You’re standing at the baggage carousel at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE). The air is crisp, the "Brew City" energy is palpable, and you’ve just watched three massive hardshell suitcases slide down the ramp. You’ve booked a Tesla Model 3 through Frontier Tesla for your Wisconsin road trip. It’s sleek. It’s self-driving capable. It’s the future of travel. But as you look at those three large bags, a cold sweat breaks out.
Will they actually fit?
Here’s the thing about the Tesla Model 3 luggage capacity: it’s deceptively large, but it requires a bit of strategy. Unlike a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, the Model 3 doesn't have a gas tank or a bulky transmission tunnel. This opens up "hidden" pockets of space that most rental sedans simply can’t match. At Frontier Tesla, we’ve seen thousands of travelers navigate this exact scenario. What we’ve learned is that while the Model 3 is a mid-sized sedan, it punches way above its weight class in storage—if you know how to play the game.
Breaking Down the Tesla Model 3 Luggage Capacity
When we talk about the Tesla Model 3 luggage capacity, we aren't just talking about a trunk. We’re talking about a three-part storage ecosystem: the main trunk, the deep sub-trunk, and the "frunk" (front trunk). According to official Tesla specifications, the total enclosed storage space is approximately 22.9 cubic feet. To put that in perspective, a standard BMW 3 Series offers about 17 cubic feet.
But numbers on a spec sheet don't help when you’re curbside at MKE. You need to know about the geometry. The Model 3 features a wide opening, but the "shelf" created by the rear glass means you have to slide items in rather than dropping them down. This is the first hurdle for many travelers.
Can I Fit 3 Large Suitcases in a Tesla Model 3?
This is the most frequent question we get at Frontier Tesla. The short answer? Yes, but with a caveat.
A "large" suitcase is typically defined as 27 to 30 inches tall. If you are trying to fit three of these hardshell monsters into a Model 3, you have to utilize the sub-trunk. The sub-trunk is a deep well located beneath the main trunk floor. It’s large enough to swallow one full-sized checked bag or two standard carry-ons.
Here is the optimal configuration for three large suitcases:
- The Sub-Trunk: Place one large suitcase here. It will likely need to lay flat or slightly tilted.
- The Main Trunk: Place the remaining two large suitcases side-by-side on the main floor.
I’ve found that hardshell cases are actually easier to fit than overstuffed soft-sided bags because their dimensions are predictable. If you have three large bags, you won't have much room left for anything else in the rear, but you still have the frunk for your backpacks or laptop bags.
Dimensions of the Tesla Model 3 Trunk: The Nitty-Gritty
To truly understand the Tesla Model 3 luggage capacity, you need the tape measure results. We’ve measured this dozens of times to help our clients plan their trips.
- Trunk Width: 42 inches at its widest point (near the tail lights), narrowing to about 37 inches between the wheel wells.
- Trunk Depth: 42 inches from the back of the seats to the trunk latch.
- Trunk Height: Approximately 18 inches at the opening, though it gets slightly taller once you move past the initial lip.
- Sub-Trunk Dimensions: 25 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and about 12 inches tall.
Why does this matter? Because if your suitcase is thicker than 18 inches, it isn't going through that trunk opening. Most standard checked bags are 10–13 inches thick, so you’re usually safe. But that specialized gear? That oversized cooler for a tailgate at American Family Field? Measure it twice.
Will 4 Carry-Ons Fit in a Tesla Model 3?
If you’re traveling as a group of four and everyone has a standard "overhead bin" style carry-on (22" x 14" x 9"), you are in luck. The Model 3 handles this with ease. In fact, you can almost fit all four in the main trunk alone if you stack them on their sides like books on a shelf.
However, the "Frontier Tesla Pro Move" is to spread the load:
- Two carry-ons in the sub-trunk (stacked).
- Two carry-ons in the main trunk.
- Personal items (backpacks/purses) in the frunk.
This keeps the main trunk floor relatively clear, which is great for visibility through the rear-view mirror. It also makes it easier to access your gear during a quick stop for coffee in downtown Milwaukee.
The "Frunk" Factor: Hidden Space You Didn't Know You Had
The front trunk, or frunk, is the Model 3’s secret weapon. It offers about 3.1 cubic feet of space. While that sounds small, it’s the perfect size for a standard carry-on or several grocery bags.
One thing to note: the frunk is not as insulated as the main trunk. If you’re picking up some famous Wisconsin cheese curds, keep them in the back. The frunk is better suited for charging cables, emergency kits, or that extra pair of shoes you don't want rolling around the cabin.
According to a 2023 user study by EV Navigation, travelers who utilized the frunk reported 20% higher satisfaction with vehicle storage than those who only used the rear trunk. It’s about organization. It’s about efficiency.
