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Charter Bus Prices: How Much Does a Lake Forest Bus Rental Cost?
The cost of a charter bus or minibus rental in Lake Forest will ultimately depend on your unique trip details. When you call our reservation team at 949-787-4700, or use our online quote tool, we’ll ask for information such as your travel dates, group size, pick-up and drop-off locations, and any must-have onboard amenities. With that, we can provide a personalized estimate in about 30 seconds! In general, charter bus rentals can cost between $170 and $500 per hour or $1,800 to $3,800 per day. Below, you’ll find more information about pricing factors and tips to save money on your bus rental.
| Vehicle Type | Per Hour* | Per Day* | Per Mile* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56-Passenger Charter Bus | $197 – $519 | $1,600 – $3,800 | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| 50-Passenger Charter Bus | $190 – $500 | $1,500 – $3,600 | $4.50 – $7.50 |
| 40–45-Passenger Charter Bus | $180 – $480 | $1,500 – $3,500 | $4.50 – $7.50 |
| 35-Passenger Minibus | $180 – $475 | $1,500 – $3,400 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 30-Passenger Minibus | $180 – $475 | $1,500 – $3,400 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 28-Passenger Minibus | $175 – $450 | $1,500 – $3,300 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 25-Passenger Minibus | $165 – $428 | $1,300 – $3,200 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 20-Passenger Minibus | $157 – $414 | $1,300 – $3,100 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 18-Passenger Minibus | $145 – $404 | $1,300 – $3,000 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| School Bus (-47 pax) | $155 – $450 | $1,520 – $3,655 | $5.00 – $8.95 |
| Entertainer / Sleeper Coach | N/A | $1,900 – $2,500 | $7.00 – $10.50 |
| Mercedes Sprinter Party Bus (10-14) | $160 – $450 | $1,200 – $2,900 | $3.00 – $6.00 |
| Small Party Bus (10-20) | $180 – $470 | $1,200 – $2,900 | $3.00 – $6.00 |
| Mid-Size Party Bus (20-30) | $200 – $500 | $1,200 – $3,500 | $4.00 – $8.00 |
| Large Party Bus (30-50) | $250 – $520 | $1,500 – $3,900 | $4.00 – $8.00 |
*Prices vary and fluctuate with fuel costs, holidays, and availability. Booking early usually secures the lowest rate. For exact pricing, please call our reservations team.
What Affects the Price of a Charter Bus Rental?
There are several factors that determine the price of your Lake Forest charter bus rental. The first is the type of bus you book. Larger vehicles like full-size 56-passenger charter buses will generally cost more than compact minibuses or sprinter vans, but they also offer more seats and storage space. Party bus rentals with luxury interiors may have a higher hourly rate due to their features, while school bus rentals can be an affordable alternative for short trips. Next, consider when you’re traveling. Bus rental prices tend to rise during peak seasons—usually spring and summer, when demand is high for graduations, weddings, and sporting events. Booking during the off-season or on weekdays may help you secure a lower rate. Your itinerary also impacts the cost. Longer trips that cover more miles or require overnight stays will increase the total price, as will multi-day events that need continuous shuttle service. For example, a simple round-trip transfer from Lake Forest to Irvine Spectrum Center will cost less than a weekend-long convention shuttle looping between hotels and the conference venue. Lastly, your choice of amenities plays a role. Standard charter buses come with basic comforts like air conditioning and cushioned seats, but adding premium options such as WiFi, power outlets, flat-screen TVs, or an onboard restroom can raise the price. However, these extras may be worth the investment for long-distance trips or groups needing to stay connected on the road. If you have a strict budget, let us know—we’ll help you find the best bus and amenities to fit your needs without unnecessary expenses.
What is included in my quote?
Your charter bus rental quote covers the cost of the bus, fuel, mileage, and insurance. It also includes the services of a dedicated driver for the duration of your trip. However, certain expenses are not included in the initial quote. You’ll be responsible for any tolls along your route, parking passes at destinations (such as $50-$100 per day at Angel Stadium or Honda Center), and providing hotel accommodations for the driver if your trip requires an overnight stay. These costs can vary depending on your itinerary, so be sure to factor them into your overall budget when planning your trip. Our team can offer guidance on typical expenses based on your route and help you anticipate any additional fees.
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
Below are a few sample pricing examples for common trips in Lake Forest, CA and around Orange County. Please note that these are estimates and your actual price may vary based on your specific needs and travel dates.
Field Trip to Pretend City Children’s Museum
Ms. Ramirez is organizing a field trip for her second-grade class of 24 students from Lake Forest Elementary School. She plans to depart at 9:00 AM and return by 2:30 PM, spending the day exploring educational exhibits at Pretend City Children’s Museum in nearby Irvine. The itinerary includes hands-on activities and lunch at a local park before heading back to Lake Forest. Given the group size and schedule, Ms. Ramirez received a quote of $1,150 for a 25-passenger minibus. With 24 students, herself, and two chaperones, the cost averages out to about $44 per person—a convenient and affordable option for safe student transportation.
Shuttle Service for a Wedding at Heritage Hill Historic Park
Samantha is planning her wedding at Heritage Hill Historic Park and wants to provide guests with seamless transportation between the ceremony and reception venues. She expects 80 guests and has arranged for two 40-passenger minibuses to shuttle attendees from designated hotels in Lake Forest to the historic park, then to a reception at a local banquet hall, and finally back to the hotels at the end of the evening. The continuous shuttle service will run from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Samantha’s quote for both buses came to $3,200 for the day. Splitting the cost among her guests or factoring it into the overall wedding budget ensures everyone enjoys the celebration without worrying about driving or parking.
Anaheim Ducks Game Day Charter
Coach Hernandez is taking his high school hockey team from El Toro High School in Lake Forest to a playoff game at Honda Center in Anaheim. The team consists of 18 players, four coaches, and two equipment managers. They need reliable transportation for the 25-mile trip, including ample storage for gear and a comfortable ride to keep athletes rested. After reviewing options, Coach Hernandez booked a 30-passenger minibus equipped with overhead storage and reclining seats. The quoted price for the round-trip service, departing at 3:00 PM and returning after the evening game, was $1,375. This breaks down to roughly $69 per person—a practical solution that keeps the team focused on the big game.
Corporate Retreat Shuttle to Laguna Beach
A Lake Forest tech company is hosting a corporate retreat at a resort in Laguna Beach for 60 employees. To streamline transportation and foster team bonding, the HR coordinator arranges two 35-passenger minibuses to shuttle staff from the office to the beachside venue, with pick-ups starting at 8:00 AM and return trips at 6:00 PM. The quote for the full-day shuttle service is $2,450. Providing group transportation eliminates the hassle of carpooling and parking, allowing employees to relax and arrive together. The cost per employee is about $41, making it an efficient investment in employee satisfaction and event logistics.
