Redwood City Charter Bus Packing and Carry-On Guide

When you book a charter bus in Redwood City, you want your group to have everything they need for the road ahead—and that includes plenty of room for every suitcase, instrument case, cooler, or other carry-on. The good news? Your baggage allowance is much more generous than what you'll find on most airlines. And if you're not sure how much space you'll actually have, we're here to help.

Charter Bus Rental Redwood City has been a leader in group transportation across California for more than 10 years. Our team knows our entire fleet inside and out—from the full-size 56-passenger charter buses packed with luggage bays to the nimble sprinter vans and minibuses designed for quick hops around town. If you're wondering whether your ski gear will fit, or if there's room for everyone's band equipment, or just how many suitcases you can bring on your next trip to San Francisco International Airport, read on. This guide covers baggage allowances by vehicle type, plus tips for smart packing and stress-free loading.

Storage Space on our Different Bus Models in Redwood City

First things first: Not all charter buses are created equal when it comes to storage. A quick breakdown of the most common models will help you pick the right ride for your group size and cargo needs.

Our largest vehicles, like the classic 56-passenger Prevost H3-45, MCI J4500, or Van Hool C2045, are built for long-haul comfort and serious luggage hauling. These motorcoaches feature "underfloor" or "underbelly" luggage bays—essentially massive compartments beneath the passenger deck. They’re perfect for big tour groups, sports teams with bulky gear, or anyone who needs to bring more than just a backpack. In addition to these underfloor bays, there are overhead parcel racks above every seat, similar to what you'd see on an airplane, for smaller items.

Mid-size coaches (30-40 passengers) often have smaller (or fewer) underfloor luggage bays, but still offer overhead racks. Meanwhile, minibuses (15-35 passengers) usually trade underfloor storage for a rear luggage compartment, while sprinter vans (10-15 passengers) may only have room for carry-ons. Party buses are designed for short trips and nightlife, so they typically don’t include dedicated storage beyond small overhead shelves or spaces behind bench seating.

If you’re booking a charter bus rental in Redwood City for the first time, tell us about your route and your cargo. We’ll match you with the ideal vehicle that balances passenger comfort and baggage capacity.

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

The underfloor luggage bays are where the magic happens for large groups with heavy cargo. On a standard 56-passenger charter bus, you’ll find three to four bay doors per side, each opening up to a compartment that’s roughly 8 feet wide, 3.5 to 4 feet tall, and 3 to 4 feet deep. Most models use a pass-through design, meaning the bay connects from one side of the bus to the other, so you can load from either curb or street side (though curbside is safest).

Let’s get specific: The Prevost H3-45 offers approximately 460 cubic feet of underfloor storage; the MCI J4500 boasts around 500 cubic feet. That’s enough for each passenger to bring a standard checked suitcase (up to 62 linear inches), and then some. Sports teams can easily fit duffel bags, coolers, and even odd-shaped equipment like skis or guitars. Band directors routinely load up tuba cases, drum kits, and amps without a hitch. Just remember that individual bags should weigh no more than 50 pounds for easy handling.

For mid-size coaches, expect two underfloor bays at slightly reduced dimensions—still plenty for one medium suitcase per rider, but maybe not enough for everyone to pack for a month abroad. Always ask about total cubic footage if you’re unsure.

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

Inside the bus, overhead parcel racks run along both sides of the aisle. These compartments are designed for carry-on items: backpacks, purses, laptop bags, camera cases, and small totes. Dimensions vary by bus model, but you can expect a typical rack to be about 10.5 inches high and 17.5 inches deep on a full-size coach—enough for a soft-sided bag or a rolling suitcase that fits airline carry-on standards (think 22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller).

Some newer charter buses feature enclosed, airline-style bins with drop-down doors, while others use open racks with a raised lip to keep bags from sliding. Either way, the goal is to give every passenger access to essentials during the ride without cluttering the aisle or crowding the seats. Carry-ons should be light enough to lift overhead (ideally under 25 pounds) and compact enough not to hog space.

