SUV -vs- Minivan

[twinsplusone]

Hi~

We're a family of 5: me, dh, dd 8, dd 6, ds 6.

At home we drive a minivan and planned on renting that, but I can get a much better rate on a suv (like a Trailblazer). Do you think we'll fit? We will have 3 big suitcases and we will each have a carryon.

I've looked at what the sites suggest, just wanted to check with people who have actually all fit.

 

[myladyisatramp]

We also are a family of 5 grownup's, I am renting a trailblazer as I think there may be more room in the back for luggage than a minivan. JMO

 

[Aliceacc]

I drive a minivan; my husband drives a Subaru Forrester.

I think the luggage might be a problem in the Forrester, depending on your definition of "big."

I would go with the minivan. If needed, you can fit all 3 kids in 1 row and have room for the luggage in the other row.

 

[4forMe]

I also recommend the minivan. We have had to rent an SUV and minivan for different trips and had way more luggage space in the minivan.

 

[bcuinohio]

I have the same dilemma as you. I am trying to choose between a Trailblazer and a Minivan. There are only four of us but I want to make sure that we have enough room for our luggage. According to Chevy's website, the Trailblazer has about 40 cubic feet of storage space behind the back seat. That's a pretty good amount of space considering most cars trunk space is less than half of that. Minivans have a similar amount of storage behind the third row of seats as the Trailblazer. In my opinion, the trailblazer's storage area is easier to work with. Minivans tend to have a more narrow cargo space. They gain cargo space because of the additional height they have. I have an Odyssey and the first two suitcases fit very nicely on the bottom. As I start to stack higher, the seat gets in the way of larger items because it is angled toward the rear. On the other hand, you can use the unused seats in the Minivan for storage also. I think that either one will work for you.

 

[darkroom]

Unless your cases are freakishly huge, 3 of them should fit in the back of the SUV. Some of the carry-ons too.