1. Bethlehem Minibus Company /
  2. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Rentals in Bethlehem

FAQS

Bethlehem Minibus Company is a leading provider of charter bus rentals in Bethlehem and across Pennsylvania. Since 2011, we’ve helped thousands of groups travel comfortably and efficiently throughout the Lehigh Valley region. Our fleet includes modern minibuses, full-size motorcoaches, party buses, sprinter vans, and school buses—so we can accommodate any group size or itinerary. Whether you need a shuttle for Musikfest, a wedding at SteelStacks, or a campus tour of Lehigh University, we’ll get you there on time and stress-free.

We work with all kinds of groups in Bethlehem and the surrounding areas. From corporate teams commuting to Allentown business parks to school field trips visiting the National Museum of Industrial History, we’ve done it all. We also provide transportation for sports teams playing at Goodman Stadium, wedding parties celebrating at Hotel Bethlehem, church retreats heading to Blue Mountain, and more. No matter where you’re going or why, we have a bus rental solution for you.

A charter bus (also known as a motorcoach) is a large vehicle designed to transport groups of people over long distances. These buses typically seat between 40-56 passengers and come equipped with amenities like reclining seats, air conditioning, WiFi, power outlets, TV monitors, DVD players, restrooms, and luggage storage. Charter buses are ideal for long-distance trips, multi-day tours, and transporting large groups to events or conferences.

A minibus is a smaller version of a charter bus that usually seats between 15-35 passengers. While they may not have all the features of a full-size coach, many minibuses still offer comfortable seating, climate control, overhead storage, and optional amenities like WiFi or power outlets. Minibuses are perfect for short-distance shuttles, airport transfers, corporate outings, and any situation where you need to move a mid-sized group efficiently.

Our charter buses can seat anywhere from 40 to 56 passengers, depending on the exact model. The most common sizes are 47-passenger, 50-passenger, and 56-passenger coaches. If you’re not sure what size you need, just tell us how many people are in your group and we’ll recommend the best option.

Minibuses generally seat between 15 and 35 passengers. Popular sizes include 18-passenger, 20-passenger, 25-passenger, 28-passenger, and 30-passenger models. For very small groups, we also offer 12-passenger sprinter vans and 10-passenger executive shuttles. Let us know your headcount and we’ll find the right fit.

We offer a wide range of bus types to suit any group size or budget. Our fleet includes 56-passenger motorcoaches, 47-passenger charter buses, 40-passenger school buses, 35-passenger minibuses, 28-passenger shuttles, 20-passenger party buses, 15-passenger sprinter vans, and even 10-passenger executive coaches. Each vehicle comes with its own set of features and seating configuration—just ask if you have specific requirements.

Our buses come loaded with amenities to make your ride as comfortable as possible. Standard features include cushioned seats, individual reading lights, overhead storage racks, and powerful HVAC systems to keep you cool or warm no matter the season. Most vehicles also offer free WiFi, USB charging ports, electrical outlets at every row, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, Bluetooth-enabled sound systems, PA microphones for announcements, and tinted windows for privacy. Full-size coaches add undercarriage luggage bays, onboard restrooms, and extra legroom. If you need something specific like leather upholstery, tables for laptops, or ADA accessibility, just let us know when booking.

Yes, most of our modern buses are equipped with audio systems that support AUX, USB, or Bluetooth connections. You can easily play your own playlists, podcasts, or announcements through the speakers during the trip. If having a specific type of media input is important to you, please mention it when booking so we can match you with a compatible vehicle.

Luggage capacity varies by vehicle size. A standard 56-passenger charter bus has enough undercarriage storage for about one large suitcase per person, plus additional room for carry-ons inside the cabin. Minibuses and sprinter vans have less dedicated luggage space but can still handle several medium-sized bags or equipment cases. If your group is traveling with oversized items like musical instruments, sports gear, or trade show displays, let us know in advance so we can allocate extra space or arrange for a trailer if needed.

Absolutely. We believe everyone deserves access to reliable transportation, which is why we offer ADA-compliant buses equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, priority seating, wider aisles, and accessible restrooms. Please request an accessible vehicle at least 72 hours before your departure date to ensure availability and proper accommodations for all passengers.

Yes, you can add custom graphics or advertising wraps to your charter bus for an additional fee. This is a popular option for political campaigns, corporate branding, or promoting special events around town. Wraps must be professionally installed and removed without damaging the vehicle’s paint. Contact us for pricing and design specifications if you’re interested in wrapping your bus.

We will do our best to accommodate requests for specific models or colors, but availability depends on our current fleet and scheduling. If you have a preference for a certain brand (like Prevost, MCI, Van Hool) or need your bus to match a wedding theme or school color, mention it when booking and we’ll try to make it happen. The earlier you reserve, the better chance we have of fulfilling special requests.

The cost of renting a charter bus in Bethlehem depends on several factors including the size of the bus, duration of the rental, distance traveled, and time of year. On average, expect to pay between $150 and $300 per hour for a full-size coach, with daily rates ranging from $1,200 to $2,500. For an exact quote tailored to your itinerary, contact us with your trip details and we’ll provide a transparent, all-inclusive price.

