South Texas Trailways FAQ

Do I get better rates for renting more than one bus? 
No, the motorcoach companies operate in a very competitive market and typically offer their lowest price possible to all customers for all types of trips.

Do all charter buses have air conditioning? 
All charter buses have air conditioning.

Do your charter buses have entertainment onboard such as TV, VCR, DVD, or CD? 
All  motorcoaches have TV monitors (typically 6 or so) that play either DVD. Some have a CD or Tape player as well. The sound plays from speakers so everyone listens to what is on.

What sized charter buses do you have?
Our motorcoaches are either 56 or 57 passenger. For smaller groups try a mini-bus. Mini-buses do not have bathrooms, cannot cross state lines and are best for short, in-town bus trips.

Who handles the bus driver's lodging?
It is up to the customer to arrange and pay for the bus driver's lodging. The driver must have a room with a bathroom, bed, and TV. It does not have to be the same hotel that your group is staying at but it does need to be close by so there aren't extra charges associated with getting from the bus driver's hotel to your hotel. Also, be sure the hotel has a place to park the charter bus. Typically, they cannot be parked on the street.

Can we bring alcohol onboard the motor coach?
Alcohol is permitted onboard. A damage deposit is required which will be refunded by the charter bus company if the bus is returned in reasonable condition. No kegs or glass containers. Coolers are allowed, but make sure they don't leak.

Is smoking permitted on motorcoaches?
No. No tobacco products of any kind are permitted on charter buses.

Can we bring coolers for food and drink on the bus?
Yes, coolers are permitted on motorcoaches. Glass containers are not. Coolers can be placed on the seats or in the undercarriage below the bus but not in the aisle. Please make sure your cooler doesn't leak.

What do your charter buses look like?
There are pictures available.

What if my itinerary is wrong and we bring the charter bus back late? What if it comes back early?
The best idea is to try to plan plenty of time so that your group is finished with the charter bus in the allotted time. Depending on your trip the motor coach company may charge extra for trips that run long. This amount will be negotiated and paid for directly between you and the motor coach company. There is no refund if your charter bus comes back early since it is impossible for the bus company to rebook the equipment with another customer on such a short notice.

What if something goes wrong with my charter bus trip?
We will do everything to make sure that each trip goes smoothly. If there is a problem with a trip a partial refund may be appropriate.

How are charter bus trips priced?
The pricing method depends on the type of trip. If your trip is in town generally it will be priced by the hour with a 5 hour minimum. A mini bus will have a 3 hour minimum.  If your trip is out of town then it will either be charged on a flat day rate or on a mileage basis.

What is included with the price and what other costs should I consider?
It is the responsibility of the customer to pay for all parking fees and tolls. In addition, the customer must arrange and pay for the bus driver lodging. If a credit card is used for payment there is a processing fee of 3 %.

What is the deadline for the balance of the payment?
Final payment is due 20 days in advance of the trip. If your bus trip is less than 20 days from departure then the full balance is due upon booking the bus trip.

What forms of payment are excepted?
Payment must be made using MasterCard, Visa, American Express, or electronic check (just take a regular check and enter the info online; its easier than mailing it). We do not accept mailed checks or payment on the day of the trip.

Is it customary for bus drivers to get a gratuity?
Yes, bus drivers consider part of their compensation to come from a gratuity. Generally 10% is an average tip for a short bus trip while a $1 per passenger per day is a metric used for longer, multi-day bus trips.

What if my itinerary needs to change?
Itineraries almost always change; it's a fact of life. You can adjust your charter bus itinerary and submit for a new quote. You can then choose to accept the new price and your remaining balance owed will be updated.

How do I get proof of insurance from the bus company?
You can request proof of insurance when you book the bus.