Family Vacation from Frankfurt: The Packing List That Actually Works
Since we've been outfitting Frankfurt families with roof boxes, we see two patterns every year: either the booked box is too small and the luggage doesn't fit, or it's too big and the family pays unnecessarily more. Both can be avoided with a little planning.
The four most common roof box sizes – and when each fits
300 liters – the entry size. Fits on small and compact cars. Good for two people on a short trip, or as extra storage for a small family with one child.
What fits: two large suitcases plus hand luggage, a compact folded stroller, or ski gear for 1–2 people up to 175 cm.
450 liters – the most booked size. For the classic family with two kids and a two-week vacation.
What fits: three to four suitcases, stroller, beach gear for the whole family, or complete ski equipment for four people.
500 liters – the next step up when 450 liters runs out of space. Especially for winter trips or long journeys with lots of luggage.
What fits: lots of luggage plus bulky items like skis up to 200 cm, larger camping gear, or a complete watersports setup.
600 liters (XXL) – Thule's flagship size. For large families, touring skiers, or very long trips.
What fits: skis up to 215 cm, luggage for 4–5 people over multiple weeks, or combinations like suitcases plus a surfboard.
The universal packing list for a two-week family vacation (450 liter box)
Bottom of the box (soft, heavy):
- Suitcases with clothes, evenly distributed
- Sleeping bags or blankets to fill hollow spaces
Middle (medium weight):
- Folded stroller
- Travel beds for small children
- Beach or sports equipment
Top (light, fragile):
- Pillows, light jackets, sun hats
- Things you'll need immediately on arrival (swimwear, first change of clothes)
Tips from practice
Don't place sharp items against the side walls. In a sudden stop, they could puncture the box. Soft items to the sides, hard items in the middle.
Strap everything down. Our roof boxes have built-in straps – use them consistently. Shake the box lightly after loading: if you hear something sliding, re-strap.
Check maximum roof load. It's in the vehicle documents or manual. The weight of the empty roof box (12–16 kg) plus rack hardware counts too.
Never exceed 130 km/h. Manufacturers recommend this speed for stability and load security.
How to find the right size for your family
If you're unsure: count the suitcases you'd bring if there were no luggage limit. Then calculate:
- One large suitcase: ~100 liters
- One medium suitcase: ~60–70 liters
- One carry-on: ~40 liters
- A folded stroller: 50–100 liters depending on model
Add it up and take 15–20 % buffer. That's your box size.
When in doubt, call us – we'll help you decide and won't push you toward a larger (more expensive) box just because we can. Our pickup location south of Frankfurt in Darmstadt is reachable from all Frankfurt districts in 25–45 minutes.