Car boot space calculator
A guide, not advice. Check your kit maker's figures before you buy or pack.
The calculator needs JavaScript. The worked example, sum and figures below show exactly how it works, so you can do it yourself. A guide, not advice.
Short answer
Measure the usable boot length, width and height to the safe load line, then enter the estimated volume of each packed item. The comparison is a rough volume check, not a guarantee that everything will fit. Boot shape, access, visibility, load security and vehicle limits matter.
Worked example
| You enter | Value |
|---|---|
| Usable boot length | 0.9 m |
| Usable boot width | 1 m |
| Usable boot height to the safe load line | 0.45 m |
| Estimated volume of each packed item | 80, 110, 100 litres |
Entered item volume is below the measured boot cuboid volume.
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Boot cuboid volume | 405 litres |
| Total item volume entered | 290 litres |
| Volume comparison | Entered item volume is below the measured boot cuboid volume. |
Show the working
- Boot: 0.9 × 1 × 0.45 m = 405 L
- Items: 80 + 110 + 100 = 290 L
How it works
- Boot cuboid volume = usable length × width × height
- Cargo volume = sum of the item volumes entered
- Compare volumes as a rough packing check
This volume comparison does not guarantee items fit: boot shape, openings, wheel arches, seats, visibility and weight limits matter. Secure loads and do not obstruct the driver's view.
Our figures (adjustable)
These are our planning allowances and, once checked, typical figures with their sources. They aren't facts about your kit: change any of them in the calculator.
This calculator has no built-in defaults: every figure comes from you or your kit's own label.
What to buy
Shopping links will appear here once our retailer partners are confirmed. We don't rank kit by testing it: see our spec-based kit guides.
FAQs
Is boot capacity the same as usable packing space?
No. A published capacity may not show the shape, opening, wheel arches or space needed for seats and visibility. Measure the usable space for your load.
Can I stack luggage above the rear seats?
Follow your vehicle instructions and secure the load. Keep the driver's view clear and respect vehicle load limits.
Guides that use it
Packing the car for camping
How to pack the car for camping: group your kit, load heavy items low, keep first-use gear within reach and stay inside the handbook limits.