With know-how and
Experience for your event
From private events to corporate and large-scale events with up to 800 coaches, we have been able to accompany and organise countless events over the last 7 years. We would be happy to create a customised mobility concept for you.
Needs analysis &
Concept discussion
We work with you to work out all the details of the planned event.
Mobility – &
Parking space concepts
Planning and realisation of complete traffic, mobility and parking concepts.
Vehicle – &
Provision of staff
Provision and coordination of fan, shuttle, crew and staff buses.
Coordination &
Local support
Coordination of all buses, car park management and communication with authorities.
Accounting &
Final discussion
Feedback and analyses of the event are compiled and coordinated.
Planning and processing
of shuttle bus concepts
Our services in the planning and operational handling of shuttle bus concepts:
Demand planning, route design and calculation of turnaround times
Conception of access points in coordination with the authorities
Bus provision, vehicle labelling and driver training
Management and separation of visitor flows if required (e.g. for football matches)
Continuous communication and coordination with you as the organiser
Booking system
For the announcement and booking of shuttle bus tickets (also in combination with event tickets if required), we can provide you as the organiser with a software solution that can also be integrated into your existing website. In addition to immediate online booking, online payment is also possible.
Booking processing
If required, we can also take care of the booking process via our booking centre answering all customer enquiries. We charge a flat-rate fee per customer and event day for handling bookings. It goes without saying that we use individual route planning to optimise the capacity utilisation of all shuttle buses.
Bus provision
With well over 300 bus companies directly linked to our booking system, we currently have access to around 3,000 coaches of all sizes. After route and circulation planning, we provide the buses required to meet demand. Regardless of how many bus companies are commissioned, we are your point of contact for the processing and invoicing of all services.
Co2 reduction
Together with you as the organiser, we demonstrate best practices in the area of sustainability. Both the public and the authorities are increasingly calling for active measures to sustainably improve the carbon footprint of events. For inter-regional shuttle buses, the use of just one bus can reduce emissions by more than a tonne of CO2.
Interregional
Shuttle buses
Thanks to a nationwide network of shuttle bus routes and hundreds of pick-up points, we can offer millions of fans and event visitors the opportunity to book shuttle buses with pick-up points directly at their place of residence in order to travel safely and comfortably to and from the event.
If required, we also provide the organiser with software solutions for announcing and booking tickets online.
As an event organiser, set new standards in environmental protection and sustainability.
Reduce private transport and thus the risk of accidents and traffic jams.
Direct the flow of visitors according to your individual needs.
Create additional visitor potential by providing shuttle buses.
Create planning security with the constantly updated booking figures.
Extract of some projects
5 Simple Games for the Whole Group – Together, the Bus Ride Will Fly By
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Turn a boring bus ride into quality time together
Time can really drag on, especially on longer bus rides. The initial conversations have been had, the snacks have been eaten, and little by little, everyone goes off to do their own thing: listening to music, scrolling through their smartphones, reading, or taking a little nap.
That leaves one question above all: When will we finally get there?
The ride itself can also become part of the shared experience.
A round of games brings new energy to the bus, provides entertainment, and gets the whole group involved. Instead of just sitting through the ride, everyone gives advice, laughs, and puzzles over things together – and suddenly you’ve reached your destination.
Five Game Ideas for the Whole Group
The following games are particularly well-suited for involving everyone in the group at the same time. Usually, one person is enough to lead the game, while the rest of the group joins in, thinks things through, or gets creative.
The games can be played comfortably while seated. Seat belts must remain fastened, and the volume should be set so that the driver’s instructions can be heard clearly at all times. If you’d rather take a break, you can simply skip a round at any time.
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Game 1: 20 Questions
The game master chooses an object, a place, or a person. The group may ask a total of 20 yes-or-no questions. If the group guesses the term in time, they win. If it remains a secret, the game master wins.
Particularly well-suited for: mixed groups, school classes, clubs, or companies with a common theme related to classroom instruction, club or company life, or a travel itinerary.
Photo by Ravi Palwe on Unsplash
Game 2: Who Am I?
One person thinks of a well-known character, a real person, or an animal. The other passengers or the team take turns asking questions that can only be answered with “yes” or “no.” Whoever figures it out gets to choose the next term.
Particularly well-suited for: mixed-age groups, because the concepts can be easily adapted to the participants’ ages and interests.
Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash
Game 3: The Alphabet of the Journey
For each letter, the group looks for a term related to travel, a destination, or life in a club, school, or company—for example, “A” for “departure” is followed by “B” for “mountain.” The game can be played in turns—depending on the group, difficult letters can be skipped or played as a bonus.
Works especially well: for getting started quickly, because no one has to think about it for long or do any preparation.
Photo by Arnel Hasanovic on Unsplash
Game 4: I’m Packing My Suitcase
The first person names an item. Each subsequent person repeats the list so far and adds a new item. In large groups, a round ends after two or three rows of seats. Then the next group starts with an empty suitcase.
Particularly well-suited for: children and teens, as well as groups who want to test their memory together.
Photo by Behnam Norouzi on Unsplash
Game 5: Music Intro Quiz
Play short clips of well-known songs, and have the teams write down the title or artist. Themed rounds—such as movie soundtracks, summer hits, or club classics—allow you to tailor the quiz to the group. Make sure to check the equipment and volume beforehand.
Perfect for: club and company outings with a shared playlist.
How to Make the Round Work for Everyone on the Bus
It’s better to choose one or two suitable games rather than a packed schedule. As the organizer, start with a short round and see if the group wants to keep playing or take a break.
- appoint someone to moderate
- Prepare the terms and music before departure
- Form teams by row so that no one has to change seats
- Deliberately end a round after 15 to 20 minutes
Transparency Notice: This article was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH and drafted with the aid of AI; it was subsequently reviewed by EBA busfinder GmbH and thus subjected to editorial review.
Snacks for the Bus Ride – Practical Tips for You and Your Group
Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash
With the right snack, you and your group will be well-prepared for your outing
Whether it’s a school field trip, a club outing, or a company trip – for many groups, a small snack is simply part of the bus ride. Plus, if you bring your own drinks and food, you’re less dependent on what’s available at rest stops or gas stations along the route.
