Elkhart Charter Bus Prices
| Bus Type | Per Hour | Per Day | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 to 56 Passenger Charter Bus | $200 – $520+ | $1,813 – $3,813 | $6.15 – $10.10 |
| 40 to 50 Passenger Charter Bus | $151 – $461+ | $1,683 – $3,548 | $6.07 – $10.02 |
| 25 to 35 Passenger Minibus | $150 – $450+ | $1,629 – $3,484 | $4.13 – $10.08 |
| 20 to 24 Passenger Minibus | $135 – $425+ | $1,607 – $3,362 | $4.05 – $9.00 |
| 15 to 18 Passenger Minibus | $156 – $436+ | $1,512 – $3,247 | $4.10 – $8.05 |
| Entertainer Coach | $304 – $539+ | $3,005 – $5,005+ | $6.11 – $10.06 |
| Yellow School Bus | $165 – $470+ | $1,527 – $3,662 | $6.05 – $10.00 |
| Shuttle Bus | $156 – $451+ | $1,517 – $3,652 | $6.09 – $10.04 |
Elkhart Party Bus Prices
| Type of Party Bus | Cost Per Hour Weekdays | Cost Per Hour Weekends | Cost Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Party Bus (10 to 20 Passengers) | $183 – $453+ | $215 – $485+ | $982 – $2,882+ |
| Medium Party Bus (20 to 40 Passengers) | $197 – $497+ | $218 – $498+ | $1,212 – $3,512+ |
| Large Party Bus Rental (40 to 50 Passengers) | $240 – $490+ | $240 – $520+ | $1,496 – $3,896+ |
| Mercedes Sprinter Party Bus | $156 – $396+ | $167 – $437+ | $1,003 – $3,903+ |
* Prices may vary greatly in your city and state. Due to the impact of COVID-19 and inflation, all rental prices shown are past estimates. Actual pricing may be significantly higher depending on availability and location. To get real-time pricing, call us 574-390-6610 or use our online quote tool.
How Much Does a Charter Bus Rental Cost in Elkhart?
Charter bus rentals in Elkhart typically cost between $155 and $375 per hour, $1,600 to $3,800 per day, or $4.25 to $11.50 per mile depending on the vehicle size, trip duration, and time of year. Smaller vehicles like 18-passenger minibuses are on the lower end of that range, while full-size 56-passenger coaches are on the higher end. For example, a one-day local rental within Elkhart County might run $2,200–$3,000, while a multi-day out-of-state trip could be $8,000 or more. The best way to get an accurate price is to call Charter Bus Company Elkhart at 574-390-6610 or use our online quote tool.
How Much Does a Party Bus Rental Cost in Elkhart?
Party bus rentals in Elkhart generally run between $250 and $450 per hour, with daily rates from $2,500 to $5,500 depending on the size of the vehicle and the specifics of your itinerary. Smaller party buses that seat 15–20 passengers are less expensive, while larger models that accommodate up to 40 guests will be at the higher end of the spectrum. Factors such as distance traveled, time of year, and any additional amenities can also impact the final cost. For the most accurate pricing, contact Charter Bus Company Elkhart at 574-390-6610 or use our online quote tool to get an instant estimate.
Book Your Bus Today!
See Pictures & Prices in Seconds
Live agents available 24/7/365!
Call Now: 574-390-6610What Factors Affect the Cost of a Charter Bus Rental?
Several factors influence the cost of a charter bus rental in Elkhart, including the distance and duration of your trip, the time of year, the day of the week, your starting and ending locations, the type and size of the bus, tolls and parking fees, and how far in advance you book. Each of these elements plays a role in determining your final price, so it’s important to consider all aspects of your trip when requesting a quote.
Distance and Duration: Local Vs. Out-of-town Trips
How far and how long you travel will greatly impact the total cost of your bus rental. Most charter bus companies charge by the hour for local trips (anywhere within Elkhart County or nearby cities like South Bend and Goshen) and by the day or by the mile for longer out-of-town trips (such as to Chicago or Indianapolis). For example, a quick, three-hour shuttle between downtown Elkhart and Granger may only cost a few hundred dollars, while a multi-day excursion to Indianapolis or Chicago will rack up a higher bill due to increased mileage, tolls, and driver accommodations. Be sure to provide your reservation specialist with a detailed itinerary, including pickup and drop-off times and addresses for every location on your trip.
The Time of Year: How Seasonality Affects Availability and Pricing
People often book buses in Elkhart during peak seasons for school trips, sporting events, and vacations, which happen in spring (April–June) and fall (September–November). During these times, there’s high demand from groups traveling to places like Notre Dame for campus tours, schools scheduling field trips, and fans heading to high school football games. Because more people want buses in these months, prices go up. If you plan your trip in winter or summer—when schools are on break and fewer events happen—you’ll likely pay less. Booking in January, February, July, or August usually gets you a better rate because there’s less competition for vehicles.
Day of the Week: Why Weekends Cost More Than Weekdays
Just like hotels and venues, bus rentals tend to be more expensive on weekends. Friday through Sunday are the busiest days for charter bus companies, as they coincide with weddings, sports tournaments, and special events. If you have flexibility in your schedule, consider traveling on a weekday to score a lower rate. Tuesday and Wednesday are typically the least busy days, making them the most budget-friendly options for group travel.
Your Starting and Ending Locations: the Impact of Deadhead Fees
Where your trip begins and ends can also affect your final price. If your group is departing from a city where the charter bus company has an office or storage facility, you’ll pay less than if you’re starting in a remote or rural location. That’s because you’ll be charged for the “deadhead” mileage—the distance the bus has to travel empty to reach your pickup point and return home after dropping you off. For example, a trip that starts and ends in downtown Elkhart will be cheaper than one that begins in Shipshewana or Middlebury, even if the total mileage is the same.
