Nothing tests a car quite like a road trip. Whether you’re off to Cornwall with the kids, camping in Wales, or heading up the M1 with a boot full of luggage and snacks, you need a car that’s built for the long ride and has the boot space to match.
With more than 10 million UK holidaymakers choosing to travel by car each year, space, comfort, and fuel efficiency have never been more important. And with rising travel costs, buying a cheap, reliable used car that still ticks all the right boxes is the smart way forward.
At Cars Under £3000, we specialise in making car buying simple, affordable, and enjoyable. If you’re after the best car for boot space in the UK, this blog covers the top five models we recommend for stress-free getaways, plus a few bonus picks you might not have considered.
Features to Look for When Picking a Car for Travelling
When choosing a car for long journeys, whether that’s your daily commute, weekends away, or a full road trip through Europe, there are a few key things to look for:
Comfort and Space
Supportive seats, good legroom and a well-ventilated cabin can turn a slog into a smooth ride. Adjustable lumbar support and automatic climate control are especially handy for those longer drives. If an even drive is your priority, explore our range of used automatic cars, they’re ideal for when you’re racking up the motorway miles.
Boot Capacity
If you’re asking what is the best car for boot space?, you’ll want to pay attention to boot design. Look for cars with flat-folding rear seats, wide tailgate openings, and low load lips that make it easy to get awkward items in and out.
Fuel Economy
Long journeys demand fuel efficiency. High MPG ratings or diesel engines with large tanks help you go further between fill-ups. If that’s important to you, don’t miss our stock of used diesel cars, which includes economical options perfect for UK road trips.
In-Car Tech
From built-in sat navs and Bluetooth to USB charging ports and decent sound systems, technology keeps everyone on the trip happy.
Reliability and Low Maintenance
The last thing you need is a breakdown halfway through your trip. Choose cars with strong reliability ratings and easy-to-source parts. At Cars Under £3000, we handpick models based on service history and past performance, so you don’t get any unpleasant surprises.
ULEZ Compliance
If your travels take you into Clean Air Zones, a ULEZ-compliant car can save you time and money. We’ve got a great selection of ULEZ-compliant cars available for drivers who regularly head into London or other low-emission areas.
Our Top 5 Best Cars for Boot Space and Travelling
This seven-seater SUV offers practicality without the bulk. The boot is easy to access, the seats fold flat, and you get a comfortable interior that’s perfect for kids, pets, or grandparents in tow. It’s one of the best family cars for boot space in the UK, and it regularly appears on lists for its great value and flexibility.
- Boot space: Up to 952 litres (with third-row seats folded)
- Perfect for: Families who need seating and luggage flexibility without losing comfort or style.
2) Skoda Kodiaq
The Skoda Kodiaq offers the practicality of a spacious SUV with the smooth, easy handling of a much smaller car. Choose the plug-in hybrid model for eco-minded motoring, or go for a traditional diesel to get the most out of your mileage – both are excellent options for UK getaways.
- Boot space: Up to 910 litres (five-seater), 845 litres (seven-seater with seats folded)
- Perfect for: Anyone needing comfort and modern touches like smartphone integration and rear-seat USBs.
3) Skoda Superb Estate
If boot space is your number one priority, the Skoda Superb Estate should be on your radar. It’s widely regarded as one of the best cars for boot space thanks to its class-leading load bay and estate practicality. It also offers a luxurious ride without the huge price tag.
- Boot space: 690 litres (seats up), up to 1,920 litres (seats folded)
- Perfect for: Dog owners, large families, or anyone who regularly packs the boot to the brim.
If you need something practical but budget-friendly, take a look at our used cars page. We regularly stock affordable estates that prioritise boot space.
4) Kia EV9
Going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing boot space. The Kia EV9 proves it with one of the most generous cargo holds in the electric SUV market. It’s also packed with technology, offering a premium feel and smooth driving experience with room for the whole family.
- Boot space: 828 litres (seats up), 1,650 litres (seats down)
- Perfect for: Families making the switch to electric, who still need serious space.
5) Dacia Jogger
The Jogger might be one of the most underrated choices out there. It’s incredibly spacious, incredibly affordable, and perfect for those who want an MPV feel without MPV running costs. It’s proof that you can find one of the best cars for boot space in the UK without stretching your budget.
- Boot space: 699 litres (with third row removed), up to 2,085 litres (seats folded)
- Perfect for: Budget-conscious families, holidaymakers, and second-car buyers.
Honourable Mentions
Need even more space? These models are also worth a look if you come across them on our forecourt:
- Land Rover Discovery
The Discovery handles country lanes, school runs, and weekend escapes. With the rear seats folded, the boot transforms into a massive space that is perfect for tents, bikes, or a few too many suitcases. - Range Rover
The Range Rover is hard to beat for boot space. It glides over long distances, with a boot big enough for golf clubs, pushchairs, or both. - Volvo XC90
Spacious without being bulky, the XC90 is one of the rare seven-seaters that still feels nimble on the road. It’s clever with its storage, great on fuel for its size, and ideal for families who need room to breathe without being flashy.
Many of these models are available in ULEZ-compliant trims, so keep an eye on our ULEZ stock for current availability.
Conclusion
Choosing the best car for boot space doesn’t have to mean going all-out on a brand-new SUV or luxury estate. Loads of second-hand cars offer brilliant value, comfort, and cargo capacity, especially if you know what to look for.
Whether it’s an estate with room for everything, a hybrid SUV for efficient family travel, or just a budget-friendly diesel for road trips to the coast, we’ve got something for you at Cars Under £3000. From used diesels to automatic options, we’re here to help you find the right fit for your lifestyle and your boot space.
Ready to see what’s available?
Browse our latest used cars and drive away in something ready for your next adventure.