1. Lafayette Minibus Company /
  2. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Rentals in Lafayette

FAQS

Lafayette Minibus Company is a leading charter bus company in Lafayette because we offer one of the largest fleets in Louisiana, 24/7 customer support, and custom packages for any group size or itinerary. We’ve been serving Lafayette since 2011 and have experience with everything from Mardi Gras shuttles to LSU football charters. Our fleet includes minibuses, full-size charter buses, party buses, entertainer coaches, and ADA-accessible vehicles—so you’ll always have options. We also provide service to nearby cities like Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Lake Charles, and Alexandria. When you book with us, you’ll get a dedicated reservations specialist who will answer all your questions and make sure your trip goes smoothly from start to finish.

We provide charter bus rentals for every type of group and event in Lafayette! Some of our most popular services include wedding shuttles, corporate transportation, school field trip buses, sports team charters, concert and festival shuttles, and private tours. We also help organize campus transportation for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Greek life events, church retreats, casino trips to Coushatta and L’Auberge, and more. Whether you’re planning a family reunion at Girard Park, a brewery tour along the Cajun Boudin Trail, or a multi-day conference at the Cajundome, we’ll make sure your group travels comfortably and on time. If you have specific needs or questions, just ask—we’re available 24/7 to assist you!

A charter bus (also called a motorcoach) is a large vehicle designed to transport groups of people over short or long distances. Charter buses typically seat 40 to 56 passengers and come equipped with amenities like reclining seats, air conditioning, restrooms, TV monitors, DVD players, WiFi, power outlets, and luggage compartments. These buses are ideal for moving large groups efficiently and comfortably—whether you’re heading to a football game at Cajun Field, a corporate event in downtown Lafayette, or a festival in Baton Rouge. Charter buses can be used for one-way trips, round trips, or multi-day tours across Louisiana and beyond.

A minibus is a smaller version of a charter bus that usually seats between 15 and 35 passengers. Minibuses are perfect for shuttling wedding guests between venues, transporting employees to offsite meetings, taking students on field trips, or providing airport transfers for small groups. Despite their smaller size, many minibuses still offer features like cushioned seats, climate control, overhead storage, and audio/video systems. They’re easy to maneuver through city streets and can access locations that larger buses cannot—making them a versatile option for any group traveling around Lafayette.

Most charter buses in our fleet have 56 seats, which is the standard capacity for a full-size motorcoach. However, we also offer slightly smaller models with 50 or 47 seats if you don’t need quite as much space. All of these buses feature high-back reclining seats with armrests and footrests, so your passengers will stay comfortable even on longer trips. There’s plenty of room for everyone to stretch out and relax while enjoying the ride.

Our minibuses come in several different sizes to accommodate groups of various sizes. The smallest ones have 18 or 20 seats, while larger versions can hold 25, 28, 30, or 35 passengers. No matter which size you choose, you’ll get a modern vehicle with comfortable seating and enough room for carry-on bags. Minibuses are great for shuttling small groups around town or providing last-mile connections from transit hubs like Rosa Parks Transportation Center.

We offer a wide range of bus types to suit any group size or budget. Our fleet includes 56-passenger charter buses, 47- and 50-passenger motorcoaches, 35-, 30-, 28-, 25-, 20-, and 18-passenger minibuses, as well as party buses, sprinter vans, and specialty vehicles. If you have specific requirements such as extra luggage space, onboard restroom, or ADA accessibility, let us know and we’ll match you with a bus that meets your needs. We can also provide wrapped/executive/luxury/interior/exterior customizations upon request.

All of our buses come equipped with standard amenities like reclining seats, climate control, reading lights, and PA systems. Larger charter buses typically include an onboard restroom, TV monitors, DVD player, WiFi hotspot, power outlets/USB ports at every row, and large undercarriage luggage bays plus overhead parcel racks. Minibuses may have fewer TVs and no restroom but still offer comfortable seating and A/V system. If you need something specific like tables, coolers, or bike racks, just ask!

Yes, most of our buses are equipped with audio systems that allow you to play your own music through AUX, Bluetooth, or USB connection. You can connect your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to the sound system and share your favorite playlists, podcasts, or announcements with the entire bus. Some models also have CD/DVD players and multiple speakers throughout the cabin for better sound quality. If you have specific technical requirements, please let us know when booking.

