Oct 08, 2025

How Big Should the Boot of Your Car Be to Fit a Travel System?

Becoming a parent often means making practical decisions that go beyond the nursery. One of the most important considerations is ensuring your car can comfortably accommodate your baby’s travel system. Many parents wonder: How big should the boot of my car be to fit a travel system?

The answer depends on both the type of travel system you choose and the design of your car. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about boot space, travel system dimensions, and how to avoid common mistakes when making your purchase.

Why Boot Space Matters

When it comes to fitting a travel system, your car’s boot is more than just storage space — it’s about convenience, safety, and long-term practicality.

Ease of use: Parents often juggle nappy bags, shopping, and baby essentials. A travel system that fits easily avoids unnecessary stress.
Protection for your equipment: Forcing a bulky system into a tight space risks damaging wheels, fabrics, or the folding mechanism.
Extra storage needs: Even if the travel system fits snugly, you’ll still need space for day-to-day items like groceries or luggage.
Future proofing: As your baby grows, you may add a buggy board, car seat upgrades, or more accessories. Allowing some margin in boot space ensures your car remains practical.

How to Measure Your Boot for a Travel System

Before buying a travel system, it’s essential to know exactly what space you’re working with. Follow these steps:

Measure your boot dimensions

Length: From the back of the rear seats to the closed boot door.
Width: Between wheel arches and across the boot opening.
Height: From the base to the lowest point of the boot lid when closed.

Compare with travel system dimensions

Look up the folded dimensions (length × width × height) of the travel system.
Remember, some systems allow you to detach seats or remove wheels to reduce bulk.

By having both sets of measurements, you can confidently assess if the system will fit without guesswork.

Typical Travel System Dimensions

Travel systems vary widely, but here are some typical folded dimensions:

Standard travel systems: Around 61 cm × 77 cm × 30 cm. These often include a chassis with either the seat or carry-cot attached.
Compact travel systems: Typically 70–82 cm (L) × 45–60 cm (W) × 25–30 cm (H). These lightweight designs use innovative folding mechanisms to save space.

These measurements are averages — always check the exact specifications of the model you’re considering.

Average Boot Sizes in UK Cars

Boot capacities differ significantly across car types. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Small hatchbacks (e.g. Ford Fiesta, VW Polo): 250–350 litres. Best suited to compact travel systems.
Family hatchbacks (e.g. VW Golf, Vauxhall Astra): 350–400 litres. Usually large enough for most standard travel systems.
SUVs and crossovers: 400–550 litres. These often provide extra height and wider boot openings, making loading easier.
Estates and MPVs: 500+ litres. Ideal for larger travel systems or families needing maximum flexibility.

Remember, it’s not just about litres. The shape, lip height, and boot opening design play an equally important role.

How Big Should Your Boot Be?

To give you a practical idea, here’s a rough guideline based on the type of travel system:

Compact or lightweight systems: Aim for at least 300 litres of boot space. Perfect for small hatchbacks.
Standard travel systems: Look for 380–500 litres. This suits most family hatchbacks and smaller SUVs.
Larger travel systems with accessories: You’ll want 500+ litres to allow for extras such as shopping or a nappy bag.

These figures are estimates. Always measure both your car and the folded travel system to confirm compatibility.

Why Boot Shape and Design Matter

Even if your boot has the right capacity, certain features can make loading easier or harder:

Boot opening size: A large, square opening makes manoeuvring bulky frames simpler.
Load lip height: Lower lips are easier to lift heavy systems over, especially if you’re recovering from birth.
Wheel arch intrusions: These reduce usable width inside the boot.
Removable shelves and folding seats: Flexibility can make a huge difference when carrying multiple items.

These factors are especially important in smaller cars, where every inch of space counts.

Real-World Examples

Here’s how different car types typically handle travel systems:

Small hatchback (e.g. Ford Fiesta): Will usually only fit compact or lightweight travel systems. You may need to detach the carry-cot or wheels.
Family hatchback (e.g. VW Golf): Most standard travel systems will fit comfortably, leaving some room for extras.
SUV (e.g. Nissan Qashqai): Offers generous width and height, perfect for standard and larger systems.
Estate (e.g. Skoda Octavia Estate): Provides maximum flexibility, ideal for larger systems plus accessories.

Tips to Ensure Your Travel System Fits

Test it in person: The best way to avoid disappointment is to bring your car to a showroom and try loading the travel system.
Look for compact folding mechanisms: Some models fold flat or stand upright, saving space.
Check detachable parts: Wheels and seats that come off reduce bulk and make systems easier to store.
Don’t forget weight: A system may fit but be too heavy to lift repeatedly. Lightweight designs make everyday use easier.
Leave room for extras: Your boot should hold more than just the travel system. Factor in groceries, luggage, and baby gear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Relying on volume alone: Litres don’t tell the full story. Boot shape and access are just as important.
Ignoring long-term needs: What fits now might not work once your baby grows and you need additional items.
Forcing a poor fit: Forcing a bulky system into a small boot can damage both your car and the travel system.
Skipping measurements: Guesswork often leads to disappointment. Always measure your boot and compare to product specifications.

Travel Systems at Bambinos & Beyond

At Bambinos & Beyond, we understand the importance of choosing the right travel system for your lifestyle and your car. That’s why we offer a wide selection of options:

Explore our Travel Systems – Pre-Loved collection, where you’ll find affordable, quality-checked systems with warranty for peace of mind.
Check our Under £400 collection for budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.
Visit our Showroom to test travel systems in person, ensuring they fit your car boot perfectly before purchase.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right travel system isn’t just about style or features — it’s also about practicality. By measuring your boot, checking product dimensions, and leaving space for extras, you’ll ensure your travel system works seamlessly with your lifestyle.

At Bambinos & Beyond, we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions, call us on 01283 561 831 or email support@bambinosandbeyond.co.uk.

The right travel system should fit not only your baby’s needs but also your car — and we’ll help you find the perfect match.