Bus Rental in Vietnam

Q: What is the age requirement for bus drivers in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, bus drivers must be at least 24 years old with a Class D license to operate vehicles with 10–29 seats, and at least 27 years old with a Class E license to operate vehicles with 30 seats or more. For vehicles with over 29 seats, the maximum working age is 57 for men and 55 for women.

Q: How much should I tip the bus driver?

Although not mandatory, a common practice in tourism is to tip around 2 USD or 50,000 VND per guest per day. This amount is calculated based on the number of guests and the number of program days. Groups may tip more or give a gift if they want to show extra appreciation.

Q: When should you pay attention to bus rental demand in Vietnam?

Demand for bus rentals increases during certain periods such as April 30 – May 1 holidays, summer (May–August), and the period before Lunar New Year. During these times, prices may be higher and buses can be fully booked, so booking early is recommended.

Q: Should I rent a bus for a cross-Vietnam trip?

Renting a bus for a cross-Vietnam trip is suitable for programs lasting 14 days or more. However, due to long distances, it is recommended to divide the trip into regions (North, Central, South, Central Highlands) and combine flights or trains for long journeys to reduce fatigue and improve the travel experience.

Book private coaches for large tourist groups and corporate travel in Vietnam!

Buses in Vietnam come in various sizes, including 19, 24, 29, 35, and 45 seats. They cater to the needs of families, large tour groups, schools, and companies organizing trips for their employees. Bus rental services always include a professional driver, as the profession requires experience and adherence to strict age standards.

Why Choose Bus Rental Through Vietnamdrive?

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Expert Team: Our dedicated team, with long-term experience in tourism, provides expert guidance and support for your entire journey.
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Trusted Choice: Having served international tourists for many years, we are consistently recommended by them and are a long-standing partner to numerous global travel agencies.

Popular Bus Types in Vietnam

Luxury 19-seat bus: This type of bus is often converted from a 29-seat or 35-seat bus, with significant changes to the beautiful interior and high-end equipment. 19-seat buses serve small groups, especially business travel, offering luxury and comfort.

Tourist buses: These buses are specifically for international visitors, usually with 24, 29, 35, or 45 seats, provided by Vietnamese transport companies on pre-arranged routes and tour programs. These vehicles are designed to meet international standards and are driven by professional drivers aged 24 and above. They come fully equipped with amenities such as air conditioning and soft seats to meet the needs of travelers from around the world.

Sleeper bus: This is a special type of bus designed or converted into single- or double-decker sleepers, allowing passengers to rest during long trips. These buses often serves long routes such as Hanoi – Hue, Ho Chi Minh City – Mui Ne, or Nha Trang – Da Lat. Sleeper buses are commonly favored by low-income groups or backpacker transport companies.

Double-decker bus (City tour coach): This is a popular type of bus for city tours, with one deck for sightseeing and the lower deck functioning like a regular one. Cities such as Hanoi, Hue, Da Lat and Ho Chi Minh City all offer this service, aimed at helping tourists explore their beautiful landscapes and vibrant atmosphere. The city government or large travel companies manage these coaches, and you can purchase tickets for sightseeing, but you cannot rent one for a private group.

Inter-provincial coaches: These vehicles serve routes between major cities, such as Da Nang – Hue, Da Nang – Quy Nhon, Nha Trang – Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City – Can Tho, and Hanoi – Sa Pa. Inter-provincial coaches often fail to meet the standards expected by international tourists because their service quality doesn’t align with the high demands of these travelers. As a result, international tourists typically choose to rent private vehicles from professional transport companies, ensuring quality, international standards, full equipment like air conditioning, and professional service.

Summary Table (Bus Types at a Glance):

Bus Type	Seats	Best For	Notes
Luxury 19-seat Bus	19	Business travel, small premium groups	Converted from larger buses, high comfort, luxury interior
Tourist Bus	24–45	International tourists	Professional drivers, air conditioning, international standards
Sleeper Bus	40+	Long-distance travel (budget)	Single/double-decker, ideal for low-budget and backpacker travel
Double-decker City Tour Bus	50+	City sightseeing tours	Fixed routes, managed by city government, cannot be chartered
Inter-provincial Bus	30+	Travel between cities	Standard for domestic routes, less suitable for international tourists

Who Needs to Use a Bus?

