Tips Regarding Luggage for International Passengers
Cruise Travel in the UK Tips Regarding Luggage for International Passengers.
If you're planning a cruise from the UK and travelling through the Southampton or Dover Cruise Terminals, chances are you're excited about a fantastic voyage. However, there's one travel detail that may surprise you, especially if you're coming from the U.S. or Canada: the size of vehicles in the UK. If you’re accustomed to large cars, SUVs, or trucks, be prepared for a shift in scale, particularly when it comes to luggage space.
When arranging chauffeur or transportation services from airports or hotels to cruise terminals in Southampton or Dover, oversized luggage can pose a challenge in the smaller cars typically used in the UK.
Why Are UK Cars Smaller?
There are a few practical reasons why cars in the UK tend to be more compact:
Road Size: Roads in the UK, particularly in older cities and towns, tend to be narrower than those in North America. These streets were designed long before large, modern vehicles, and compact cars are better suited for navigating these tighter spaces.
Fuel Costs: Gasoline (or petrol, as it's called in the UK) is more expensive than in the U.S. or Canada, making fuel-efficient, smaller vehicles a popular choice for many drivers.
Environmental Concerns: The UK has strict emissions regulations, encouraging the use of smaller, more fuel-efficient cars that emit fewer pollutants.
Given these factors, many transportation services in the UK utilize smaller sedans or compact vehicles compared to the larger cars or SUVs you might be used to at home.
Luggage Considerations: The Impact of Oversized Suitcases
If you're travelling with large or oversized suitcases 31x16x13 inches / 81x20x34 cm (25 kg to 55 lbs), you may run into problems when trying to fit everything into a standard UK vehicle. Cruise passengers, in particular, often travel with substantial luggage, especially if they're embarking on a longer journey.
Here's where you might encounter challenges:
Limited Trunk Space: UK sedans and even some larger vehicles often have less trunk space than North American cars. A suitcase that easily fits into the back of an American SUV or sedan might struggle to fit into a UK vehicle.
Multiple Suitcases: Many UK vehicles can handle two medium-sized suitcases at most. If you’re traveling with family or have multiple large bags, you may need a larger vehicle, which isn’t always as readily available as in North America.
Passenger Comfort: If you’re sharing a car with other passengers and their luggage, the space can feel quite cramped.
Tips for Cruise Passengers Arranging Transportation
To avoid last-minute headaches at the airport, hotel, or cruise terminal, consider these tips to make your transportation experience smoother:
Pack Light or Use Medium-Sized Bags: If possible, opt for smaller or medium-sized suitcases. Splitting your belongings between two medium-sized bags is often easier than trying to cram one oversized suitcase into a small vehicle.
Check Vehicle Size Beforehand: When booking a chauffeur or transportation service, make sure to inform them about the size and amount of luggage you’re bringing. Many chauffeur companies offer vehicle options like estate cars (station wagons) or MPVs (multi-purpose vehicles) that can accommodate more luggage.
Consider Upgrading to a Larger Vehicle: If you know you’ll be traveling with oversized suitcases, it might be worth requesting an SUV or a van. These larger vehicles can be more expensive but will ensure that you and your luggage have enough room.
Book in Advance: Larger vehicles tend to be in higher demand, especially in popular cruise departure cities like Southampton and Dover. Book your transportation well in advance to secure a vehicle that meets your needs.
Be Flexible with Luggage Handling: If you’re using ride-sharing services (like Uber) or a standard taxi, bear in mind that these vehicles are likely to be smaller. You may need to wait for a larger car or request assistance to manage your luggage.
Travelling from Southampton or Dover: Know the Terminals
Southampton and Dover are two of the UK’s busiest cruise terminals, and both are well-connected to major airports and cities. However, these ports are often located a considerable distance from major airports like London Heathrow or Gatwick. As a result, passengers typically need to book transportation services for the journey in advance to guarantee availability, especially on Cruise days.\
Southampton Cruise Terminal: Located about 70 miles (110 km) southwest of London, Southampton is a key departure point for many UK cruises. The terminal is well-connected by rail, but many passengers prefer private car services for direct transfers from London or its airports.
Dover Cruise Terminal: Approximately 80 miles (130 km) southeast of London, Dover is another popular cruise port. Like Southampton, it’s accessible by train, but chauffeured car services are often the more convenient option for passengers with heavy luggage. Due to the location, private transportation companies are not as readily available, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts
When planning your cruise from the UK, it’s essential to factor in the differences in vehicle sizes, especially if you’re traveling with oversized suitcases. While the cars in the UK may be more compact, a little planning can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey from the airport or hotel to your cruise terminal. By considering your luggage size and choosing the right transportation options, you can start your cruise adventure without any unnecessary hassle!
