9 simple tricks to create more boot space – how to make the most of every litre

Make every journey easier with these nine smart storage tips and practical packing ideas designed to maximise your car’s boot space.

It’s not long now until the summer holidays. With more UK staycations booked, families heading off on road trips and travellers taking flights abroad to soak up the sun, there’s a good chance you’ll need to squeeze as much luggage and holiday gear as possible into your car.

The good news is that maximising your boot space doesn’t necessarily mean travelling lighter. With these clever packing tricks and smart storage ideas, you can fit more into your car while keeping everything organised and easy to access.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

1. Declutter before you pack

Before loading up for your trip, take a few minutes to clear out any unnecessary items already sitting in your boot. Sports equipment, shopping bags, tools or everyday clutter can quickly take up valuable space without you realising.

Starting with an empty, organised boot gives you more room to work with and makes packing far easier.

2. Start with heaviest items

When packing your boot, place the heaviest and bulkiest suitcases flat on the floor and push them right up against the back seats. This will help keep the car stable while driving and creates a solid base for stacking lighter items on top.

Try to distribute weight evenly rather than piling everything on one side.

3. Swap hard cases for softer bags

Hard-shell suitcases can waste valuable space, especially around the edges of your boot. If possible, use soft duffel bags, holdalls or canvas totes instead.

Flexible bags can be squeezed into awkward corners and stacked more efficiently, helping you make use of every inch of space.

4. Fill the gaps

Once the larger bags are loaded, use smaller soft items to fill the remaining gaps. Rolled-up clothing, jackets, blankets or travel pillows can slot neatly between suitcases and stop items from shifting around while driving.

Think of packing your car boot like a game of Tetris. Every small space counts.

5. Keep essentials within easy reach

Avoid unpacking the entire boot at every stop by keeping important items near the top or closest to the tailgate.

Things like snacks coats, charging cables, travel documents, emergency kits or children’s toys should be easy to grab during the journey. The last thing you want is to rummage through all your belongings for something small and essential.

6. Use hidden storage areas

Many modern cars include underfloor storage compartments in the boot, often around the spare wheel area. These hidden spaces are ideal for storing emergency tools, first aid kits, spare shoes or items you won’t need during the trip.

Using these compartments frees up more room in the main boot area.

7. Invest in a boot organiser

Collapsible boot organisers or folding storage crates are a simple way to stop loose items from rolling around. They’re especially useful for shopping bags, cleaning products, umbrellas or smaller travel accessories.

The best part is that they can be folded away flat when not in use.

8. Remove the parcel shelf if needed

If you need extra vertical space for larger items such as a pushchair, dog crate or tall luggage, consider removing the parcel shelf temporarily.

This can instantly create more usable room, especially in smaller hatchbacks and compact SUVs.

9. Make use of nets and hooks

Cargo nets, side pockets and built-in hooks can help secure loose items and keep your boot organised throughout the journey.

Not only does this stop things moving around while driving, but it also helps prevent spills and damage to your belongings.

Don’t forget about safety

While maximising space is important, avoid overpacking your car. Loose or stacked items can be dangerous if they block your rear visibility or move suddenly during braking.

Make sure heavier objects are secure and avoid piling luggage above seat height where possible.

With a little planning and smarter packing, even smaller cars can carry far more than you might expect, helping you travel comfortably without leaving anything behind.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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