What to Know Before Booking a Party Bus — Tips from San Diego Party Tours

Booking a party bus seems simple: find a big vehicle, get a quote, and hop in. However, if you want your San Diego event to be legendary for the right reasons, there are a few insider secrets and legal requirements you need to know.

At San Diego Party Tours, we’ve seen it all. To help you plan a seamless 2025 event, we’ve put together the ultimate “Know Before You Go” guide.

In California, all charter-party carriers must have a TCP (Transportation Charter-Party) license from the Public Utilities Commission.

Don’t just take their word for it. Legitimate companies will have their TCP number displayed on the vehicle and their website. This ensures the company is insured and their drivers are background-checked and professional.

A “one-size-fits-all” approach doesn’t work for party buses. You want enough room to dance, but you don’t want a bus so large it feels empty.

We offer everything from the intimate Mercedes Sprinter (ideal for up to 14) to the massive Admiral Bus (perfect for 40+).

Always book a bus with a slightly higher capacity than your actual headcount. If you have 18 people, a 20-passenger bus will feel much more comfortable than trying to squeeze everyone in.

California law is strict about alcohol and minors on commercial vehicles.

If anyone on the bus is under the age of 21, no alcohol is permitted on board.

For all-adult groups, it’s strictly BYOB. We provide the ice, water, and cups—you bring your favorite San Diego craft beers or spirits.

Most reputable San Diego party bus companies have an hourly minimum, typically 4 to 5 hours depending on the day of the week.

This ensures we can properly detail the bus before your arrival and dedicate a professional driver to your specific itinerary.

Plan your route to maximize these hours. Start with a scenic photo op at Sunset Cliffs, hit a few breweries, and end at your final nightlife destination.

Not all “party buses” are created equal. Some are just converted shuttle buses, while others are high-end mobile lounges.

Ensure your rental includes Bluetooth connectivity (so you can be the DJ), LED lighting, and climate control.

Ask if the bus has an onboard restroom. For longer tours (like wine tasting or brewery hopping), this is the single best amenity you can have.

San Diego is a top-tier destination for weddings, bachelor parties, and conventions.

For Saturday nights or holiday weekends, we recommend booking 3 to 6 months in advance. While we can sometimes accommodate last-minute requests, the “best” buses in the fleet always go first!

Nobody likes “hidden fees.” Before you sign, understand the policy on spills or damages.

Avoid bringing “messy” items. We recommend avoiding glitter, feather boas, or sticky mixers. Stick to canned drinks and dry snacks to ensure you get your security deposit back in full.