For a group of 8 passengers, an 8-seater minibus is typically the ideal choice to travel both short and long distances in an affordable package. You can also hire a minibus with 9 9-seater configuration, where one seat can be adjusted as a luggage space. But the right choice depends on your requirements and the facilities required for the journey.
For instance, if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or for a long drive, you might need a spacious minibus like a 9 - 12 seater minibus for a smooth journey. Some of the top 8-seater minibus brands include Ford Transit Custom, Volkswagen Transporter, Mercedes Sprinter, and Mercedes-Benz V-Class.
Let’s have a look at the breakdown of these brands and what perks are included for each choice of minibus vehicle for 8 passengers.
Ford Transit Custom
Seating Configuration: The Ford Transit Custom comes in 8 - 12 seater sizes to accommodate both small and medium-sized groups. This minibus is best suited for family, friends, budget-conscious groups, or party travel plans where you do not have extra luggage and are only looking to travel short distances within the city. You can also remove seats to create an additional luggage space and make the travel even more hassle-free.
Best Features:
- Spacious interiors.
- Decent luggage space.
- Fuel-efficient for booking travel.
- Reliable choice for group accommodation and travel comfort.
- Modern safety measures like seat belts and stability control.
Volkswagen Transporter
Seating Configuration: The Volkswagen Transporter is also an 8-seater minibus choice for groups that need extra luggage space and fuel efficiency for cost saving. These aspects make this brand of minibus a better option for lengthy road trips and bigger suitcases in the luggage compartment.
Best Features:
- Easier manoeuvrability for off-the-beaten-path trips.
- Better engine performance for quick transfer between multiple destinations.
- Comfortable amenities that make the journey highly executive and smooth.
- Easy seating configuration for increasing the luggage capacity without compromising the safety and comfort of passengers.
Mercedes Sprinter
Seating Configuration: Typically available in 12 - 15 seater plans, the Mercedes Sprinter is also configured to an 8 seater with a VIP standard luggage storage area. This vehicle is ideal for executive transport plans like business, airport and special travel occasions. Not just that, but the vehicle also comes with special amenities such as reclining seats, fuel efficiency, private windows and seat belts to make the experience highly tailored to your special trip.
Best Features:
- VIP minibuses.
- Specialised seating plans and luggage storage according to your requirements.
- Luxury interiors.
- Best suited for long-distance and mult-day travel plans.
When Does An 8 Seater Minibus Work Best?
- Hiring an 8 seater minibus is a top choice for small families and friendly trips, with better luggage space compared to a car.
- A transfer on an 8 seater minibus is comfortable and affordable for short-distance trips, instead of forcing you to incur multiple car rental expenses.
- Access to an extensive luggage storage with spacious legroom for better comfort throughout the trip.
- Ideal choice for airport transfers, business trips, family picnics and party plans.
- Best for multi-day local event transportation and contract transport for employees.
- An 8 seater minibus is an economical choice since these group transports provide a complete package with a driver, and the cost can be shared among all members.
Factors To Consider When Hiring A Minibus For 8 People
- Travel Plan: Prioritise travel planning to make the right choice of a minibus for 8 members. For instance, an 8 seater minibus might not be suitable for a sports transfer with a large luggage and equipment. That is why you must make sure to discuss your travel plans with booking executives ahead of time, so they can suggest the best minibus to go for.
- Facility Needs: An 8 seater minibus might not cater to your unique travel requirements. Since all the amenities will influence your travel experience, you must incorporate them into your booking to avoid any confusion during the travel day.
- Driver & Licenses: Before booking a minibus, make sure to confirm the driver's availability, their training and license requirements for a safe and sound travel between destinations. Since an 8 seater minibus will be required for a group of eight members, you should look for a driver with a Category B license. If you are planning to hire a 9 seater, then the driver must have a Category D1 license.
- Long Journeys Of 5+ Hours: Extended road trips require special attention to safety and comfort, which might often be limited in an 8 seater minibus. If you are travelling for more than 5 hours, then it is wise to consider a 12 to 16 seater minibus with spacious interiors and better luggage support.
How Much Does Hiring An 8 Seater Minibus With A Driver Costs?
Booking your 8 seater minibus will cost you around £180 for a 50-mile trip. It is worth noting that this is not the fixed price, and the final quote will vary depending on the travel requirements, time of hire, miles covered, and seating configuration as required. Since most minibus companies allow upfront booking, you will not have to worry about breaking the budget at the end of the trip.
In short, an 8 seater minibus is mostly the right choice to go for a trip involving 8 passengers and moderate luggage. However, if your plans involve special requirements for amenities, extra luggage storage, or a lengthy trip, then you might need to reconsider the vehicle with a 9 or 12 seater minibus. Just confirm all the requirements for your journey with a booking expert or share your details with us through the booking form, and we will recommend the best minibus you need for your travel plans of 8 passengers.
