Plantation Charter Bus Packing and Carry-On Guide

With its sprawling parks, sunny weather, and easy access to Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Plantation is a popular hub for group travel in South Florida. Whether you’re shuttling a sports team to Central Park, taking students on a field trip to the Museum of Discovery and Science, or planning a family reunion at Volunteer Park Community Center, packing efficiently is essential for a smooth bus rental experience.

At Charter Bus Rental Plantation, we know that storage space is one of the most common concerns for travelers booking a charter bus in Plantation. That’s why our team is here 24/7 to help you choose the right bus size and amenities, and to answer all your luggage-related questions — call us anytime at 954-686-4030. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to what you can pack on our different Plantation charter buses and minibuses, plus tips for making the most of every cubic inch of space.

Storage Space on our Different Bus Models in Plantation

Charter Bus Rental Plantation offers a wide range of vehicles to suit groups of all sizes. Our full-size motorcoaches (40-56 passengers) are the gold standard for long-distance trips, with ample undercarriage luggage bays and overhead racks similar to those on airplanes. Mid-size buses (30-35 passengers) typically have two luggage bays and smaller overhead compartments, while our smallest minibuses (15-28 passengers) often feature rear cargo holds or limited overhead storage.

Here’s a general overview of the storage options available:

• 56-passenger charter bus: 3-4 large underfloor luggage bays (pass-through), overhead bins above every seat row, plus space beneath seats for personal items.
• 35-passenger minibus: 1-2 underfloor luggage bays, small open racks or closed bins overhead.
• 20-25 passenger minibus: Rear luggage compartment only (no underfloor bays), limited or no overhead bins.

Keep in mind that exact dimensions can vary by manufacturer and floor plan. If you need to transport oversized equipment — like musical instruments, trade show displays, or sports gear — let our reservation specialists know so we can recommend the best model from our fleet.

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

The underfloor luggage bays are the main storage area on any full-size charter bus rental in Plantation. These compartments run the length of the bus beneath the passenger deck, accessed via large side doors. On a typical 56-passenger coach, you’ll find 3-4 bays per side, each measuring about 8 feet wide, 3.5-4 feet tall, and 3-4 feet deep.

Most underfloor bays connect as pass-throughs, allowing you to load items from either side of the bus. This is ideal for curbside loading in busy areas like Sawgrass Mills or the BB&T Center, where safety and efficiency are paramount. The total volume across all bays can reach 500-600 cubic feet — enough to fit one large suitcase per person, even when the bus is at full capacity.

These bays are designed for checked luggage, bulky equipment, and anything else you won’t need until you reach your destination. They’re not accessible while the bus is moving, so keep essentials in your carry-on bag.

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

Inside the passenger cabin, overhead storage racks provide convenient access to carry-on items during the ride. On a full-size charter bus, these bins typically measure 9-10 inches high, 16-18 inches deep, and run the length of both aisles. Some models feature enclosed bins with drop-down doors, while others have open racks with a sturdy lip to prevent bags from falling out.

Each section of overhead storage can usually hold two small suitcases or several backpacks, depending on how they’re arranged. Across the entire bus, this adds up to roughly 100-120 cubic feet of additional storage. Think of it like the overhead bins on an airplane: perfect for purses, laptop bags, jackets, and other personal items you want within arm’s reach.

If you’re traveling on a mid-size or mini bus, overhead storage may be more limited or absent altogether. In that case, encourage passengers to pack light and utilize under-seat space for small bags.

So, How Many Bags Can Each Person Bring?

The number of bags each passenger can bring depends on the size of the bus, the total number of people onboard, and the dimensions of their luggage. As a general rule of thumb:

• Full-size charter bus (56 passengers): One large checked suitcase (up to 50 lbs., 62 linear inches) in the underfloor bay, plus one carry-on (25 lbs., 22 x 14 x 9 inches) in the overhead bin per person.
• Mid-size bus (35 passengers): One medium suitcase (45 lbs.) in the luggage bay, one carry-on in overhead rack or under seat.
• Minibus (20-25 passengers): One small suitcase or duffel bag in rear compartment, one personal item (backpack, tote) inside cabin.

If your group needs to bring extra or oversized items — such as golf clubs for a tournament at Jacaranda Golf Club or coolers for a tailgate party — inform our team in advance. We can help you reserve a trailer or upgrade to a larger bus to ensure everyone’s belongings fit comfortably.

Packing & Planning Tips for Group Leaders

To make the most of your charter bus’s storage space, follow these packing tips:

• Communicate luggage limits early. Before departure day, send out clear guidelines on how many and what size bags each person can bring. Encourage soft-sided luggage, which is easier to stack in tight spaces.
• Label everything. Use durable tags with names and contact info on all checked bags. For large groups, color-coded ribbons or stickers can help quickly identify luggage during loading and unloading.
• Pack essentials in carry-ons. Remind passengers that underfloor bays aren’t accessible while driving. Medications, electronics, snacks, and entertainment should stay with them in the cabin.
• Arrive early for loading. Plan to meet at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for organized loading. Assign a point person to oversee baggage handling and verify nothing is left behind.
• Consider special storage needs. If you’re transporting fragile, valuable, or perishable items (like science fair projects or catering trays), discuss extra precautions with our team. We can recommend the safest way to stow these items or suggest alternative arrangements.

Hit the Road with Charter Bus Rental Plantation

No matter where your group is headed in Plantation or beyond, Charter Bus Rental Plantation has the right vehicle and support to get you there with all your luggage in tow. Our extensive fleet includes modern 56-passenger coaches, versatile minibuses, and everything in between — all equipped with climate control, cushioned seats, and optional amenities like WiFi and power outlets.

Ready to start planning? Call our 24/7 reservations team at 954-686-4030 for a personalized quote and expert advice on choosing the best bus for your trip. We’ll help you navigate storage logistics, create a detailed itinerary, and ensure your journey is comfortable from the first pickup to the final drop-off.

Traveling with a group doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. With Charter Bus Rental Plantation, you can pack everything you need and enjoy the ride — we’ll handle the rest.