Bloomington Charter Bus Prices: How Much Does a Bus Rental Cost in Bloomington

When planning a group trip to the "City of Hospitality," securing reliable transportation is often the first item on the checklist. Whether you are organizing a massive shopping expedition to the Mall of America, coordinating a corporate shuttle from MSP International Airport, or planning a wedding at the Minnesota Valley Country Club, understanding the costs associated with a charter bus rental is essential. At Charter Bus Rental Company Bloomington, we believe in transparency. We know that budgeting is a crucial part of your planning process, and we are here to demystify charter bus pricing in Bloomington, Minnesota.

The cost of renting a bus isn't a single, flat-rate number. It is a dynamic figure based on the specific details of your itinerary. You can expect minibus rentals to range from $150 to $300+ per hour, while full-sized charter buses range from $180 to $400+ per hour. For full-day or multi-day trips, daily rates often range between $1,500 and $3,000+ per day. However, these are just averages. To get an accurate, penny-perfect price for your specific trip, you need to speak with our experts or use our online tool.

We have been serving Bloomington and the greater Twin Cities area since 2011, helping thousands of groups navigate the I-494 strip and beyond. Our goal is to provide you with the best vehicle at the best price, with zero hidden surprises. Call our 24/7 reservation team at 701-552-6430 today to get a free, no-obligation quote in under 30 seconds!

A few of the companies we’ve worked with

The 5 Key Factors That Influence Your Bus Rental Quote

Because every trip is unique—from a quick shuttle down American Boulevard to a long-haul road trip to Duluth—our pricing is custom-tailored to your schedule. When you call Charter Bus Rental Company Bloomington to request a quote, our reservation specialists calculate your rate based on five primary factors. Understanding these can help you adjust your itinerary to fit your budget.

1. Trip Duration and Distance

The most significant factor in your quote is how far you are going and how long you need the bus. We generally offer two types of pricing structures:

Hourly Rates: Best for local trips in and around Bloomington, Edina, and Richfield. If you need a shuttle for a wedding reception or a corporate dinner that lasts a few hours, you will likely pay by the hour. Note that most rentals require a 5-hour minimum to account for the bus's prep and travel time.
Daily/Mileage Rates: If you are planning a long-distance trip—perhaps taking a sports team from Bloomington to Chicago or Fargo—pricing is usually calculated by the day or by the mile. This covers the driver’s time and fuel for long hauls.

Pro Tip: Be precise with your pickup and drop-off times. If you keep the bus longer than the agreed-upon contract time (for example, if a concert at the Xcel Energy Center goes late), you may be charged for overtime hours.

2. The Time of Year

Like airline tickets and hotels, charter bus rates fluctuate based on seasonal demand. In Bloomington, demand spikes during specific times:

Summer (May – August): This is peak season. With weddings, family reunions, and tourists flocking to the Mall of America, availability tightens, and prices rise.
Spring (April – June): The end of the school year brings a rush of field trips, proms, and graduations. If you are booking during these months, try to reserve your bus at least 3 to 6 months in advance.
Winter (January – March): While Minnesota winters are cold, business doesn't stop. However, this is generally the most affordable time to rent a bus, provided there aren't major conventions in town.

3. The Type of Bus You Choose

The size of your group determines the size of the bus, which directly impacts the price. Minibuses: Perfect for groups of 15 to 35 people. These are more economical and easier to maneuver through tight hotel driveways or busy airport terminals. They are great for shuttle services but lack onboard restrooms. Full-Size Charter Buses: Designed for 40 to 56 passengers. These “motorcoaches” cost more but offer premium amenities like onboard restrooms, cavernous undercarriage luggage bays, and a smoother ride for long distances. If you have a group of 30 but lots of luggage (like a hockey team with gear), it is often smarter to pay slightly more for the full-size coach to ensure comfort.

4. Route and “Deadhead” Costs

Your quote includes the time the bus spends with passengers, but it also accounts for “deadhead”—the time and mileage required for the bus to leave our garage to reach your pickup spot, and the return trip after dropping you off. Since Charter Bus Rental Company Bloomington has a vast variety of buses right here in the Twin Cities area, we minimize these costs compared to out-of-town providers, keeping your price competitive.

5. Amenities and Special Requests

Most of our modern buses come standard with WiFi, reclining seats, and climate control. However, if you require specific premium features—such as satellite TV, PA systems for tour guides, or leather interiors for VIP corporate clients—it may influence the final price. We are happy to accommodate these requests; just let us know when you book!

Sample Pricing Scenarios for Bloomington Trips

To give you a better idea of what to expect, here are a few examples of common trips we book in the Bloomington area. Please note: These are estimates only. Actual prices vary based on availability and specific dates.

Scenario 1: The Mall of America Shopping Spree

The Group: A senior citizen community from St. Cloud wants a day trip to the Mall of America. The Vehicle: A 56-passenger charter bus with a restroom and plenty of storage for shopping bags. The Time: 10 hours (including travel time to/from St. Cloud). Estimated Cost: $1,600 – $2,200. The daily rate applies here because the driver is on duty for the entire day, waiting while the group shops and dines.

