A few of the companies we’ve worked with
What Factors Influence Your Charter Bus Rental Cost?
When you call Charter Bus Rental Company Aurora for a quote, our reservation specialists take several dynamic factors into account to provide you with the most accurate price possible. No two trips are exactly alike, so no two quotes are exactly the same. Here are the primary components that will drive your final rental price:
- Trip Duration and Distance: Naturally, how far you go and how long you are gone are the biggest determinants. A quick shuttle from the Town Center at Aurora to Denver International Airport (DIA) will cost significantly less than a multi-day tour through the Rocky Mountains. We generally calculate local trips by the hour and long-distance trips by the day or mile.
- Date of Travel: Supply and demand play a huge role. If you are booking during peak seasons—such as prom season (April-June) or the height of ski season (January-March)—availability is tighter, and rates may be higher. Conversely, booking a trip in the quieter months of late fall can often yield lower rates.
- Group Size and Vehicle Type: The size of your group determines the size of the bus. A 56-passenger motorcoach costs more to operate than a 20-passenger minibus. However, it is important to note that the per-person cost often decreases as the bus size increases, making full-size coaches very economical for large groups.
- Route Specifics: Does your trip involve toll roads like E-470 or the Northwest Parkway? While our base quotes cover the bus and driver, you will be responsible for toll costs. Additionally, mountain travel requires specific expertise and vehicle maintenance, which can factor into the price.
Hourly Rates vs. Daily Rates: Understanding the Difference
In the charter bus industry, there are two main ways we bill for services: hourly and daily. Understanding which applies to your Aurora trip can help you budget more effectively.
Hourly Rates: These are typically applied to local trips that take place within the Aurora and Denver metro area. For example, if you are renting a minibus for a company happy hour at Stanley Marketplace or a wedding shuttle moving guests between a hotel on Havana Street and a venue in Parker, you will likely pay an hourly rate. Most bus companies, including Charter Bus Rental Company Aurora, require a minimum rental period (usually 4 to 5 hours) to cover the costs of prepping the vehicle and dispatching the driver.
Daily Rates: If your itinerary involves long-distance travel—say, a trip from Aurora to Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, or up into the high country to Breckenridge or Vail—you will be quoted a daily rate. Daily rates generally cover up to certain mileage limits and the driver's on-duty time limits (which are strictly regulated by the DOT for safety). If your trip spans multiple days, you will pay the daily rate times the number of days.
Vehicle Type Matters: Minibuses vs. Full-Size Motorcoaches
Choosing the right vehicle is essential for both your comfort and your wallet. At Charter Bus Rental Company Aurora, we offer a diverse fleet to match your specific needs.
Minibuses and Sprinter Vans: Perfect for smaller groups of 15 to 35 passengers, these vehicles are agile and great for short-distance shuttles. They are often more affordable than full-size coaches and are ideal for wedding parties, corporate team-building events at Southlands, or airport transfers. They come equipped with A/C and comfortable seating, but typically do not have onboard restrooms.
Full-Size Charter Buses: These 56-passenger giants are the gold standard for large groups, school field trips, and long-distance travel. While the daily rate is higher than a minibus, the cost-per-passenger is often unbeatable. These buses come loaded with amenities like onboard restrooms, undercarriage luggage storage, reclining seats, and often WiFi and power outlets. If you are taking a band from Hinkley High School to a competition or a sports team to an away game, this is your best option.
Seasonal Demand in Aurora and Colorado: When to Book
Aurora experiences distinct travel seasons that affect pricing. Being aware of these can help you secure the best deal.
Ski Season (December - March): Demand spikes on weekends as groups head from the plains to the mountains. If you are planning a ski trip, try to book at least 3-4 months in advance.
Wedding and Prom Season (April - June & September - October): Spring and early autumn are beautiful in Colorado, making them prime times for weddings and school events. Availability for party buses and wedding shuttles can vanish quickly during these months. We recommend booking 6 months out if possible.
Summer Tourism (June - August): With families visiting and summer camps in full swing, buses are in high demand for trips to attractions like the Denver Zoo, Elitch Gardens, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Weekday rates may be slightly lower than weekends during this time.