But not all snacks are created equal – the length of the trip, planned breaks, different dietary needs, and proper packaging all play an important role.
As the Federal Ministry of Food explains, snacks that are both tasty and healthy are a good choice as long as they don’t sit heavy in the stomach. It’s especially convenient when the snack can be eaten cleanly by hand, doesn’t make a mess, and doesn’t need to be refrigerated.
First, check the route
Before you start making your shopping list, take a quick look at the itinerary:
- How long does the trip take?
- When is the first break scheduled?
- Will there be a group meal at the destination?
- Is it allowed to eat and drink on the bus I booked?
- Are there any children, older adults, or participants with special needs?
For a short trip, a small snack is often enough. On a longer trip, it would be a good idea to bring a more filling snack as well. However, if a group meal is planned shortly after arrival, the provisions can be correspondingly smaller or lighter.
It’s best to clarify in advance what rules apply to food and drinks on the bus you’ve booked. As the organizer, be sure to share this information with your group well in advance so that everyone is aware of the guidelines.
What’s a good snack to bring on a bus ride?
On the bus, easy-to-handle snacks are especially convenient. They’re easy to eat, easy to store, and easy to share when needed.
When making your selection, keep the following points in mind:
- Convenient: You can eat this snack without a plate.
- Clean: He spills very little and leaves as few crumbs as possible.
- Well-packaged: Individual portions remain protected until ready to eat.
- Low-odor: Subtle-smelling foods are more pleasant for everyone traveling with you.
- Perfect for the length of the trip: The snacks are filling without weighing you down.
- Long-lasting: The food stays fresh and appetizing during the trip.
- Suitable for the group: Allergies and different dietary needs are taken into account.
Are you still looking for specific ideas for sweet, savory, or homemade snacks?
In this article, you’ll find a handy selection of the best snacks for a bus ride.
Putting Together the Right Mix
For a longer drive, a simple combination of three elements is ideal:
- Something filling: for example, a sandwich, a wrap, or a pastry.
- Something fresh: such as an apple, grapes, or pre-cut vegetables.
- A small addition: for example, crackers, dried fruit, or something sweet.
This makes for a varied snack without having to go on a big shopping trip.
With a good mix of fruity, sweet, and salty snacks, you’ll have plenty of options on the go and can share them with others, too. It’s best to transfer the snacks into boxes or resealable bags ahead of time – that way, the treats can easily be passed from one row to the next.
Foods that are very greasy, have a strong odor, or melt easily aren’t ideal for a car ride together. Snacks with a lot of sauce or a soft filling can also quickly become impractical while on the road.
Ask about allergies and dietary preferences early on
For some group outings, it makes sense to prepare snacks for the entire group. Perhaps the planning team will organize a small snack, or someone from the club or staff would like to bring a little something for everyone.
Before making any preparations, ask the group about their dietary preferences, allergies, and food intolerances. As the organizer, you can gather this information at the same time as other important details about the trip.
You can find a handy overview of this in our checklist for group bus trips.
Here are some points to keep in mind:
- vegetarian or vegan diet
- Gluten or lactose intolerance
- Nut Allergies and Other Food Allergies
- dietary preferences based on religious or personal reasons
As the group leader, let the participants know if a group meal is planned. A brief note explaining what’s planned is all it takes – that way, people won’t pack more food than they need, and there will be less food left over.
Plan to bring enough drinks
Even if breaks are planned along the way, everyone should have a drink ready to go before setting out. Water is a simple choice, and unsweetened herbal or fruit teas are also good options.
The Austrian health portal recommends that adults drink at least 1.5 liters of non-alcoholic beverages without sugar or sweeteners each day. In hot weather or during physical activity, fluid needs may increase.
This information refers to the entire day, not just the bus ride. Beziehen Sie daher auch das weitere Ausflugsprogramm in Ihre Planung ein.
Photo by Bluewater Sweden on Unsplash
As a group leader, you should keep the following in mind:
- Each person should bring a water bottle that seals tightly.
- The bottles are filled before departure.
- A reserve is set aside for longer trips or warm days.
- For children, the accompanying adults should regularly remind them to drink.
- Drinks are stowed so that they won’t tip over or spill while driving.
Remind the participants again a few days before departure. And just to be on the safe side—it never hurts to have a few extra bottles of water on the bus as a backup.
busfinder Tip
When booking through busfinder.com, you can filter bus options by amenities.
This lets you see right away which vehicles, for example, have an onboard coffee maker, a restroom, or a bistro area.
Make sure to use the right packaging
Reusable lunch boxes and water bottles keep food safe and reduce packaging waste. Small, airtight containers are ideal for fruit, vegetables, or snacks to share.
These items are also helpful when you’re on the go:
- Napkins or paper towels
- Wet wipes
- a small trash bag
- reusable cutlery, if needed
- a cooler bag for perishable foods
Your first snack and personal beverages should be packed in your carry-on luggage. Larger supplies can be secured in an empty row or stored in the luggage compartment until the next stop.
Transporting Perishable Foods Properly
Sandwiches, spreads, dips, dairy products, and homemade salads may need to be kept cool. Therefore, pack perishable foods just before departure. A cooler bag with ice packs will keep your food fresh during the bus ride.
Please note the following when preparing:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing the food.
- Wash the fruits and vegetables and dry them thoroughly.
- Use clean, airtight containers.
- Do not leave perishable foods out in the sun.
- If you don’t have reliable cooling, it’s better to choose more durable alternatives.
Dry pastries, crackers, whole apples, or non-perishable bars are usually easier to transport.
Not too little, not too much
If you don’t pack enough, you’ll soon find yourself making an unplanned stop to buy groceries along the way. On the other hand, if you pack too much, you’ll often end up with leftover food that can’t be used after the trip.
So base your planning on the daily schedule. It’s handy to have a little extra on hand in case someone forgets their snack or the trip is delayed – but don’t go overboard.