A full-size charter bus has the most luggage space, with large undercarriage bays that can fit up to one suitcase per person plus additional gear like coolers, band instruments, or sports equipment. There are also overhead racks inside the cabin for smaller items. Minibuses have limited storage, usually only overhead shelves and/or a small rear compartment, so they’re best for groups traveling light. If you’re bringing oversized items like skis, bikes, or trade show displays, tell us in advance so we can assign a bus with enough capacity.

Yes, we can provide ADA-accessible buses with features such as wheelchair lifts, widened aisles, priority seating, and accessible restrooms. Just let us know what accommodations are needed when you request a quote, and we’ll make sure your bus meets all ADA requirements. We believe everyone deserves equal access to safe and reliable transportation.

Yes, you can wrap your charter bus with custom graphics for branding, advertising, or decoration. This is a popular option for sports teams, corporate sponsors, political campaigns, and special events. Full wraps cover the entire exterior of the bus, while partial wraps or decals can be applied to specific areas. Please note that wrapping requires advance notice and additional cost. Contact us for specifications and pricing.

We will do our best to accommodate requests for specific bus models, makes, or colors based on availability. Our fleet includes vehicles from top manufacturers like MCI, Prevost, Van Hool, Setra, Temsa, Grech, Turtle Top, and more. If you need a white bus for a wedding, a black executive coach for VIPs, or a particular year/model, please specify your preference when booking. We cannot guarantee exact matches but will try to meet your needs.

The cost of renting a charter bus in Lafayette depends on factors such as trip duration, distance, group size, season, and amenities. Local trips are usually priced by the hour (with a minimum), while longer journeys are quoted by the day or mile. For example, a 56-passenger charter bus may cost $1,200-$2,500 per day depending on the itinerary. The best way to get an accurate price is to call us with your trip details and we’ll provide a free quote within minutes.

Minibus rentals generally cost less than full-size charter buses, making them a budget-friendly option for smaller groups. Rates vary based on the same factors mentioned above, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $600-$1,500 per day for a minibus in Lafayette. Weekend rates, peak seasons, and special events may affect pricing. Contact us for a personalized quote tailored to your specific needs.

Several factors influence the price of a bus rental, including the type and size of the vehicle, length and distance of the trip, time of year, days of week, number of drivers required, tolls/parking fees, and any special requests such as wraps or premium amenities. High-demand periods like Mardi Gras, festival season, and homecoming weekends tend to be more expensive. Booking early and providing detailed information will help us give you the best possible rate.

Your quote covers the use of the bus for the agreed-upon itinerary, driver’s wages, fuel, standard amenities, and mileage/tolls/parking as specified. It does not include gratuity for the driver (customary but optional), lodging for overnight trips, meals, or additional services not listed in the contract. We will clearly itemize all charges so there are no surprises. If you have questions about what’s included, just ask.

We recommend booking your bus as early as possible, especially if your trip falls during a busy season or major event. Three to six months in advance is ideal for large groups or complex itineraries, while smaller groups may be able to book closer to the date. Last-minute rentals are available subject to fleet availability, but advance reservations ensure the best selection and pricing.

Yes, we offer flexible packages to accommodate one-way transfers, round trips, and multi-day charters. Whether you need a simple airport pickup, a shuttle running back and forth between two locations, or continuous service over several days, we can customize the schedule to fit your needs. Let us know your exact plans and we’ll build a package that works for you.

Absolutely! We provide long-distance charter bus services to destinations across Louisiana and neighboring states such as Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and beyond. Popular routes include Lafayette to Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Nashville, Orlando, and Chicago. Long-distance trips are quoted by the day or mile and include multiple drivers if needed to comply with hours-of-service regulations. Contact us with your itinerary for a custom quote.

If your trip requires an overnight stay away from Lafayette, you are responsible for providing hotel accommodations for the driver. The hotel should offer basic amenities, secure parking, and be located near the group’s lodging whenever possible. If you need assistance finding suitable accommodations, we can recommend options based on the route. For day trips returning to Lafayette the same night, no hotel is needed.

Getting a quote is fast and easy! Simply call our 24/7 hotline at 337-446-8940 or fill out the online form with your trip details (date, times, pickup/drop-off locations, number of passengers, and any special requests). One of our representatives will review the information and send you a personalized quote within minutes. There is no obligation to book until you are ready.

