In order to have the best celebration or party possible, it’s important to hire a party bus service that is going to meet your needs. Not all companies are equal, and some are just out for your money, without any consideration for your special event. Whether you’re looking for bus tours in NYC, or a party bus in Queens, here are 10 questions you should ask before hiring a company.

Can we drink on the bus? The whole idea of hiring a party bus is to party right? Most companies have buses that are equipped with a fully stocked bar. Others have strict rules and regulations about drinking on the bus itself. Make sure you know what you’re allowed to do, and if you’re allowed to bring your own elixir onto the bus.

Do you charge extra for waiting time? Sometimes, you may be late getting out of your event, or bar, or whatever. When this happens, your driver must wait for you. This may not seem like a big deal to you, but some companies charge extra for this.

What amenities do you offer? Many buses are equipped with music, TVs, washrooms and even sleeping areas. Find out what they offer, and which ones are important to you.

How long have you been in business? You want a company that has a solid reputation in the community, not a fly-by-night operation that just rents buses as a side job. Make sure they are professional and an integral part of the community.

What types of party buses do you have? A church group on a scenic bus tour in NYC may require a different model than a party bus for a group of college grads. Ask about their different fleet options and have them recommend one to you based on your itinerary.

How much do you charge? Get their fees in writing and make sure they know exactly where you want to go; if there are going to be several stops along the way, they will need to know that too. Some companies offer packages to save you money, while others charge by the hour.

Are there extra fees? Some companies charge extra for things like waiting, stains or spills on the bus, fuel surcharges, and more. Make sure that any extra fees that you may incur are discussed up front. Don’t forget that you will have to tip the driver anywhere from 10 to 20 percent.

How far will you go? Some bus companies can only travel a certain distance and may not be able to go across state lines. This will have to be discussed in detail before you make your final choice on which company to choose.

Do you offer special packages? You can purchase a ‘just engaged’ a ‘just graduated’ or ‘just because’ package from many companies. This often includes other treats like wine, balloons, and signs to make your event even more special.

How far in advance should I reserve my ride? Many companies appreciate a booking at least a month in advance.

Charter Bus can help make your pub crawl or bachelorette party even better. Visit the website today for a list of our services.