As the organizer, be sure to send the most important information to the group well in advance. A quick reminder the night before also helps – otherwise, especially early in the morning, a prepared water bottle can easily be left behind at home.
Final check before departure
Before the bus tour begins, it’s worth doing one last check – then nothing will stand in the way of a relaxing ride together:
- Are there enough drinks?
- Does everyone have a sealable water bottle with them?
- Are allergies and dietary preferences taken into account?
- Are the provisions packaged in individual portions and in leak-proof containers?
- Will perishable foods stay refrigerated?
- Are napkins and trash bags within easy reach?
- Does the group know the rules for eating and drinking on the bus?
Transparency Notice: This article was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH and drafted with the aid of AI; it was subsequently reviewed by EBA busfinder GmbH and thus subjected to editorial review.
Checklist for a Group Bus Trip – Here’s the Information Your Group Needs in Advance
Photo by Dianne Clifford on Unsplash
If you start with a clear message up front, the group will feel more relaxed
As the organizer, you naturally want to do everything you can to prevent participants from waiting at the wrong meeting place, arriving late, or forgetting important items.
However, dealing with numerous individual messages and phone calls takes time that you’ll be short on elsewhere, especially right before you leave.
A well-structured message helps you establish a common understanding of the information.
All passengers receive the same information and can refer to it at any time. This ensures clarity and helps prevent uncertainty and panic right before the trip.
Why is it a good idea to send a clear message to all participants before the trip?
Things often get hectic right before the trip. Someone asks about the departure time, while another person wants to know what to bring. At the same time, as the organizer, you may still need to check tickets, finalize the itinerary, or prepare the attendance list.
Sending a message to the entire group takes some of that work off your hands.
It helps by:
- everyone knows the exact meeting place,
- the group arrives in time for departure,
- important documents and personal belongings should be brought along,
- the baggage regulations are known,
- Ensure that inquiries reach the right person, and
- are all equally informed.
This way, you won’t have to answer the same questions over and over again, and your group will feel well-prepared and know what to expect.
It’s best to send out the detailed information to everyone a few days (business days) before the outing —via email or WhatsApp. That way, there’s still time to get anything you’re missing.
The day before, you can briefly remind everyone of the meeting place and time.
Checklist for the Group Bus Trip—This Information Should Be Included in Your Message
Date and Departure Time
Please provide the full date and the exact departure time. Also include the time by which everyone should be at the meeting point, so there is enough time to take attendance, stow luggage, and board the vehicle without rushing.
A clear way to phrase this might be:
Please be at the meeting point by 7:15 a.m. at the latest. The bus leaves at 7:30 a.m.
The more specific your instructions are, the less room there is for misunderstandings. “Meet at 7:15 a.m.” is clearer than “We’ll leave around half past seven.”
Exact meeting place
“In front of the school” or “at the train station” sounds clear enough at first. In larger towns, however, there may be several entrances, parking lots, or bus stops. As a result, part of the group can quickly end up at a completely different location.
Therefore, please specify as precisely as possible where the bus is waiting.
The following information is helpful:
- the full address,
- the name of the parking lot or bus stop,
- a clearly visible landmark,
- a link to the location on a map service,
- If necessary, a photo of the boarding location.
Can’t the bus stop right in front of that building?
Then briefly explain how your group will get to the actual meeting point—this will save you from having to make frantic phone calls right before departure.
Objective and Planned Procedure
Your passengers don’t need to know every little detail. But a brief overview will help them get a better sense of what the day will be like.
Please include your destination, key stops along the way, and planned layovers. Also include the location and estimated time of return in your message.
This is especially helpful when family members pick up participants, when someone has another appointment before or after the outing, when they’re traveling on their own, or when they’re joining the group along the route.
It’s best to mention that the return may be delayed due to traffic conditions or other unforeseeable circumstances.
Contact Information for the Day of the Trip
What happens if someone can’t find the meeting place or is running late?
Decide in advance who the person should contact.
In your message, please include:
- the name of the contact person,
- a phone number for last-minute questions,
- For larger groups, a second point of contact.
That way, not all questions will automatically be directed to you.
Be sure to share the personal contact information of drivers or passengers only with their consent.
Luggage and Important Items
A forgotten ID, missing tickets, or the wrong clothes can make things unnecessarily difficult. A short packing list will help your group get ready.
Depending on your goals and program, the following factors may be important:
- Identification and required documents,
- Tickets or confirmation of participation,
- weather-appropriate clothing,
- personal medications,
- Food and a water bottle,
- Clothing and various items for your stay or overnight accommodation,
- Charger or power bank.
Are there any restrictions on the number or size of bags?
Then include those in the message as well.
For larger groups, it may also be a good idea to label bags and suitcases with names.
Special Concerns
Someone might need assistance getting on the vehicle. A walker, a stroller, or other large items might need to be brought along. It may be necessary to take into account any intolerances, allergies, or particular susceptibility to, for example, motion sickness during the ride.
If you don’t find out about this until you arrive at the meeting place, it can quickly throw a wrench in your plans and put you under a lot of time pressure.
Therefore, please ask your group to bring such concerns to your attention early on and directly. That way, you can address them at your leisure.
Medical and other personal information should not be shared in group chats.
Arrangements for the carpool
A few brief reminders will help ensure that everyone on board feels comfortable. For example, remind your group to keep the bus clean and to follow the drivers’ instructions.
When traveling with children and teenagers, you should also clarify the following:
- Who is responsible for oversight?
- Which chaperone is responsible for which group?
- Where does the group meet after breaks or program activities?
- What should participants do if they can’t find their group?
The more clearly these points are settled in advance, the more relaxed the day together will be.
busfinder Tip
When you book through busfinder.com, you’ll receive your driver’s contact information by email a few days before departure.
It’s best to save this right away—that way, you’ll have the contact information readily available on the day of the trip.
Template for Your Message to the Group
You can use this template as is and adapt it to your trip:
Hello, everyone,
It won’t be long now—our trip together to [Destination] will take place on [Date] .
