Whittier Charter Bus Packing and Carry-On Guide

When you book a charter bus rental in Whittier, you’re getting some of the most spacious group transportation on the road. Our full-size motorcoaches offer roomy undercarriage luggage bays and overhead racks—but how much do they really hold? And what about smaller minibus shuttles? If you’re planning a multi-day trip to Yosemite or coordinating an airport transfer from LAX, it pays to know exactly what you can bring and how to pack smart. Here’s everything you need to know about luggage space on a charter bus!

Storage Space on our Different Bus Models in Whittier

We can pair your group with the best bus for your headcount, itinerary, and storage needs. Full-size 56-passenger coaches are perfect for long-distance trips and large groups – think band equipment haulers, college sports teams, or tour operators loaded up for a week on the road. These buses feature cavernous under-floor luggage bays that run the length of the vehicle, plus overhead parcel racks inside. You’ll easily fit one large suitcase per person below deck, with room for carry-ons above.

Mid-sized minibuses (20-35 passengers) generally don’t have under-floor storage but may offer a rear luggage compartment and/or overhead racks. They’re ideal for local shuttles, day trips, or events where guests only need a small bag or two. If you need more space, ask about models with extended trunks or choose two vehicles instead of cramming into one.

Sprinter vans and party buses typically have limited storage: maybe a few overhead shelves or none at all. These are best reserved for quick hops across town or outings where everyone travels light. If you’re booking a night out to Downtown LA or a winery tour in Temecula, remind guests to pack accordingly!

How Much Space is Available in the Under-floor Bays?

On a standard 56-passenger charter bus – like a Prevost H3-45 or MCI J4500 – you’ll find 4 to 6 under-floor luggage bays spanning the width of the coach. Each bay measures roughly 48” high x 36” deep x 96” wide, with total capacity between 400 and 500 cubic feet. To put that in perspective, you can fit about 60-70 full-size checked suitcases below deck. That’s one big bag per passenger, or two medium bags each if you stagger them carefully.

These bays are designed for large, heavy items: hard-shell suitcases, duffels, musical instruments, boxed trade show displays, folding strollers, golf clubs, even skis or bikes (with front wheels removed). The bays usually connect side-to-side so staff can load from either curb or street side, though curbside loading is safest. Items stored here won’t be accessible until the next stop, so keep essentials in your carry-on.

How Much Space is Available in the Overhead/Parcel Racks?

Above the seats in a full-size charter bus, you’ll find open overhead racks running almost the entire cabin length. These measure about 10-12 inches high, 16-18 inches deep, and can accommodate carry-ons similar to airplane bins: backpacks, laptop bags, camera cases, purses, jackets, and small roller bags. Figure one airline-style carry-on per person, though bulkier items may need to go underneath if the racks fill up.

Some newer coaches feature enclosed, airline-style overhead bins with doors, while others use open racks with a lip to prevent shifting. Either way, remind your group not to force oversized bags up top, as it could damage the rack or block the aisle. Anything too big should ride below deck or stay home.

Minibuses and Sprinters may have narrow overhead shelves or no interior storage beyond seat pockets. Plan accordingly if you’re using these for a long day trip or overnight shuttle!

So, How Many Bags Can Each Person Bring?

On a fully booked 56-passenger bus, the standard luggage allowance is one large suitcase (up to 50 pounds, 62 linear inches) in the under-floor bay and one carry-on item in the overhead rack. If your group isn’t maxing out every seat, you can spread out and bring extras—just don’t exceed the total bay volume or weight limit (about 3,000 pounds across all bays).

For shorter trips or smaller buses, encourage guests to pack lighter. A 25-passenger minibus with only a rear trunk might only fit 15-20 large suitcases, so suggest soft-sided duffels or stacking smaller bags. Party buses and Sprinters may only allow a personal item per person, with any larger gear riding in a separate trailer or chase vehicle.

If you’re moving specialty cargo like sports equipment, band instruments, or trade show booths, send dimensions and quantities to your reservation specialist in advance. We’ll help you pick a bus with enough bay space or recommend a second vehicle if needed. It’s better to have extra room than leave gear behind!

Packing & Planning Tips for Group Leaders

To ensure smooth boarding and plenty of space for everyone’s stuff, share these tips before departure:

Label everything! Use sturdy tags with names and phone numbers on all checked bags and carry-ons. This speeds up unloading and prevents lost luggage.

Pack essentials in your carry-on: medications, chargers, snacks, water, travel documents, headphones, and anything needed en route. The under-floor bays won’t be accessible until the next scheduled stop.

Distribute heavy items evenly across the bays to balance the bus. Don’t overload one side or bay with multiple suitcases or boxes.

If bringing coolers, folding chairs, or odd-shaped items, check their dimensions against the bay size. Soft-sided coolers and collapsible gear stack best.

Coordinate with event venues or hotels about available luggage carts, bell service, or storage rooms on arrival. Large groups may need extra hands to unload quickly.

Share your bus’s storage specs and packing guidelines with attendees well in advance. The more prepared everyone is, the smoother your trip will go!

Hit the Road with Charter Bus Rental Whittier

No matter where your group is headed from Whittier, we’ve got the right bus and storage solution for your itinerary. From airport shuttles with nothing but carry-ons to cross-country tours hauling weeks’ worth of gear, our team will make sure you have ample space for every suitcase, instrument, and display case. Call 562-600-3980 anytime to discuss your headcount, luggage requirements, and special requests. We’ll build a custom quote with the perfect vehicle, amenities, and pickup schedule—so you can focus on the journey, not the baggage claim. Book your Whittier charter bus today and travel with confidence!