Chauffeur services are one of the most reliable options for group transportation when you go on vacation. If you’re traveling with a large group, you’ll want to opt for a charter bus.
Hiring a professional driver and a reliable bus means that you don’t have to worry about navigating foreign streets or driving distracted. This is especially important if you’re transporting children that love to get loud and crazy. It also helps to have an organized way to ensure the entire group gets to the next location together.
Here are five things to keep in mind while hiring a bus and planning a vacation.
1. The Safety Record
First, you’ll want to research a charter bus’ safety record. Have they had any accidents in recent history? How long has your driver worked for the company?
You can look up reviews online and see other guests’ experiences with them. The U.S. Department of Transportation may also have given them a rating.
2. Type of Training and Monitoring
When you hire a driver, they need to have the right licenses to operate. Owning the right licenses shows that they are both qualified and legally allowed to drive their bus. While there are no formal education requirements, the driver should have on-the-job training.
It’s also important that the drivers have experience transporting the type of people in your group, whether they be handicapped, senior citizens, or otherwise.
3. Types of Charter Buses Available
There are many different options when you’re hiring a bus for your vacation. Charter bus companies may include vehicles such as motorcoach, mini buses, limousine buses, and even party buses.
Something like a tour bus can seat up to 56 people. Meanwhile, a mini bus may only have up to 35 seats.
Make sure that you’re hiring a car that can handle your group’s specific needs.
4. Health Precautions
One of the most common vacation tips you’ll see these days is to take the necessary health precautions. On a personal level, that means getting your vaccinations and carrying around hand sanitizer.
Look into what kind of rules your charter bus has regarding things like masks and seating.
Are riders required to wear masks while seated on the bus? And do they check the temperatures of all riders?
5. Cost of the Trip
Finally, calculate the overall cost of your trip and if there are any hidden fees. See if there’s a required deposit and a possible refund if you cancel. Are there any dates or times that are cheaper, such as during the Winter or early Fall?
You should receive a total cost, but make sure to get it in writing just in case they decide to tack on additional fees.
Hiring a Bus for Your Next Vacation
Whether you’re hiring a bus or a car for your next trip, it’s important to pick someone reliable. You may be stuck with this service for the next few days, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into.
Rendez-Vous Limousine offers group transportation services in the Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia areas. Take a look at our hours online and contact us with any questions.