Minibus rentals are generally more affordable than full-size coaches. Hourly rates start around $125-$200, with daily rates typically between $900 and $1,600 depending on the length of service and amenities requested. Short local trips will cost less than all-day excursions or out-of-town charters. As always, the best way to get accurate pricing is to request a custom quote based on your specific needs.

Several variables influence the final price of your bus rental: vehicle type and size, total mileage, number of days/hours required, pickup and drop-off locations, seasonal demand (peak times like holidays or festival weekends may be higher), and any optional extras such as ADA features or custom wraps. We strive to offer competitive rates and flexible packages to fit most budgets.

Your quote covers the use of the bus for the agreed-upon time frame, a driver, fuel, insurance, standard amenities, and basic cleaning after the trip. Additional charges may apply for tolls, parking fees, overnight lodging for the driver on multi-day trips, excessive cleaning beyond normal wear and tear, or optional services like onboard catering or event staffing. We’ll itemize everything clearly so there are no surprises.

We recommend booking your bus as early as possible—ideally 3 to 6 months before your event date—to ensure the widest selection and best rates. Spring and summer are especially busy due to weddings, graduations, and festivals like Musikfest. Last-minute reservations can sometimes be accommodated, but options may be limited and prices higher due to demand.

Yes, we offer flexible rental packages to suit your itinerary. One-way trips are perfect for airport transfers or relocating groups between cities. Round-trip service is ideal for events where you need return transportation at the end of the day. Multi-day charters are great for touring bands, sports tournaments, or corporate retreats requiring dedicated mobility over several days. Just tell us your schedule and we’ll customize a plan accordingly.

Absolutely. Our buses regularly travel to destinations across Pennsylvania and beyond, including New York City, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Atlantic City, Pittsburgh, and more. Long-distance charters are a cost-effective alternative to flying or carpooling, allowing your group to stay together and enjoy the journey with onboard amenities. There are no strict mileage limits—if you need to go cross-country, we can make it happen.

If your trip itinerary requires the driver to be away from home overnight, you are responsible for providing a private hotel room for them. This ensures they have a safe place to rest and comply with mandatory hours-of-service regulations. Most hotels offer discounted rates for bus drivers accompanying group bookings. For day trips returning to Bethlehem the same night, no accommodation is needed.

Getting a quote is easy—just call us at 484-916-5790 or fill out the online form on our website with your trip details (dates, times, pickup/drop-off locations, number of passengers, and any special requests). We’ll review your information and send you a personalized quote within minutes. There’s no obligation to book until you’re ready.

Plan your itinerary with realistic timing for traffic and loading/unloading at each stop. Communicate clearly with your group about the schedule and rules for riding the bus. Pack light if possible to maximize comfort and storage space. Bring snacks, drinks, and entertainment for longer rides. Respect the driver and follow their instructions for safety. And most importantly, relax and enjoy the convenience of having private transportation tailored to your needs.

We provide ground transportation to and from all major airports in the region, including Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Whether you’re catching a flight or picking up out-of-town guests, we’ll get you there on time without the hassle of parking or rideshares.

Sports fans and athletes can count on us for rides to local venues like Goodman Stadium (Lehigh University football), Stabler Arena (basketball, concerts), and Earl E. Schaffer Municipal Ice Rink (hockey). We also transport teams and supporters to away games across the state. Store your coolers, banners, and gear onboard while you focus on cheering for victory.

We regularly shuttle groups to concerts at Wind Creek Event Center, Musikfest Café, Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks, and other live music hotspots around town. Avoid the headache of finding parking during sold-out shows by arriving together in a chartered bus. Pre-game with friends en route and leave the driving to us.

Make your special day run smoothly by booking a shuttle for guests between the ceremony, reception, and hotels. Popular wedding venues we serve include Historic Hotel Bethlehem, ArtsQuest Center, The Sayre Mansion, and various churches throughout the city. Keep everyone on schedule and eliminate the risk of drinking and driving.

In addition to Bethlehem, we operate in neighboring cities such as Allentown, Easton, Whitehall, Nazareth, Emmaus, Quakertown, and Stroudsburg. Our service area covers the entire Lehigh Valley and extends to Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Scranton, and New Jersey. Wherever your group needs to go, we have you covered.

We proudly provide transportation for major annual events like Musikfest, Celtic Classic Highland Games, Christkindlmarkt, Lehigh Valley Pride, SouthSide Arts & Music Festival, and Bethlehem VegFest. Large crowds mean limited parking—avoid the gridlock by arriving in a private bus that drops you off steps from the action.

Business travelers can rely on us for shuttles to and from Wind Creek Bethlehem Convention Center, Lehigh University’s Zoellner Arts Center, and other meeting spaces used for conferences, expos, and trade shows. Impress your attendees with punctual, professional transportation that keeps your event running on time.

We work with educational institutions of all sizes, including Lehigh University, Moravian University, Northampton Community College, Liberty High School, and Freedom High School. Arrange field trips, campus tours, athletic team travel, or daily commuter shuttles for students and staff. Affordable rates make it easy to budget for academic transportation needs.