Meeting place: [exact address and description]
Please arrive by: [time]
Departure: [Time]
Estimated return time: [Time and location]
You can find the exact meeting place here: [Link to location]
Our planned itinerary:
[Brief overview of the trip, breaks, and activities]
Please bring the following:
[ID, tickets, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, and any other necessary items]
Note regarding luggage:
[Information on the number, size, or labeling of bags]
If you are running late, cannot find the meeting place, or are unable to attend at the last minute, please contact us at [phone number] to [Name].
Please let us know about any special requests by [deadline] directly.
Please confirm by [deadline] that you have received the information.
We look forward to a wonderful outing together and a pleasant ride!
Double-check everything before submitting
Before you send the message, it’s a good idea to take one last look at the key points:
- Are the date and departure time correct?
- Is the meeting place clearly described?
- Does the link to the location work?
- Are the departure and return locations clear?
- Is a contact person who can be reached listed?
- Does the group know what to bring?
- Are the baggage requirements and deadlines clear?
- Is it clear where last-minute changes will be announced?
- Does the message contain only information intended for everyone?
Keep the message as short as possible and as detailed as necessary.
With paragraphs, lists, and highlighted times, your passengers can find the most important information right away.
This results in fewer follow-up questions, less time pressure, and a more relaxed atmosphere during the planning process. Your group can look forward to the trip together—and you’ll have a clear head to take care of the final important details.
Anyone who organizes a group outing does a lot of work behind the scenes. We hope this checklist makes your final preparations a little easier.
The busfinder team wishes you and your group a pleasant trip, many wonderful moments together, and an all-around successful outing.
Transparency Notice: This article was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH and drafted with the aid of AI; it was subsequently reviewed by EBA busfinder GmbH and thus subjected to editorial review.
Printable Class Schedule – Download for Free as a PDF
Photo by Mediamodifier on Unsplash
Start the New Semester Well-Organized
A new semester brings a new schedule and often some changes as well. New classes, different classrooms, new groups, or new teachers—especially at the beginning, it can take a little while to get used to the new weekly routine.
To help you keep track of everything, we’ve created a handy class schedule for you to fill out. Just download it as a PDF, print it out, fill it in, and file it in your folder.
Everything You Need to Know for the School Week at a Glance
From Monday through Friday, the schedule allows for up to ten class periods. The start and end times for each period can be entered individually. In addition to the subject, there is additional space for the room and class or group for each period. Students can use this field, for example, to note down the name of the teacher for that period.
This can be especially helpful at the beginning: Whether you’re new to a school, taking over a new class, or just getting used to new rooms, classes, and names, you’ll have the most important information right at your fingertips in the class schedule.
Always within reach in A4 portrait orientation
The schedule is intentionally designed in A4 portrait orientation. This makes it easy to print on a standard printer and file upright in a regular folder. That way, it’s quickly at hand during the school day and doesn’t need to be folded.
You can also enter the year and semester yourself. This allows you to use the schedule regardless of the school year and easily reprint it for a new semester.
Set Goals, Keep Track of What’s Important, & Download Your Schedule
What would you like to accomplish this semester? In addition to your classes, the schedule includes space for three personal goals for the semester. This way, you can keep track not only of your courses and class times, but also of your own plans.
An additional note section also provides space for important notes, quick reminders, or to-do lists. Simply download the class schedule as a PDF, print it out, fill it in, and start the new semester well organized.
Transparency Notice: This article was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH and drafted with the aid of AI; it was subsequently reviewed by EBA busfinder GmbH and thus subjected to editorial review.
Booking a bus for a school field trip—when is the best time?
Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash
The best time to book depends on your school trip
The date for the next field trip has been set, the project week is taking shape, or the winter sports week has already been planned. That leaves one question: When should you book the right bus with a driver?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, based on our experience with bookings made through busfinder.com, depending on the type and timing of the planned school trip, it may be worth starting your search for a suitable bus well in advance.
First of all, it depends on what you have planned with your class—a day trip, a field trip, or a school trip lasting several days, a project week, a sports week, or a language week?
The travel dates also play an important role. Demand for tour buses can rise significantly, especially around popular dates. You can find an overview of school breaks and important dates in our article on the 2026/27 school year—“School Breaks and Important Dates at a Glance.”
A day trip or a school trip lasting several days?
For a day trip, a bus with a driver is usually needed only for the round trip or for a single day. This often makes it easier to find a suitable provider, even with a somewhat shorter lead time.
For school trips lasting several days, there’s another consideration: Is the coach needed only for the trip to and from the destination, or should it stay with your group for the entire trip?
For example, if the class is taken to their lodging and picked up again a few days later, the trip there and back can often be handled as separate trips. This provides additional flexibility when searching for a suitable bus company.
The situation is different if you also need the bus on site—for example, for daily transportation to the ski slopes, trips to activities, or excursions in the region. In this case, the bus and driver will remain with your group for the entire trip and will not be available for other trips during that time.
The longer you need a bus for a continuous period, the more worthwhile it is to book early.
When is the best time to book a bus for the trip?
Based on our experience with school trips, we have developed the following guidelines for planning:
| What | When | Recommended booking period |
|---|---|---|
| Day Trip to Mark the Start of the School Year | August, September | May, June |
| End-of-School-Year Day Trip | June, July | February, March |
| Sports, Project, or ” ” Language Week in the Fall | September, October | Travel to and from the destination only: May, June Bus during the trip (on-site): February, March |
| Sports, Project, or ” ” Language Week in Winter | November, December | Travel to and fromthe destinationonly: August, September Bus transportation during the trip: June, July |
| Sports, Project, or ” ” Language Week in Winter | January, February, March | Travel to and fromthe destinationonly: August, September Bus transportation during the trip: August, September |
| Sports, Project, or ” ” Language Week in Spring/Early Summer | March, April, May | Travel to and fromthe destinationonly: November, December Bus transportation during the trip: September, October |
As a general guideline, we recommend allowing at least four to six weeks’ lead time when booking a bus. During peak periods and for multi-day trips with a bus attendant, it’s worth planning much further in advance.
