Tips for a great day trip by minibus

So, you're planning to hire a minibus for a day trip. What should you do to make the adventure as smooth and enjoyable as possible? Find out in our guide.

There are different speed limits for larger vehicles too. So, if you're new to driving a minibus, make sure you familiarise yourself with the rules of the road.

Don't let us put you off, though. Driving a minibus is easy with a little practice. To help you along, we've put together a handy guide for first-time minibus drivers. Check it out!

2. Read the terms and conditions

Take a few minutes to familiarise yourself with the rules of the hire company you choose.

For example, do they allow dogs? Do they have a no-smoking policy? Are there age limits or other driving restrictions?

Getting the lay of the land now can save you hassle further down the line.

3. Prepare your route (and your tech)

Make sure you have your route planned out and arranged beforehand – and ensure there's somewhere to place your satnav or phone where it won't distract you.

You can download offline maps to use when there's no signal. This will be especially handy if your route takes you out into the countryside.

And it may sound obvious, but make sure that your phone is fully charged. The last thing you want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere without a way to call for help.

4. Have a safety plan

It pays to prepare for the worst. This way, everyone's trip will be unforgettable – for all the right reasons.

So be sure to pack a first aid kit and – if your hired minibus comes with roadside assistance – write down the number of the breakdown company.

Don't get us wrong. Hired vehicles are usually maintained to exceptional standards so the chance of breaking down is very slim. However, it's better to be safe than sorry.

5. Take rest breaks

Don't underestimate the importance of rest. If it's a long drive, make sure you stop for a 15-minute break every two hours or so.

You could also arrange for someone to share the driving with you. Keep in mind that this will need to be arranged with the hire company in advance, though.

6. Get everybody organised

When the morning comes for your trip, arrange a pickup point or rendezvous so you don't have to drive around all morning picking people up.

Make sure all passengers are accounted for and give a gentle reminder to make sure everyone's phones are charged to keep in contact. 

From there, you can have a plan of key places to see and the estimated travel times. Allow for a little flexibility in case something goes wrong – for example, if someone is late.

7. Pack plenty of provisions

Do you know what other bits and bobs you need to pack?

Having plenty of snacks and drinks is a must. Perhaps you could buy a pack of water bottles that can stay in the boot, ready for everyone joining you.

And be sure to pack your ID and any documents you need for the trip. You don't want the day cut short because you've forgotten your driver's licence!

8. Provide entertainment

Long drives can wear on anybody's patience. So, keep those motorway blues at bay by providing some audio entertainment for the journey.

Depending on your passengers' interests, you could stream a special playlist or download some podcasts or audiobooks.

Alternatively, you could learn some travel-themed games that everyone can play together.

9. Get some rest 

Finally, get a good night's sleep before you set off. You want to feel your best so you can enjoy the journey without a hitch.

What to pack if you're a passenger

You may have a list of what you're going to take with you on a day trip – your phone and charger, for example. But have you remembered snacks?

Make the day run easier for everyone else by making sure you have adequate water and snacks. This way, the driver won't have to make too many stops. 

Why not take a camera too? Most phones have cameras now, but it could be fun to buy a disposable camera and document the day together.

And are you prepared for the Great British weather? Do you have an umbrella handy? A good jacket?

Or, if you're heading to the beach (and crossing your fingers for sunshine), have you packed swimming clothes, a towel and sunscreen?

Finally, if you have any fun games that you can play in a car, pack them! Laughter is the best way to bring people together, after all.

If you don't have any games, think of ones you can play without the need for any prep. "I Spy" is a classic – as is "Would You Rather?"

If you're looking for minibus hire in Newcastle upon Tyne, you're in the right place. Here at MVH Rental, we've been in the business for more than 20 years – and we've picked up hundreds of happy customers along the way. For a quick quote, feel free to get in touch.