting a charter bus in Burbank?

When renting a charter bus in Burbank, consider the following factors to ensure you get the right bus for your trip:

  • Group Size: Determine the total number of passengers, including children. Choose a bus with enough seats to accommodate everyone comfortably. For large groups (50+), a full-sized charter bus is best. For smaller groups, a minibus or shuttle may suffice.
  • Trip Duration: For short local trips, you may not need amenities like a restroom or Wi-Fi. For long-distance travel, prioritize buses with onboard restrooms, reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
  • Luggage and Equipment: Consider how much luggage, sports gear, musical instruments, or equipment your group will have. A full-sized charter bus offers ample undercarriage storage. For extra gear, mention this when booking.
  • Accessibility Needs: If any passengers require wheelchair access or mobility assistance, request an ADA-compliant bus with a wheelchair lift or ramp.
  • Budget: Determine your transportation budget and ask for quotes based on your trip details. Compare what amenities and services are included in the price.
  • Itinerary: Have a clear itinerary ready, including pick-up/drop-off locations, stops, and destinations. Share this with the reservation team to ensure the driver can plan accordingly.
  • Special Requests: If you need specific amenities like onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, entertainment systems, or a PA system, request these in advance.
  • Event Type: For corporate events, you might want a bus with a PA system or presentation screen. For weddings, consider branding the bus or having a driver in formal attire.

Providing as much information as possible when you book will help us match you with the perfect bus and ensure a smooth trip.

15

Which is better for group travel—a charter bus or private car rental?

For group travel in Burbank, a charter bus rental is generally a better option than booking multiple private cars. Here’s why:

  • Group Cohesion: A charter bus keeps your entire group together in one vehicle, ensuring everyone arrives at the destination simultaneously. With private cars, there’s a risk of drivers getting lost or arriving at different times.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Renting one charter bus is usually more economical than booking several private cars or rideshares, especially for groups larger than 6-8 people. You save on individual driver fees, surge pricing, and fuel costs.
  • Luggage Space: A charter bus offers ample storage for luggage and equipment, which can be a challenge to fit in multiple private cars.
  • Comfort and Amenities: Charter buses come with amenities like reclining seats, onboard restrooms, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems that private cars don’t offer.
  • Environmental Impact: Traveling in one bus reduces your group’s carbon footprint compared to multiple cars on the road.
  • Stress Reduction: With a charter bus, you don’t have to coordinate multiple drivers or vehicles. One driver handles the entire group’s transportation.

Private car rentals or rideshares might be suitable for small groups or VIP transport, but for school trips, corporate events, weddings, and tours, a charter bus is the superior choice.

16

How much does a charter bus rental cost in Burbank?

The cost of renting a charter bus in Burbank varies widely based on several factors. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,500 per day for a full-sized charter bus rental. Some key factors that influence the cost include:

  • Bus Type and Size: A full-sized charter bus (47-60 passengers) is more expensive than a minibus (25-35 passengers) or shuttle bus (12-24 passengers).
  • Trip Duration: Longer trips or multi-day rentals cost more than short, single-day local trips.
  • Mileage: The total miles traveled impact the price. Longer distances increase fuel and driver compensation costs.
  • Amenities: Buses with premium amenities like onboard restrooms, Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, and leather seating may have higher rates.
  • Time of Year: Peak travel seasons, holidays, and special events in Burbank can cause prices to rise due to demand.
  • Advance Booking: Booking well in advance usually secures better rates than last-minute reservations.
  • Additional Services: Extras like driver lodging, tolls, parking fees, or special requests may add to the cost.

To get an accurate quote for your specific trip, call our reservation team at 818-900-4840 with your group size, itinerary, and travel dates. We’ll provide a transparent, all-inclusive quote with no hidden fees.

17

How much does it cost to rent a charter bus for a day?

Renting a charter bus for a day in Burbank typically costs between $1,000 and $2,000, depending on the bus size, amenities, and mileage. A day rental usually covers up to 8-12 hours of service. If your group needs the bus for longer than that, there may be overtime charges. The daily rate often includes the driver’s time, fuel, and basic amenities. However, it’s important to clarify with the company what is included in the day rate. Some companies charge extra for mileage over a certain limit, tolls, parking, or driver lodging if the trip is far from Burbank. To get the best price, provide a detailed itinerary and ask for an all-inclusive day rate quote. This way, you can budget accurately for your event, whether it’s a wedding shuttle, corporate conference, school field trip, or city tour.

18

How is the cost calculated—by mileage, hours, or flat rate?

Charter bus rental costs in Burbank are usually calculated using a combination of mileage and hours. The two most common pricing models are:

  • Hourly Rate + Mileage: Some companies charge an hourly rate for the driver’s time (e.g., $100-$150 per hour) plus a per-mile charge (e.g., $2-$4 per mile). This model is common for trips with uncertain mileage or multiple stops. The hourly rate covers the time the bus is in use, and the mileage fee covers the distance traveled.
  • Flat Daily Rate: Other companies offer a flat rate for a full day (8-12 hours) of service, which includes a set number of miles (e.g., 150-200 miles). Overage fees apply if you exceed the mileage limit or time. The flat rate simplifies budgeting for events like weddings or conferences.

