Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Rentals in Bend
FAQS
Bend Minibus Company is one of the largest and most experienced charter bus companies serving Bend and all of Central Oregon. We’ve been providing group transportation solutions since 2011, and have a modern fleet of vehicles that includes 18- to 35-passenger minibuses, 40- to 56-passenger full-size charter buses, and even specialty vehicles like party buses or sprinter vans. Our team is available 24/7/365 to help you plan every detail of your trip, whether you need a shuttle for a wedding at Tetherow Resort, a ski trip up to Mt. Bachelor, or a corporate outing to Deschutes Brewery. We offer statewide service across Oregon, so we can take you anywhere you need to go—from Portland to Medford to Boise and beyond.
We provide charter bus rentals in Bend for any type of group or event! Over the years, we’ve worked with schools, universities, sports teams, businesses, wedding planners, tour operators, government agencies, military units, religious organizations, and more. Some of our most common bookings include field trip transportation to the High Desert Museum, campus shuttles for OSU-Cascades students, fan buses to Eugene or Corvallis for Ducks and Beavers games, brewery tours along the Ale Trail, and ski shuttles to Mt. Bachelor or Hoodoo. No matter what brings your group together, we’ll make sure you get there comfortably and on time.
A charter bus (also called a motorcoach) is a large, commercial vehicle designed to transport groups of people over long distances. Charter buses typically seat between 40 and 56 passengers and come equipped with amenities like reclining seats, overhead storage bins, undercarriage luggage bays, restrooms, TVs with DVD players, WiFi, power outlets, and PA systems. These buses are ideal for moving large groups around the state for sports tournaments, corporate events, school field trips, weddings, or multi-day tours. When you rent a charter bus from Bend Minibus Company, you’re getting a private, custom-built vehicle that will operate on your schedule and follow your itinerary exactly.
A minibus is a smaller version of a charter bus that usually seats between 18 and 35 passengers. Minibuses offer many of the same features as full-size coaches—like cushioned seats, climate control, and onboard entertainment—but they’re more compact and maneuverable. This makes them perfect for navigating tight city streets, narrow mountain roads, or crowded parking lots. Minibuses are great for airport transfers, hotel shuttles, wedding transportation, corporate commuting, or any situation where you need to move a mid-sized group quickly and efficiently. They’re also more affordable than larger buses, making them a budget-friendly option for shorter trips around Bend.
Most full-size charter buses in our fleet seat between 40 and 56 passengers. The exact number depends on the make and model of the bus, as well as the interior configuration. For example, a standard 56-passenger coach will have 14 rows of four seats each (two on each side of the aisle), while a 47-passenger bus might have fewer rows but more legroom or extra amenities like tables. If you’re not sure what size bus you need, just tell us how many people you’re traveling with and we’ll recommend the best option for your group.
Minibuses typically seat anywhere from 18 to 35 passengers. We offer several different sizes and layouts to accommodate groups of all shapes and sizes. An 18-passenger minibus is great for small teams or family outings, while a 25- or 28-passenger model works well for medium-sized groups. Our largest minibuses can hold up to 35 people and come with features like high-back seats, individual reading lights, USB charging ports, and overhead racks for backpacks or duffel bags. If you need something even smaller, we also have sprinter vans that seat 10 to 15 passengers.
Our fleet includes a wide range of vehicles to suit any group size or budget. We have full-size charter buses that seat 40, 47, 50, or 56 passengers; minibuses with 18, 20, 23, 25, 28, 30, or 35 seats; and sprinter vans for groups of 10 to 15. All of our buses are late-model, comfortable, and equipped with modern amenities. If you have specific requirements—like extra luggage space, wheelchair accessibility, or luxury features—let us know and we’ll match you with the perfect vehicle.
We offer a wide range of amenities to keep your passengers comfortable and entertained during the ride. Standard features on most buses include cushioned seats, air conditioning, heating, tinted windows, and interior lighting. For longer trips, you can request a bus with reclining seats, footrests, seatback trays, restrooms, flat-screen TVs, DVD/Blu-ray players, WiFi hotspots, power outlets, USB ports, PA/microphone systems, and Bluetooth/AUX connections for music. Charter buses have large underfloor luggage bays plus overhead parcel racks inside the cabin. Minibuses have smaller cargo holds or rear storage compartments for bags. If you need something specific—like leather upholstery, wood-look flooring, LED accent lights, or custom branding—we can arrange it.
Yes! Most of our buses come equipped with sound systems that allow you to play your own music through the speakers. This can be done via an AUX cable, Bluetooth pairing, USB drive, or CD/DVD player depending on the model. Just bring your phone, tablet, or playlist and you can be your own DJ for the trip. If you have special requests—like a microphone for announcements or a projector for videos—let us know and we’ll make sure your bus has the right setup.
