When a group of ten, twenty or more people needs to get somewhere together, the choice usually comes down to public transport, a convoy of cars and rideshares, or a private bus with a driver. Each has its place. This guide looks at when a private bus is worth booking, and when it is not.
What public transport does well
Sydney's trains, buses, ferries and light rail are a good option for individuals and very small groups on simple trips, especially to the city centre and major venues on event days. If your group is happy to travel separately, meet at the venue and make its own way home, public transport is hard to beat. Check the Transport NSW trip planner for routes and timetables.
Where a group starts to struggle
- Several pickup points. Guests coming from different suburbs rarely arrive at the same time.
- Venues away from a station. Wineries, golf clubs, wedding venues and many function centres are a long walk or a second trip from the nearest stop.
- Late finishes. Getting a group home after a dinner or a function can mean long waits and split groups.
- Luggage and equipment. Suitcases, sports kit and boxes are awkward on a crowded service.
- Older guests and children. Stairs, transfers and standing room are harder for some passengers.
What a private bus with a driver changes
A private bus collects your group from the addresses you choose and takes everyone to the door of the venue together. Nobody has to drive, find parking or work out a route, and the driver waits for the whole group before leaving. Every passenger has a seat, and seatbelt-equipped vehicles can be confirmed when you book. Our drivers hold Working With Children Checks, which matters for school, junior sport and family groups.
For most small groups the right vehicle is a minibus. We run 12, 20 and 24 seat vehicles, with 28 seat midi coaches when the group is a little bigger. See how it works on our bus hire Sydney page, or compare sizes on the fleet page.
Cars and rideshares compared
Several cars mean several drivers who cannot relax, several parking fees and a group that arrives in waves. Rideshares work for short trips, but booking enough vehicles at the same time, especially after an event, is not always possible. One minibus keeps everyone together, and the cost is split across the whole group.
When a private bus is the better choice
- Weddings, where guests need to reach the ceremony on time and get back to the hotel safely
- Corporate team days and client events with a set start time
- Club, school and seniors outings with a mix of ages
- Airport and cruise transfers with luggage
- Day trips to the Hunter Valley, the Blue Mountains or Canberra
If your driver needs to stay with you across several stops, a bus charter booked by the hour is the simplest way to plan it. Larger groups can look at coach hire instead.
Next step
Send your date, times, addresses and headcount through our online quote form or call 0452 104 173, and we will suggest the right vehicle. You can also read our frequently asked questions.