Some companies may also offer one-way trip rates for point-to-point transfers (e.g., airport to hotel). It’s important to ask the company how they calculate costs and what is included in your quote. Clarify if tolls, parking, driver lodging, and gratuity are extra. Providing a detailed itinerary helps the company give you an accurate, all-inclusive quote.

19

What factors influence charter bus rental costs?

Several factors influence the cost of charter bus rentals in Burbank:

  • Bus Type and Size: Larger buses with more amenities cost more to rent than smaller shuttles or vans.
  • Trip Length and Duration: Longer trips and multi-day rentals increase costs. Local trips are cheaper than long-distance travel.
  • Mileage: Total miles traveled impact fuel and driver compensation. More miles = higher cost.
  • Amenities: Buses with onboard restrooms, Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, and premium interiors have higher rates.
  • Time of Year: Peak seasons, holidays, and local events in Burbank can raise prices due to demand.
  • Advance Booking: Early reservations usually get better rates than last-minute bookings.
  • Additional Fees: Tolls, parking, driver lodging, special requests, and gratuities add to the cost.
  • Group Size: Larger groups require bigger buses, which are more expensive to rent.

Understanding these factors helps you budget accurately and choose the right bus for your needs.

20

How do I compare charter bus rental offers effectively?

To compare charter bus rental offers in Burbank effectively, consider the following:

  • All-Inclusive Pricing: Ensure the quote includes driver, fuel, mileage, tolls, parking, and any other fees. Ask for a total price, not just hourly or mileage rates.
  • Amenities: Compare what amenities are included (Wi-Fi, restroom, reclining seats, entertainment). A cheaper bus with fewer amenities may not be the best value.
  • Bus Age and Condition: Ask about the age and condition of the bus. Newer buses have better features and reliability.
  • Company Reputation: Check reviews and ratings for reliability, safety, and service quality.
  • Driver Experience: Confirm the driver is licensed and experienced, especially for long trips.
  • Cancellation Policy: Understand the company’s cancellation and refund policies.
  • Extras: Ask about gratuity, driver lodging, and other potential extra costs.
  • Customer Service: Choose a company with responsive, helpful customer service.

Getting multiple quotes and asking detailed questions ensures you choose the best company for your group’s needs and budget.

21

Do you offer cheap charter bus rental deals?

We strive to offer competitive pricing on all charter bus rentals in Burbank. While we don’t promote “cheap” deals that compromise quality, we do offer great value for your money. Our network includes a range of buses to fit different budgets. For the most affordable rates, consider booking early, traveling during off-peak times, and choosing a minibus or shuttle for smaller groups. You can also save by providing a clear, efficient itinerary to avoid overtime charges. Call our reservation team at 818-900-4840 for a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll work with you to find the best bus for your budget and ensure you get a safe, comfortable ride at a great price.

22

Are tolls, parking, or driver lodging included in the quote?

When you get a quote from us, it will include all standard fees like driver compensation, fuel, mileage, and basic amenities. However, some additional costs may not be included in the base quote:

  • Tolls: Toll fees are usually extra but can be included if requested in advance.
  • Parking: Parking fees at airports, hotels, or venues are typically extra but can be covered if you inform us ahead of time.
  • Driver Lodging: For multi-day trips requiring overnight stays for the driver, lodging costs are additional.
  • Gratuity: Driver gratuity is not included but is customary (10-20% of the total cost).

To get an all-inclusive price, inform us of your route, stops, and any toll roads or parking needs. We’ll provide a transparent quote that covers everything.

23

How do I book a charter bus in Burbank?

Booking a charter bus with Burbank is easy! You can call our reservation team 24/7 at 818-900-4840. Provide your group size, travel dates, pick-up and drop-off locations, and any special requests. We’ll give you an instant quote and help you choose the right bus. You can also book online through our website by filling out the quote form. Our team will confirm your reservation and send you all the details. We recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks in advance for the best availability.

24

How far in advance should I reserve a charter bus?

For Burbank, it’s best to reserve your charter bus 2 to 4 weeks in advance. For peak seasons, holidays, or large events, book 3 to 6 months ahead. Last-minute bookings are possible but may have limited availability and higher prices. Early booking ensures you get the bus you want at the best rate.

25

Do you tip a charter bus driver?

Tipping your charter bus driver in Burbank is customary but not mandatory. The standard tip is 10-20% of the total fare. Tip more for excellent service or complex trips. Provide the tip in cash at the end of the trip.

26

What areas does Burbank serve?

Burbank Charter Bus serves all of Burbank and the greater Los Angeles area, including Glendale, Pasadena, Hollywood, Downtown LA, Santa Monica, and the San Fernando Valley. We also provide transportation throughout Southern California and nationwide.

27

Which airports do you serve?

We provide transportation to and from all major airports near Burbank, including Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), John Wayne Airport

28

Ready to Book Your Bus?

747-588-6450

Agents available 24/7

disclaimer image