How Many Seats are on a Burbank Charter Bus?

Charter buses come in many sizes, from nimble 20-passenger minibuses to full-size 56-passenger coaches. If you’re booking group transportation for the first time, Charter Bus Rental Burbank will help you find the right bus size and seating arrangement for your headcount and itinerary. Here’s what you should know about charter bus seating capacity, layout, and how to choose the best bus type for your event.

Burbank Charter Bus Seating Capacity: The Quick Answer

The most common large coach size has 56 seats, but you might also see full-size motorcoaches with 50, 52, or 54 seats. Minibuses (sometimes called “mini-coaches”) usually have between 18 and 35 seats. Sprinter vans typically seat 10 to 15 passengers. In all cases, the seat count refers to the number of seatbelts available for riders, not including the driver.

Wondering which vehicle is best for your next trip? Call our team at 747-588-6340 and we’ll give you an instant quote and help you pick the perfect bus. We’ve booked trips for sports teams, movie shoots, conventions, weddings, and more across Los Angeles County. No matter where you’re headed or how many people are traveling, we’ll make sure everyone enjoys the ride.

Standard Charter Bus Seating: 56-Passenger Coaches

When someone says “charter bus,” they’re usually talking about a full-size motorcoach with 56 seats arranged in rows of two on each side of a central aisle. These are the largest buses available for private rental and are built for long-distance comfort with high-back reclining seats, overhead luggage racks, individual reading lights, power outlets, and often an onboard restroom at the rear. Underneath, there’s a huge baggage bay for stowing suitcases, equipment, or other cargo.

This 56-seat layout is ideal for groups who want to keep everyone together on one vehicle, such as school field trips, college tours, band competitions, corporate outings, or shuttle service between hotels and convention centers. With amenities like WiFi and DVD players, passengers can relax or stay productive while traveling to destinations like Universal Studios Hollywood, Dodger Stadium, or Disneyland Resort.

Other Large Coach Options: 50-, 52-, and 54-Passenger Buses

Depending on the manufacturer and model year, some charter buses may have slightly fewer seats than the standard 56. For example, a 50-passenger MCI J4500 or a 52-passenger Prevost H3-45 might be chosen by operators who prioritize extra legroom, wider aisles, or additional features like wheelchair lifts. A 54-passenger Van Hool CX45 is another common configuration.

While the difference of a few seats may not seem significant, it can affect your travel plans if your group size is right at the cutoff. If you have exactly 55 or 56 people, double-check the exact seat count before booking to avoid splitting up onto two vehicles. Our reservation specialists can confirm the details for any bus you request.

Mid-Size Minibus Seating: 25 to 35 Passengers

For medium-sized groups that don’t need a full 56-passenger coach, minibuses offer a comfortable and cost-effective alternative. These vehicles typically have 25, 28, 30, or 35 seats arranged in a similar forward-facing layout, though everything is scaled down to fit a smaller chassis. Luggage storage is usually limited to overhead racks and a small rear compartment, so they’re best suited for day trips or short hauls where passengers only need carry-on bags.

Minibuses are popular for airport shuttles, local sightseeing tours, campus transportation, and wedding guest transfers between venues and hotels. Their compact size makes it easier to navigate city streets, parking lots, or narrow roads leading to places like Griffith Observatory, Malibu wineries, or Joshua Tree National Park. Most models still include air conditioning, audio/video systems, and optional WiFi to keep everyone comfortable en route.

Small Minibus and Sprinter Van Seating: 10 to 24 Passengers

If you’re transporting a small group around Los Angeles County or beyond, consider a minibus with 14, 18, or 20 seats or a sprinter van with 10 to 15 seats. These are essentially large passenger vans or cutaway buses built on Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, or similar platforms. They feature high-back bucket seats, tinted windows, and sometimes luxury upgrades like leather upholstery or mood lighting.

Small minibuses and sprinter vans are perfect for executive travel, VIP airport transfers, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or private wine tours where you want a step above rideshare without the expense of a limousine or the excess capacity of a larger bus. They’re also a good choice for navigating tight driveways or limited parking areas at boutique hotels, private residences, or remote filming locations.