Charter buses have the most luggage capacity, with two or three undercarriage bays that can hold several large suitcases, coolers, or equipment cases. Each passenger can typically bring one checked bag plus a carry-on that fits in the overhead rack above their seat. Minibuses have less storage space but still enough for backpacks, gym bags, or small duffels. If you’re traveling with oversized items—like skis, snowboards, bicycles, musical instruments, or AV gear—please let us know in advance so we can assign a bus with extra room. For really big loads, we can send a separate trailer or cargo van to follow the main bus.
Absolutely. We believe everyone deserves access to safe, reliable transportation, which is why we offer ADA-compliant buses in Bend and throughout Oregon. These vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, designated securement areas, wider aisles, grab bars, and accessible restrooms. If you have passengers with mobility challenges or other special needs, please let us know when you book so we can provide a bus that meets all ADA requirements. We can also accommodate requests for priority seating, service animal space, or additional assistance during boarding and unloading.
Yes, you can wrap your charter bus with custom graphics, logos, or advertisements. This is a popular option for sports teams, corporate sponsors, political campaigns, or event promoters who want to make a big visual impact. Bus wraps are made from high-quality vinyl that covers the exterior panels without damaging the paint underneath. You’ll need to provide the artwork and cover the cost of printing, installation, and removal. Please allow extra time for scheduling and coordination, as wrapping a bus can take several days to complete. Contact us for more details on sizing, pricing, and design guidelines.
We will do our best to accommodate requests for specific models, brands, or colors. Our fleet includes vehicles from leading manufacturers like MCI, Prevost, Van Hool, Temsa, Grech Motors, Turtle Top, and Mercedes-Benz. Common color options are white, black, silver, blue, or custom-painted liveries. If you have a preference for a certain style—such as executive/luxury trim, all-black exterior, or matching multiple buses—we’ll check availability and reserve it for your dates. Please note that exact matches are subject to current inventory and may require advance booking.
The price of renting a charter bus in Bend depends on several factors: the size of the bus, the length of the trip, the time of year, and any special requests or add-ons. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250 per hour, $1,200 to $2,000 per day, or $4 to $8 per mile for a full-size coach. For example, a round-trip from Bend to Portland (about 330 miles) might cost $2,500 to $3,500 total. The best way to get an accurate quote is to call us at 458-836-1920 with your itinerary and group size. We’ll give you an instant estimate with no hidden fees.
Minibus rentals are generally more affordable than full-size charter buses, with rates ranging from $100 to $200 per hour, $900 to $1,500 per day, or $3 to $6 per mile. A typical minibus rental within Bend city limits might cost $500 to $800 for a half-day or $1,200 to $1,800 for a full day. Prices are higher during peak seasons (summer, holidays, ski weekends) and lower during off-peak times. As always, the fastest way to get a personalized quote is to contact our office with your trip details.
Several variables influence the final cost of your bus rental: distance traveled, duration of service, number of passengers, type of vehicle, level of amenities, fuel prices, tolls/parking fees, driver lodging/meals, and demand during busy periods. Longer trips, larger buses, and premium features (like WiFi, restroom, or leather seats) will increase the price. Booking early and being flexible with your schedule can help you save money. We offer discounts for multi-day charters, non-profit organizations, and repeat customers.
Your quote covers the base rental fee for the bus and driver, plus standard amenities like seating, climate control, and basic entertainment. It also includes mileage, fuel, insurance, and routine cleaning before and after the trip. Additional charges may apply for optional extras (WiFi, restroom, ADA lift), overnight accommodations for the driver, tolls, parking permits, or extended wait times. We’ll itemize everything upfront so you know exactly what you’re paying for. There are no surprise surcharges or hidden costs.
We recommend booking your bus as early as possible, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (June-August for weddings and festivals, December-March for ski trips) or need multiple vehicles for a large event. Ideally, reserve your bus at least 3 to 6 months ahead of your departure date. Last-minute bookings are possible but subject to limited availability and higher rates. For major events like graduations, conferences, or sports tournaments, securing transportation 9 to 12 months in advance is wise. Once you have your headcount and itinerary, call us to lock in your reservation.
Yes, we can customize your rental to fit any schedule or route. One-way trips are common for airport transfers, point-to-point shuttles, or relocating a group to another city. Round-trip service is ideal for day excursions, sightseeing tours, or events where the bus drops you off and waits to bring you back. Multi-day packages are perfect for overnight retreats, multi-stop itineraries, or long-distance journeys across state lines. You set the timeline—we’ll follow it. We can also provide continuous looping shuttles between venues, hotels, and parking lots as needed.
Absolutely. Our buses regularly travel to destinations all over Oregon and beyond. Popular routes include Bend to Portland (3.5 hours), Eugene (2.5 hours), Salem (3 hours), Medford (4 hours), Boise, Idaho (6 hours), Seattle, Washington (6.5 hours), and even San Francisco, California (10+ hours). Long-distance charters are equipped with comfortable seats, restrooms, and entertainment systems to make the journey enjoyable. We’ll handle all the logistics—routing, rest stops, driver changes—so you can sit back and relax.