Photo from iStock.com
Field Trips Right After School Starts
If field trips, excursions, or other day trips are already planned for the first few weeks of the new school year, we recommend booking the bus before school ends in June or July. That way, transportation to and from the school will already be arranged, and you won’t have to worry about finding a suitable bus at the start of the new school year.
Project and Sports Weeks in the Fall
For trips lasting several days in September or October—such as project, sports, or language weeks—it’s also a good idea to arrange for the bus by June or July. This is especially true if the bus and driver are needed not only for the trip to and from the destination but also on-site during the week.
Winter Sports Weeks
For winter sports weeks, the ideal time depends both on your travel dates and on how long you’ll need the bus.
If the winter sports week takes place as early as November or December and you need the bus only for the round trip, our experience shows that there is often still a good selection of options available when school starts in August or September.
If, on the other hand, you want the bus to stay with your group for the entire winter sports week—for example, for daily transportation between your lodging and the ski slopes—it’s a good idea to start looking at the available options before school lets out in June or July.
For winter sports weeks in January, February, or March, the start of the school year in August or September is a good time to check the available options and book the right bus.
Photo from iStock.com
Project Weeks and Summer Sports Weeks in the Spring
If you’re planning a school trip lasting several days in the spring or early summer, we recommend starting your search for a suitable bus as early as November or December of the previous year—especially if you want the bus and driver to stay with your group for the entire trip.
The later in the new year the trip takes place and the less the bus is needed locally, the more flexibility there usually is.
For example, if the bus is only needed for the trip to and from the destination, suitable options may still be available in January or February.
Day Trips Before the End of the School Year
Experience has shown that the last few weeks before summer break are among the most popular times for school field trips. After grades are finalized, many schools use the remaining school days for hiking trips, field trips, and group end-of-year activities.
Although demand is spread out somewhat due to the different school vacation schedules in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, there is still a particularly high volume of travel requests during these weeks.
For a day trip around the time school lets out, we therefore recommend making a reservation in February, or by March at the latest.
Or, to put it another way: The early bird…
The teacher who starts early has a wider selection.
Check early—and compare again later if necessary
The offers on busfinder.comare real-time offers based on the current availability of our more than 350 verified partner companies. Especially during peak travel times, it’s therefore a good idea to check early on which buses are available for your trip.
With your busfinder:school account, you can save a planned route. If you don’t want to book just yet, you can revisit your trip at a later time and review the available options again.
Is the trip basically set, but some details still need to be worked out?
Even in that case, booking early can still make sense. Whether and until when an existing reservation can be changed—in terms of the number of passengers, departure time, etc.—depends on the cancellation and processing policies of the respective bus company. Many of our partners offer flexible options in this regard, even relatively close to the departure date.
However, if the trip does not take place, we recommend canceling your reservation as early as possible—even if there is still time left according to the cancellation policy. This allows the bus company to use the bus that had already been scheduled for you for another purpose.
Can’t find what you’re looking for?
If there isn’t a suitable offer available for your route right now: Don’t panic!
You can use the form—located right next to the results—to submit your planned trip as a request.
Our customer service team will explore additional options within our partner network and help you find the right bus for your group.
When is the best time for your next school trip?
It’s best to check availability as soon as you’ve finalized the date and basic itinerary for your trip.
This way, you can see right away which offers are currently available for your group—and decide for yourself whether you want to book now or compare the offers again at a later time.
Transparency Notice: This article was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH and drafted with the aid of AI; it was subsequently reviewed by EBA busfinder GmbH and thus subjected to editorial review.
bdo15 | Digital Opportunities in the Bus Rental Business
busfinder.com at bdo ONLINE ACADEMY
Date: July 7, 2026 | 10:00 a.m.
For more information, visit: bdo.org/termine
This keynote presentation highlights the challenges bus companies face and explains how they can manage inquiries, bookings, and administrative processes more efficiently and tap into new opportunities in online sales.
Digital Opportunities for Bus Companies
How are digital sales channels, online bookings, and smart software solutions changing the bus rental business? This very question was the focus of the bdo15 keynote presentation “Digital Opportunities in the Bus Rental Business,” which took place as part of the bdo ONLINE ACADEMY.
The presentation was aimed at companies that want to make their bus rental business more digital, more efficient, and more visible—regardless of whether they already have some digital components in place or plan to build out their digital capabilities step by step. Ben Neumann provides concrete, real-world examples and possible implementation steps for bus companies.
The market is changing—customer expectations are evolving
The focus was primarily on the challenges that many bus companies face in their day-to-day operations.
Customers expect quick quotes, transparent pricing, and easy booking processes. At the same time, inquiries must be accurately priced, availability checked, internal processes taken into account, and orders reliably processed.
The more complex the trip, the more factors come into play—from driving times, kilometers, and rest breaks to costs, interfaces, and internal processes. This is exactly where digital solutions can help.
An overview of the topics:
- Digital Sales and Booking Solutions for Bus Companies
- More Efficient Processes, from Inquiry to Billing
- Practical Insights into Successful Digital Transformation Projects
- Software modules and platform solutions for businesses of all sizes
- Greater visibility, improved capacity utilization, and new revenue opportunities
- Insights from more than 350 partner companies
- Specific ways to implement these ideas in your own business
Digitalization is a competitive factor
Digital solutions help to map inquiry, quote, booking, and administrative processes in a more structured way. This simplifies recurring tasks, shortens response times, and reduces sources of error.
At the same time, this creates more opportunities for personalized service—especially in cases where individual needs, complex trips, or regular customers require more attentive support.
“With busfinder.com, business development and growth through digitalization are NOT a matter of company size!”
Digitization helps small businesses operate like larger companies.
Recording for later viewing
The recording of the presentation was posted on the bdo DIEBUSUNTERNEHMEN YouTube channel. You can watch it below.
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More InformationTransparency Notice: This post was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH based on the cited article and created with the assistance of AI-powered writing tools.