1. Groups of 10 or more people with luggage

When a 16-seat van is no longer enough to accommodate both people and luggage, switching to a bus is a reasonable choice. The bus not only ensures comfort with spacious seating but also provides ample space for the luggage of large tourist groups. This is especially true for groups of 10 to 12 guests from countries such as Europe, the U.S., Canada, or Australia, who may be deciding between a van or a bus.

2. Transport companies organizing tours with fixed programs

For groups of up to 30 guests, using a private bus helps optimize costs when many people share a vehicle and a driver. This is an ideal choice for large group tour programs, which are often implemented by travel companies to maximize profits and simplify itinerary management.

3. Enterprises planning employee bonding trips

Regardless of the number of employees, using charter buses remains a very suitable option. The spacious environment on the bus facilitates bonding activities (within allowed limits), helps create a fun and friendly atmosphere, and reduces boredom throughout the journey.

4. Long-distance journeys (over 3 hours)

For routes such as Da Nang – Nha Trang, Hoi An – Quy Nhon, Nha Trang – Saigon, Saigon – Mui Ne, Saigon – Da Lat, Saigon – Can Tho, and Hanoi – Sa Pa, buses are the ideal choice. Passengers need spacious seats and the ability to stand occasionally to stretch their legs, avoiding discomfort, while also not feeling as cramped as they would in a smaller vehicle.

5. Schools arranging picnics and tours

When a class goes on a picnic, traveling by bus helps concentrate students and teachers on the same vehicle, making management easier. A 45-seat bus is typically sufficient for a class of about 40 students.

6. Companies offering tours for potential customers

When organizing tours of factories, production facilities, or farms for groups of potential customers, bus hire provides a comfortable space, ensuring a pleasant experience throughout the trip.

Bus Sizes & Capacity Comparison:

Bus Type	Capacity	Luggage	Main Use	Price Notes
19 seats (VIP)	10–12 passengers	Lots of luggage	Business, small groups	Higher price than 29–35 seats
24 seats	10–16 passengers	Little luggage	Short trips, city tours, small groups	Not common
29 seats	15–18 passengers	Small luggage	Medium-sized group tours	Common
35 seats	20–22 passengers	Average luggage	Medium-sized group tours	Convenient
45 seats	20–30 passengers (international)	Sufficient luggage	Schools, large groups	Most comfortable

Available Bus Types by Seat Capacity:

19 seats: Luxury Global Tracomeco, Thaco Evergreen…
24 seats: Hyundai County (Not popular anymore)
29 seats: Thaco, Samco, Hyundai Universe – learn more about 29-seater buses in Vietnam
35 seats: Hyundai (Global Noble, Aero Town), Thaco (Town, Meadow, Nova), Samco (Samco Felix)
45 seats: Hyundai (Universe, Aero Space, Aero Hi Class), Thaco (Bluesky, Thaco Universe), Kia (Granbird), Samco (Universe), Tracomeco (Tracomeco Universe Noble) – learn more about 45-seat buses in Vietnam

Note: In addition to the above popular models, there may be other types of buses available, depending on availability and demand. The 19-seat luxury bus has only 18 seats in some models.

Special Requirements When Renting a Bus in Vietnam

In general, renting a big bus is more complex compared to smaller vehicles. Here are some essential points to pay attention to:

1. Always need a professional driver

Buses in Vietnam must be operated by a driver. The standards for bus drivers are very strict, requiring many years of experience, the appropriate age, and detailed knowledge of Vietnam’s traffic and road conditions. Therefore, bus rentals do not apply to self-driving or driverless services.

2. Limited English communication ability

Most bus drivers are older and come from a time when Vietnam was not yet deeply integrated into the global community, making it difficult for them to learn English. As a result, drivers often cannot communicate in English (with very few exceptions). If communication in English is needed, the group should hire a tour guide (interpreter) to accompany them, or they can use Google Translate or other translation apps for assistance.

3. Need a large, spacious route

Buses are most convenient on wide, open roads. If the hotel or homestay is located far from the main roads, the group should pay attention to potential traffic issues. Additionally, in many central areas, especially during rush hour, large buses may be prohibited, so international travel companies need to plan appropriate sightseeing routes. Vietnamdrive and its local partners are ready to advise and support the design of suitable itineraries.

