Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Rentals in New Orleans

New Orleans Minibus Company has been providing charter bus rentals across New Orleans since 2011. We are one of the largest and most experienced bus companies in Louisiana, with a fleet of vehicles that can accommodate any group size or itinerary. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, provide instant quotes, and help you book the perfect bus for your trip. We pride ourselves on offering reliable service, modern buses with premium amenities, and competitive pricing. Whether you’re planning a school field trip, corporate event, wedding, sports team travel, or private tour, you can count on New Orleans Minibus Company to get you there comfortably and on time.

We provide transportation for all types of groups and events in New Orleans. Some of our most popular services include wedding shuttles, corporate event transportation, school field trip buses, sports team charters, private party buses, and emergency evacuation services. We also work with tour operators, religious organizations, government agencies, and military groups. No matter what brings you to New Orleans, we have a bus rental solution that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Tell us about your group and your plans, and we’ll customize a package just for you.

A charter bus (also called a motorcoach) is a large, full-size vehicle designed to transport groups of people over long distances. Charter buses typically seat 40 to 56 passengers and are equipped with comfortable reclining seats, air conditioning, overhead parcel racks, undercarriage luggage bays, restrooms, TV monitors, DVD players, WiFi, power outlets, and PA systems. These buses are ideal for moving large groups efficiently and comfortably, whether you’re traveling across town or across the state. Charter buses are commonly used for school trips, sports teams, corporate events, and tours.

A minibus is a smaller, more compact version of a charter bus, typically seating between 18 and 35 passengers. Minibuses are ideal for shuttling smaller groups around town, such as wedding parties, corporate teams, church groups, or airport transfers. While they may not have all the amenities of a full-size charter bus, many minibuses still offer comfortable seating, air conditioning, and storage space for personal belongings. Because of their smaller size, minibuses are easier to maneuver through city streets and can access locations that larger buses cannot. They are also more affordable than larger buses, making them a budget-friendly option for short-distance travel.

Most charter buses in our fleet have between 47 and 56 seats, which is the industry standard for full-size motorcoaches. The exact number of seats depends on the make and model of the bus. For example, a Prevost H3-45 or Van Hool CX45 typically seats 56 passengers, while a MCI J4500 or Setra S417 may have 54 or 55 seats. If you need a specific seating capacity, let us know when you request a quote. We also have mid-size buses with 35-40 seats if you don’t need a full-size coach.

Our minibuses come in several different sizes, with seating capacities ranging from 15 to 35 passengers. The most common configurations are 20, 24, 28, or 32 seats. Smaller minibuses (15-20 seats) are great for airport transfers or hotel shuttles, while larger models (28-35 seats) can handle bigger groups or longer trips. If you’re not sure what size you need, tell us how many people you’re transporting and we’ll match you with the right vehicle.

We offer a wide range of bus types to suit any group size or budget. Our fleet includes full-size charter buses (47-56 seats), minibuses (15-35 seats), party buses (10-40 seats), entertainer coaches (up to 12 bunks), sprinter vans (8-15 seats), and school buses (44-48 seats). Each type of bus has its own features and benefits, so we can accommodate anything from a small family outing to a large-scale convention. If you have specific requirements for your trip, let us know and we’ll recommend the best option.

Our buses come equipped with a variety of amenities to keep passengers comfortable and entertained during the ride. Standard features on most charter buses include cushioned reclining seats, individual reading lights, climate control, overhead storage racks, large undercarriage luggage bays, onboard restroom, multiple flat-screen TVs, DVD/Blu-ray player, PA system, free WiFi hotspot, and power outlets or USB ports at every seat. Minibuses may have fewer amenities but often include WiFi, power outlets, and audio/video systems. Additional options like tables, leather seats, wood-look flooring, or custom branding are available upon request.

Yes, many of our buses are equipped with sound systems that allow you to play your own music through an AUX input, Bluetooth connection, or USB port. This is a great way to set the mood for your trip, whether you want to play a custom playlist, stream music from your phone, or use a microphone for announcements. If having a specific type of audio connection is important to you, please mention it when booking so we can provide a bus that meets your needs.

Charter buses have the most luggage space, with large undercarriage bays that can hold about one suitcase per person plus carry-on items in the overhead racks. Minibuses have limited luggage space, usually a rear storage compartment or overhead shelves suitable for small bags and backpacks. If your group is traveling with extra-large items like musical instruments, sports equipment, or trade show displays, let us know in advance so we can arrange a vehicle with sufficient storage capacity. For trips requiring even more space, we can provide an additional trailer.

