Search Car Hire
A challenge which often arises when planning a driving holiday is finding the right category of rental car that will suit your self-drive holiday needs.
The main criteria being the number of passengers, type of transmission preferred, and the amount of luggage to be taken. While the number of passengers is quite an easy one to work out, as is your ability or preference in driving an automatic or manual, working out luggage requirements can sometimes be tricky.
Both luggage and vehicles come in different sizes and shapes, finding a match can sometimes take a little planning. In general, most suppliers will have guidelines as to how many suitcases will fit in each category of car.
Category |
Example of vehicle |
Doors |
Comfortable Capacity |
Luggage Capacity |
Tips |
Economy |
|
2-3 | 4 (2 adults, 2 children) |
1 large 1 small |
Small, agile and fuel efficient, economy rental cars are an excellent choice for short term travel and for travellers on a budget. |
Compact |
|
3-5 | 4 (2 adults, 3 children) |
1 large 1 small |
Offers fuel economy and adequate storage space for luggage, accommodating about three small to medium-sized bags or suitcases. |
Intermediate / Standard |
|
4/5 | 5 (4 adults, 1 child) |
2 large 1 small |
You can expect to comfortably fit 3-4 medium-sized bags or suitcases in a mid-size rental car. |
Full Size |
|
4 | 5 (5 adults) |
2 large 1 small |
Rent a full size car and enjoy plenty of space. Comfortably travel with 4 medium-sized bags during your self-drive adventure, perfect for the family. |
Standard Wagon |
|
5 | 4 (2 adults, 2 children) |
3 large 3 small |
Ideal for people travelling in groups of 3 or more, or those with extra luggage. Wagons can hold upto four large suitcases with room for a few smaller cases as well. |
Standard size SUV |
|
5 | 5 (5 adults) |
3 large 2 small |
Sturdy and plenty of storage space, great for travelling with a family. An SUV sometimes also provides seating for 5 or more people. |
Premium Van / People Mover |
|
5 | 7 - 12 | Depending on number of passengers | These vehicles offer more flexibility, however the size depends on the location you are travelling to. Most models feature folding rear seats so larger models can fit more bags when there are less passengers. |
Convertible |
|
2 | 4 (2 adults, 2 children) |
2 small or 1 large | Convertibles are sleek, stylish and compact. They have minimal room for luggage, so capacity depends on how many passengers are in the vehicle. |
*Information in this table should be used as a guide only, size may vary depending on your rental location and availability.
If you are still unsure on the amount of luggage you will be able to fit into your rental car why not head into your closest dealer and have a first-hand look at the boot space your car will have!
Please note: The table above should be used as a guide only, as car model & luggage capacity cannot be guaranteed. Contact us for more information or to book your self-drive holiday today!
At DriveAway, we like to make sure that you are prepared and confident before going out on the road. Select the links below for more information which may be useful to you!