Does bolt allow luggage

Learn Bolt's luggage rules for car and scooter trips: allowed bag sizes, driver guidelines, potential extra charges, and practical tips to transport suitcases and backpacks safely during your ride.
Does bolt allow luggage

Quick recommendation: choose a larger vehicle category (XL/van/taxi option) when transporting one large suitcase plus additional bags; standard economy cars generally fit one checked-size case (approx. 70×45×30 cm) plus a small carry-on.

Typical trunk volumes and fit estimates: compact hatchbacks ~250–350 L (best for a single soft bag or one medium suitcase), small sedans ~350–450 L (one large hard-shell case + one small bag), midsize sedans ~450–500 L (two average suitcases), SUVs/vans 600 L+ (three or more large cases or bulky items). If an item exceeds 80×50×40 cm or weighs over 25 kg, book a van or a vehicle class advertised for extra space.

Practical steps before booking: measure dimensions and count pieces; select the vehicle class that matches trunk volume; use the app’s notes or call the driver immediately after assignment to confirm trunk availability. Bring straps or a lightweight trolley for heavy boxes; fold strollers and remove loose parts to save space. If pickup is from an airport or train station, factor in flight arrival time and reserve a vehicle with more room to avoid delays.

On handling and charges: drivers may refuse very large parcels or require help loading bulky goods. Offer to assist or ask for a driver with a roof rack or van. Expect a higher fare for larger vehicles or if the driver reports additional handling; tipping for extra assistance speeds loading and offloading. When unsure, request a vehicle type explicitly listed for larger cargo before confirming the trip.

Baggage rules for ride-hailing trips

Choose a larger vehicle category (XL, Van or “More Space”) when travelling with suitcases or bulky items; drivers normally accept bags but can refuse items that block seats or create safety hazards.

Typical fit: one carry-on plus one medium suitcase per passenger in a standard sedan; three or more large suitcases require an XL/van or a second booking. Treat items heavier than ~25 kg or longer than 120 cm as oversized and reserve a vehicle with more cargo capacity.

Before booking, select the correct vehicle type and send a short message to the driver specifying number and approximate dimensions of items. For airport pickups, add flight details and request trunk access in the ride notes so the driver can prepare.

Load items into the trunk only with the driver’s consent; keep valuables and fragile objects with you in the cabin. Do not place gear where it obstructs mirrors, windows or emergency exits. Offer a small tip if the driver helps handle heavy or awkward pieces.

For sports equipment (bikes, surfboards, skis) fold or partially disassemble when possible, use protective covers, and book a van or cargo option. Large instruments often require a dedicated vehicle or courier service–confirm availability before travel.

If an item is left behind: use the in-app “contact driver” or lost-item form immediately, provide a clear description and photo, and arrange pickup or delivery. Expect a driver retrieval or small delivery fee; if support is needed, submit a ticket with ride ID within 24–48 hours.

Vehicle types and typical trunk space

Book an XL/MPV when carrying more than two large suitcases; choose Compact or Standard for a single carry-on plus a daypack.

  • Compact / City hatchbacks (200–320 L)

    • Typical models: Toyota Yaris, Hyundai i10, Ford Fiesta.
    • Volume range: ~200–320 liters.
    • Practical capacity: 1 carry-on (≈55×40×20 cm, ~44 L) + 1 small backpack, or 1 medium checked case if rear seats folded.
  • Standard / Sedan / Small estate (320–450 L)

    • Typical models: Volkswagen Polo / Golf, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla (hatch/sedan variations).
    • Volume range: ~320–450 liters.
    • Practical capacity: 1–2 medium suitcases (≈68×45×28 cm, ~86 L each) + 1 carry-on; can fit 1 large (≈76×48×29 cm, ~106 L) plus smaller items.
  • Estate / Large hatchback / Small SUV (450–600 L)

    • Typical models: Skoda Octavia Estate, Ford Focus Estate, Nissan Qashqai.
    • Volume range: ~450–600 liters with seats up.
    • Practical capacity: 2–3 medium suitcases or 2 large suitcases + 1 carry-on; folding one rear seat increases versatility for odd-shaped items.
  • MPV / Full-size SUV / Minivan (600–1,000+ L)

    • Typical models: Renault Grand Scenic, Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Touran, seven-seat vans.
    • Volume range: ~600–1,000+ liters (varies with seat configuration; dropping rear seats often doubles capacity).
    • Practical capacity: 3–5 medium suitcases or 2–4 large suitcases; best choice for families or groups with multiple checked bags.