Scenario 2: The Corporate Airport Transfer

The Group: A business team of 22 executives flying into MSP Airport, heading to a hotel on Killebrew Drive. The Vehicle: A 25-passenger minibus with leather seating. The Time: 3 hours (accounting for flight delays and baggage claim). Estimated Cost: $550 – $800. This is a standard hourly rental. The minibus is more cost-effective than multiple black cars and keeps the team together.

Scenario 3: The Wedding Shuttle

The Group: Shuttling guests between a hotel in Bloomington and a wedding venue in nearby Eden Prairie. The Vehicle: Two 25-passenger minibuses running continuous loops. The Time: 8 hours (afternoon ceremony through late-night reception). Estimated Cost: $2,400 – $3,200 total. You are paying for two vehicles and two drivers for a full evening shift during peak weekend hours.

Ways to Save on Your Bloomington Bus Rental

Working with a tight budget? We get it. Here are a few strategies to keep your transportation costs low without sacrificing quality:

Book Early: The Golden Rule of charter bus rentals is to book as soon as possible. Prices rise as inventory shrinks. Booking 6 months in advance for a summer trip can save you hundreds of dollars compared to booking 2 weeks prior.

Right-Size Your Vehicle: Don’t pay for empty seats. If you have 20 people, don't book a 56-passenger coach unless you really need the extra luggage space. A minibus is significantly cheaper and easier to park.

Travel Off-Peak: If your schedule is flexible, avoid weekends and major holidays. A Tuesday trip to the Minnesota Zoo will almost always be cheaper than a Saturday trip.

Split the Cost: For private groups, breaking down the cost per person often reveals that a charter bus is cheaper than rideshares or gas for multiple cars. A $1,500 bus for 50 people is only $30 per person for a full day of safe travel!

The Value of Booking with Charter Bus Rental Company Bloomington

Price is important, but value is paramount. When you choose Charter Bus Rental Company Bloomington, you aren't just renting a vehicle; you are renting peace of mind. We have been a staple in the Bloomington transportation community since 2011. We understand the local roads, from the construction on I-35W to the best drop-off points at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Our fleet is modern and well-equipped to meet the needs of group transportation. The drivers know the area inside and out. Whether you need a sprinter van for a VIP dinner at Hazelwood Food and Drink or a fleet of coaches for a massive convention, we handle the logistics so you can focus on your event.

School Bus Rentals vs. Charter Bus Rentals

For some groups, especially local school field trips or short transfers, a standard yellow school bus might be an option. School buses are generally the most affordable option, often costing 30-40% less than a charter bus. However, they come with trade-offs.

School Bus: No A/C, no restroom, bench seating, slower travel speeds. Best for short, local trips on a strict budget.

Charter Bus: Climate control (A/C and heat), onboard restrooms, reclining seats, WiFi, power outlets, undercarriage storage. Best for adults, corporate groups, long distances, or anyone who prioritizes comfort.

We can assist you with both options! Just let our reservation specialist know your budget and comfort preferences, and we will guide you to the right choice.

How to Book Your Bus in Minutes?

We’ve streamlined the booking process to be as fast and easy as possible. Here is how it works:

Gather Your Details: Have your itinerary ready. We need to know your pickup date, time, and location, your destination(s), your passenger count, and any special requests (like ADA accessibility).
Call or Click: Call our 24/7 team at 701-552-6430 or use our online quote tool.
Get Your Quote: We will provide a transparent, all-inclusive price in under 30 seconds.
Secure Your Bus: If you like the price, you can put down a deposit to lock in your reservation. It’s that simple.

Get an Instant Quote for Your Bloomington Trip Today!

Don't leave your group transportation to chance. Whether you are heading to a game, a wedding, a corporate retreat, or the airport, Charter Bus Rental Company Bloomington is ready to help. Our representatives are available 24/7/365 to assist you with finding the best charter bus to meet your needs. If you’d like a free personalized quote for your next group trip, we’re ready to help and we’d love to earn your business!

You can reach us by calling 701-552-6430. You can also use our online quote tool for instant online charter bus pricing in under 30 seconds. With just a few pieces of information, you can instantly see images and prices of available vehicles in the Bloomington area. Let's get you on the road!

Frequently Asked Questions About Bloomington Pricing

How far in advance should I book my bus in Bloomington?

To ensure availability and the best pricing, we recommend booking as soon as your dates are set. Ideally, you should book 3 to 6 months in advance. If you are traveling during busy seasons—like June for weddings or October for fall foliage tours—try to book 6 to 9 months out. However, we are specialists in last-minute travel and can often accommodate requests with just a few days' notice!

What if my trip itinerary changes?

We understand that plans change. You can make minor adjustments to your itinerary (like changing a pickup time by 15 minutes) relatively easily. However, significant changes—like adding a new stop or extending the rental time—may result in a change in price. Call our 24/7 support line at 701-552-6430 as soon as you know about a change, and we will work with you to update your reservation.