
Yes, a full-size sedan like a Chevrolet Impala or Ford Taurus can typically hold two 30-inch suitcases in its trunk. These cars generally have trunks with a volume between 18 and 20 cubic feet, which is more than adequate for this task. A standard 30-inch suitcase (the largest size commonly checked for airlines) measures approximately 30" x 20" x 12". You can lay them flat side-by-side or stack one on top of the other in most full-size car trunks.
The key is to measure your specific bags and understand your car's trunk opening and shape. While the total volume might be sufficient, a narrow trunk opening or a high load floor (the lip you have to lift the bag over) can sometimes be a challenge. If you need even more space, many full-size sedans offer fold-down rear seats, allowing you to slide longer items from the trunk into the cabin.
For reference, here are the trunk capacities of some popular full-size cars:
| Car Model | Trunk Capacity (Cubic Feet) | Estimated 30-inch Bags (Easily) |
|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Impala | 18.8 cu. ft. | 2-3 bags |
| Ford Taurus | 20.0 cu. ft. | 2-3 bags |
| Toyota Avalon | 16.0 cu. ft. | 2 bags |
| Nissan Maxima | 14.3 cu. ft. | 2 bags (may require careful placement) |
| Chrysler 300 | 16.3 cu. ft. | 2 bags |
If you're planning a trip with more luggage or passengers, it's always a good idea to do a test pack. Load your bags into the trunk at home to confirm the fit and ensure you have clear visibility out of the rear window.

Absolutely. My family of four uses a full-size sedan for airport runs all the time. We can get two large 30-inch suitcases, plus a couple of carry-ons and a backpack, into the trunk without any issue. The trunk is deep, so you just lay the big bags flat. The only thing to watch for is if the trunk opening is a little narrow on some models, but you can usually angle the bag in just fine.

From a practical standpoint, the cargo volume isn't the only factor. You need to consider the trunk's aperture—the actual opening. Some full-size cars have a wide but shallow opening, which can make sliding in a long, rigid suitcase tricky. It's often easier to lift and place the bags vertically on their wheels first, then lay them down inside the trunk cavity. The shape of the trunk is as important as the number of cubic feet.

I've driven everything from compact cars to full-size SUVs for my sales job. A full-size car's trunk is designed for this exact purpose. Two 30-inch bags are no problem. You'll have room to spare for a garment bag or a small cooler. The peace of mind knowing your luggage is secure and out of sight in a locked trunk, rather than in an SUV cabin, is a big plus for travel. It’s a comfortable and practical choice for a road trip.

Think of it this way: a 30-inch bag is the maximum size for airline check-in. Full-size sedans are built with American road trips in mind, and fitting standard luggage is a basic requirement. You might not be able to fit a third massive suitcase, but for two people traveling, it's perfectly sufficient. If you're ever in doubt, just check the manufacturer's listed trunk capacity; anything over 16 cubic feet should handle two 30-inch bags with a sensible packing strategy.