3 Delicious Cocktails to Kick Off Your Vacation
Photo by Avi Richards on Unsplash
Simple Summer Drinks for a Well-Deserved Break
After weeks filled with classes, exams, grading, faculty meetings, and administrative tasks, the start of summer break is a special moment. It’s time to finally take a deep breath, clear out the calendar a bit, and consciously kick off the summer.
These go well with refreshing drinks that are easy to make and don’t require any special ingredients.
Whether they’re regionally inspired and fruity with apple and berries, creamy with peach and vanilla, or exotically fresh with mango, pineapple, and lime—these three non-alcoholic cocktails bring that vacation feeling to your glass.
All recipes are designed as non-alcoholic bases and can be quickly prepared with simple ingredients such as fruit juices, milk, yogurt, mineral water, or fresh fruit. For those who would like to serve a version with a splash of alcohol, each recipe includes a note suggesting which type of alcohol could be added.
Photo by Linus Belanger on Unsplash
Apple-Berry Spritz
: A Fruity, Locally Inspired Cocktail . Character: fresh, slightly tart, summery.
Ideal for anyone who wants to kick off their vacation in a relaxed way with a light, locally inspired drink after a busy school year.
Ingredients for 2 glasses:
- 250 ml naturally cloudy apple juice
- 150 ml sparkling mineral water
- 1 handful of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Ice cubes
Optional: a few mint leaves
Preparation:
- Wash the berries, crush them roughly or cut them in half, and divide them between two glasses.
- Add lemon juice and apple juice, then fill with ice cubes.
- Pour in the mineral water and stir gently.
Garnish with mint, if desired.
Optional with alcohol: For a version with a splash of alcohol, sparkling wine, Prosecco, or white wine work well. The mineral water can then be partially or completely replaced with one of these.
Photo by Sara Iovino on Unsplash
Peach-Vanilla Milkshake
: A Creamy, Mild CocktailCharacter: creamy, sweet, simple
Perfect for anyone who wants to treat themselves to a little creamy break at the start of their vacation—simple, mild, and almost like a dessert in a glass.
Ingredients for 2 glasses:
- 250 ml milk
- 150 ml peach juice or apricot nectar
- 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream or 150 g of vanilla yogurt
- 1 ripe peach or 2 canned peach halves
- Ice cubes
Preparation:
- Cut the peach into pieces.
- Put milk, peach juice, vanilla ice cream or yogurt, and peach chunks into a blender.
- Blend everything until creamy, pour into glasses, and serve chilled.
Alternative without a blender: Stir the peach juice, milk, and vanilla yogurt vigorously, or shake them in a shaker. Cut the peach pieces into small pieces and add them directly to the glass.
Optional with alcohol: For a twist, add a splash of rum, vodka, or egg liqueur. It turns out especially mild with egg liqueur.
Photo by Shamblen Studios on Unsplash
Mango-Pineapple-Lime Cooler
: An Exotic and Refreshing CocktailCharacter: tropical, fresh, fruity
For anyone who wants to feel like they’re on vacation from the very first sip—fresh, exotic, and just right for kicking off a well-deserved summer break.
Ingredients for 2 glasses:
- 200 ml of mango juice or multivitamin juice
- 150 ml pineapple juice
- 100 ml sparkling mineral water
- Juice of 1/2 lime or lemon
- Ice cubes
Optional: Fresh or canned pineapple or mango chunks
Preparation:
- Put ice cubes in two glasses.
- Mix mango juice or multivitamin juice with pineapple juice and lime juice.
- Divide the mixture among the glasses and top with mineral water.
Garnish with fruit pieces, if desired.
Optional with alcohol: For a twist, try white rum, coconut liqueur, or Prosecco. With white rum, the drink is reminiscent of classic tropical cocktails.
Have a great vacation, and thank you very much for your hard work
As the summer break begins, we wish all teachers, educators, and everyone working in the field of education a relaxing and enjoyable summer. Each school year once again requires many hours of preparation, guidance, organization, patience, and personal dedication. We would like to express our gratitude for that.
Enjoy the coming weeks, recharge your batteries, and make a point of taking time to catch your breath…
The early bird…
Early teachers get the best bus
Even though summer break is just around the corner, the next school field trips, project days, and adventure weeks in the fall and winter are sure to come.
Compare suitable bus options early on at busfinder.com and secure the right coach for your class or group in plenty of time.
Transparency Notice: This article was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH and drafted with the aid of AI; it was subsequently reviewed by EBA busfinder GmbH and thus subjected to editorial review.
Summer Vacations in the DACH Region at a Glance
Photo by Vicko Mozara on Unsplash
Here’s how the school breaks are scheduled from June through September
The school year is coming to an end, the final exams are over, and excitement for summer vacation is building.
While some schools in the DACH region begin their summer break as early as June, in other regions the summer break doesn’t start until July or August. As a result, the start of summer break is spread out over several weeks—and with it, on the one hand, travel traffic and, on the other, demand for tour buses.
It’s worth taking a quick look
After all, if you know when school breaks are in each federal state or canton, you can better plan trips, project weeks, class trips, and field trips for the end or start of the school year.
To help you stay on top of things, we’ve updated the 2026 summer vacation dates: here’s a brief summary of the 2027 summer vacations for Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.
Summer Vacation in Austria
The 2026 summer vacation—updated: 2027—begins in Austria in early or mid-July, depending on the federal state.
| State | Start | End | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burgenland | July 3, 2027 | September 5, 2027 | |
| Lower Austria | July 3, 2027 | September 5, 2027 | |
| Vienna | July 3, 2027 | September 5, 2027 | |
| Carinthia | July 10, 2027 | September 12, 2027 | |
| Upper Austria | July 10, 2027 | September 12, 2027 | |
| Salzburg | July 10, 2027 | September 12, 2027 | |
| Styria | July 10, 2027 | September 12, 2027 | |
| Tyrol | July 10, 2027 | September 12, 2027 | |
| Vorarlberg | July 10, 2027 | September 12, 2027 |
Source: The school vacation dates listed are based on information from the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education. For more information on school vacations and days off from school in Austria, visit: bmb.gv.at/Themen/schule/schulpraxis/termine/ferientermine_26_27.html
Summer Vacation in Germany
In Germany, the 2026 summer vacation begins—updated: 2027—on different dates depending on the state.
