When you think of a party bus in London, you probably imagine champagne popping, booming sound systems, and neon lights bouncing off the windows as you tour the city with your friends. But what if you’re on a budget? Good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune to keep the party going strong. With the right planning, you can save money and still have an unforgettable experience.
1. Book Off-Peak for the Best Rates
Most party bus companies in London offer lower prices for midweek bookings (Sunday–Thursday). Not only do you save money, but you’ll also find buses more readily available.
👉 Pro tip: Avoid peak season dates like Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and summer weekends when prices skyrocket.
➡ Check out our Best Party Bus Deals for Students in London (internal link) for more budget hacks.
2. Share the Cost With a Larger Group
A party bus is designed for groups of 15–40+ people. The more mates you bring, the lower the cost per head. For example:
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20 people splitting £800 = £40 each
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30 people splitting £900 = just £30 each
That’s often cheaper than a club night with drinks and taxis combined!
👉 Related read: Private Venue vs Party Bus – Which is Better Value?
3. Choose Pre-Sold Drinks Packages
Buying drinks individually can quickly eat into your budget. Instead, opt for pre-sold packages — they’re often much cheaper per person than bar prices. Some buses even allow BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle), which is a student-friendly option.
For ideas on what to stock up on, see our guide: Best Drinks to Serve on a Party Bus.
4. Keep the Route Short & Sweet
The longer your party bus drives around London, the higher the fuel and hire cost. If you’re on a budget, plan a shorter route but make it meaningful:
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Drive past iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, The Shard, and the London Eye.
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Stop for one epic group photo rather than multiple stops.
For inspiration, check Visit London’s Nightlife Guide (external link).
5. Bring Your Own Playlist & Entertainment
Why pay extra for add-ons when you can bring your own fun? Create a Spotify or Apple Music playlist ahead of time, themed to your night — whether it’s 90s throwbacks, hip hop bangers, or Ibiza house vibes.
Pro move: Assign a “party DJ” in your group to control the vibe all night.
➡ Bonus: Add some DIY fun like “Karaoke Battles” using the bus’s wireless mics.
6. Ask About Hidden Discounts
Not all deals are advertised! Many companies offer:
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Student discounts
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Referral bonuses if you bring another group
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Early-bird booking offers
👉 Always ask: “Do you have any student or midweek discounts available?”
7. Focus on the Experience, Not Extras
You don’t need luxury add-ons like magnums of champagne or high-end catering to have fun. The atmosphere, music, and friends are what make the night memorable. A budget-friendly party bus night still delivers nightclub vibes on wheels — without draining your wallet.
Final Thoughts – Save Smart, Party Hard
Going big doesn’t mean spending big. By booking off-peak, sharing costs, choosing pre-sold drinks, and keeping the route efficient, you can have the ultimate party bus experience in London without burning a hole in your pocket.
Ready to book? 👉 Find the best London party bus packages here