Can You Fir More Luggage in a Car or Suv

SUVs generally offer more luggage space than cars, but smart packing and foldable seats can level the playing field. While SUVs win on raw volume, compact cars with clever storage solutions can surprise you—especially for weekend trips or city travel.

Key Takeaways

• SUVs typically have larger cargo volumes: Most SUVs offer 25–40+ cubic feet behind the second row, compared to 12–18 cubic feet in sedans.
• Foldable rear seats boost capacity: Many SUVs and hatchbacks allow you to fold down seats for flat, extended storage—ideal for bulky items.
• Roof racks and cargo boxes add space: Both cars and SUVs can use roof carriers, but SUVs often handle heavier loads more safely.
• Packing strategy matters more than vehicle type: Rolling clothes, using packing cubes, and stacking efficiently can maximize space in any vehicle.
• Compact SUVs vs. large sedans: Some midsize sedans with large trunks can outperform small SUVs in usable luggage space.
• Interior design impacts usability: Wide openings, low load floors, and adjustable compartments make loading easier—regardless of vehicle size.
• Fuel efficiency vs. space trade-off: Cars usually get better mileage, so consider trip length and fuel costs when choosing between a car or SUV for travel.

Can You Fit More Luggage in a Car or SUV? The Real Answer

When planning a road trip, family vacation, or even a weekend getaway, one of the first questions that pops into your mind is: *Can you fit more luggage in a car or SUV?* It seems simple—bigger vehicle, more space, right? But the truth is a bit more nuanced. While SUVs are often seen as the go-to choice for hauling gear, modern cars—especially hatchbacks and wagons—have come a long way in maximizing every inch of available space.

The answer isn’t just about size. It’s about design, flexibility, and how you use what you’ve got. A compact SUV might have a taller roofline, but if the trunk opening is narrow or the seats don’t fold flat, you could end up struggling to load large suitcases. On the flip side, a well-designed sedan with a deep trunk and 60/40 split-folding rear seats might surprise you with how much it can hold. So before you assume the SUV is always the winner, let’s dig into the details—because sometimes, the underdog (the car) can pull off a win.

Understanding Cargo Capacity: Numbers Don’t Lie

To really answer whether you can fit more luggage in a car or SUV, we need to look at hard numbers. Automakers measure cargo space in cubic feet, and this gives us a baseline for comparison. But remember—these numbers can be misleading if you don’t understand how they’re measured.

Most manufacturers list two key figures: cargo volume behind the rear seats and total cargo volume with the rear seats folded. For example, a typical midsize sedan like the Honda Accord offers about 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space. That’s enough for two large suitcases, a carry-on, and a few duffel bags. Meanwhile, a compact SUV like the Toyota RAV4 provides around 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row—more than double the Accord’s capacity. And when you fold the rear seats, that number jumps to over 69 cubic feet.

But here’s the catch: not all cubic feet are created equal. A tall, narrow space might measure high in volume but be hard to use efficiently. A wide, low trunk with a flat floor can be far more practical for stacking bags. That’s why real-world usability often matters more than the spec sheet.

Measuring What Matters: Usable vs. Theoretical Space

When comparing cars and SUVs, it’s important to distinguish between *theoretical* cargo volume and *usable* space. For instance, some SUVs have a high roofline but a small trunk opening, making it tough to slide in large items. Others have deep wells or hidden compartments that add functionality without increasing the official cubic footage.

Take the Subaru Outback, a wagon that blurs the line between car and SUV. It offers 35.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.7 with the seats down. But what makes it special is its wide, flat load floor and low step-in height—perfect for loading heavy bags without straining your back. In contrast, a tall SUV like the Jeep Grand Cherokee might have similar volume, but its higher load floor and narrower opening can make loading awkward.

So while SUVs generally win on paper, the best choice depends on *how* you plan to use the space. If you’re packing mostly soft bags and backpacks, a car with a deep trunk might suffice. But if you’re hauling coolers, strollers, or camping gear, the extra height and width of an SUV could be a game-changer.

The Role of Seat Flexibility and Interior Design

One of the biggest advantages SUVs have over traditional sedans is seat flexibility. Most SUVs come with 60/40 or 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats, allowing you to fold down one side while keeping the other upright for passengers. This is incredibly useful for families or groups traveling with mixed needs—someone can ride in the back while you stash extra luggage on the other side.

But don’t count cars out just yet. Many modern hatchbacks and wagons offer similar flexibility. The Volkswagen Golf, for example, has a 60/40 split rear seat and a wide-opening tailgate. Fold the seats down, and you get a nearly flat load floor perfect for long items like snowboards or folding chairs. Even some sedans, like the Mazda6, offer 60/40 split seats, though the trunk opening is narrower than a hatchback’s.

