Pico Rivera Charter Bus Packing and Carry-On Guide

Traveling by charter bus is one of the most comfortable and convenient ways to move a group around Southern California, but knowing what you can (and should) pack makes every journey smoother. Whether you’re headed from Pico Rivera to Disneyland, shuttling your team to a tournament at Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, or planning a weekend wine tour in Temecula, understanding the luggage space on your charter bus ensures everyone has what they need — with room to spare. Here’s everything you need to know about packing for your next trip with Charter Bus Rental Pico Rivera!

Storage Space on our Different Bus Models in Pico Rivera

Charter Bus Rental Pico Rivera has a fleet of over 100 vehicles, so we’ll have the right size and configuration for any outing. Our full-size 56-passenger charter buses are the gold standard for storage capacity, featuring multiple undercarriage luggage bays that run the length of the vehicle. These compartments easily swallow up large suitcases, duffel bags, sports gear, or even musical instruments. Overhead racks above each seat add additional space for smaller items like backpacks, laptop bags, or jackets.

Our minibuses (ranging from 15 to 35 passengers) and sprinter vans (10 to 15 passenger options) offer more modest storage solutions, typically with rear cargo holds or single small side compartments. These vehicles are perfect for shorter trips, shuttles between local venues, or groups who travel light. Each model’s exact storage volume varies, so be sure to ask our reservation specialists about your specific needs when booking.

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

For large groups, under-floor luggage compartments are where the magic happens. A typical 56-passenger coach features three or four pass-through bays, each approximately 8 feet wide, 3.5 feet tall, and 3-4 feet deep. When combined, this adds up to roughly 500 cubic feet of storage — enough room for each passenger to bring a full-size suitcase or equipment bag. Sports teams heading to Rio Hondo College can easily stow all their gear, while bands performing at Pico Rivera Sports Arena will have no trouble fitting sound equipment, instruments, and merchandise.

These bays are only accessible when the bus is parked, so anything you might need during the drive (snacks, medication, electronics) should stay in the main cabin. If your itinerary involves multiple overnight stops or hauling bulky items, let us know in advance so we can recommend the best bus in our fleet for extra cargo space.

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

Inside the passenger area, overhead parcel racks function much like airplane bins. They’re designed for carry-on items: think purses, briefcases, small backpacks, or tote bags. On a full-size coach, these racks usually measure about 10 inches high by 17 inches deep and run the length of both aisles. Most racks are open with a sturdy lip, though some premium models feature airline-style doors for added security.

Each overhead section comfortably fits two small bags per row, so plan for a soft-sided carry-on or daypack rather than a hard-shell roller. Keeping valuables and essentials close reduces pit stops and keeps the aisle clear, making for a safer, tidier ride — especially important if you’re navigating the busy 605 freeway during rush hour.

So, How Many Bags Can Each Person Bring?

The general rule for charter bus travel mirrors that of domestic airlines: one checked bag in the luggage bay and one personal item in the overhead rack per person. For a fully booked 56-passenger bus, that translates to 56 large suitcases below and 56 small carry-ons above. If your group isn’t at max capacity, you may be able to spread out and bring extra items, but it’s always wise to confirm with our team first.

Weight limits are rarely an issue unless transporting unusually heavy cargo, but as a guideline, keep individual bags under 50 pounds for easy loading and unloading. Oversized items (like skis, bikes, or oversized trade show displays) should be mentioned at booking so we can ensure proper accommodation. If your plans include shopping excursions at Citadel Outlets or transporting conference materials to the Pico Rivera Centre for the Arts, factor in return trip space for purchases or giveaways.

Packing & planning tips for group leaders

If you’re organizing a school field trip, corporate retreat, or multi-day tour, a little planning goes a long way. Create a packing checklist for your group tailored to your destination’s weather and activities. Encourage participants to use soft-sided luggage, which is easier to stack and maximizes available space. Clearly label all bags with names and contact information to avoid mix-ups at rest stops or hotels.

Consider assigning a “luggage captain” to oversee loading and unloading; this person can check off bags as they go into the compartment and ensure nothing is left behind. If you’re traveling with fragile or valuable equipment, request priority placement near the door or atop other cargo. For trips involving frequent stops — such as winery tours through Malibu or golf outings across Los Angeles County — load items in reverse order of need so the last bags in are the first ones out.

Remind everyone that under-bus storage won’t be accessible until scheduled breaks, so anything needed en route (medications, snacks, entertainment devices) should stay in the main cabin. And if anyone has mobility aids or special medical equipment, inform us ahead of time so we can reserve a bus with wheelchair-accessible lifts or dedicated storage areas.

Hit the Road with Charter Bus Rental Pico Rivera

No matter where your Pico Rivera adventures take you, Charter Bus Rental Pico Rivera has the vehicles and expertise to keep your group comfortable and your belongings secure. Our modern fleet includes options for every party size and budget, from compact minibuses for airport shuttles to luxury coaches loaded with amenities for cross-state tours. With 24/7 customer support, instant online quotes, and fully customizable packages, we make group travel simple from start to finish.

Ready to roll? Call 562-655-7490 today to discuss your itinerary, get personalized advice on packing, and secure the ideal bus for your next journey. From navigating the streets of Downtown LA to exploring the beaches of Orange County, let Charter Bus Rental Pico Rivera handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the ride.