Charleston Minibus Rentals

A minibus can have anywhere from 15 to 35 seats, depending on the exact model and how it’s configured. Standard sizes include 15-passenger, 18-passenger, 20-passenger, 23-passenger, 25-passenger, 28-passenger, 30-passenger and 35-passenger minibuses. If you need to move more people than that, you’ll want a full-size charter bus instead, which can seat up to 56 passengers. When figuring out what size bus you need, make sure to count everyone in your group—including kids—and consider whether you’ll need extra room for luggage, coolers or equipment.

Minibuses come with a range of amenities designed to keep passengers comfortable and entertained. Standard features include cushioned, forward-facing seats with armrests and headrests, powerful air conditioning and heating systems, and overhead storage compartments for small bags and personal items. Many minibuses also offer onboard Wi-Fi, USB ports or power outlets at each row, flat-screen monitors mounted at the front or along the aisle, Bluetooth-enabled sound systems, PA microphones, LED accent lighting, and tinted windows for privacy. Larger models may include rear luggage storage, upgraded upholstery, or custom branding options.

Yes, most modern minibuses are equipped with electrical outlets and USB ports to allow passengers to charge their devices during the trip. The number and location of outlets can vary depending on the make and model of the minibus. Some minibuses have one or two outlets per row of seats, while others may have a centralized power strip or individual USB ports integrated into the armrests or seatbacks. If having access to outlets is important for your group, be sure to specify this requirement when booking your minibus so we can provide a vehicle that meets your needs. Older models may not have outlets, but newer ones almost always do.

Most minibuses do not have bathrooms onboard due to their smaller size and shorter typical trip lengths. However, some larger minibus models (usually those closer to 35 seats) may be equipped with a compact restroom at the rear of the vehicle. If a bathroom is essential for your trip, please let our reservation team know when you request a quote so we can confirm availability of a minibus with this feature or suggest alternative arrangements. For longer journeys without an onboard restroom, the driver can make scheduled stops at rest areas or other facilities along the route.

Yes, minibuses have luggage space, but the amount and location of storage depends on the specific model. Most minibuses offer either overhead compartments inside the cabin, under-bus storage bays accessible from the outside, or rear luggage areas at the back of the vehicle. Overhead compartments are suitable for small bags, backpacks, and personal items, while under-bus storage and rear luggage areas can accommodate larger suitcases, equipment cases, or group gear. When booking your minibus rental, it’s important to inform the company about the amount of luggage your group will bring so they can match you with a vehicle that has adequate storage space. If your group has significant luggage needs, a larger minibus with under-bus storage or a full-size charter bus may be more appropriate.

The cost to rent a minibus in Charleston typically ranges from $800 to $1,600 per day, $125 to $325 per hour, or $4 to $7 per mile, depending on the size of the bus, length of the trip, and time of year. Smaller 15-passenger minibuses are on the lower end of the price range, while larger 28- or 35-passenger models cost more. Multi-day and long-distance trips are usually billed by the day or by the mile. Additional expenses such as tolls, parking fees, and gratuity for the driver are not included in the base rate. To get an accurate quote for your specific trip, contact Charleston Party Bus Company with your itinerary details.

You should book your minibus rental in Charleston at least six to nine months in advance, especially if your trip falls during a busy season or coincides with a major event. Spring and summer are peak times due to wedding season, school trips, and events like Spoleto Festival USA and Charleston Wine + Food. Fall weekends can also be busy with college football games at The Citadel and College of Charleston. If you’re traveling during these periods, the best minibuses get reserved quickly, so it’s smart to lock in your reservation as early as possible. Last-minute bookings are sometimes available, but your choice of vehicles will be limited and prices may be higher. Once you have confirmed your travel dates and rough itinerary, securing your minibus should be one of the first things you do.

Booking a minibus rental in Charleston is simple and can be done entirely online or over the phone. Just gather your trip details—including your pickup and drop-off locations, travel dates, headcount, and any special requests—then call us at 854-800-5830. Our team is available 24/7 to answer questions, provide instant pricing, and help you choose the right vehicle. Once you receive your quote, you can reserve your minibus by signing the contract and making a deposit. The balance is due before your trip date. We serve all of Charleston County and surrounding areas, including Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Summerville, and Goose Creek. Whether you’re heading to a wedding on Kiawah Island or a corporate event downtown, we’ll get you there comfortably and on time.

Your minibus rental quote covers the cost of the vehicle and the driver, but it does not include additional expenses such as tolls, parking fees, or gratuity for the driver. These extra costs are the responsibility of the customer and should be budgeted for separately. For example, if your trip requires crossing toll bridges or using toll roads, you will need to pay those fees either in advance or reimburse the driver after the trip. Similarly, if your destination requires paid parking—such as a hotel, convention center, or stadium—you are responsible for covering those charges. It’s important to discuss your full itinerary with your reservation specialist so they can advise you on any potential additional costs and help you plan accordingly. Driver gratuity is customary and typically ranges from 10% to 20% of the base fare.

Charleston’s public transit options are limited and not ideal for large groups or travelers with tight schedules. The city’s bus system, operated by the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), offers fixed routes that primarily serve downtown Charleston, North Charleston, West Ashley, Mount Pleasant and James Island. While affordable, these buses run on infrequent schedules and do not provide direct service to many popular destinations such as Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, or local wedding venues and event spaces. There is no subway or light rail system in Charleston, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can become expensive and unreliable during peak hours or special events. Taxis are available but are not a practical solution for group transportation. In contrast, a private minibus rental offers door-to-door service on your schedule, ensuring your entire group travels together comfortably and efficiently. You won’t have to worry about missed connections, limited routes, or hauling luggage between transfers. A minibus is the most convenient and reliable way to get around Charleston with a group.