If your trip requires an overnight stay outside of Bend, you are responsible for providing a private hotel room for the driver. This ensures they get adequate rest and comply with federal Hours of Service regulations. The hotel should have secure parking for the bus and be located near the group’s lodging if possible. For multi-day trips, you’ll need to cover a room each night the bus is away from its home base. If your organization has a preferred hotel chain or negotiated rates, let us know and we’ll coordinate accordingly.
Getting a quote is quick and easy. You can call our office at 458-836-1920 or fill out the online form on our website. Please provide as much information as possible: date(s) of travel, pickup and drop-off locations, number of passengers, type of bus desired, and any special requests (ADA access, extra luggage, luxury features). The more details you give, the more accurate your quote will be. We’ll respond within minutes with a customized proposal tailored to your needs and budget. There’s no obligation to book until you’re ready.
Plan ahead: popular dates and destinations sell out fast. Be clear about your itinerary, including all stops and timing. Confirm headcount early to choose the right size bus. Pack light if possible—storage space is limited. Bring snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the road. Communicate any special needs (mobility, dietary, medical) in advance. Stay flexible—traffic, weather, and unforeseen delays can happen. Treat the bus with respect—no smoking, vandalism, or disruptive behavior. Tip your driver if you’re satisfied with the service. And most importantly, enjoy the ride!
We provide ground transportation to and from all major airports in the region, including Roberts Field (RDM) in Redmond, Portland International Airport (PDX), Eugene Airport (EUG), and Medford Rogue Valley International (MFR). Whether you’re flying in a corporate group, sports team, or wedding party, we’ll pick you up curbside and shuttle you directly to your hotel, venue, or conference center. For outbound flights, we’ll get you to the terminal with plenty of time to check in and clear security. Charter buses are a convenient alternative to car rentals, taxis, or rideshares—especially for large groups with lots of luggage.
We provide charter bus service to all local sports venues, including Vince Genna Stadium (home of the Bend Elks baseball team), Summit High School, Bend Senior High, Mountain View High, and Ridgeview High in Redmond. For college athletics, we can take you to Autzen Stadium in Eugene for Oregon Ducks football, Reser Stadium in Corvallis for Oregon State Beavers, or Matthew Knight Arena for basketball. Fan groups, booster clubs, and marching bands all rely on us for safe, reliable transportation to away games and playoff tournaments.
Bend has a vibrant live music scene, and we’re proud to support it by providing transportation to popular venues like Hayden Homes Amphitheater (formerly Les Schwab Amphitheater), Midtown Ballroom, Volcanic Theatre Pub, Silver Moon Brewing, and Tower Theatre downtown. For larger shows, we can run shuttles to Sunriver Resort, Sisters Folk Festival, or Britt Festival Pavilion in Jacksonville. Avoid the hassle of parking and designated drivers—let us get your group to the show and back safely.
Bend is a top destination for weddings, thanks to its stunning scenery and world-class venues. We’ve provided shuttles for ceremonies and receptions at Tetherow Resort, Brasada Ranch, Sunriver Great Hall, Pronghorn Club, Aspen Hall in Shevlin Park, Hollinshead Barn, FivePine Lodge in Sisters, and Elk Lake Resort. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a 300-person gala, we’ll make sure your guests arrive on time and get home safely at the end of the night.
In addition to Bend, we serve all surrounding communities in Central Oregon, including Redmond, Sisters, Sunriver, La Pine, Prineville, Madras, Terrebonne, Tumalo, and Powell Butte. We also run regular routes to Eugene, Salem, Portland, Medford, Klamath Falls, Ashland, Grants Pass, Hood River, The Dalles, and Pendleton. No destination is too near or too far—we’ll go wherever your itinerary takes us.
Bend hosts dozens of annual events and festivals that draw crowds from across the state. We provide transportation for Bend Brewfest, WinterFest, Summer Festival, Oktoberfest, Pole Pedal Paddle, Cascade Cycling Classic, Sisters Rodeo, Deschutes County Fair, and more. Large-scale events often require coordinated shuttle service between remote parking lots, downtown venues, and lodging properties. We have the experience and resources to manage complex logistics and move thousands of attendees efficiently.
For business travelers, we offer charter bus service to the Riverhouse Convention Center, Mt. Bachelor Village Conference Center, OSU-Cascades campus, and downtown meeting spaces. Corporate clients appreciate the convenience of having a private shuttle for airport transfers, dinner outings, team-building activities, or site visits. Onboard WiFi and power outlets allow passengers to stay connected and productive en route.
We work with educational institutions of all levels, from elementary schools to universities. Local districts like Bend-La Pine Schools, Redmond School District, and Sisters School District hire us for field trips, athletic events, band competitions, and outdoor education programs. Colleges such as OSU-Cascades, Central Oregon Community College (COCC), and Eastern Oregon University Bend Center use our buses for academic conferences, student orientation, and intercampus shuttles. Safety and reliability are our top priorities when transporting young passengers.