Count bags as carefully as passengers
In many seven-seat vehicles, raising the third row reduces the luggage compartment. A model that works for local day trips may not hold seven large airport bags. Send the number and approximate size of suitcases, plus any stroller or sports equipment, before the car is assigned.
If the extra seats are needed only occasionally, a flexible five-plus-two layout may be ideal. If all seven seats will be occupied every day, ask the team to confirm the actual passenger and cargo arrangement for the proposed model.
Plan comfort for a family group
Decide who can comfortably use the third row and check how it is accessed. Request child seats or boosters in advance and confirm the appropriate type and compatible seating position rather than treating them as a generic add-on.
At collection, test rear ventilation, every seat belt and access with your typical hand luggage. Solving the seating plan at handover is easier than rearranging a full car at the airport.
One people carrier or two smaller cars
Two compact cars allow the group to split up and may carry more luggage, but they require another authorised driver and double the parking and fuel planning. One larger vehicle keeps airport transfers and shared day trips simple.
Use the itinerary to decide: how often everyone travels together, where the cars stay overnight and whether the second driver is comfortable on Phuket roads.