Flat-Folding Seats: The Ultimate Space Hack

The ability to fold rear seats completely flat is a major win for cargo hauling. In SUVs, this feature is almost standard, especially in midsize and larger models. But in cars, it’s becoming more common—especially in wagons and hatchbacks. A flat floor means you can stack luggage higher without items tipping over, and it opens up space for longer items like luggage racks or pet carriers.

For example, the Kia Soul, a compact crossover with car-like handling, offers 62.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down—more than some larger SUVs. Its boxy shape and flat-folding seats make it a surprisingly capable hauler. Meanwhile, the Honda Civic Hatchback provides 25.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 with them folded—decent for a compact car, especially when you consider its fuel efficiency.

Hidden Storage: The Unsung Hero

Another factor often overlooked is hidden storage. Many SUVs include under-floor compartments, seat-back pockets, and center console bins that add up over time. These small spaces are perfect for stashing chargers, snacks, or emergency kits—keeping your main cargo area clutter-free.

Some cars also include clever storage solutions. The Toyota Corolla, for instance, has a dual-level glove box and rear seat armrest with cupholders and a small storage bin. While not as expansive as an SUV’s hidden compartments, these features help maximize every inch.

Packing Smart: How to Fit More in Any Vehicle

At the end of the day, the vehicle you choose matters—but how you pack matters just as much. Even the smallest car can feel spacious if you pack efficiently, while a large SUV can feel cramped if you’re disorganized. The key is to think like a Tetris master: stack, nest, and compress.

Roll, Don’t Fold: The Clothing Hack

One of the easiest ways to save space is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. Rolling reduces wrinkles and allows you to pack more tightly into suitcases and duffel bags. It also makes it easier to see what you’ve packed, so you’re not digging through layers to find a single sock.

For even better results, use packing cubes. These small fabric containers compress clothes and keep them organized by category—underwear in one, shirts in another. They’re especially helpful in cars with smaller trunks, where every inch counts.

Use Vertical Space Wisely

In both cars and SUVs, people often forget to use vertical space. Instead of laying bags flat, try stacking them vertically like books on a shelf. This works especially well in SUVs with tall cargo areas. You can also use collapsible storage bins or fabric organizers to keep smaller items from shifting around.

For example, a set of three soft-sided storage bins can hold toiletries, electronics, and snacks—keeping them separate and easy to access. In a car, these can go in the footwells or on the back seat. In an SUV, they can be stacked in the cargo area or placed on the floor behind the front seats.

Pack Heavy Items Low and Centered

When loading any vehicle, place heavy items like coolers, toolboxes, or full suitcases low and as close to the center as possible. This improves stability and prevents the vehicle from becoming top-heavy, which is especially important in SUVs with higher centers of gravity.

Avoid placing heavy items on the roof unless absolutely necessary. Roof cargo boxes are great for lightweight gear like tents or sleeping bags, but they can reduce fuel efficiency and make the vehicle harder to handle in windy conditions.

Roof Racks and Cargo Boxes: Expanding Your Options

When your vehicle’s interior is full, it’s time to think outside the box—literally. Roof racks and cargo boxes can dramatically increase your carrying capacity, and they’re available for both cars and SUVs. But there are trade-offs to consider.

Roof Cargo Boxes: Pros and Cons

A roof cargo box can add 10–16 cubic feet of storage, depending on the model. They’re weatherproof, lockable, and great for bulky but lightweight items. However, they do increase wind resistance, which can reduce fuel economy by 10–25%. They also raise the vehicle’s center of gravity, which can affect handling—especially in crosswinds or during sudden maneuvers.

SUVs generally handle roof loads better than cars because of their sturdier frames and higher ground clearance. But many modern cars, especially wagons and hatchbacks, come with factory-installed roof rails and can support aftermarket boxes. Just make sure to check your vehicle’s weight limit—most sedans can handle 100–165 pounds on the roof, while SUVs can often support 200+ pounds.

Soft-Sided Cargo Bags: A Flexible Alternative

If you don’t want the bulk of a hard-shell box, consider a soft-sided cargo bag. These are lighter, easier to store when not in use, and often cheaper. They’re ideal for trips where you need extra space but don’t want to commit to a permanent roof setup.

However, soft bags aren’t as secure or weatherproof as hard boxes. They can flap in the wind and may not protect your gear as well in heavy rain or snow. Still, for occasional use, they’re a great compromise.

Real-World Examples: Car vs. SUV Showdown

Let’s put theory into practice with a few real-world scenarios. Imagine you’re taking a family of four on a five-day road trip. You’ve got two large suitcases, two carry-ons, a cooler, a stroller, and a few backpacks. Can a car handle it? What about an SUV?

