Frequently Asked Questions About Charter Bus Rentals in Chattanooga
FAQS
Charter Bus Rental Chattanooga is a leading full-service transportation and bus company in Chattanooga with the largest fleet of modern vehicles in the region. We’ve helped everyone from Fortune 500 companies to local schools and bridesmaids book a bus, and we always put your experience first. Our team is available 24/7/365 to answer questions, provide quotes, and support your trip from start to finish. We serve all of Hamilton County and beyond, including East Ridge, Signal Mountain, Lookout Mountain, Hixson, Ooltewah, and more. When you choose us, you get people who care, expertise you can trust, and a fleet that can handle anything.
A charter bus—also called a motorcoach or coach bus—is a large, professionally operated vehicle rented by a group to travel together on a custom schedule. Unlike a public Greyhound or Megabus, a charter bus runs only for your group, going exactly where and when you want. It’s commonly used for events like corporate outings, school field trips, sports team travel, weddings, and multi-day tours. Most full-size charter buses seat 40 to 56 passengers and include amenities such as reclining seats, climate control, onboard restrooms, luggage bays, WiFi, and video monitors. Smaller versions (minibuses) are available for groups of 15–35.
A charter bus is a large, boxy vehicle with a high roofline, flat sides, and multiple tinted windows along each side. The front end is typically sloped or rounded for aerodynamics, and there’s a wide entry door just behind the front axle. Most have smooth fiberglass or aluminum body panels that can be painted in any color or wrapped with graphics. Full-size models ride on three axles with large 22.5-inch wheels, giving them a stance similar to a city transit bus but with a sleeker profile. You’ll often see baggage doors low on the sides, roof-mounted HVAC units, and LED marker lights outlining the roofline.
Most full-size charter buses seat 50 to 56 passengers, but smaller and larger models are available. In Chattanooga, we offer minibuses that can seat 18, 20, 25, or 28 passengers—perfect for smaller groups or short-distance trips. Our largest motorcoaches can accommodate up to 56 people, making them ideal for big events, school trips, or corporate outings. If you’re not sure what size you need, our team can help you choose the right vehicle based on your group size, luggage requirements, and trip itinerary. Just give us a call at 423-904-6290 and we’ll make sure you get a bus with enough seats for everyone.
Anyone who needs to move a group of people can rent a charter bus. In Chattanooga, we work with schools (Hamilton County Schools, UTC), sports teams, corporations, wedding parties, churches, event planners, military groups, and more. Common clients include business travelers heading to meetings or conferences, fans attending sporting events, guests traveling to weddings or family reunions, and students going on field trips or college tours. We also serve healthcare workers, construction crews, and civic organizations. Whether you’re organizing a one-time event or need ongoing shuttle service, we can provide the transportation solution that fits your needs.
We offer a full range of buses in Chattanooga, including 18-passenger, 20-passenger, 25-passenger, and 28-passenger minibuses; 35-passenger and 40-passenger mid-size coaches; and 56-passenger full-size charter buses. All are available with standard or upgraded amenities, and many models come from top manufacturers like Van Hool, Prevost, MCI, Setra, and Temsa. If you need something specific—such as an ADA-accessible coach or a bus with leather seats and video monitors—just ask. We can also provide party buses (15–40 passengers) and entertainer coaches (8–12 sleeper bunks) upon request.
A charter bus and coach bus are essentially the same thing: a full-size motorcoach designed for group transportation, seating 40–56 passengers with forward-facing seats and optional amenities like restrooms and video monitors. A party bus is a smaller vehicle (15–40 passengers) with a spacious interior, perimeter seating, color-changing lights, sound system, and room to stand or dance—ideal for celebrations and short trips. An entertainer bus (or sleeper coach) is a custom motorcoach built for touring artists and entertainers, featuring 8–12 bunk beds, a lounge area, kitchenette, bathroom with shower, and premium finishes. It’s designed for multi-day trips with overnight accommodations on board.
Most modern charter buses come standard with reclining seats, individual reading lights, climate control, overhead parcel racks, and luggage bays under the floor. Optional amenities include onboard restroom, flat-screen video monitors, DVD player, PA system, WiFi, and 110V or USB power outlets at each seat. Premium coaches may offer leather upholstery, footrests, tray tables, and Bluetooth audio. Larger groups can request multiple video screens or a sound system with microphone. If you need something specific—like WiFi, power outlets, or a DVD player—be sure to mention it when booking. Additional amenities may be available upon request.
Yes, many of our Chattanooga charter buses offer onboard WiFi. This amenity is popular for corporate groups, school trips, and anyone who wants to stay connected while traveling. WiFi allows passengers to check email, browse the web, stream music, or access online documents during the trip. However, bandwidth may be limited compared to home or office connections, so streaming video or downloading large files might be slower. If reliable WiFi is important for your group, please request it when booking so we can assign a coach with this feature. There may be an additional fee for WiFi on some vehicles.