| State | Start | End | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baden-Württemberg | July 29, 2027 | September 11, 2027 | |
| Bavaria | August 2, 2027 | September 13, 2027 | |
| Berlin | July 1, 2027 | August 14, 2027 | |
| Brandenburg | July 1, 2027 | August 14, 2027 | |
| Bremen | July 8, 2027 | August 18, 2027 | |
| Hamburg | July 1, 2027 | August 11, 2027 | |
| Hesse | June 28, 2027 | August 6, 2027 | |
| Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania | July 5, 2027 | August 14, 2027 | |
| Lower Saxony | July 8, 2027 | August 18, 2027 | |
| North Rhine-Westphalia | July 19, 2027 | August 31, 2027 | |
| Rhineland-Palatinate | June 28, 2027 | August 6, 2027 | |
| Saarland | June 28, 2027 | August 6, 2027 | |
| Saxony | July 10, 2027 | August 20, 2027 | |
| Saxony-Anhalt | July 10, 2027 | August 20, 2027 | |
| Schleswig-Holstein | July 3, 2027 | August 14, 2027 | |
| Thuringia | July 10, 2027 | August 20, 2027 |
Important notice for Schleswig-Holstein: Special rules apply for the summer vacation on the islands of Sylt, Föhr, Amrum, and Helgoland, as well as on the Halligen.
Source: The school vacation dates listed are based on information from the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs. For more information on vacation regulations and school vacations in Germany, visit: kmk.org/service/ferienregelung.html
Summer Vacation in Switzerland
In Switzerland, the summer vacation dates for 2026 (updated: 2027) vary depending on the canton, municipality, or type of school.
| Canton | Region / Note | Start | End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aargau | All schools, cantonal data | July 17, 2027 | August 8, 2027 |
| Appenzell Innerrhoden | All schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Appenzell Innerrhoden | Oberegg | July 10, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Appenzell Ausserrhoden | All schools | July 10, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Bern | Kindergarten, elementary schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Bern | Compulsory education | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Basel-Landschaft | All schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Basel-Landschaft | Laufental-Thierstein High School | July 10, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Basel-Stadt | All schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Freiburg | elementary schools, city | July 10, 2027 | August 25, 2027 |
| Freiburg | secondary schools (secondary level II) | July 3, 2027 | August 25, 2027 |
| Geneva | all schools | July 3, 2027 | August 25, 2027 |
| Glarus | All schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Graubünden | German- and Romansh-speaking Graubünden | vary | August 15, 2027 |
| Graubünden | Moesano | vary | No information available yet |
| Law | public schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Lucerne | All schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Neuchâtel | Compulsory education | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Nidwalden | Elementary and Middle Schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Obwalden | All schools except Engelberg | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Obwalden | Engelberg Elementary and High School | June 26, 2027 | August 8, 2027 |
| St. Gallen | All schools | July 10, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Schaffhausen | All schools | July 10, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Solothurn | Middle Schools and Vocational Schools | July 10, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Schwyz | Elementary School | July 10, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Thurgau | Elementary School | July 10, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Ticino | All schools | June 17, 2027 | August 29, 2027 |
| Uri | All schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Vaud | all schools | July 3, 2027 | August 22, 2027 |
| Valais | German-speaking part, excluding tourist municipalities | June 30, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Valais | Upper Valais Tourism Municipalities | June 30, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Valais | French-speaking part | June 26, 2027 | August 18, 2027 |
| Zug | Public Schools | July 3, 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Zurich | Elementary School | July 17, 2027 | August 22, 2027 |
Source: The school vacation dates listed are based on information from the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Directors of Education (EDK). For more information on school vacations in Switzerland, visit: edk.ch/de/bildungssystem/kantonale-schulorganisation/Schulferien
Transparency Notice: This article was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH and drafted with the aid of AI; it was subsequently reviewed by EBA busfinder GmbH and thus subjected to editorial review.
From Manual Quotes to Online Bookings
Bus Rental Business: A New Approach
In its Issue 4/2026, the industry magazine EuroBus featured an article by Askin Avas titled “When Tradition Goes Digital—busfinder and Emile Weber Are Rethinking the Charter Bus Business,” which covered the collaboration between Emile Weber and busfinder.com.
The focus is on how a long-established mobility company and a digital platform are working together to further develop the charter bus business.
Using emile weber as an example, the article illustrates the potential that arises when operational experience, existing business systems, and digital booking processes work together effectively.
Why the Bus Rental Industry Needs to Become More Digital
Many bus companies are familiar with this situation: An inquiry comes in via email or phone. Then the manual review begins. The route, travel times, driving and rest periods, break regulations, toll costs, downtime, vehicle availability, and special requests must all be taken into account.
This process is particularly time-consuming for more complex trips. Valuable hours can pass before a quote is fully calculated and sent out. At the same time, customers today expect quick responses, transparent pricing, and simple digital booking options. What has long been standard practice for flights, hotels, and tickets is increasingly becoming the norm in the charter bus industry as well.
The key challenge, therefore, is this: How can inquiries be processed more quickly, in a more structured manner, and more reliably, without overburdening existing business processes?
Case Study: Emile Weber & busfinder.com
Emile Weber, a well-established mobility company in Luxembourg, combines many years of experience with a clear vision of the future. This is exactly where the partnership with busfinder.com comes in.
The EuroBus article makes it clear: This was not an isolated software project, but rather a close collaboration that spanned existing systems, operational requirements, and digital customer expectations. The goal was to create a fully digital end-to-end process for bus rentals, from the initial inquiry through to the booking.
busfinder.com intelligently complements existing systems. It does not replace existing processes, but rather connects them digitally. This allows inquiries, route planning, cost estimates, sending quotes, bookings, and internal processing to work together more seamlessly.
“The goal was for the gears to mesh perfectly.”
“Dr. Christoph Berdenich, co-founder of busfinder.com, notes this in an interview with the EuroBus editorial team,” he says.