Party Bus Seating: 10 to 50 Passengers

For celebrations on wheels, party buses offer a unique seating arrangement compared to traditional charter buses or minibuses. Instead of forward-facing rows, these vehicles have perimeter bench seats along the walls, creating an open floor plan that allows passengers to stand, dance, and socialize while in motion. Seat counts range from intimate 10-passenger sprinters to spacious 40- or 50-passenger party buses that rival nightclubs in amenities.

Inside, you’ll find premium sound systems, LED lighting, flat-screen TVs, bar areas, and sometimes even poles or stages for live entertainment. Party buses are a favorite for birthdays, proms, concerts, and nightlife excursions where the journey is just as important as the destination. They’re also a practical option for event planners who want to keep guests together and safe during multi-stop itineraries across downtown Los Angeles, West Hollywood, or Santa Monica.

Wheelchair-Accessible Bus Seating: Varies by Lift and Securement Area

Many charter bus and minibus models can be equipped with wheelchair lifts and securement stations to accommodate passengers with mobility devices. Adding this accessibility feature typically requires removing several rows of seats near the front or rear door to create space for the lift platform and tie-downs. As a result, the total seat count may decrease by two to four seats per wheelchair position.

For example, a 56-passenger coach with two wheelchair spaces may have 52 or 54 standard seats remaining. A 25-passenger minibus with one wheelchair spot might be reduced to 22 seats. When booking ADA-compliant transportation, let us know the number and size of wheelchairs in your group so we can recommend a vehicle with the appropriate configuration. We regularly provide accessible charters for schools, senior centers, medical appointments, and public events.

Restroom, Luggage, and Other Onboard Amenities

In addition to seating capacity, charter buses can be customized with a variety of amenities to enhance the passenger experience. Full-size coaches almost always include an onboard restroom at the rear, complete with a toilet, sink, and privacy door. This allows for longer trips without frequent stops, making them ideal for cross-state journeys or multi-day tours.

Overhead bins run the length of the cabin for storing backpacks, purses, or jackets, while the undercarriage bays can hold large suitcases, musical instruments, sports gear, or trade show displays. Some buses also feature USB ports, electrical outlets, tray tables, cupholders, and adjustable footrests at each seat for added convenience.

Entertainment options may include flat-screen monitors mounted above the aisle, DVD/Blu-ray players, HDMI inputs for laptops or gaming consoles, satellite TV receivers, and PA/intercom systems for announcements or guided narration. WiFi hotspots are increasingly common, allowing passengers to stream media, check email, or join video calls while on the move.

How to Choose the Right Bus Size for Your Group

When selecting a charter bus, the most important factor is matching the seat count to your actual headcount. Always book a vehicle with enough seatbelts for every passenger, plus a few extra in case of last-minute additions or unexpected guests. It’s better to have empty seats than to risk overcrowding or leaving someone behind.

If your group size falls between standard bus sizes (for example, 38 people), you have a couple of options. You could reserve a 40- or 56-passenger coach to ensure everyone has room to spread out, or split into two smaller 20-passenger minibuses for greater flexibility. Consider factors like budget, luggage needs, route logistics, and desired amenities when making your decision.

For very large groups (over 100 passengers), multiple buses may be necessary to transport everyone safely and comfortably. Event planners often arrange a fleet of identical coaches to run continuous shuttles between parking lots, hotels, and venues during conferences, festivals, or sporting events. Our team can coordinate multi-bus movements and staggered schedules to keep your itinerary running smoothly.

Book the Best Charter Bus for Any Trip in Burbank

No matter where your group is headed, Charter Bus Rental Burbank has the seating capacity and amenities to get you there in comfort and style. We’ve helped thousands of clients across California plan transportation for school field trips, corporate retreats, weddings, sports tournaments, and more. Our team will listen to your needs, recommend the best vehicle options, and provide an instant online quote with no obligation to book.

Ready to hit the road? Call us at 747-588-6340 or fill out our quick pricing form to start planning your next charter bus rental. With over a decade of experience and a statewide reach, we’re the trusted choice for group travel in Los Angeles County and beyond.