Hiring One Large Coach vs. Two Small Minibuses: What’s Cheaper?

When planning group travel, whether for corporate events, family trips, weddings, or school outings, transportation is a critical consideration. For many, the options often boil down to either hiring one large coach or two smaller minibuses. At first glance, this decision might seem straightforward, but costs and practicalities can differ significantly depending on your group size, travel distance, and specific needs.

This blog dives into the key cost factors of each option, helping you choose the most budget-friendly and practical solution for your next trip.

Comparing Costs of a Large Coach vs. Two Minibuses

To determine what’s cheaper, several cost factors should be considered when deciding between a large coach and two minibuses. These include rental fees, fuel efficiency, the number of drivers required, and even parking logistics.

Rental Fees

One of the primary expenses is the rental cost itself. Large coaches typically come with higher upfront rental fees because they accommodate more passengers (50–70 people on average). Minibuses, on the other hand, generally seat 12–16 people each, so you might need two or more to accommodate the same number of passengers.

• Large Coach Rental Fee

Pros: Per-passenger cost decreases with larger group sizes.

Cons: More expensive for smaller groups due to unused capacity.

• Two Minibuses Rental Fee

Pros: Better suited for smaller groups; you pay for what you use.

Cons: Cumulative rental costs can be higher when renting multiple minibuses.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel costs are another major factor. Although large coaches consume more fuel than minibuses, they often turn out to be more fuel-efficient when transporting large groups over long distances.

• Large Coach

Consumes more fuel per mile but carries more passengers, making the cost-per-person lower on longer trips.

• Two Minibuses

May consume less fuel individually, but using two vehicles doubles total fuel usage, which can erase savings for longer journeys.

Driver Costs

Driver costs often vary depending on local regulations and the rental company’s policy. Hiring a single large coach means you only need one driver, while two minibuses require two drivers, effectively doubling this expense.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking fees typically correspond to the size of the vehicle, so a large coach may incur higher charges. However, minibuses offer greater flexibility when parking in tight spaces, such as urban areas or small parking lots.

• Large Coach

Relatively cost-effective for single parking spots but cumbersome in areas with limited space.

• Two Minibuses

Easier to park but may require multiple spaces, leading to cumulative costs.

When Is a Large Coach the Cheaper Option?

A large coach is usually the more cost-effective solution in the following situations:

1. Large Groups

• For groups of 35 people or more, a single coach typically costs less per person than multiple minibuses.
• Fewer seats go unused with a larger capacity.

2. Long-Distance Travel

• The fuel efficiency of a large coach becomes more economical for trips spanning several hundred miles, reducing the per-passenger fuel cost.

3. Single Pick-Up and Drop-Off Points

• For events with one central point of departure and destination, a large coach simplifies logistics and saves time compared to managing two minibuses.

Pros of Choosing a Large Coach:

• Cost-efficient for big groups.
• Simplifies coordination.
• Reduces driver costs.

Cons of a Large Coach:

• Higher upfront cost.
• Limited accessibility in narrow or crowded areas.

When Are Two Small Minibuses the Cheaper Option?

Two minibuses might be the more affordable or practical choice in the following situations:

1. Smaller Groups

• If your group size is 16–30 people, hiring two minibuses may cost less since you’re not paying for empty seats.

2. Multiple Stops

• For events with several pick-up or drop-off locations, minibuses are more flexible than a single large coach.

3. Travel on Narrow or Difficult Roads

• Minibuses are better suited for routes that involve tight turns, small roads, or limited access areas like rural villages or city centers.

Pros of Choosing Two Minibuses:

• Flexible logistics for multiple stops.
• Easier to maneuver and park in tight spaces.

Cons of Two Minibuses:

• Higher driver costs.
• Doubling fuel expenditure.

Quick Comparison of Pros and Cons

Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of both options:

Large Coach

Pros:

• Cheaper for large groups.
• Economical fuel usage per passenger on long trips.
• Simplifies coordination with just one vehicle and driver.

Cons:

• Higher rental and parking costs.
• Requires sufficient space for parking and maneuvering.

Two Minibuses

Pros:

• Perfect for smaller groups.
• More maneuverable on narrow roads.
• Allows flexibility for multiple stops or drop-off points.

Cons:

• Higher cumulative driver and fuel costs.
• Coordination of two vehicles can complicate logistics.

Summary: What’s Cheaper?

The answer ultimately depends on your group size, trip distance, and logistical needs:

• A Large Coach is generally cheaper for large groups and long-distance travel, especially when coordinated from one central starting point.
• Two Minibuses can be more affordable for smaller groups, short distances, or trips requiring multiple stops and flexible logistics.

Make an Impactful Travel Decision

Choosing the right transport option can save you time, hassle, and money. Whether you’re organizing a family reunion, school trip, wedding party, airport transfer, sports team outing, city tour, corporate event, church trip, music festival, sightseeing tour, charity event, university trip, or holiday getaway, it’s essential to weigh your needs carefully.

For precise budgeting and seamless planning, we recommend requesting a custom quote tailored to your group’s size, destination, and itinerary. At 13 Travel, we provide luxury coaches and minibuses for comfortable travel across the UK.

Plan your next trip with ease and confidence, request a quote today.