Why the Sub-Trunk is a Game Changer for MKE Travelers
The sub-trunk is where the magic happens. Because there is no exhaust system or fuel tank, Tesla engineers dropped the floor of the trunk significantly.
Think of it as a "basement" for your car. When you rent from Frontier Tesla, we often suggest using the sub-trunk for items you don't need to access frequently—like your heavy winter coats or your laundry bag. It keeps the "living space" of the trunk tidy.
But be careful. The sub-trunk is located directly above the rear motor. While it is well-insulated, it can get slightly warmer than the rest of the car over long drives. Don't store your chocolates there if you’re driving across the state in July.
Comparing the Model 3 to Traditional Rental Sedans
Most travelers are used to the "Standard Sedan" category at traditional rental agencies—think Toyota Camry or Chevy Malibu.
| Feature | Tesla Model 3 | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cargo Space | 22.9 cu ft | 15.1 cu ft |
| Storage Compartments | 3 (Trunk, Sub, Frunk) | 1 (Trunk) |
| Pass-Through | 60/40 Split Fold | 60/40 Split Fold |
| Hidden Storage | Yes (Deep Sub-Trunk) | No |
The Model 3 wins on raw volume, but the Camry has a taller trunk opening. If you have a single, very bulky item (like a large dog crate), the Camry might actually be easier. But for suitcases? The Tesla’s multi-compartment approach is superior. It allows you to segment your luggage so you aren't digging through a mountain of bags to find one charging brick.
Frontier Tesla: Beyond Just a Trunk
Renting a Tesla Model 3 from us isn't just about the luggage capacity. It’s about the experience of the modern American road. Our fleet is equipped with Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability, making the trek from MKE to Madison or up to Door County significantly less taxing.
We offer downtown pickup locations in major cities, including Milwaukee. No more waiting in long airport shuttle lines. We bring the car to you.
"I was skeptical about fitting my golf clubs and my wife’s two suitcases," says Mark, a recent Frontier Tesla client. "But with the seats folded down on one side, we had room for the clubs, three bags, and a cooler. The self-driving on I-94 was just the icing on the cake."
Packing Tips for Your Milwaukee EV Adventure
To maximize your Tesla Model 3 luggage capacity, follow these professional tips:
- Soft Bags are King: If you have the choice, use duffel bags or soft-sided suitcases. They can "squish" into the corners of the trunk and frunk more effectively than hardshells.
- The "Frunk" First Rule: Put your most-needed items in the frunk. It’s easier to pop the frunk via the Tesla app as you walk up to the car than it is to faff with the heavy rear trunk lid if your hands are full.
- Fold the Seats: If you are only two travelers, fold the rear seats flat. This expands your cargo space to a massive 43 cubic feet. You could practically move an apartment in this thing.
- Watch the Slope: Remember that the rear glass slopes down. Don't stack bags too high near the back of the trunk, or the lid won't close.
FAQ: Your Tesla Luggage Questions Answered
Can I fit a stroller in the Tesla Model 3? Yes. Most standard strollers fit easily in the main trunk. Larger "jogging" strollers may require you to remove the wheels or fold down one of the rear seats.
Does a golf bag fit? Absolutely. You will likely need to remove the driver from the bag or lay the bag diagonally across the trunk. For two bags, folding down the 60/40 rear seat is the best bet.
Is the frunk waterproof? Yes, it is sealed. However, it is not a "wet storage" area like the drainable frunk in the Ford F-150 Lightning. Don't fill it with loose ice!
What about the weight limit? The Model 3 is a heavy car with a high payload capacity. You’ll run out of physical space long before you exceed the weight limit for luggage.
Key Takeaways for Your Next Rental
- Total Capacity: 22.9 cubic feet across three areas.
- 3 Large Suitcases: Possible by using the sub-trunk for one and the main trunk for two.
- 4 Carry-Ons: Easy fit, with room to spare in the frunk.
- Dimensions: 42" wide opening, but watch the 18" height restriction.
- The Strategy: Use the sub-trunk for heavy/static items and the frunk for high-access items.
Renting a Tesla Model 3 for your trip to Milwaukee is a statement. It says you value technology, sustainability, and style. And thanks to the clever engineering of the Tesla Model 3 luggage capacity, you don't have to leave your wardrobe behind to make that statement.
Ready to experience the future of travel? Book your self-driving-capable Tesla Model 3 with Frontier Tesla today and pick it up downtown. Your Wisconsin adventure starts the moment you touch down at MKE. Don't just drive—arrive.
Sources
Tesla Model 3 Owner's Manual - Official dimensions and cargo specifications.
EV Navigation Cargo Study - Real-world testing of suitcase fitment in electric vehicles.
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) Travel Guide - Logistics for arrivals and ground transportation.