Plan your itinerary with realistic timing for traffic and loading/unloading, communicate headcounts and special needs clearly, budget for driver gratuity (optional but appreciated), confirm parking arrangements at each stop, pack light if using a minibus, and stay in touch with your account manager for any changes. Booking early gives you the best rates and availability, especially during busy seasons like Mardi Gras and festival weekends. Read the contract carefully and don’t hesitate to ask questions—we’re here to help!

We provide charter bus and minibus services to and from Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT), as well as major airports in Baton Rouge (BTR), New Orleans (MSY), Lake Charles (LCH), Houston (IAH/HOU), Dallas (DFW/Love Field), and Shreveport (SHV). Whether you’re flying in a sports team, corporate group, or international visitors, we’ll handle all ground transportation logistics so you don’t have to worry about missed connections or lost luggage. We also serve smaller regional airports and FBOs for private aviation.

We regularly transport groups to sporting events at Cajun Field (home of Ragin’ Cajuns football), Earl K. Long Gym (basketball/volleyball), Russo Park (baseball), Lamson Park (softball), Youngsville Sports Complex, Moore Park Soccer Complex, Clark Field, and more. Whether you’re cheering on the home team or traveling with the athletes themselves, we’ll get everyone to the game safely and on time. Out-of-town games at LSU’s Tiger Stadium, Southern’s A.W. Mumford Stadium, or high school playoff venues are no problem either.

Music lovers can count on us for rides to concerts and festivals at the Cajundome & Convention Center, Heymann Performing Arts Center, Acadiana Center for the Arts (AcA), Parc International, Rock ‘n’ Bowl de Lafayette, Grouse Room, Warehouse 535, and more. Avoid the hassle of parking and designated drivers by booking a charter bus instead. We also run trips to major shows in Baton Rouge (Raising Cane’s River Center), New Orleans (Smoothie King Center, Saenger Theatre), and Houston/Toyota Center).

Make your special day stress-free by providing guests with transportation to popular wedding venues such as Le Pavillon, The Victorian Plantation, L’Eglise, City Club at River Ranch, Warehouse 535, The Madison Banquet & Reception Centre, La Louisiane Banquet Hall, Magnolia Court Reception Center, Beau Chene Country Club, and more. We’ll shuttle attendees between hotels, ceremony sites, and reception halls so everyone arrives together and departs safely. Destination weddings in St. Francisville, Natchitoches, or along the Gulf Coast are also available.

In addition to Lafayette proper, we serve surrounding communities including Broussard, Youngsville, Scott, Carencro, Duson, Breaux Bridge, St. Martinville, New Iberia, Abbeville, Opelousas, Crowley, Rayne, Eunice, Ville Platte, Kaplan, and more. Regional service extends to Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Lake Charles, Alexandria, Shreveport, Monroe, and statewide. Interstate charters to Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Arkansas, and beyond are available for longer trips.

Lafayette is known for its vibrant festival scene, and we proudly provide transportation for major events like Festival International de Louisiane, Mardi Gras parades, Festivals Acadiens et Créoles, Boudin Cook-Off, Blackpot Festival, Zydeco Marathon, Bach Lunch, Downtown Alive!, and more. Avoid road closures and limited parking by arranging a charter bus to drop your group off close to the action. We also serve crawfish boils, food truck rallies, art walks, holiday markets, and community celebrations throughout the year.

Business travelers can rely on us for shuttles to the Cajundome Convention Center, Heymann Center, Oil Center Conference venues, LITE Center, South Louisiana Community College Event Center, and hotel ballrooms at DoubleTree, Hilton Garden Inn, Courtyard Marriott, SpringHill Suites, Homewood Suites, and more. We handle transportation for trade shows, conferences, corporate meetings, training seminars, expos, and networking events of all sizes. Daily commuter shuttles and airport transfers are also available for visiting executives and VIPs.

We provide campus transportation and field trip services for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL), South Louisiana Community College (SLCC), Remington College, Louisiana Technical College, and local K-12 schools in Lafayette Parish School System, including Lafayette High, Comeaux High, Acadiana High, Northside High, Early College Academy, and private institutions like St. Thomas More, Teurlings Catholic, Ascension Episcopal, and Episcopal School of Acadiana. Popular student destinations include Avery Island, Tabasco Factory, Vermilionville, Zoosiana, Lafayette Science Museum, Children’s Museum of Acadiana, and Baton Rouge’s Capitol Park and museums. We also transport bands, choirs, debate teams, and clubs to competitions across the state.