Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Charter Bus in Des Moines

How do I rent a charter bus in Des Moines?

Before you get in touch with the Des Moines Charter Bus Company team, we recommend gathering some key trip details to streamline the reservation process. Have your list of pick-up and drop-off locations nailed down, as well as your passenger count and an idea of what amenities you want aboard your bus. With that information, our 24-hour reservation team can walk you step by step through your Des Moines bus rental reservation to ensure your transportation service has everything you need and nothing you don’t!

 

What kind of bus can I rent in Des Moines?

Nearly any kind! No matter where in the Des Moines area you’re traveling or how many folks are along for the ride, our wide selection of bus rental options makes it easy to find the perfect motorcoach for your transportation needs. From 56-passenger coach bus rentals to 25-passenger minibus shuttles—GSA-approved fleets for military outings to ADA-compliant charter buses with wheelchair lifts—we’ll work with you to find your ideal bus rental in Des Moines.

 

How much does it cost to rent a charter bus in Des Moines?

The cost of your Des Moines charter bus will depend on a number of factors—including your passenger count, amenity requests, the time of year you’ll be traveling, and how many miles you’ll be putting on your motorcoach. Just call our 24/7 team at (515) 461-8565, and we’ll provide a transparent bus rental pricing estimate based on your specific trip details.

 

Do I need to make a deposit to secure by bus rental?

Yes—you’ll need to put down a deposit that’s equal to 10% of your total trip cost in order to secure your Des Moines bus rental. The remainder of your balance is due 14 days prior to your trip’s departure date.

 

What if I need to cancel my trip?

If your group is no longer able to go through with your trip, please let us know as soon as possible. There are two courses of action we can take, depending on how far out you cancel your Des Moines charter bus rental.

Canceling your trip more than 14 days before your departure date will mean you lose your 10% deposit, but you will not be required to pay your full balance.

By canceling 14 or fewer days before your trip, you are still responsible for paying the full balance of your charter bus rental. 

 

Can I eat and drink on my bus rental?

Yes! Though, we recommend sticking to snacks and avoiding messy meals aboard your motorcoach. A minimum $200 cleaning fee may be added to your bill if anything is spilled or if trash is left on your bus.

 

Can I bring alcoholic beverages inside my bus rental?

It depends. If all passengers are 21 or older and you’re paired with a bus provider with an up-to-date liquor license, then yes. Let the Des Moines Charter Bus Company team know if your group will want to drink alcohol on your charter bus, and we’ll connect you to a transportation option that can accommodate your requests.

 

Can I drive my Des Moines charter bus?

No, we cannot permit customers to drive their bus rentals—even if they have a CDL. Don’t worry—every charter bus and minibus rental includes the services of a professional and certified bus driver with all the necessary experience to keep your group transportation running smoothly.

 

How much should I tip my charter bus driver?

While it’s not required, we encourage you to tip your bus driver to show your appreciation for a job well done. We recommend offering a tip that’s 5% to 10% of your trip’s final cost. You can tip in cash at your trip’s final drop-off point, or we can include gratuity in the overall cost of your bus rental upon request.

 

Do I need to pay for my driver's lodging?

Yes, if you are planning a long trip or a multi-day bus rental then you will need to accommodate your driver’s lodging. By law, charter bus drivers must rest 8 hours for every 10 hours on the road and every 15 hours on the clock. We recommend requesting an extra room at your hotel for your driver when you reserve a block of rooms for your passengers.

 

Do I need to pay for my driver's food?

No, your bus driver can handle their own meals and refreshments while on the clock. That being said, your driver will surely appreciate offers of snacks or water, if you’re already planning to bring those aboard your Des Moines charter bus.

 

My question isn’t answered here.

Feel free to give us a call at (515) 461-8565 at any time. Our reservation team is available around the clock to answer your questions, so you can rent a bus in Des Moines with peace of mind.