Scenario 1: Compact Sedan (Honda Civic)

The Honda Civic sedan has a 15.1 cubic foot trunk. That’s enough for two large suitcases laid flat, with room for a carry-on on top. The cooler can go on the back seat, and the stroller might fit diagonally—if you’re lucky. Backpacks can go on the floor or in the footwells. It’s tight, but doable for a short trip.

Now, upgrade to the Honda Civic Hatchback. With 25.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 with them folded, you’ve got room for all the luggage, plus the stroller and cooler. Fold one rear seat, and a kid can still ride in the back. This is where the hatchback shines.

Scenario 2: Compact SUV (Toyota RAV4)

The RAV4 offers 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats. That’s enough for all four suitcases, the cooler, and the stroller—with room to spare. The back seat is spacious, so all four passengers ride comfortably. With the seats down, you could even bring a small tent or folding chairs.

For larger families or longer trips, the RAV4 is a clear winner. But for a couple or a small family on a weekend trip, the hatchback might be more than enough—and more fuel-efficient to boot.

Scenario 3: Large SUV (Ford Explorer)

With 87.8 cubic feet of total cargo space (with second and third rows folded), the Ford Explorer is a beast. It can handle multiple suitcases, coolers, camping gear, and even a small bicycle. But it also guzzles gas and costs more to buy and maintain. Unless you need that much space regularly, it might be overkill.

Fuel Efficiency and Cost: The Hidden Trade-Off

While SUVs offer more space, they often come with a fuel economy penalty. A midsize SUV like the Honda CR-V gets around 28–30 mpg combined, while a similar-sized sedan like the Honda Accord gets 32–35 mpg. Over a long trip, that difference can add up.

For example, on a 1,000-mile trip, the Accord might use about 30 gallons of gas, while the CR-V could use 35–36 gallons. At $3.50 per gallon, that’s a $17–$21 difference—just in fuel. Add in higher insurance, maintenance, and purchase costs, and the total cost of ownership for an SUV can be significantly higher.

So if you’re only taking occasional trips and don’t need the extra space, a car might be the smarter financial choice. But if you frequently travel with lots of gear or have a large family, the SUV’s versatility could justify the extra cost.

Conclusion: It Depends—But Here’s How to Decide

So, can you fit more luggage in a car or SUV? The short answer: usually the SUV. But the long answer is that it depends on the specific models, how you pack, and how you use the vehicle.

SUVs generally offer more cargo volume, better seat flexibility, and easier access to roof storage. They’re ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who regularly hauls large or bulky items. But modern cars—especially hatchbacks and wagons—have closed the gap significantly. With smart packing and the right accessories, many cars can handle weekend trips and even longer vacations with ease.

The best choice comes down to your lifestyle. If you value fuel efficiency, lower costs, and nimble handling, a well-designed car might be perfect. If you prioritize space, versatility, and passenger comfort, an SUV is likely the way to go.

And remember: no matter what you drive, packing smart is half the battle. Roll your clothes, use packing cubes, and think vertically. With a little planning, you can fit more than you think—whether you’re driving a compact car or a full-size SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a sedan really fit as much luggage as a small SUV?

Not usually—but some sedans with large trunks or fold-down seats can come close for light to moderate loads. For example, a midsize sedan with 16+ cubic feet can handle two large suitcases and carry-ons, similar to a very small SUV. But for bulky items or full families, the SUV still wins.

Do all SUVs have fold-down rear seats?

Most modern SUVs do, especially midsize and compact models. However, some luxury or performance-focused SUVs may have fixed rear seats or limited folding options. Always check the specs before buying or renting.

Is it safe to put luggage on the roof of a car?

Yes, as long as the roof rack is properly installed and the weight is within the manufacturer’s limit. Distribute weight evenly, secure items with straps, and avoid overloading. SUVs generally handle roof loads better due to their sturdier construction.

Can I fit a stroller in a compact car?

It depends on the stroller and the car. Many compact cars can fit a standard umbrella stroller in the trunk, but larger travel systems may require folding rear seats or a hatchback design. Test it before your trip if possible.

Do cargo boxes reduce gas mileage?

Yes, roof cargo boxes increase wind resistance, which can reduce fuel economy by 10–25%. The impact is greater at highway speeds. If you’re taking a long trip, consider removing the box when not in use.

What’s the best type of vehicle for a family road trip?

A midsize SUV or large wagon is often ideal—offering ample space, good fuel economy, and passenger comfort. But a well-equipped minivan or full-size sedan with a large trunk can also work, especially for shorter trips.