Sprinter vans and minibuses may have smaller or fewer overhead shelves, but these are still handy for jackets, snacks, or electronics. On party buses, overhead racks might be replaced by cubbies or shelves near the back or under seats, since these vehicles prioritize social space over storage.

So, How Many Bags Can Each Person Bring?

This is the million-dollar question! Here’s a quick reference for baggage allowances based on vehicle type:

Full-size charter bus (56 passengers): One large checked suitcase (27 x 21 x 14 inches, max 50 lbs) per person in the underfloor bay, plus one carry-on (22 x 14 x 9 inches, max 25 lbs) in the overhead rack. Total underfloor storage averages 450-550 cubic feet; overhead adds another 100+ cubic feet.

Mid-size coach (30-40 passengers): One medium suitcase per rider under the floor, plus a carry-on above. Space is tighter, so encourage your group to pack efficiently.

Minibus (15-35 passengers): One medium-to-large suitcase per person in the rear luggage compartment (usually 80-100 cubic feet total), plus a small carry-on in any available overhead shelf or at their seat.

Sprinter van (10-15 passengers): Carry-ons only, unless there’s a rear cargo hold. These vehicles are best for day trips or airport transfers with limited baggage.

Party bus: Minimal storage. Advise guests to bring only what fits under their seat or in a small overhead cubby. If you need to haul extra bags, consider following with a separate minibus or arranging for luggage delivery.

Of course, these are general guidelines. If your itinerary includes special cargo—say, a dozen cello cases for a youth orchestra, or several coolers for a tailgate party—let us know when you book. We can recommend a larger bus, add a trailer, or arrange a second vehicle to ensure nothing gets left behind.

Packing & planning tips for group leaders

Packing for a charter bus trip isn’t rocket science, but a little planning goes a long way. As the group leader, you set the tone for smooth boarding and happy travelers. Here are some pro tips:

Communicate early and often: Send out clear baggage guidelines before departure day. Specify size and weight limits, remind everyone to label their bags, and explain where to stow checked versus carry-on items.

Prioritize accessibility: Anything your group will need en route—medications, chargers, snacks, entertainment—should stay in the overhead rack or at their seat. Underfloor bays are only accessible when the bus stops.

Load heavy items first: When it’s time to board, direct your group to place large suitcases and gear in the underfloor bays before finding their seats. This speeds up the process and prevents last-minute shuffling.

Balance the load: Distribute weight evenly across all luggage compartments to avoid overloading one side of the bus. Your reservation specialist or the driver can assist with this.

Plan for special equipment: If you’re bringing anything oversized (bicycles, AV equipment, musical instruments), measure it in advance and share dimensions with us. We’ll confirm whether it fits or suggest alternatives.

Arrive early: Build extra time into your schedule for loading, especially if your group isn’t used to traveling together. A calm, unhurried start sets the tone for the whole trip.

By thinking through your baggage plan and communicating clearly, you’ll ensure that everyone boards quickly, rides comfortably, and arrives with all their belongings.

Hit the Road with Charter Bus Rental Redwood City

At Charter Bus Rental Redwood City, we’re committed to making group travel as seamless as possible—and that includes helping you pack smart and travel light. With hundreds of successful trips under our belt, we’ve seen every combination of passengers and luggage imaginable. Whether you’re headed to a conference in downtown Redwood City, a wedding in Half Moon Bay, or a sporting event across the Golden Gate Bridge, we have the fleet and the expertise to get you (and your gear) there safely and on time.

If you have specific questions about baggage allowances, or if you need to move something that doesn’t fit the usual mold, don’t hesitate to ask. Our reservation specialists are available 24/7 to provide instant quotes, recommend the best bus for your needs, and offer packing advice tailored to your group. Call 650-820-0620 today to start planning your next trip.