4. Difficult for buses on many mountain roads

Mountain roads are often rough, steep, and not suitable for large buses, particularly in regions like the Northwest or Central Highlands. Therefore, understanding the terrain and selecting the right route is crucial when planning a mountain tour program.

5. Following the planned itinerary and route

Buses operate most effectively when there is a clear itinerary. This allows the bus company and driver to prepare carefully, select the right routes, and identify convenient stops for tourists. This is also a major limitation when renting a bus: it is less flexible than a small car (16 seats or fewer) for free exploration trips or traveling on narrow streets.

6. Higher costs compared to small cars

Of course, the cost per trip for renting a bus is higher than for a small car, but the price per passenger is often cheaper due to the larger capacity.

7. Booking buses in advance for groups

Since buses require careful preparation, large groups should book as early as possible, giving the service provider time to make proper arrangements. Renting a bus on the same day is often not possible. For example, requests such as “I need a bus to visit Ho Chi Minh City today” or “I need a 35-seat bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh today” are typically unfeasible, because preparing a separate bus for a group takes time.

If your group is small, please check other car rental services in Vietnam to bypass these requirements for a better budget.

Vietnam Bus Rental Price

Charter bus rental prices in Vietnam are determined by several factors, including:

Travel schedule or itinerary
Travel distance (within the city or to suburban areas)
Number of passengers and type of vehicle
Number of rental days and service hours per day
Peak seasons, holidays, and weekends
Fuel costs and other incidental expenses

To get an accurate quote, it’s recommended to prepare a detailed travel itinerary or work plan before booking a bus.

Please note: Our partners generally do not provide 24-seat buses, so they are not included in the price table, as this type is considered outdated. In addition, the number of 19-seat luxury buses is limited, so early booking is recommended.

Below is a reference price list for traveling within a city such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, or Nha Trang, with a maximum of 8 hours per day and up to 100 km.

Travel style	29-seat bus	35-seat bus	45-seat bus	Luxury 19-seat bus
Tourist transport in Da Nang & Nha Trang	2,500,000 VND ~ 96 USD	3,500,000 VND ~ 135 USD	4,500,000 VND ~ 173 USD	Contact
Tourist transport in Hanoi & HCMC	2,800,000 VND ~ 108 USD	3,700,000 VND ~ 142 USD	4,800,000 VND ~ 185 USD	Contact
Business transport in Da Nang & Nha Trang	3,500,000 VND ~ 135 USD	4,500,000 VND ~ 173 USD	5,500,000 VND ~ 212 USD	Contact
Business transport in Hanoi & HCMC	3,700,000 VND ~ 142 USD	4,800,000 VND ~ 185 USD	5,800,000 VND ~ 223 USD	Contact

Vietnamdrive partner buses are carefully selected:

Modern vehicles, well-maintained and regularly serviced
Kept clean to meet the high standards expected by international travelers
Licensed, experienced drivers trained in serving tourists
Rental prices usually include parking fees, tolls, and fuel within the tour program

Regions For Bus Rental

We cooperate with and select bus transport suppliers in almost all major cities in Vietnam. They cover:

Ho Chi Minh City: For exploring this bustling city and traveling to the Mekong Delta, Mui Ne, Da Lat, and Nha Trang.
Nha Trang City: For city tours, traveling to Mui Ne, or scenic routes from Nha Trang to Da Lat.
Da Nang City: Providing professional services for exploring Ba Na Hills, Hoi An, and Hue City.
Hue City: Buses in Hue are often used for city tours with multiple destinations, traveling to Da Nang and Hoi An, and enjoying the countryside views from Hue to Phong Nha.
Hanoi City: A busy travel hub in Northern Vietnam; private bus rentals in Hanoi often travel to Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, and Sapa.

How to Book a Bus in Vietnam

1. Contact and connect with the supplier:
You contact us to be connected with the appropriate local supplier and receive a quote.

2. Check the program and route:
We or the supplier will review the routes in your program if they are suitable for buses. Then, we calculate the travel time (you should provide detailed timing; if not, we will estimate), and determine the price for the trip.