A full-size charter bus offers substantial luggage capacity, with both underfloor baggage bays and interior storage. Each underfloor compartment can hold several large suitcases, while overhead parcel racks inside the cabin accommodate smaller bags, backpacks, or carry-on items. As a rule of thumb, a 56-passenger coach can carry one large suitcase plus one carry-on bag per person. If your group has extra luggage—such as equipment cases, coolers, or bulky items—please mention this when booking so we can ensure adequate space. For very large loads, multiple buses or a trailer may be required.
Yes, we can provide ADA-accessible charter buses in Chattanooga and throughout Hamilton County. These coaches are equipped with a wheelchair lift at the main entry door, wider aisles, designated wheelchair securement areas, and accessible restroom facilities. Minibuses and mid-size coaches can also be ordered with a lift if needed. If you require an ADA-accessible vehicle, please specify this when requesting a quote so we can assign a properly equipped coach. There is no additional charge for an ADA-accessible bus, but advance notice is appreciated to ensure availability.
Yes, you can wrap a charter bus with your own custom graphics, advertising, or branding. Full wraps, partial wraps, and window decals are all permitted as long as the design complies with visibility and safety regulations. The cost of wrapping the bus is the responsibility of the renter, including installation and removal. If you plan to wrap the bus, please mention this when booking so we can assign a coach with a suitable exterior finish. Additional time may be required before and after the rental for wrap installation and removal.
Yes, you can request a specific bus model, manufacturer, or exterior color when booking your charter. Common models include Van Hool CX45, Prevost H3-45, MCI J4500, Setra S417, and Temsa TS35E, available in standard colors like white, black, silver, or custom paint. While we do our best to accommodate specific requests, exact availability may vary based on fleet scheduling and maintenance. If your trip requires a particular model—such as matching multiple buses, corporate branding, or specific interior features—please mention this when requesting a quote. We’ll confirm availability or offer the closest alternative.
The cost of a charter bus rental in Chattanooga varies based on the size of the vehicle, duration of the trip, distance traveled, and time of year. As a rough estimate, a full-size 56-passenger coach typically costs between $1,200 and $3,500 per day. Local trips are billed by the hour (with a 4- or 5-hour minimum), while longer trips are billed by the mile or by the day. Minibuses and smaller coaches are less expensive than full-size motorcoaches. For the most accurate pricing, request a quote online or call our office with your trip details.
Minibus rentals in Chattanooga are generally more affordable than full-size coaches. You can expect to pay between $600 and $1,800 per day for a minibus that seats 18 to 28 passengers. Pricing depends on the length of the trip, number of hours or miles, and any additional amenities requested. Minibuses are ideal for airport transfers, wedding shuttles, corporate outings, and short-distance trips. Like larger buses, they can be rented by the hour for local charters or by the mile for longer journeys. Contact us with your itinerary for a precise quote.
Several factors influence the price of a charter bus rental: size of the vehicle (minibus vs. full-size coach), length of the trip (hours or miles), number of days, time of year (peak vs. off-peak), and any additional services or amenities requested. Longer trips that require overnight stays or multiple drivers will cost more. Special requests such as WiFi, power outlets, or custom branding may add to the total. Fuel, tolls, parking, and driver gratuity are typically not included in the base rate and should be budgeted separately.
Our quotes include the cost of the vehicle, driver’s wages, insurance, and standard amenities. Additional expenses such as fuel, tolls, parking fees, and driver gratuity are not included and are the responsibility of the renter. Optional services like WiFi, onboard entertainment, or special pick-up and drop-off arrangements will be itemized separately. The quote will specify the terms of the rental, including start and end times, cancellation policy, and payment schedule. If you have specific requirements, let us know so we can provide an all-inclusive estimate.
It’s best to book your charter bus as early as possible—ideally 2 to 6 months in advance—to ensure availability and secure the best rates. Spring and fall are peak seasons for group travel, with increased demand from schools, sports teams, and event planners. Last-minute bookings can sometimes be accommodated, but selection may be limited and prices higher. For large events or multi-day trips, advance booking is strongly recommended. Once you have your travel dates and itinerary, contact us to reserve a vehicle. A deposit is required to confirm the booking.
You can get an instant quote by calling our 24-hour reservations team at 423-904-6290 or by using the online quote form on our website. Simply provide your trip details—including date, pickup location, destination, group size, and any special requirements—and we’ll send you a personalized quote in minutes. If you have questions or need help choosing the right vehicle, our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Once you receive your quote, you can review the options and book your rental online or over the phone.
