If you're planning a wedding or other event where you need to transport a large crowd, a limousine may be at the top of your mind. But when you go to rent one, you may also see stretch SUVs and party buses that are also available. Choosing one isn't always such an obvious, easy task. While one type might look best at first, you may find other types are even better upon additional consideration.

Party Size

How many people you need to transport is a main factor, of course. If you have a small number of people, a plain limousine should be enough. If you have a lot of people, however, you need to find something bigger because renting a few limousines could become costly. Stretch SUVs and party buses are available in much larger sizes, and accommodating a large group could be much easier.

But a note on cost -- that group of limousines could work out if the company offers discounts for renting more than one at the same time. Plus, smaller limousines tend to be easier to maneuver than large party SUVs. If parking is tight, for example, the smaller limos can scatter and park where available. A larger vehicle is going to have a tougher time with that.

Ease of Use

Speaking of easy, don't forget that you and your guests have to be comfortable with the layout and entrance/exit from the vehicle. No one vehicle type will be easier for everyone to use overall, so take a look at smaller factors. If you have a lot of people going to a formal event in ball gowns, the party bus might be easier to use (you enter and exit the bus using a set of steps, so you don't have parts of the gown's hem falling out into the gutter as you try to get out). However, if you need to be in a vehicle with normal seat styles -- front-facing rows or bucket seats as opposed to the communal ring of seats you find in so many party vehicles -- the limousine company may have more regular limousines available with that seat style than in other vehicles.

Environmental Impact

Basic limousines are going to win the environmental category. It might not seem like it at first because the vehicles are larger than your average car, but the SUVs and buses tend to have lower gas mileage. If you'd like to try to save some gas instead, a car-style limousine is best.

Start looking at styles and asking various limousine rental agencies about seat styles, mileage per vehicle, and more. The past few years have seen a real divergence and multiplication of styles, so you'll find a vehicle that suits your needs. For more information, contact companies like After Five Limousines.