What Luggage Fits in a Van? Packing Guide for Group Travel in Morocco

It's the most common surprise in group travel: everyone fits in the van, but the luggage doesn't. Large suitcases, cabin bags, backpacks, pushchairs, golf bags, surfboards and souvenirs take up far more space than people expect. This guide explains what really fits in each type of vehicle and how to pack smartly for a trip to Morocco.

Why luggage matters so much

In a private van, luggage goes either in the rear compartment or, if that's full, on the seats or at passengers' feet. On a 15-minute airport transfer, a bag on your lap is a minor annoyance. On a three-hour drive over the Atlas, it's uncomfortable — and loose items can be unsafe in a sudden stop. That's why we always ask for the number and type of bags when you book.

Standard sizes we use

To keep things simple, we count luggage in three categories:

• Large suitcase — checked baggage, around 75 cm / 23 kg
• Cabin bag — carry-on, around 55 cm
• Small bag — backpack, handbag, laptop bag

As a rule, two cabin bags take roughly the space of one large suitcase, and small bags can usually travel with passengers.

What fits in each vehicle

VIP Ford Tourneo Custom (up to 6 passengers)

• About 6 large suitcases with 6 passengers, or more with fewer passengers.
• The rear compartment is well designed but not huge; very bulky items may require a larger vehicle.

Comfort van — Mercedes Vito or Fiat Scudo (up to 8 passengers)

• About 7–8 large suitcases plus small bags with a full load.
• With 4–5 passengers, there's room for extras like a pushchair or golf bags.

Premium SUV — Skoda Kodiaq or Kia Sorento (up to 4 passengers)

• About 4 large suitcases plus cabin bags — perfect for couples and small families travelling light.

VIP minibus (up to 17 passengers)

• A dedicated luggage compartment for around 15–17 large suitcases with a full group.
• For very large groups with lots of luggage, a separate luggage van can be added.

See all vehicles on our fleet page and compare them in choosing between a van and a minibus.

Bulky and special items

Pushchairs and car seats. A folded pushchair takes about the space of a cabin bag. Child seats are provided free of charge, so you don't need to bring your own unless you prefer to.

Golf bags. Each golf bag takes roughly the space of two large suitcases. A group of four golfers with luggage usually needs a minibus.

Surfboards. Board bags travel inside the vehicle for protection. Boards up to about 7 feet fit in most vans; longboards and multi-board bags need a minibus. Read Agadir airport to Taghazout.

Bicycles. Bike boxes are large and need a minibus, sometimes with seats folded.

Wheelchairs and mobility aids. Folding wheelchairs fit in most vans; tell us in advance so we prepare the right vehicle. See accessible travel in Morocco.

Wedding dresses and fragile items. Let us know: we'll keep a seat or a safe place free.

Smart packing for Morocco

Pack light, pack layers. Morocco's climate varies widely — Marrakech can be hot while Essaouira is windy and the Atlas cold. Lightweight layers take less space than bulky jackets.

Use soft bags for tours. On multi-day tours, soft duffel bags fit more easily than rigid suitcases.

Bring a small overnight bag. For a night in a desert camp or a mountain lodge, leave your big suitcase in the vehicle and take only what you need.

Leave room for souvenirs. Rugs, ceramics, lanterns and argan oil are hard to resist. Many shops can ship large items home.

Keep essentials in your day bag. Water, sunscreen, medication, chargers, cash and passports should stay with you, not in the luggage compartment.

Riads and luggage

Most Medina riads are reached through narrow alleys where vehicles can't go. Your driver will park at the nearest access point, and porters with trolleys carry the bags. The lighter your luggage, the easier this is. Tell us your riad's name so we can coordinate — see our Marrakech airport transfer guide.

Airline tips

• Check your airline's baggage allowance before buying souvenirs.
• Weigh your suitcases before leaving for the airport; your hotel can often lend a scale.
• Remember that argan oil and other liquids over 100 ml must go in checked luggage.

How we plan your vehicle

When you book, tell us:

• number of passengers (adults, children, babies),
• number of large suitcases and cabin bags,
• any bulky items: pushchairs, golf bags, boards, bikes, wheelchairs.

We'll recommend the right vehicle — and if in doubt, we'll suggest the next size up so everyone travels comfortably. Book your airport transfer, your group van hire or request a quote.