How much can you fit in a Chevy Traverse?
You can fit up to about 98 cubic feet of cargo with both the second- and third-row seats folded flat, about 58 cubic feet with the third row folded and the second row in use, or roughly 23 cubic feet with the third row in use.
The Chevrolet Traverse is a three-row SUV that seats up to eight people depending on configuration. This article breaks down how much cargo you can carry across common seating setups, and offers practical tips for maximizing space on daily errands, family trips, and weekend hauls.
Cargo capacity by seating configuration
Before listing the numbers, note that capacity can vary slightly by model year and trim. The figures below reflect recent Chevrolet specifications and provide a practical reference for planning how you’ll load gear versus passengers.
- Behind the third-row seat (all rows in use): about 20–23 cubic feet of cargo space.
- Behind the second row (third row folded, second row up): about 58 cubic feet.
- Behind the first row (second and third rows folded): about 98 cubic feet.
These figures illustrate how the Traverse scales from everyday groceries to larger equipment, and how your choice of seating affects usable space when you’re loading a mix of people and gear.
Seating configurations and their impact on cargo
Most buyers choose between a full eight-seat layout or a seven-seat configuration with captain’s chairs in the second row. This choice affects passenger space more than overall cargo capacity once you fold the rear rows, but it changes how much you can haul with seats in use.
Common seating options
- 8-passenger setup: second-row bench seat (three seats) with a standard third row; provides room for eight passengers but reduces available cargo behind the third row compared with fewer seats.
- 7-passenger setup: second-row captain’s chairs (two seats) plus the three-seat third row; max passenger count is seven; cargo space behind the second row is generally similar when the third row is up or down, but the center console reduces seat width and accessibility.
In practice, your choice between seating layouts affects how you pack people and gear. When the third row is folded, you unlock the bulk of the 98 cubic feet; with all rows in use, you’ll typically see around 23 cubic feet behind the third row and roughly 58 cubic feet with the third row down.
Real-world loading tips
To maximize the Traverse’s cargo capability, consider these loading ideas that reflect how families and adventurers actually use the vehicle:
- Fold the third row first to increase depth; fold the second row if you need even more space.
- Remove bulky items and organize luggage with bags or bins to maximize efficiency.
- Utilize the cargo floor and side pockets for smaller items to keep space organized and avoid shifting load.
- For long items or gear that won’t fit inside, use a roof rack or cargo carrier to extend carrying capacity without compromising passenger space.
Following these practices helps you optimize space for groceries, sports equipment, or luggage while staying within the vehicle’s load guidelines and maintaining safe driving conditions.
Summary
The Chevy Traverse offers flexible cargo space that ranges from about 23 cubic feet behind the third row, to roughly 58 cubic feet with the third row folded, up to about 98 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. Exact figures depend on model year, trim, and whether you choose an eight-seat bench or a seven-seat configuration with captain’s chairs. For everyday trips, expect ample space for groceries and suitcases; for bigger loads or longer trips, the maximum flat-folded cargo area provides substantial capacity.
