Deltona Charter Bus Packing and Carry-On Guide

When you book a charter bus in Deltona, one of the best perks is all the storage space you get for your group’s luggage and gear. Whether you’re planning a sporting event at Dewey O. Boster Sports Complex, a school field trip to nearby Blue Spring State Park, or a team-building retreat at one of Volusia County’s many conference venues, knowing how much you can bring on board is key to a smooth ride. Here’s everything you need to know about charter bus luggage capacity, from under-floor bays to overhead racks—plus tips that will help any group leader pack like a pro.

Storage Space on our Different Bus Models in Deltona

Charter Bus Rental Deltona offers one of Florida’s largest fleets, with over 100 vehicles spanning nearly every size and style imaginable. For large groups, we recommend a 56-passenger charter bus, which offers the most generous cargo space. These full-size coaches feature multiple under-floor luggage bays running the length of the vehicle, each bay typically measuring around 8 feet wide by 3.5 feet tall by 3-4 feet deep. The bays are pass-through, meaning they connect side-to-side so you can load from either curb or street side—though curbside loading is always safest.
Smaller events or short trips around town may only require a 15- to 35-passenger minibus rental in Deltona. These offer more limited storage: most have overhead racks above the seats and a rear luggage compartment (no under-floor bays). If your group only has carry-ons or backpacks, these minibuses are perfect for shuttling between hotels, airports, or local attractions like Gemini Springs Park.
For groups seeking something different, our fleet also includes sprinter vans (10–15 passengers) and party buses (10–50 passengers). Sprinter vans have limited rear cargo space, ideal for airport transfers or small corporate teams. Party buses prioritize onboard amenities over storage but will usually have an area behind the last row of seats for a few bags or equipment cases.

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

On a standard 56-passenger charter bus, under-floor luggage bays provide the bulk of your storage capacity. Each bay is roughly 46 inches high, 47 inches wide, and 95 inches deep. With three or four bays per side, total under-floor volume often exceeds 450 cubic feet—enough for one large suitcase per passenger plus extra room for bulky items like golf clubs, coolers, or musical instruments.
The bays are designed for checked-style luggage and equipment that you won’t need until you reach your destination. Since they’re only accessible when the bus is stopped, anything you might want during travel (snacks, electronics, medications) should go in your carry-on. Many sports teams and marching bands use these bays to haul everything from duffel bags to tuba cases, with plenty of room left over for water coolers or folding chairs.
If your itinerary includes overnight stays or extended trips, the under-floor bays are also where you’ll stash suitcases, garment bags, and other personal luggage. They’re weather-sealed and secure, so everything arrives just as it was packed.

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

Step inside any charter bus or minibus and you’ll see overhead parcel racks running above the seats on both sides of the aisle. These open racks are similar to airplane bins (but without the doors), measuring about 10.5 inches high by 17.5 inches deep on a full-size coach. Most are designed to hold two small carry-ons or backpacks per section, with enough width to slide in briefcases, laptop bags, or lunch coolers.
Overhead racks are perfect for items you’ll want easy access to while rolling down I-4 or US-17: headphones, books, jackets, chargers, and snacks. They’re sturdy enough to handle heavier loads but keep in mind there’s no door, so avoid piling up anything that could tumble out if the bus makes a sharp turn or sudden stop.
Minibuses and sprinter vans may have smaller or fewer overhead racks (or none at all in some models). In those cases, use the rear luggage compartment for larger bags and keep essentials at your seat. If you’re unsure about your specific vehicle’s setup, ask your reservation specialist—they’ll make sure your group gets a bus with the right amount of storage.

So, How Many Bags Can Each Person Bring?

The golden rule for charter bus luggage is “one checked bag and one carry-on per person”—similar to airline standards. On a 56-passenger coach, this means everyone can bring a full-size suitcase (up to 27 x 21 x 14 inches) for the under-floor bay and a smaller bag (like a backpack or tote) for the overhead rack. As long as checked bags don’t exceed 50 pounds each, you’ll have no problem fitting everything.
If your group isn’t maxing out the bus’s seating, you can likely bring even more. Empty seats mean extra overhead and under-floor space, which comes in handy for band equipment, sports gear, or trade show displays. Always communicate with your group ahead of time about what’s allowed, and encourage everyone to label their bags clearly for quick unloading.
On minibuses, stick to one small suitcase or duffel per person (think carry-on size) plus a personal item. The rear luggage compartment will fill up faster than a full-size coach’s bays, especially if you’re hauling team coolers or presentation materials. If you anticipate needing more room, consider upgrading to a larger model or renting a trailer—our team can help customize your package.

Packing & Planning Tips for Group Leaders

As the organizer, a little planning goes a long way toward a hassle-free departure. Start by sending your group a packing list outlining size and weight limits for both checked and carry-on bags. Remind everyone that under-floor bays are only accessible during stops, so anything they’ll want en route should stay with them.
If your itinerary includes special equipment—band instruments, athletic gear, AV setups—make an inventory and share it with us before the trip. We can advise on whether everything will fit in the standard bays or if additional arrangements are needed. For valuable or fragile items, bring padding or hard cases and have those loaded last for safe transport.
On departure day, arrive early to allow time for organized loading. Assign a point person to oversee luggage and confirm that nothing is left behind. Encourage your group to use soft-sided bags, which are easier to stack and maximize available space. And don’t forget the essentials: snacks, water, first-aid kits, and chargers should be kept close at hand.

Hit the Road with Charter Bus Rental Deltona

No matter where your travels take you, Charter Bus Rental Deltona has the storage solutions to keep your group comfortable and clutter-free. From under-floor bays that swallow up suitcases to overhead racks for grab-and-go essentials, our buses are built to carry it all—so you can focus on the journey ahead. Ready to start planning? Call 386-342-2920 today and let our 24/7 team match you with the perfect vehicle for your next Deltona adventure. We’ll make sure you have all the space you need, every mile of the way.