Which processes have been digitized
The focus is on end-to-end digitization of the bus rental process. Customers enter their desired trip details online, including the pickup and drop-off locations, date, time, requirements, and other trip details.
In the background, the system automatically calculates relevant factors such as travel times, kilometers, legal requirements, breaks, downtime, and costs. Quotes can then be created digitally, sent out, and accepted directly online.
“We no longer lose customers just because we’re too slow to respond.”
That’s how the team at emile weber sums it up in an interview with the EuroBus editorial staff.
Digitized and automated processes:
- Digital route planning, including distance in kilometers, travel times, rest breaks, and legal requirements
- Quick Cost Estimation for the Fleet
- Availability Query via Interfaces
- Digital delivery of quotes with a booking link
- Online booking via the website or a quote received
- Transfer of relevant order data to internal ERP and scheduling systems
- Special rates for B2B and existing customers
- AI-Powered Preparation of Proposals Based on Email Inquiries
Greater efficiency, greater reach, better customer experience
The benefits are evident on several levels.
Bus rentals will become easier for customers. They’ll receive a quote faster, be able to compare options, and complete the booking online. Long wait times, follow-up questions, and manual coordination will be reduced.
Bus companies benefit from increased efficiency. Automated pricing ensures more consistent rates, fewer sources of error, and faster processes. Employees gain time to handle complex inquiries, provide personalized advice, and deliver high-quality customer service.
Reach is also changing. Thanks to digital visibility on platforms such as busfinder.com, bus companies can now be found by customers who are searching outside their own region. In this way, digitalization can not only improve internal processes but also tap into new sources of demand.
The main message is: Digitization does not replace in-person counseling. It creates opportunities for it.
From Efficiency Gains to a Growth Driver
The EuroBus article makes it clear that digital processes in the charter bus industry are not just an operational issue. They can become a real driver of growth.
Faster quote generation increases the chance of reaching customers at the right moment. Structured data improves cost estimates. Digital booking channels lower the barrier to making inquiries. At the same time, bus companies can make better use of their capacity and tap into new customer groups.
For busfinder.com, the partnership with emile weber demonstrates the potential that arises when industry expertise and technology come together. The future of the charter bus business lies not only in modern vehicles or alternative powertrains. It also lies in intelligent processes, connected systems, and simple digital booking options.
Rethinking the Bus Rental Business
This real-world example shows that digital transformation in the bus industry doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is that it solves real problems. Quotes should be prepared more quickly. Customers should be able to book more easily. Employees should spend less time on manual, routine tasks. Existing systems should be supplemented in a meaningful way.
This is exactly where busfinder.com comes in: with digital solutions that enable bus companies to achieve greater efficiency, increased visibility, and streamlined processes in the charter bus business.
Transparency Notice: This post was developed by EBA busfinder GmbH based on the cited article and created with the assistance of AI-powered writing tools.
Traveling with the Class—Here’s Why You Should Choose BusFinder
Source: istock.com
Before a class trip, field trip, or project week, it’s time to plan, coordinate, and organize.
As the students’ excitement builds, the work begins for the teachers. They put together activities with educational value, look for suitable accommodations, and get parents and school administrators on board.
The only thing missing now is the right mode of transportation.
A rented tour bus is often the first choice. And there are good reasons for that – picking up students at the train station or airport? Time pressure before departure? The stress of transferring between modes of transportation? All of that is eliminated when you travel by bus.
On the day of the field trip, the school becomes the meeting place. And once everyone is there, we set off together. Even booking in advance is easier than you’d think—and with busfinder, it only takes a few minutes. Enter the trip details, receive quotes from over 300 bus companies, compare them, and book the right bus directly online.
How does busfinder work?
Whether it’s a day trip or a school field trip, whether with one group or several classes—anyone looking to rent a tour bus with a driver will find what they need at busfinder.com will find what they’re looking for quickly and easily. All you need to provide are the departure and destination locations, the date, and the number of passengers.
Once you’ve entered your details, the online platform will provide you with numerous offers from verified partner bus companies. You can compare the bus offers based on price, amenities, and ratings, so you can select and book the right option for your planned school trip with just a few clicks.
busfinder Tip: If things get a little more complicated – for example, with multiple stops or on-site assistance—our customer service team will be happy to help. Contact our service team for personalized support and a no-obligation quote.
Source: istock.com
6 Reasons to Choose busfinder.com
With busfinder.com, you can organize your class’s travel to and from your destination all in one place. Whether it’s a day trip, field trip, sports week, or language trip – the booking process is simple, straightforward, and helps you save time on planning.
Save Time When Booking a Bus
On busfinder.com , you can get the quotes you need from several bus companies right away with just one request.
You can book directly – even multiple buses at once, for example, if an entire graduating class is traveling together.
Plan & Save Routes Faster
When entering information, you can select your save your to your account.
With just one click, you’ll get the latest quotes without having to re-enter your information – which is especially handy for recurring trips, such as your annual ski trip.
Compare Prices & Stick to Your Budget
It’s easy to compare quotes to find the right bus within a set budget.
If you’re looking for a account , the exclusive school discounts for busfinder:school will be displayed directly in the results list.
Save offers for voting
You can find matching offers using busfinder:school to easily save, print, and submit them to the school administration or parent council.
This streamlines internal decision-making processes and saves you valuable time for further planning.
Stay Flexible & Adjust Your Reservations
Changes to your itinerary after booking a bus are no problem. The routes or times of your booking can be easily adjusted online in your account without having to pick up the phone.
Many bus companies also offer flexible cancellation options right up until shortly before departure.
Keep track of all your trips
You can view both past and upcoming trips in your account at any time.
The Account Area provides a central overview of your entire travel history and helps you plan and manage your trips.
You still have
questions?
We will be happy to take the time to discuss with you the details of your individual requirements for your planned mobility concept.
We can use our experience to answer your questions and develop appropriate solutions. You can also use our Help Centre, where we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions in advance.
excellent | September 13, 2026
okay | September 7, 2026
very good | April 24, 2026
