The problem with that many people in a van is that there isn't room for luggage for everyone. You might be better off renting two vehicles and if you don't have cell phones you can buy them here for under $20 at places like Wallmart to keep in touch. This also lets you switch kids periodically if the kids get antsy.

They are returning to Las Vegas and they will be leaving most of their luggage there while they are gone. They only need the minimum for a night or two, so luggage isn't really an issue.

How old are th ekids? Are any young enough that they require booster seats? You need to consider that as well.

I would contact the car rental sopanies directly nd tell them the number and SIZE of the people - and see what they can do to help.

No booster seats needed. I believe the smallest is 10.

If the smallest is 10, comfort is going to be an issue unless they rent a full sized van rather than a mini-van - even if it were just 7 people in a 7 passenger van. Think of it the same way as you think of the middle person in the back seat of a compact car like a Toyota - just because there are 3 seatbelts does not make it comfortable for that middle person.

Snd even with minimal luggage, most mini vans do not provide space for even 6 small overnight bags - really, there is not much space in the back. Many people who purchase them get a "stretch" model with a few extra feet for that reason, but I have rarely seen these at rental places.

But the seating is still the major issue. A full-sized van (which most car rental companies do rent) or 2 cars.

You can rent a full sized 10-12 passenger van from many companies - they may or may not list the vehicle on the corp website.

I've done this in the past and the cost was more than 2x the cost of renting 2 cars. Gas mileage is about 1/2 or worse as well. Large vans have all the comfort of a park bench too.

My recommendation is to rent 2 mid sized cars for about $40/day. More if you add insurance. I like to use www.orbitz.com for rental car comparison shopping, then book directly with the rental car co website.

J62 - I think you are right...

I agree that two cars is a much better answer. the problem is that the OP said the renters are from outside the US or the mandatory insurance can really raise the rates. I suggest they rent in advance in the home country - but be sure the cost includes taxes AND insurance.