Quick measurement and packing guidance:

  1. Standard dimensions used: carry-on ≈55×40×20 cm (~44 L), medium checked ≈68×45×28 cm (~86 L), large checked ≈76×48×29 cm (~106 L).
  2. Count bags by type before booking and select vehicle class that fits that count plus one small item for hand carriage.
  3. If in doubt, choose the next larger category; drivers rarely refuse reasonable extra space requests, but roof transport is uncommon.
  4. When transporting fragile items, place them last into the trunk (on top) and communicate placement with the driver.

Booking an airport transfer with multiple suitcases

Book an XL/minivan if you have 4 or more checked suitcases (standard checked bag 55×40×23 cm; typical airline weight 23 kg); choose a large SUV or estate for 3–4 large rollers (75×50×30 cm).

Vehicle capacity guide

Sedan – trunk ~350–450 L; fits 2–3 standard checked suitcases (55×40×23 cm) or 2 large rollers. Small SUV – trunk ~450–550 L; fits 3 standard checked suitcases or 2 large rollers plus 1 cabin bag. Estate/wagon – trunk ~500–650 L; fits 4 standard checked suitcases or 3 large rollers. Large SUV – trunk ~600–800 L; fits 4–5 standard checked suitcases or 3–4 large rollers. MPV / 7-seater minivan – with normal seating ~400–700 L, with seats folded or removed ~700–1,200 L; fits 5–8 standard checked suitcases depending on seat layout.

Booking checklist

Count and measure each bag before booking; convert to linear dimensions (L+W+H). Mark any item exceeding 158 cm linear as oversized. Select the vehicle class that covers your total bag volume plus passenger cabin space (example: two adults with four checked suitcases → minivan). Add the exact number of suitcases in the booking notes and request driver assistance with loading if needed. Allow an extra 10–20 minutes at pickup for loading heavy or many bags. Check provider policy for surcharges on excess pieces or bulky items; if you need more than 8 suitcases, arrange a van with trailer or a dedicated cargo transfer. Use soft-sided bags when possible to gain a few centimeters of compression and fit more into compact trunks.

Mark oversized or fragile items in the app: select the app’s “Extra item” or “Special item” option, enter L×W×H and weight, set quantity, toggle “Fragile”, add short handling notes and upload photos.

When fields exist for dimensions and mass, provide measurements in centimetres and kilograms (use inches/pounds only if the app requires those units). Attach 2–3 photos from different angles showing size relative to a person or a doorframe.

Dimension and weight guidance

Mark an item as oversized if any single dimension exceeds 60 cm (24 in) or if the linear sum (L+W+H) exceeds 150 cm (59 in). Treat items over 100 cm in a single dimension or heavier than 32 kg (70 lb) as bulk; choose a larger vehicle class. Flag as heavy if > 23 kg (50 lb) per piece so the driver can plan assistance.

Handling notes, photos and driver contact

Use concise handling notes such as “upright“, “do not stack“, “requires two-person lift“, or “fragile glass/electronics“. Upload close-up shots of fragile areas and protective packaging. After booking, send a short in-app message to the driver summarising dimensions and visibility of fragile markings; request confirmation that the chosen vehicle will accommodate the items. Expect an extra charge estimate in the booking summary when special items are declared.

If a driver refuses to carry your bags: steps to resolve

Collect trip ID, driver name, vehicle plate, time, location and clear photos of your suitcases and the vehicle interior, then submit a report through the app immediately.

  1. Document the situation

    • Take 2–3 photos: your bags, trunk/boot space, and the vehicle profile (plate and make).
    • Screenshot the booking confirmation, driver profile and any chat messages or audio.
    • Note exact pick-up coordinates, time and witness names if available.
  2. Attempt a quick resolution with the driver

    • Offer a short compromise: move one bag to the front seat, switch to a larger car if available, or split items between two rides.
    • If the driver still refuses, cancel the ride and request another vehicle type designed for more cargo (XL/van/minivan). Check the cancellation policy before cancelling to avoid unwanted fees.
  3. File an in-app dispute

    • Open trip history → Help/Support → select the trip → choose the problem category related to driver refusal or capacity.
    • Attach photos, screenshots and a concise statement: trip ID, number of suitcases, refusal time, refund or compensation requested.
    • Submit within 24–72 hours for the best chance of a favorable outcome.
  4. Request reimbursement for extra costs

    • Keep receipts for taxis, storage, or missed flights caused by the refusal.
    • Include scanned receipts in your support ticket and specify the exact reimbursement amount being requested.
  5. Escalate if the response is insufficient

    • Reply to the support ticket asking for a case reference and estimated resolution time.
    • If no satisfactory reply, send a direct message to the service’s verified social account or email with the trip ID, evidence and a clear remediation demand.
  6. When safety or damage occurs

    • If threatened or belongings damaged, call local emergency services and file a police report; add the police report number to your claim.
    • Photograph any damage immediately and keep all physical evidence.
  7. Prevent repeats on future rides

    • Choose a vehicle class with confirmed cargo capacity (XL, van, estate) when booking; specify number and approximate dimensions of suitcases in the booking notes.
    • For airport transfers or many large bags, book a prearranged transfer service that lists trunk capacity or offers a dedicated vehicle type.