Bus Type and Size: Comparing Minibuses, Full-size Coaches, and Specialty Vehicles
We offer several types of buses, including 15- to 35-passenger minibuses, 40- to 56-passenger full-size charter buses, and party buses that can accommodate up to 50 passengers. Larger vehicles with more amenities (like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms) tend to cost more than smaller, basic models. However, bigger buses can also fit more people, which may lower the cost per person for large groups. Your reservation specialist can help you compare options and choose the best vehicle for your budget.
Tolls and Parking: Additional Fees to Consider
Tolls and parking fees are not typically included in your initial quote, but they are still your responsibility. If your route takes you on toll roads like the Indiana Toll Road or into downtown areas with paid parking (such as Century Center in South Bend or Four Winds Field), those costs will be added to your bill. Ask ahead about parking fees at venues like the Lerner Theatre, schools, or sports complexes, and factor those expenses into your budget.
Booking Timing: Why Reserving Early Saves You Money
It’s always best to book your bus as early as possible—ideally, at least three to six months before your trip. As the departure date approaches, supply goes down and prices go up. Last-minute bookings may also incur additional fees, as the company has to rearrange schedules and dispatch vehicles on short notice. By reserving your bus well in advance, you’ll lock in a lower rate and have a better selection of vehicles to choose from.
Cost-saving Tips: How to Get the Best Deal on Your Bus Rental
To get the best deal on your charter bus rental, try to travel during the off-season, book as early as possible, and keep your itinerary simple. Choose pickup and drop-off locations that are easily accessible, avoid toll roads when possible, and opt for a vehicle that’s just the right size for your group—no larger than necessary. Splitting the cost among passengers and requesting quotes from multiple companies can also help you save money.
Get an Instant Quote on Your Elkhart Bus Rental
The fastest way to get an accurate price is to call Charter Bus Company Elkhart at 574-390-6610 or use our online quote tool. We’ll need details like your trip dates, pickup and drop-off locations, group size, and any special requests. Within minutes, you’ll receive a personalized quote with photos and specs for each vehicle. Our team is available 24/7 to answer questions, help you compare options, and find the best bus for your budget. Once you’re ready, you can book your rental online and manage everything from payments to trip details through our digital dashboard.
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
Below are a few sample pricing examples for common trips in Elkhart, IN, and around Indiana. Please note that these are estimates and your actual price may vary based on your specific needs and travel dates.
Field Trip to the Potawatomi Zoo
Mrs. Thompson wants to take her 4th grade class of 22 students from Eastwood Elementary in Elkhart to the Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend for a science field trip. Including three chaperones, she needs transportation for 25 people. They’ll leave the school at 9:00 AM, spend four hours at the zoo, and return by 3:00 PM. She requests a single stop each way, with no additional detours. For this six-hour local trip, Mrs. Thompson is quoted $2,100 for a 25-passenger minibus. That comes out to about $84 per person, which the school covers through its field trip budget.
Wedding Shuttle Between Goshen Venues
Alyssa is planning her wedding with a ceremony at First Presbyterian Church in Goshen and a reception at Bread & Chocolate on the Goshen Millrace. To simplify guest transportation and avoid parking issues, she books a 20-passenger minibus to shuttle guests between the venues. The service will run continuously for five hours, including one hour of idle time during the ceremony. Alyssa receives a quote for $1,750, which fits within her transportation budget. After the reception, the minibus will make two additional runs to drop guests back at their hotels, included in the original quote.
High School Sports Team Trip to Indianapolis
The Elkhart High School basketball team qualifies for a regional tournament in Indianapolis. The athletic director needs to transport 18 players, four coaches, and two trainers—24 people total—to the event. They’ll depart Friday afternoon, play Saturday, and return immediately after the game. With luggage and equipment, a 28-passenger minibus is sufficient. The two-day, 300-mile round trip is quoted at $4,500, with additional costs for tolls and parking at the venue. The school covers the expense through its athletics budget.
Corporate Event Shuttle to Rv/mh Hall of Fame
A local manufacturing company is hosting a corporate training session at the RV/MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart. To ensure all 60 employees arrive on time, the HR manager arranges for a 56-passenger charter bus to pick up staff from the company’s parking lot, shuttle them to the venue, and return them at the end of the day. The eight-hour rental is quoted at $2,880. The bus will remain on-site during the training, providing a convenient option for employees who need to step outside during breaks.
Senior Group Casino Trip to Four Winds Casino
The coordinator of a local senior center organizes a day trip to Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo, Michigan. Twenty-five seniors sign up, requiring a 25-passenger minibus. The group will depart Elkhart at 10:00 AM, spend six hours at the casino, and return by 8:00 PM. The 120-mile round trip is quoted at $2,400, with the total cost divided among participants. The coordinator collects payments in advance and provides the final headcount to the bus company one week before departure.
Church Youth Group Retreat in Brown County
A church in Elkhart plans a weekend retreat for its youth group in Brown County State Park. Thirty-two teens and six adult leaders—38 people total—will travel together on a 38-passenger minibus. Departing Friday evening and returning Sunday afternoon, the group will stay in cabins and bring food and supplies. The 400-mile round trip is quoted at $5,600, with fundraising efforts helping to offset the cost. The bus will remain parked at the campsite throughout the weekend.
Airport Transfer to Chicago Midway
A community choir in Elkhart books a group flight departing from Chicago Midway International Airport. To simplify travel logistics, the choir director arranges for a 31-passenger minibus to transport members and their luggage directly to the airport. The 240-mile round trip is quoted at $4,800. The bus will drop the group at the terminal curb and return to Elkhart the same day. Upon return from their tour, the choir will book another minibus for the trip home.
