When it comes to renting a charter bus in Baton Rouge, one of the first questions we get is “How much does it cost?” The answer is that it depends! Charter bus prices vary based on several factors including the type of bus, the length of your rental, the distance you’ll be traveling, and the time of year. For a simple local trip around Baton Rouge, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $1,500 for a full day rental. For longer trips, like a weekend getaway to New Orleans or a multi-day tour of Louisiana, prices can range from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. In this guide, we’ll break down everything that goes into the cost of a charter bus rental so you can budget with confidence. Whether you’re planning a wedding at LSU, a corporate event downtown, or a school field trip to the USS Kidd, we’ve got you covered!
| Vehicle Type | Per Hour* | Per Day* | Per Mile* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56-Passenger Charter Bus | $197 – $519 | $1,600 – $3,800 | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| 50-Passenger Charter Bus | $190 – $500 | $1,500 – $3,600 | $4.50 – $7.50 |
| 40–45-Passenger Charter Bus | $180 – $480 | $1,500 – $3,500 | $4.50 – $7.50 |
| 35-Passenger Minibus | $180 – $475 | $1,500 – $3,400 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 30-Passenger Minibus | $180 – $475 | $1,500 – $3,400 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 28-Passenger Minibus | $175 – $450 | $1,500 – $3,300 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 25-Passenger Minibus | $165 – $428 | $1,300 – $3,200 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 20-Passenger Minibus | $157 – $414 | $1,300 – $3,100 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 18-Passenger Minibus | $145 – $404 | $1,300 – $3,000 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| School Bus (-47 pax) | $155 – $450 | $1,520 – $3,655 | $5.00 – $8.95 |
| Entertainer / Sleeper Coach | N/A | $1,900 – $2,500 | $7.00 – $10.50 |
| Mercedes Sprinter Party Bus (10-14) | $160 – $450 | $1,200 – $2,900 | $3.00 – $6.00 |
| Small Party Bus (10-20) | $180 – $470 | $1,200 – $2,900 | $3.00 – $6.00 |
| Mid-Size Party Bus (20-30) | $200 – $500 | $1,200 – $3,500 | $4.00 – $8.00 |
| Large Party Bus (30-50) | $250 – $520 | $1,500 – $3,900 | $4.00 – $8.00 |
*Prices vary and fluctuate with fuel costs, holidays, and availability. Booking early usually secures the lowest rate. For exact pricing, please call our reservations team.
There are many factors that go into the cost of a charter bus rental in Baton Rouge. Understanding these will help you get the best price for your group’s transportation.
The size and type of bus you choose will have a big impact on the price. A large 56-passenger charter bus typically costs more per day than a smaller 20-passenger minibus. For example, a full-size charter bus rental can range from $1,600 to $3,800 per day, while a minibus might be between $1,300 and $3,100 per day. You’ll want to choose the smallest bus that can comfortably fit your group and luggage to save money.
Charter buses are usually rented by the hour, day, or mile. For local trips within Baton Rouge, you might pay an hourly rate of $197 to $519 for a charter bus. For full-day rentals, the price is typically $1,600 to $3,800. If you need the bus for multiple days, companies often offer discounts. A week-long charter bus rental in Baton Rouge can cost between $8,000 and $15,000 depending on the bus and season.
Mileage is another key factor. Most charter bus companies charge a per-mile fee in addition to hourly or daily rates. The mileage rate ranges from $5.00 to $8.00 per mile for a charter bus. Longer trips, like a 2-hour drive to Lafayette or a weekend trip to the French Quarter, will add to the total cost. Be sure to give your dispatcher a detailed itinerary so they can calculate mileage accurately.
Prices can also fluctuate based on the season and local events. Baton Rouge sees high demand for charter buses during LSU football season, graduations, and Mardi Gras. If you’re booking during a major event at Tiger Stadium or the Raising Cane’s River Center, expect prices to be on the higher end. Booking several months in advance can help you lock in lower rates.
Some buses come with premium features like WiFi, power outlets, restrooms, and entertainment systems. While these are often standard on full-size charter buses, not all companies include them in the base price. If your group needs onboard amenities for a long trip, ask about any extra fees.
Where you need the bus to go also matters. Trips that start or end in hard-to-reach areas, or require overnight parking, may incur extra charges. Most Baton Rouge charter buses operate out of central locations and airports, so be sure to confirm if there are any special location fees.