Always keep the original booking reference and a timeline of actions taken; clear, time-stamped evidence speeds up support decisions and increases chances of reimbursement.

Possible charges or restrictions for large items

Book a higher-capacity vehicle (XL, minivan or small cargo van) when transporting oversized suitcases or bulky gear; expect additional fees if a single item exceeds 160 cm linear dimension, or total cargo volume passes ~0.3 m³.

Typical surcharge triggers and amounts

Common triggers: single-item linear size over 160 cm, single-item weight over 30 kg without assistance, wet/dirty items that soil upholstery, or items requiring folding/removal of seats. Typical extra charges range by market: small oversize fee $5–$15, large-item fee $20–$60, and vehicle-change or courier recommendation for items valued or sized beyond a van (often $50+). Airport pickup or curbside access may add $3–$12 for parking or terminal fees.

Item type Trigger (dimension/weight) Typical surcharge (USD) Recommended vehicle
Single checked suitcase Over 30 kg or >120 cm linear $0–$15 Sedan→XL if multiple
Oversized sports gear (bike, skis) Length >160 cm or awkward shape $10–$35 Minivan / small van
Large box / small furniture Volume >0.3 m³ or needs seat removal $25–$75 or advise courier Small cargo van
Heavy machinery / power tools Single piece >30–40 kg; leaking fluids $30–$100; possible refusal Commercial delivery service

Restrictions, safety and claims

Drivers can refuse items that pose safety or legal risks: pressurised cylinders, uncontained batteries, fuel cans, hazardous chemicals, or items that obstruct driver view. Fragile or high-value items may be transported only if passenger handles loading; some operators decline responsibility for damage unless a professional courier service is booked.

If damage or refusal occurs: photograph items and vehicle, note driver details, submit an in-app incident report within 24–48 hours and keep receipts for replacement or repair claims. For very heavy garden equipment consider a specialised delivery option – for example, review a best cutting self propelled lawn mower listing and ship via courier rather than on a passenger trip.

Documenting damage or loss and filing a claim

Photograph the problem immediately: take at least 6 high-resolution images (front, back, close-up of damage, context showing vehicle interior, trunk area, and any identifying marks). Record a 10–20 second video that includes a visible timestamp on your phone screen and shows the surrounding area and vehicle plate/name badge.

Capture trip metadata: copy the trip ID, driver name, vehicle make/model and license plate, pickup/drop-off addresses and exact date/time. Save the in-app receipt screenshot and any chat messages with the driver. Put these items into a single folder labeled with the trip ID.

File formats and originals: keep original photo/video files (avoid editing or compressing). Preferred formats: JPEG/HEIC for images, MP4 for video. Export EXIF metadata when possible; it proves timestamps and GPS if available. Back up copies to cloud and local storage.

Proof of value and ownership: attach purchase receipts, serial numbers, warranty cards, repair quotes or official appraisals. For electronics include IMEI or serial number screenshots and device registration. For high-value items over $200, obtain at least two independent repair or replacement estimates.

How to submit the claim: use the ride app’s Help/Support → Trip history → Report an issue path; paste a concise description (one short paragraph) then paste the trip ID and list attachments. Example text to paste: “Trip ID: [ID]. Damage: [short description]. Attachments: photos (6), video (10–20s), receipt, repair estimate. Request: reimbursement or driver follow-up.” Save the support ticket number or confirmation email.

If the support channel requests more evidence: respond with original files, unedited video, and a dated statement of events. If theft is suspected, file a police report and attach the report number; insurers and platforms often require that for items above $500.

If resolution stalls: keep all correspondence, escalate via in-app chat or the provider’s formal complaint email, and include the ticket reference. If monetary compensation is sought and internal routes fail, consider a consumer protection complaint or small-claims court; prepare a packet with trip metadata, originals, estimates, police report (if any) and communication log.

To reduce future risk, consider protective covers and packing solutions such as best umbrella customization fortnite and best beach umbrella sand long insland.

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Michael Turner
Michael Turner

Michael Turner is a U.S.-based travel enthusiast, gear reviewer, and lifestyle blogger with a passion for exploring the world one trip at a time. Over the past 10 years, he has tested countless backpacks, briefcases, duffels, and travel accessories to find the perfect balance between style, comfort, and durability. On Gen Buy, Michael shares detailed reviews, buying guides, and practical tips to help readers choose the right gear for work, gym, or travel. His mission is simple: make every journey easier, smarter, and more enjoyable with the right bag by your side.

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