Coach Bus Prices: How Much Does a Reading Coach Bus Rental Cost?

The most popular option for large groups is a 56-passenger coach bus, which typically costs $170 to $325 per hour, $1,800 to $2,900 per day, or $2,200 to $4,000 for an overnight/multi-day trip. These buses are ideal for long-distance travel, school field trips, corporate outings, and sports team transportation. They come equipped with amenities like reclining seats, onboard restrooms, WiFi, power outlets, luggage bays, and TV monitors. If you’re traveling with a smaller group, a minibus or party bus may be more cost-effective. Minibuses seat 18 to 35 passengers and rent for $155 to $265 per hour, $1,400 to $2,100 per day, or $1,700 to $2,800 for an overnight trip. Party buses feature wraparound seating, hardwood floors, sound systems, and LED lighting, with prices similar to minibuses. Sprinter vans are the smallest option, holding 10 to 15 passengers at rates of $135 to $225 per hour or $1,200 to $1,800 per day.

There are several things that affect how much your bus rental will cost. Here are some of the main ones:

• Travel Dates: Peak season for charter bus rentals in Pennsylvania is typically April through June and September through November, when schools are in session and the weather is mild. Rates are highest during these months due to increased demand from field trips, weddings, and fall foliage tours. Summer (July-August) and winter (December-February) tend to be less busy, so you may find lower prices, especially for weekday trips. Major holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas can also drive up costs, as can big events like Musikfest in Bethlehem or Penn State football games in State College.
• Trip Duration: Most companies charge by the hour for local trips (with a 4-5 hour minimum), by the day for longer excursions, or by the mile for one-way charters. The more hours or miles you book, the higher the total cost, but the lower the average rate per hour/mile. For example, an 8-hour rental might cost less per hour than a 4-hour rental. Multi-day trips will also require you to cover the driver’s hotel room (at least 2-star) and daily per diem for meals.
• Distance Traveled: The farther you travel, the more expensive your rental will be. This is because you’ll need to pay for extra fuel, tolls, and wear-and-tear on the vehicle. For example, a round-trip from Reading to Philadelphia (120 miles each way) will cost more than a local shuttle within Berks County. If your itinerary covers multiple cities—like a tour of Hershey, Lancaster, and Gettysburg over several days—expect to pay a premium for the additional mileage and driver hours.
• Group Size: Larger groups require larger buses, which are more expensive to rent. A 56-passenger motorcoach costs more than a 25-passenger minibus, but less than renting two smaller vehicles. Always choose the smallest bus that can comfortably fit your group and luggage to maximize value.
• Bus Type: Full-size coaches are the most expensive option, followed by party buses, minibuses, and sprinter vans. Premium features like leather seats, hardwood floors, PA systems, or custom branding will increase the price. ADA-accessible buses with wheelchair lifts are available at no extra charge, but must be requested in advance.
• Itinerary Complexity: Multiple stops, tight schedules, or routes through congested areas (like downtown Philadelphia or New York City) may require extra planning and buffer time, which can add to your quote. One-way trips that leave the bus empty for the return journey (deadhead) are usually priced higher than round-trips.
• Parking & Permits: Some destinations require special permits or have limited parking for oversized vehicles. For example, dropping off at the Wells Fargo Center in Philly or the Giant Center in Hershey may incur fees that are passed on to you. Make sure to coordinate with venues in advance.
• Driver Lodging & Gratuity: For overnight trips, you must provide a separate hotel room for the driver each night. This is standard industry practice and required by law. While not mandatory, it’s customary to tip your driver 10-20% of the total rental cost for good service. Tips can be given in cash at the end of the trip or added to your invoice.

The best way to get an accurate price is to contact Reading Coach Bus Service with your exact trip details. We’ll build a custom package that fits your budget and needs, with no hidden fees or surprises. Our quotes are all-inclusive and cover the bus, driver, fuel, insurance, and basic amenities. The only extras you’ll be responsible for are parking, tolls, lodging, and gratuity.