How to Save Money on Your Aurora Bus Rental
We know that budget is a priority for many of our clients, from non-profits to school districts. Here are a few expert tips to help you keep costs down:
Book Early: The closer you get to your travel date, the lower the supply of buses, and the higher the price. Booking 3 to 6 months in advance locks in the best rates.
Size Down if Possible: Don't pay for empty seats. If you have 25 people, book a 25-passenger minibus rather than a 56-passenger coach. However, if you have 30 people and lots of luggage, you might still need the larger coach for the storage space.
Travel Off-Peak: If your schedule allows, plan your trip for the off-season (like November or late April) or on weekdays. A Tuesday rental is almost always cheaper than a Saturday rental.
Finalize Your Headcount: Knowing exactly how many people are traveling prevents you from booking a bus that is too large for your needs or having to scramble for a second bus at the last minute.
Sample Trip Costs for Popular Aurora Itineraries
To give you a better idea of what to expect, here are a few examples of typical trips we book in the Aurora area. Please note: These are estimated examples. Actual prices vary based on availability and specific details.
Example 1: The Corporate Shuttle. A company located near the Anschutz Medical Campus needs to shuttle employees to a conference at the Denver Convention Center for two days. They require a 56-passenger motorcoach from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day. Estimated Cost: $1,300 - $1,600 per day.
Example 2: The Wedding Shuttle. A couple is getting married at the beautiful Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club. They need a 25-passenger minibus to shuttle guests from a nearby hotel to the venue and back between 3:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Estimated Cost: $1,100 - $1,400 total.
Example 3: The Mountain Transfer. A group of 40 friends wants a one-way transfer from a home in Aurora to a lodge in Breckenridge for a ski trip. They need plenty of luggage space for skis and snowboards. Estimated Cost: $900 - $1,200 (one way transfer).
Ready to Book Your Aurora Charter Bus?
Charter Bus Rental Company Aurora is ready to make your next group trip seamless, safe, and affordable. We have representatives available 24/7/365 to assist you with finding the best charter bus to meet your needs. Whether you are planning months in advance or need a last-minute solution, we are here for you.
If you’d like a free, personalized quote for your next group trip in Aurora, we’re ready to help and we’d love to earn your business! You can reach us by calling 719-662-7900. You can also use our online quote tool for instant online charter bus pricing in under 30 seconds. With just a few pieces of information, you can instantly see images and prices of available vehicles in your area.
Our warm and welcoming reservation agents are here to answer your request, help you with any questions, offer you the best available deals/pricing and help you get exactly what you need. There’s no pressure to book at the time of your call; our job is to guide you throughout the process so you find what you need at a price that fits your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aurora Pricing
How far in advance should I book my bus in Aurora?
We highly recommend booking your charter bus as soon as your date and venue are confirmed. Ideally, you should book at least 3 to 6 months in advance. For high-demand times like wedding season (summer) or ski season (winter), booking 6 to 9 months out ensures you get the best selection of vehicles and the most competitive pricing. However, Charter Bus Rental Company Aurora specializes in last-minute bookings as well, so don't hesitate to call us even if your trip is next week!
Do I need to pay for the driver's hotel room?
Yes, if your trip spans multiple days and requires the driver to be off-duty away from our home base in Aurora/Denver, you are responsible for providing the driver with a private, safe, and clean hotel room. This is an industry standard to ensure drivers are well-rested and compliant with Department of Transportation safety regulations. We can help guide you on finding suitable accommodations near your destination.
Is a deposit required to reserve the bus?
Yes, to secure your bus and lock in your pricing, a deposit is required at the time of booking. The specific amount can vary based on the total cost of the trip, but it is typically a percentage of the total rental fee. The remaining balance is usually due a few weeks prior to your departure date. Our reservation specialists will explain all payment terms clearly before you sign anything.
What if my trip goes overtime?
We understand that sometimes events run late or traffic on I-225 is worse than expected. If your trip exceeds the contracted time, you will typically be billed for the additional time at the hourly rate specified in your contract. We recommend padding your itinerary with a little extra time to account for unforeseen delays to avoid overtime charges. The drivers will always do their best to accommodate schedule changes while adhering to safety regulations regarding driving hours.