Fort Myers Charter Bus Packing and Carry-On Guide

Whether you’re planning a long-distance road trip to Disney World, an overnight field trip to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, or just want to make sure your luggage is safe on a day trip out to Sanibel Island — it’s important to know how much storage space is available on your charter bus rental. The good news: full-size motorcoaches can accommodate all your suitcases, coolers, golf clubs, sports gear, and more! Charter Bus Rental Fort Myers offers a wide selection of coach buses and minibuses that are perfect for hauling groups — and their luggage — across Southwest Florida.

Storage Space on our Different Bus Models in Fort Myers

With a variety of buses to choose from, you can rest easy knowing there will be plenty of room for all your bags, equipment, and gear. Below, we’ve listed some of the most popular models in our fleet, along with the amount of luggage each can hold. If you have any questions about the specific storage capacity of a certain bus, don’t hesitate to call our team at 239-999-0650. We’ll be happy to help you find the perfect vehicle for your group!

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

Full-sized charter buses are equipped with spacious undercarriage storage compartments, also known as “luggage bays” or “under-bus bins.” These areas are located beneath the passenger seating area and are accessible from exterior doors on either side of the bus. They typically run the length of the bus and are large enough to accommodate oversized items like skis, snowboards, bicycles, golf clubs, or even musical instruments. Most standard 56-passenger charter buses offer up to 500 cubic feet of undercarriage storage, which is more than enough space for one large suitcase per passenger. The exact dimensions may vary depending on the make and model, but you can expect each compartment to measure around 8 feet wide, 4 feet tall, and 3 feet deep.

Keep in mind that these compartments are only accessible when the bus is parked, so be sure to grab any items you might need during the ride before departure. Popular destinations in Fort Myers include Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island, Captiva Island, and the downtown River District. For trips to these locations, you can store beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, and other large items in the undercarriage storage to keep the cabin clutter-free and comfortable.

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

In addition to the undercarriage storage, most charter buses come with overhead parcel racks located above the seats inside the passenger cabin. These compartments are similar to what you’d find on an airplane and are designed to hold smaller items like backpacks, purses, laptop bags, jackets, and other personal belongings you’d like to keep within arm’s reach. The size of these racks can vary, but they typically measure around 10 inches high by 16 inches deep and can comfortably fit a standard carry-on suitcase or duffel bag. On average, each passenger is allowed one small bag in the overhead rack, though this may depend on the bus model and how full the bus is.

If you’re traveling with fragile or valuable items, we recommend keeping them in the overhead racks rather than the undercarriage storage, as you’ll have easier access to them and can keep an eye on them throughout the journey. When visiting attractions like the Edison and Ford Winter Estates or the IMAG History & Science Center, you can store cameras, souvenirs, and other delicate items in the overhead racks for safekeeping.

So, How Many Bags Can Each Person Bring?

As a general rule of thumb, each passenger on a full-sized charter bus can bring one large suitcase (to be stored in the undercarriage) and one small carry-on bag (to be stored in the overhead rack). This should be more than enough space for most trips, whether you’re heading to a week-long conference at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center or a weekend getaway to Key West. Of course, if your group is packing light or the bus isn’t at full capacity, you may be able to bring additional bags or larger items. Just be sure to check with your reservation specialist ahead of time so they can make arrangements and ensure there’s enough room for everything.

For example, if you’re organizing a corporate retreat to the Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, your team can bring extra luggage for presentations, promotional materials, or recreational equipment like paddleboards and kayaks. The ample storage space on our buses ensures that everyone’s belongings are safely transported without compromising comfort.

Packing & Planning Tips for Group Leaders

To make the most of your charter bus’s storage space and keep things running smoothly, here are a few tips for group leaders:

Encourage your passengers to pack efficiently and stick to the one-large-one-small-bag rule whenever possible. This will help prevent overcrowding and ensure everyone’s luggage fits comfortably. Consider creating a packing list or guidelines to share with your group before departure, especially if you’re traveling for a specific event or activity (like a sports tournament or music festival).

If you’re bringing oversized or unusual items (like sports equipment, musical instruments, or trade show displays), let your reservation specialist know in advance so they can reserve extra storage space or recommend a bus with additional capacity. Label all bags and equipment with your group’s name and contact information to avoid mix-ups or lost items during loading and unloading.

Remind your passengers to keep valuables, medications, and essential items in their carry-on bags rather than the undercarriage storage, as they won’t have access to the latter while the bus is in motion. Plan your itinerary and stops accordingly to allow time for loading and unloading luggage, especially if you have a tight schedule or multiple destinations in one day.

When visiting outdoor attractions like Lovers Key State Park or Cayo Costa State Park, advise your group to pack sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles in their carry-on bags for easy access during the trip.

Hit the Road with Charter Bus Rental Fort Myers

No matter where your travels take you in Fort Myers or beyond, Charter Bus Rental Fort Myers has the perfect bus rental to get you there with all your luggage in tow. With spacious undercarriage storage, convenient overhead racks, and a variety of bus sizes and amenities to choose from, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride knowing your belongings are safe and secure. Ready to start planning your next group trip? Give us a call at 239-999-0650 or fill out our online quote form to get started today!