8+ passenger vans

[Auntie Kelly]

Hello! We need to rent a van for 2 days before we get to Disney. We have 7 people in our group and each person will have a suitcase and a carry-on of some sort. So a mini-van isn't really going to cut it. Last time we rented a van we went through Alamo and we had a huge 12 passenger van which was fine b/c at that point we had all that luggage plus 2 car seats and a double stroller. I checked Alamo again, but the only large vans they have are 15 passenger, which is way beyond what we need. And the price is almost $400!

Does any one know if any other rental companies that will have larger vans that we can pick up at the airport and drop at Disney? We are trying to avoid having to return to the airport, but we will if we need to.

Thanks!

 

[SteveMouse]

You might want to consider ME if you're staying on property.

 

[Auntie Kelly]

We are spending the first 2 days off property to do Kennedy Space Center so we just need something for then. We are using FL Tours for our ride back to the airport. If we weren't going in August we would do 2 people to a suitcase, but it will be so hot I figure we will wear at least 2 outfits a day. If we share suitcases we will constantly be doing laundry. I'm sure we'll figure something out.

 

[Big Willie]

The standard American minivan is a 7pass/4 pc luggage configuration. Your next step up is a 12 or 15 passenger van. The major companies mostly have 15 passengers in stock. The price delta between a minivan and a 12/15 is about triple the lessor.

I feel your pain. We always end up having the same situation (more luggage than the van can hold). Here's what we have done on occasion.

1. CRAM! JAM! Bags in laps; sit on bags; bags piled to the ceiling.

2. If van has luggage rack - I bring those ratcheting type straps with me. If the van has a luggage crack I strap as much as I can on top. Sadly, lots of time the vans do not have a rack.

3. Make 2 trips to the hotel. 1/2 the family and their bags are dropped off then circle back for the second group. I realize you cant make two trips between Kennedy Center and WDW. (see #1)

4. Lastly, 2 rental vehicles. Normally we travel with my sister's family. They rent a vehicle as well. We fill one vehicle with luggage and the other with people. One van and one mid or compact car has always been cheaper than a 12/15 pass for us.

 

[chartle]

Also be aware that an 8 passenger van maybe just a regular minivan with 8 seats, 2+3+3.

As other have posted, the next step up is a 12 passenger full size van and then to a 15 passenger with is an extended full size van.

You may be able to find something like a Grand Caravan that may have enough room.