How Much Luggage Can Different Airport Transfer Vehicles Carry
One of the most common questions travellers ask before booking an airport transfer is simple, will all of our luggage actually fit in the vehicle. Whether you are travelling alone, as a family, or as a group, luggage space can quickly become the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one.
This guide explains how much luggage typically fits into different airport transfer vehicles, what causes problems, and how to choose the right option for your journey.
Why luggage size matters for airport transfers
Unlike standard taxi journeys, airport transfers often involve large suitcases, cabin bags, laptops, pushchairs, and sometimes sports equipment. Many travellers assume luggage will fit without issue, but boot space varies significantly between vehicle types.
Choosing the wrong vehicle can lead to delays, last minute vehicle changes, or additional costs on the day of travel.
Saloon airport transfer vehicles
Saloon vehicles are ideal for solo travellers or couples travelling light.
- Typically suitable for up to 2 medium or large suitcases
- Plus 1 or 2 small cabin bags
- Best for business travel or short trips
Saloon vehicles are not suitable for families or travellers with oversized luggage.
Estate airport transfer vehicles
Estate vehicles offer additional boot space and are one of the most popular choices for airport transfers.
- Typically suitable for 3 to 4 large suitcases
- Plus cabin bags or backpacks
- Good option for small families or longer trips
Estates are often a safe middle ground when luggage requirements are uncertain.
Executive MPV and V Class vehicles
For larger groups or travellers with substantial luggage, MPV style vehicles such as the Mercedes V Class provide significantly more space.
- Suitable for 6 to 8 passengers depending on configuration
- Large boot capacity for multiple suitcases
- Ideal for families, group travel, and airport transfers with prams or sports equipment
This is the safest option when luggage volume is high or varied.
Common luggage issues travellers face
Many luggage problems arise due to assumptions rather than poor planning. Common issues include:
- Overestimating boot space in saloon vehicles
- Multiple hard shell suitcases
- Pushchairs or baby equipment not accounted for
- Sports equipment such as golf bags or skis
These items often require more space than expected.
How to avoid luggage problems
The easiest way to avoid issues is to check luggage capacity before booking. Tools that estimate vehicle suitability based on passenger and luggage numbers can remove uncertainty entirely.
You can use our dedicated luggage and vehicle checker to instantly see which airport transfer vehicle is suitable for your journey.
Use the luggage and vehicle checker here
Final thoughts
Luggage should never be an afterthought when booking an airport transfer. Choosing the correct vehicle ensures a comfortable journey, punctual arrival, and a stress free start to your trip.
If you are unsure, it is always better to choose a vehicle with extra space rather than risk travelling over capacity.