Absolutely! We believe everyone should have access to safe and reliable transportation. That’s why we offer ADA-accessible buses equipped with features such as wheelchair lifts, wider aisles, priority seating, and accessible restrooms. If you have passengers with mobility challenges or other special needs, please let us know when you book so we can provide a bus that meets all ADA requirements. There is no extra charge for requesting an accessible vehicle.

Yes, you can wrap your charter bus with custom graphics, logos, or advertisements. Bus wraps are popular for sports teams, corporate branding, political campaigns, and special events. Full wraps cover the entire exterior of the bus, while partial wraps or decals can be applied to specific areas. If you plan to wrap the bus, please inform us at least 2-3 weeks before your trip to allow time for installation and removal. Additional fees may apply for wrapping services.

We will do our best to accommodate requests for specific bus models, makes, or colors based on availability. Our fleet includes popular brands like MCI, Prevost, Van Hool, Setra, Temsa, Grech, Turtle Top, and more. If you have a preference for a particular manufacturer, year, or exterior color (white, black, silver, etc.), please let us know when booking. While we cannot guarantee a specific unit, we will match your request as closely as possible.

The cost of renting a charter bus in New Orleans varies depending on several factors, including the size of the bus, length of the trip, time of year, and any additional amenities requested. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $3,000 per day for a standard charter bus. For shorter trips, we may be able to offer hourly or one-way rates. The best way to get an accurate price is to call us at 504-387-8680 and provide details about your trip. We’ll give you a free, no-obligation quote in minutes.

Minibus rentals are generally more affordable than full-size charter buses, with daily rates ranging from $900 to $2,000 depending on the size of the vehicle and duration of the trip. Smaller minibuses (15-20 seats) are less expensive than larger ones (28-35 seats). Other factors that affect pricing include mileage, tolls, parking fees, and optional upgrades like WiFi or AV equipment. Contact us with your itinerary and we’ll send you a customized quote tailored to your budget.

Several variables influence the total price of a bus rental: type and size of bus, number of passengers, distance traveled, duration of service (hours, days, weeks), seasonality (peak vs. off-peak), pickup/drop-off locations, tolls, parking, permits, special requests (ADA, luxury features), and whether the trip is local or out-of-state. Large events like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or major sporting events may also impact availability and rates due to high demand. Providing detailed information upfront helps us give you the most accurate quote possible.

Your quote includes the base rental fee for the bus, driver’s wages, fuel, standard amenities, and mileage within the agreed itinerary. It does NOT include gratuity (typically 10-20% recommended), lodging for the driver on multi-day trips, paid parking, road/bridge/tunnel tolls, entrance fees, or optional extras like catering, hostess, or additional equipment. We will outline exactly what is covered in your contract so there are no surprises. If you have questions about what’s included, just ask!

We recommend booking your bus as early as possible to ensure the best selection and pricing, especially if you’re traveling during busy seasons like spring festivals, summer vacations, or major holidays. For large groups or complex itineraries, reserving 3-6 months in advance is ideal. However, we understand that plans can change and last-minute needs arise, so we are often able to accommodate bookings with just a few days’ notice. The sooner you contact us, the more options we’ll have available.

Yes, we offer flexible packages to suit any travel plan: one-way transfers, round trips, daily shuttles, multi-day charters, and even contracts spanning weeks or months. Whether you need a single drop-off at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), a weekend excursion to Baton Rouge or Biloxi, or continuous service for a week-long conference at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, we can customize a schedule that fits your needs. Let us know your start/end points and timing, and we’ll handle the rest.

Absolutely! We provide long-distance and interstate charter bus services to destinations across Louisiana and beyond. Popular routes include New Orleans to Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport, Lake Charles, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Memphis, Gulfport, Mobile, and Orlando. Long-distance trips are a convenient alternative to flying or driving multiple cars, allowing your group to stay together and relax en route. For overnight journeys, we’ll schedule rest stops and can provide relief drivers if needed. Tell us where you’re going, and we’ll get you there safely.

If your trip itinerary requires overnight stays away from the driver’s home base, you are responsible for providing hotel accommodations for the driver. The hotel should offer basic comfort, private restroom/shower, and be located near the group’s lodging or next day’s departure point. Many hotels offer discounted rates for bus drivers accompanying a group. For trips lasting more than one day, plan on one room per driver per night. If you need assistance arranging accommodations, we can recommend suitable options.

