Traveling with Luggage: Managing Your Bags with Black Car Service
How should I handle luggage when booking black car service?
Always specify your exact luggage count when booking: number of checked bags, carry-ons, and any special items like golf clubs or strollers. Standard sedans fit 2-3 large bags; SUVs handle 4-5 bags. Your chauffeur provides full loading assistance at pickup and curbside at the airport.
One of the biggest advantages of booking a professional black car service over rideshare is the luggage experience. From trunk capacity to chauffeur assistance, luxury transportation makes managing bags effortless, especially for travelers with multiple suitcases, sports equipment, or special items.
This guide covers everything you need to know about traveling with luggage when using black car service for Chicago airport transfers.
Vehicle Luggage Capacity Guide
Different vehicles accommodate different luggage loads. Here's what to expect from each option:
| Vehicle Type | Large Bags | Carry-Ons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Executive Sedan | 2-3 | 2-3 | 1-2 travelers |
| Executive SUV | 4-5 | 4-5 | 2-4 travelers |
| Suburban/Escalade | 6-7 | 5-6 | Families, groups |
| Sprinter Van | 10-15 | 10+ | Large groups, events |
Pro Tip: When in doubt, book the larger vehicle. An SUV provides extra space and comfort for the same or similar price as a cramped sedan with bags piled on seats.
Booking Tips for Different Luggage Situations
Business Travel (1-2 Bags)
Standard executive sedan is perfect for business trips with a rolling carry-on and laptop bag. If you have a checked bag for longer trips, mention it when booking so the chauffeur expects it.
Family Vacations (4+ Bags)
Families often underestimate luggage needs. With kids come strollers, car seats, and extra bags. Book an SUV or Suburban and specify:
- Exact number of suitcases (checked and carry-on)
- Stroller type (compact vs full-size)
- Car seat requirements (many services provide them)
- Any bulky items like pack-n-plays
Extended International Trips
Two-week European vacations mean larger suitcases. Even solo travelers may need an SUV when bringing multiple checked bags. Be specific about bag sizes (carry-on, medium, large, or oversized).
Group Travel
When traveling with 6+ people, always book a Sprinter van. Even if passengers could fit in an SUV, luggage quickly exceeds capacity. A van ensures everyone rides comfortably with all bags secured.
Special Equipment and Oversized Items
Golf Clubs
Golf bags require special planning:
- One golfer: Sedan works if minimal other luggage
- Two golfers: SUV recommended
- Three+ golfers: Suburban or Sprinter required
- Always mention: Golf bag travel case vs soft bag
Ski and Snowboard Equipment
Winter sports equipment takes significant space:
- Skis in a bag: 6-7 feet long, requires SUV minimum
- Snowboards: Similar length, easier to angle in vehicles
- Boot bags: Large and bulky, count as oversized carry-on
- Book Suburban for 2+ people with ski gear
Musical Instruments
Instruments require careful handling:
- Cello/bass: Sprinter van or dedicated seat in SUV
- Guitar: Most vehicles accommodate, mention hard case
- Keyboard: Length varies, measure before booking
- Professional musicians: Consider gear van + passenger sedan
Medical Equipment
For travelers with medical needs:
- Wheelchairs: Specify manual vs power, folding vs rigid
- Oxygen concentrators: Keep in passenger cabin
- CPAP machines: Count as carry-on item
- Scooters: May require van with ramp access
What to Expect: Chauffeur Luggage Service
Professional black car service includes comprehensive luggage assistance:
At Pickup
- Chauffeur meets you at your door or lobby
- All bags loaded carefully into trunk or cargo area
- Fragile items positioned to prevent damage
- Confirmation that all bags are accounted for
At the Airport
- Curbside drop-off at your terminal entrance
- All bags unloaded and placed on curb
- Assistance flagging skycap for curbside check-in
- Confirmation of bag count before departure
Airport Pickup
- Meet-and-greet at baggage claim or arrivals curb
- Chauffeur assists collecting bags from carousel
- Bags loaded while you enter the climate-controlled vehicle
- Cart assistance for multiple heavy bags
Luggage Checklist Before Booking
Use this checklist when requesting a quote to ensure proper vehicle assignment:
- Number of passengers (adults and children)
- Number of checked bags (include sizes if oversized)
- Number of carry-on bags and personal items
- Any special equipment (golf, ski, instruments)
- Car seat or booster requirements
- Stroller type and size
- Medical equipment or mobility aids
- Any fragile or high-value items requiring special care
Best Practice: Take photos of your luggage layout before departure. This helps verify you have everything at your destination and provides documentation if any issues arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much luggage can fit in a black car sedan?
A standard executive sedan (Lincoln Continental or similar) can accommodate 2-3 large checked bags plus 2 carry-ons in the trunk. For more luggage, upgrade to an SUV (4-5 large bags) or Sprinter van (8-10+ bags). Always specify luggage count when booking.
Can I bring golf clubs in a black car?
Yes, but advance notice is required. Golf bags fit in executive sedans but may limit space for other luggage. For groups with multiple golf bags, an SUV or Suburban is recommended. Ski and snowboard equipment requires similar planning.
Will the chauffeur help with my luggage?
Yes, professional chauffeurs provide full luggage assistance. They will load bags at pickup, unload at the airport curb or terminal entrance, and assist with curbside check-in coordination. This white-glove service is included in your fare.
Book Your Airport Transfer with Luggage Assistance
Tell us about your luggage needs and we will match you with the perfect vehicle. Full chauffeur assistance included.