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Charter Bus Prices: How Much Does a Waukegan Bus Rental Cost?
The cost of a charter bus rental in Waukegan depends on your trip details. Factors like your group size, destinations, mileage, number of days, time of year, and preferred amenities all play a role. On average, minibus rentals range from $170-$350 per hour or $1,800-$2,200 per day, while full-size charter buses can cost $225-$500 per hour or $2,600-$3,800 per day. The best way to get an exact price is to call 224-570-5620 or use our easy online tool—you’ll get a quote in about 30 seconds. Below, we break down the key factors that affect pricing and provide sample quotes for popular local trips.
| 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.
What Affects the Price of a Charter Bus Rental?
Where you’re going, when you’re traveling, and how many people you’re bringing will have the biggest impact on your charter bus rental cost. If you’re planning a multi-day trip to Springfield or a long-distance journey across Illinois, expect a higher price than a quick shuttle from Libertyville to downtown Waukegan. Group size is another top factor. Large groups headed to Six Flags Great America or Ravinia Festival will need a full-size charter bus, which costs more than a smaller minibus or sprinter van but may be more affordable per person. Seasonality matters too—spring and summer are busy times for Chicago-area events, graduation shuttles, and school field trips, so prices tend to be higher compared to winter months.
Amenities also affect pricing. Buses with luxury features like WiFi, power outlets, onboard restrooms, or premium sound systems for weddings and corporate events may cost more than standard models. And if you have special requests like ADA-accessible vehicles or custom branding for conventions at Genesee Theatre, let us know early so we can accommodate your needs and give you the most accurate quote.
Finally, trips with complex itineraries or multiple stops (such as shuttling between hotels and event venues during Waukegan festivals) may require additional coordination and increase your overall cost. To keep your budget in check, try to finalize your headcount, itinerary, and any must-have amenities before requesting a quote. The more details you can provide up front, the more accurate your pricing will be.
What Is Included in My Quote?
Your quote includes the charter bus rental, fuel, insurance, and all mileage and tolls based on your itinerary. Parking fees, event permits, and overnight accommodations (if needed) are not included. For example, parking at Waukegan Metra Station is $2/day, and Navy Pier bus parking is $56/day. If your trip requires overnight stays, you’ll need to book a hotel room. Tips are always appreciated and typically range from 10-20% of the total cost. Our team will work with you to make sure you understand what’s included—and what’s not—so there are no surprises on your final bill.
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
Below are a few sample pricing examples for common trips in Waukegan, IL and around Lake County. Please note that these are estimates and your actual price may vary based on your specific needs and travel dates.
Field Trip to the Field Museum
Ms. Thomas is organizing a field trip for her 6th grade class of 34 students from Waukegan to the Field Museum in Chicago. She plans to depart from the school at 8:00 AM and return by 4:00 PM the same day. The itinerary includes exploring museum exhibits, having lunch at Maggie Daley Park, and visiting the Shedd Aquarium. Based on this schedule, Ms. Thomas receives a quote of $2,250 for an 8-hour rental of a 35-passenger minibus. With 34 students, herself, and two chaperones, the cost comes out to approximately $62 per person.
Wedding Shuttle Service in Lake Forest
Emily is arranging transportation for her wedding guests from two hotels in Waukegan to a venue in Lake Forest. She has invited 120 guests and wants to ensure everyone arrives on time. The ceremony is at 5:00 PM, followed by a reception until midnight. Emily books two 56-passenger charter buses and one 25-passenger minibus for continuous shuttles between 3:00 PM and 12:30 AM. The total cost for the 9.5-hour rental is $4,800. After splitting the expense with her partner, the cost per guest is about $40, providing safe and convenient transportation for everyone.
CORPORATE EVENT SHUTTLE TO NAVY PIER
A tech company in Waukegan is hosting a corporate retreat at Navy Pier in Chicago. They need transportation for 75 employees from their office to the venue and back over two days. The itinerary includes team-building activities, workshops, and dinners. The company books two 40-passenger minibuses with WiFi and power outlets for a comfortable commute. The total cost for two days, including 10 hours each day, is $7,000. This covers all transportation needs, allowing employees to focus on the event without worrying about driving or parking.
SPORTS TEAM TRIP TO SPRINGFIELD
The Waukegan High School basketball team is traveling to Springfield for a state tournament. The team consists of 18 players, four coaches, and three staff members. They plan to leave on Friday afternoon, stay overnight, and return Saturday evening after the games. The school books a 25-passenger minibus with extra luggage space for equipment. The cost for the two-day trip, including mileage and overnight parking, is $3,900. With 25 passengers, the cost averages $156 per person, making it an affordable option for transporting the entire team safely and comfortably.