Getting a quote is quick and easy! Simply call our office at 504-387-8680 or fill out the online form on our website. Provide details such as date(s) of travel, pickup/drop-off addresses, number of passengers, type of event, and any special requests. One of our representatives will review your information and send you a personalized quote within minutes. There is no obligation to book, and quotes are valid for 30 days. Once you’re ready to proceed, we’ll finalize the reservation and send you a contract.

Plan ahead and book early, especially during peak seasons like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and football games at Caesars Superdome. Provide a detailed itinerary with exact addresses and timing for each stop. Consider traffic congestion in downtown, French Quarter, and Uptown areas. Budget extra time for loading/unloading and restroom breaks. Communicate any special needs (ADA access, large luggage, coolers). Stay in touch with your driver throughout the trip. Review the contract terms regarding payment, cancellations, and responsibilities. If you have questions or changes, contact us anytime—we’re here to help!

We provide charter bus and minibus services to and from all major airports in the New Orleans area, including Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), Lakefront Airport (NEW), and Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR). Whether you’re flying in a group for a corporate event, family reunion, or school trip, we can pick you up directly from the terminal and transport you to your hotel or destination. Avoid the hassle of multiple taxis or rideshares and keep your group together with our convenient airport transfer services.

New Orleans Minibus Company provides transportation to all major sports venues in New Orleans, including the Caesars Superdome (home of the New Orleans Saints), Smoothie King Center (home of the New Orleans Pelicans), and Yulman Stadium at Tulane University. Whether you’re heading to a Saints game, a Pelicans matchup, or a college football rivalry, we’ll get your group there safely and on time. Skip the hassle of game-day traffic and expensive parking by riding together in a comfortable charter bus. We also serve smaller venues like Tad Gormley Stadium, Pan American Stadium, and Goldring Centre for intramural sports.

We provide charter bus rentals to all major concert venues and music festivals in New Orleans, including the Smoothie King Center, Saenger Theatre, Orpheum Theater, Mahalia Jackson Theater, Tipitina’s, House of Blues, Fillmore New Orleans, Joy Theater, Civic Theatre, UNO Lakefront Arena, Champions Square, Mardi Gras World, and outdoor stages in City Park or Woldenberg Park. Whether you’re attending a headline tour, local jazz show, or multi-day festival like Jazz Fest or Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, we’ll get your group there safely and on time. Avoid the hassle of parking and rideshares by booking a private bus for your next concert outing.

We provide wedding shuttle services to popular venues such as The Chicory, Race & Religious, Audubon Tea Room, Elms Mansion, Pavilion of the Two Sisters, Felicity Church, Marigny Opera House, Board of Trade, Southern Oaks, Rosy’s Jazz Hall, Capulet, Il Mercato, The Cannery, Paradigm Gardens, Latrobe’s on Royal, and venues along St. Charles Avenue, Magazine Street, and the French Quarter. We also serve hotels like the Roosevelt, Ritz-Carlton, Windsor Court, and Four Seasons for out-of-town guests.

New Orleans Minibus Company proudly serves not only New Orleans but also nearby cities and regions across Louisiana and the Gulf Coast. We regularly provide charter bus services to Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Hammond, Slidell, Covington, Mandeville, Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Houma, Thibodaux, and more. Planning a longer trip? We can take your group to destinations like Biloxi, Gulfport, Mobile, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, or anywhere else your itinerary requires. No matter where you’re headed, we have the resources and experience to get you there comfortably and efficiently.

We serve all major events and festivals in New Orleans, including Mardi Gras parades (Endymion, Bacchus, Zulu, Rex), New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, French Quarter Festival, Essence Festival, Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, Southern Decadence, Tales of the Cocktail, Crescent City Classic, Bayou Classic, Greek Festival, and more. Avoid gridlock and limited parking by booking a bus to drop off and pick up your group near the festivities. We also provide transportation for conventions, trade shows, and private parties during these busy times.

We provide charter bus services to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Pontchartrain Center in Kenner, Alario Center in Westwego, UNO Lakefront Arena, Xavier Convocation Center, and hotel conference facilities at Hyatt Regency, Hilton Riverside, Marriott, Sheraton, and InterContinental. Whether you’re attending a trade show, corporate meeting, or industry expo, we’ll keep your group on schedule with direct transportation to and from the venue.

We provide campus transportation and student shuttles for Tulane University, Loyola University New Orleans, University of New Orleans (UNO), Xavier University of Louisiana, Dillard University, Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO), Delgado Community College, Nunez Community College, and LSU Health Sciences Center. We also work with K-12 schools across Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, St. Bernard Parish, and Plaquemines Parish for field trips, athletic events, and academic competitions.