Yes, we offer flexible rental packages to accommodate one-way trips, round-trip charters, and multi-day itineraries. Whether you need a simple transfer to the airport, a round-trip shuttle for a special event, or a multi-day charter for an out-of-town excursion, we can customize the service to fit your schedule. Multi-day rentals can include overnight stays, multiple destinations, and custom routing. Just provide your itinerary when requesting a quote, and we’ll structure the rental accordingly.
Yes, we can provide long-distance and even out-of-state bus rentals from Chattanooga to destinations across the Southeast and beyond. Popular routes include Atlanta, Nashville, Knoxville, Birmingham, Huntsville, and Charlotte. Full-size coaches are designed for highway travel, with comfortable seating, onboard restrooms, and entertainment options. For very long trips, federal regulations require rest breaks and may necessitate a second driver. Our team will coordinate the logistics to ensure a safe and efficient journey. Contact us with your destination city for pricing and availability.
Yes, if your charter includes an overnight stay, the renter is responsible for providing hotel accommodations for the driver. The hotel should offer convenient parking for the bus and be located near the group’s lodging. Most hotels provide discounted rates for drivers. For multi-day trips, drivers are allotted a daily per diem for meals and incidentals. Our team can advise on suitable lodging options and coordinate arrangements. The cost of the driver’s room is not included in the base rental fee and should be budgeted separately.
Plan your itinerary with precise pick-up and drop-off locations, allowing extra time for traffic and boarding. Downtown Chattanooga can be congested during peak hours and around major venues. Provide a headcount to ensure the bus has enough seats. Budget for additional expenses such as fuel, tolls, parking, and driver gratuity. Communicate any special requirements, such as accessibility needs or equipment storage. Review the rental contract for payment terms and cancellation policy. Stay in contact with the driver or dispatch on the day of the trip for smooth coordination. Allow extra time for boarding and departures.
We provide charter bus service to and from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) and regional airports such as Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson, Nashville International, and Knoxville McGhee Tyson. Buses can pick up and drop off passengers at the terminal curbside or designated ground transportation area. Airport transfers are available for arriving and departing groups, with flight tracking for schedule adjustments. Larger groups flying in or out of the region can be accommodated with multiple vehicles. Minibus shuttles are available for hotel transfers.
We provide charter bus service to all major sports venues in Chattanooga, including Finley Stadium (home of UTC Mocs football and Chattanooga FC), AT&T Field (Chattanooga Lookouts baseball), and the UTC McKenzie Arena for basketball games. We also serve high school stadiums across Hamilton County for local athletic events. Out-of-town trips to venues like Nissan Stadium in Nashville or Truist Park in Atlanta are available as well. Buses can drop off groups close to the entrance and park in designated bus or oversized vehicle lots during the game.
We provide transportation to all major concert and event venues in Chattanooga, including the Tivoli Theatre, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium, The Signal, and outdoor venues like Coolidge Park and Riverfront Parkway. Groups attending music festivals, theater performances, or comedy shows can travel together for convenience and safety. For large events, the bus will drop off passengers near the entrance and park in a designated lot until the show concludes. Out-of-town trips to venues in nearby cities are also available.
Charter Bus Rental Chattanooga services every wedding venue in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, providing seamless guest transportation between hotels, ceremony sites, and reception venues. Popular venues we serve include The Venue Chattanooga, The Mill of Chattanooga, Howe Farms, The Turnbull Building, Grandview, and The Read House. Hosting your ceremony and reception at different locations? Book a private shuttle to run guests between venues on your schedule. We also offer shuttles to and from Chattanooga Airport and downtown hotels for out-of-town guests.
We proudly serve all of Chattanooga and Hamilton County, including East Ridge, Red Bank, Signal Mountain, Lookout Mountain, Hixson, and Ooltewah. Need to go further? We can easily send your bus to nearby cities like Cleveland, TN; Dalton, GA; Athens, TN; Jasper, TN; and South Pittsburg, TN. Planning a longer trip? We also provide service to Knoxville, Nashville, Atlanta, Birmingham, and beyond. No matter where your group needs to go, we have a vehicle that can get you there.
We provide transportation to all major events and festivals in Chattanooga, including the Riverbend Festival, 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival, Chattanooga Film Festival, Wine Over Water, and Head of the Hooch Regatta. Groups attending multi-day events can book a shuttle for convenient drop-off and pick-up. We also serve conventions, trade shows, and community celebrations. Event organizers can arrange continuous shuttle service between parking areas and the venue. Out-of-town excursions to regional festivals are available.
We provide charter bus service to the Chattanooga Convention Center and other meeting venues downtown. Corporate groups attending conferences, trade shows, or training sessions can arrange transportation from hotels, airports, and off-site dinners. The Convention Center offers bus loading zones on Carter Street and West 13th Street for easy access. We also serve the nearby Chattanoogan Hotel, Westin, and Marriott for business events. Out-of-town trips to convention centers in Atlanta, Nashville, and Knoxville are available.