3. Receive an exact quote:
After reviewing the program, you will receive the most detailed and accurate quote.

4. Confirm and make a deposit:
Once you agree on the price, the rental company will confirm and proceed with a deposit or full payment to secure the service.

5. Service confirmation:
After receiving the deposit or payment, the supplier will confirm the service. At this point, the bus booking for your trip in Vietnam is complete. You only need to prepare your luggage and enjoy the trip without worrying about transportation.

Note: When booking, usually only a deposit is required in advance. The supplier may request full payment before or during the program, so be sure to follow their instructions to avoid service interruptions.

Cancellation conditions: Depending on the agreement between both parties, the rental fee may be fully or partially refundable, or non-refundable. Once the supplier has accepted to transport your group, they have declined the opportunity to serve other groups. Therefore, it is important to clearly understand these conditions to ensure fairness for both parties.

Need help? Message us on WhatsApp for fast, friendly support.

Reservation email: [email protected]
Phone call by Vietnam phone: 0934 889 667
International call & Whatsapp: +84 934 889 667

Online reservation days: From Monday to Sunday,
Online operating hours: 24 hours.

To book fast, please click to open the form to send your requests!

Traveler Review

“We were very impressed with the new, well-maintained bus, and the air conditioning worked perfectly throughout the trip. A huge thank you to our driver for keeping the bus spotless and ensuring a comfortable, smooth 5-day journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang. It was truly a memorable experience.”
– Katie Anchor, Australia

FAQs About Bus Hire

Please send us your questions if you cannot find it here!

How can I get a good price when renting a bus to explore Vietnam?

To get the best price, you should prepare a clear travel itinerary, including the pick-up location (hotel), attractions, times, number of passengers, and any special requirements. You should also contact the bus service provider as early as possible to receive a detailed and accurate quote.

How do international travel companies get stable and competitive bus rental prices in Vietnam?

Bus providers in Vietnam often offer fixed prices to international travel companies under long-term contracts (usually 1–2 years). These contracts may include conditions such as maintaining a fixed price and limiting fuel price increases within a certain range. For example, if the fuel price fluctuates below 23,000 VND/liter (±5%), the rental price remains unchanged during the contract period. This allows international travel companies to have stable rental pricing.

What is the age requirement for bus drivers in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, bus drivers must be at least 24 years old (with a Class D driver’s license) to operate a vehicle with 10 to 29 seats, or at least 27 years old (with a Class E license) to operate a vehicle with 30 seats or more. For passenger vehicles with over 29 seats, the maximum working age is 57 for men and 55 for women.

Do drivers receive meals and accommodation during tours?

Bus rental prices usually include meals and accommodation for drivers when traveling outside the province. However, you should discuss these details clearly with the supplier, especially when working with a partner for the first time.

Does the bus rental price include tips for the driver?

Tips for the driver are usually not included in the rental quote. This helps reduce service costs and increase competitiveness. Drivers often prefer to receive tips directly from the group or group leader, as it is a direct recognition of their efforts. If you wish, you can request the supplier to include tips in the quote, although this is generally not encouraged.

How much should I tip the bus driver?

Although not mandatory, it is common practice in the tourism industry to tip about 2 USD or 50,000 VND per guest per day. This amount is calculated based on the number of guests and the number of program days. Groups may increase the tip or give a gift if they want to show extra appreciation.

When should you pay attention to bus rental demand in Vietnam?

Demand for bus rentals in Vietnam rises during certain periods of the year. Specifically:

April 30 and May 1 (major holidays)
Summer (May to August) when students are on vacation and families travel
Before the Lunar New Year, when workers and students travel back to their hometowns

During these times, prices are higher and buses may be fully booked. To avoid unavailability or higher costs, it’s best to book early if your trip falls within these periods.

Should I rent a bus for a cross-Vietnam trip?

Renting a bus for a cross-Vietnam trip (from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi or vice versa) is suitable for programs lasting 14 days or more, when the pace allows for sightseeing and rest.

However, due to long distances between cities, we recommend dividing the trip into smaller regions (North, Central, South, and Central Highlands). For long distances, combining trains or flights can reduce fatigue for guests. This recommendation comes from our experience serving international tourists and helps improve the overall travel experience in Vietnam.

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