Table of Contents
- Simple and Unreliable Roof Racks Are a Thing of the Past
- The Essence of Overland Travel
- Choosing Your Storage Solutions
With summer in full swing, so one should not wait anymore and pack the bag, start the car, and have a road trip of your own making. Deciding on what to take along may not be very easy, but with roof top cargo carriers, you will indeed have the privilege of having additional cargo space.
Simple and Unreliable Roof Racks Are a Thing of the Past
Today, we have many options about how we stow our luggage. These options include sturdy roof racks, roof cargo carrier, and even roof rack basket. But, knowing which system to choose and why may seem a little tricky. Explore these modern takes on vehicle storage and find out which system suits your overlanding needs.
The Essence of Overland Travel
The essence of overland travel lies in extended journeys, often spanning months or even years across borders. It’s a blend of exploration, self-reliance, and the thrill of charting your course through diverse landscapes. Whether for long-term adventures or short weekend getaways, meticulous planning and preparation are essential. Storage ranks among the foremost considerations when planning a journey. Regardless of the duration—whether it's a few months or a brief weekend trip—various options exist to help organize and store equipment, food, and other outdoor essentials.
Choosing Your Storage Solutions
1. Vehicle Type—Car, SUV, or Truck?
Your choice of vehicle dictates the amount of storage space available and the type of cargo box needed. Cars and SUVs feature luxurious interior cargo spaces or trunks, offering added protection against elements. Trucks with open-bed cargo areas may facilitate easier loading and more cargo space but are susceptible to exposure in harsh weather conditions such as high temperatures, dust, and rain. Open-bed setups also offer limited theft protection, necessitating additional security measures. Fortunately, truck owners have solutions including camper shells, tonneau covers, and lockable cargo drawer systems.
2. What Are Your Storage Options?
Soft Goods Racks:
Soft luggage racks are essentially lightweight, flexible bags made from durable materials, designed to sit atop vehicle roofs. Ideal for those seeking flexibility, lightweight portability, and easy storage when not in use, these racks are perfect. Soft rooftop racks are particularly suitable for vehicles without roof racks or roof rack crossbar, as they can be directly secured to the roof using straps. While some products may not keep items dry in heavy rain, their pliable material makes them ideal for irregularly shaped items.
Soft Shell Boxes:
Soft shell boxes are not made of rigid plastic but rather durable, flexible materials. Ranging from 250 to 450 liters in capacity, they provide ample storage akin to hard-shell boxes but are lighter in weight (6 to 8 pounds compared to over 20 pounds for hard-shell counterparts), making them easier to install, dismantle, and fold away when not in use. Soft shell boxes are generally more budget-friendly and ideal for those new to roof storage or on a tight budget.
Advantages:
- Generous storage space.
- Easy to store and install.
- No need for crossbars.
Disadvantages:
- Poor aerodynamic performance.
- Risk of puncturing materials with sharp-edged items.
Considerations:
- Opt for durable, waterproof, and wind-resistant materials like vinyl or PVC.
- Double-seam construction and covered zippers for effective weatherproofing.
- Compression straps to secure cargo.
Hard Goods Transport:
Often the preferred choice among buyers of roof cargo solutions due to their robust structure and safety features. Hard roof cargo boxes feature sturdy frameworks capable of withstanding highway debris (e.g., rocks) and extreme weather changes. Their distinct shapes enhance aerodynamics, reducing drag even at high speeds.
Roof hard shell boxes come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate items ranging from seven pairs of skis for a family to a month's worth of summer camping gear. Constructed from robust composite plastics, they reliably withstand years of weather exposure, weighing up to 60 pounds and priced as high as $800, though some can hold over 500 liters. Most hard shell boxes feature built-in lock mechanisms for added security.
Advantages:
- Maximum storage space.
- Highly durable.
- Enhanced safety features.
Disadvantages:
- Heavyweight, expensive.
- May require additional installation equipment (crossbars).
- Cumbersome to store.
- Some may be too long for compact cars.
Considerations:
- Dual-side opening—facilitates easier organization and access from both sides of the box.
- Internal tie-downs to secure items and prevent shifting during travel.
- Consider aerodynamics, crucial for long-distance intercity travel.
- Box shape also impacts noise levels and fuel efficiency.
Roof Racks:
Roof racks provide a versatile platform for transporting various types of gear, from bicycles and kayaks to camping equipment and even roof boxes. They offer enhanced utility and storage solutions, particularly for vehicles lacking sufficient interior space. Roof racks come in various configurations, including crossbars mounted directly onto the vehicle's roof rails or raised side rails, facilitating the attachment of specialized carriers and containers.
MELIPRON also provides a rooftop rack platform, engineered from aluminum with black powder coating, rust-proof and anti-corrosion, durable, and lightweight. Flat cargo platform roof rack has T-slots everywhere, you can install kayaks, bicycles, luggage, etc. via brackets. Free up car space and satisfy your different needs for road, land, and off-road trips.
Types of Roof Racks:Raised Rail Roof Racks:
- Suitable for vehicles equipped with factory-installed raised side rails, providing a solid foundation for crossbar installation.
Crossbar Roof Racks:
- Utilized on vehicles with flush-mounted side rails, these racks feature adjustable crossbars for accommodating various cargo carriers.
Fixed Point Roof Racks:
- Mounted to predefined anchor points on the vehicle's roof, offering a secure and integrated solution with reduced wind noise and improved aerodynamics.
Track System Roof Racks:
- Incorporate a sliding track system allowing for adjustable crossbar positioning along the vehicle's roof, optimizing cargo placement and load distribution.
Cargo Carriers:
Cargo carriers are designed to complement roof racks, enhancing vehicle utility and expanding storage capacity for bulky or oversized items. Available in diverse styles and materials, these carriers include:
Roof Basket:
- Open-grid platforms ideal for carrying camping gear, coolers, and oversized equipment.
Cargo Boxes:
- Enclosed compartments safeguarding gear from the elements, offering increased security and organization for road trips and outdoor adventures.
Ski and Snowboard Carriers:
- Specialized racks designed to safely transport winter sports equipment, featuring soft rubber inserts to protect gear from scratches and damage.
Canoe and Kayak Roof Carrier:
- Adjustable carriers accommodating watercraft of varying sizes, ensuring secure transport to and from outdoor destinations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right storage solution for overland travel involves assessing vehicle compatibility, storage needs, and intended usage. Whether opting for soft goods racks, hard shell boxes, or versatile roof racks, prioritizing durability, weather resistance, and ease of installation is crucial. These considerations ensure that your vehicle remains well-equipped for exploring remote destinations while safeguarding your gear from the elements. With the right equipment in place, overland travel becomes not just a journey but an immersive experience in outdoor exploration and adventure.