When you’re preparing for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, packing all of your gear can often be a challenge. From camping equipment to fishing rods, many of these activities require tools and items that are too large to fit in a car’s trunk or backseat. Not only can this be inconvenient, but it can also make the journey quite uncomfortable.
Fortunately, modern problems call for modern solutions, and with the rise of roof racks, the transportation challenges associated with outdoor activities have become much easier to manage. You’re no longer limited by the size of your vehicle’s interior – you can now easily and safely move all of your items from one destination to another in just a few steps.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Roof Rack?
While the purpose and use of stable and non-slip roof racks are often obvious, the full list of benefits is often overlooked. Many of us don’t even realise how much time and energy this particular kind of storage can save us, in addition to improving our overall driving experience.
Increased Vehicle Storage Space
Starting off with the obvious, they provide an additional storage space for larger items that just won’t fit in your car. You can now carry extra tools and camping gear without worrying about packing them into the cabin of your vehicle. This gives you a wider variety of options when it comes to outdoor activities, and allows you to take the items you need with you wherever you go.
Gone are the days of being limited to the space of a car’s interior – your vehicle can now become a true outdoor companion. You can use your roof rack to its fullest potential and you can easily carry your camping gear, luggage, fishing rods and more.
Ability to Transport Large Items
Let’s say you don’t have the luxury of driving an SUV or a van that can comfortably hold your entire family’s luggage or even a whole set of bikes and camping gear. That’s where roof racks come in handy. The ability to transport large items while keeping your trunk free and clear is another great benefit of having a roof rack on your vehicle.
This storage solution also offers an improved driving experience, as it allows you to easily move heavy items without compromising the interior space of your car or SUV. They’re extremely sturdy and durable, so you can rest assured that your items will be securely stored during transport.
Enhanced Vehicle Functionality
When you free up space in the interior of your vehicle, you also give yourself more options when it comes to using that space. Whether you’re planning a family road trip or are just looking for extra storage room on the weekends, roof racks offer enhanced vehicle functionality and improved convenience.
You can fit all of your items safely into the dedicated rack space and not have to worry about cramming them into the backseat. This also improves the overall comfort of your vehicle, making it much more enjoyable to drive around with all of your belongings safely secured in one place.
How Do You Choose a Roof Rack?
Now that you know how useful roof racks can be, let’s look at some factors that determine the overall quality and performance. After all, you can’t just go for the first model you see – there are certain things to consider in order to get one that meets your needs.
Vehicle Compatibility
Not all roof racks are compatible with all vehicles, so it’s important to make sure you get one that fits your car perfectly. Take into account the size and shape of your vehicle as well as the type of rack that best suits its design.
For instance, if your car has a curved roofline or an extra-tall profile, then it’s best to look for a specific rack that fits those specifications. This is especially true for bike racks and loading platforms as they require very precise measurements.
Load Capacity
The load capacity of the roof rack will determine whether you’ll be able to store all of your items safely and securely. Make sure you get one with enough weight capacity to handle the load that you plan to carry, or else it won’t be able to do its job properly.
To get a better understanding of the weight capacity you need, check out the manufacturer’s website or the user manual to find this information. Also pay attention to any additional features that can help you maximize its load capacity, such as tie-down loops and extra support bars.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since roof racks are exposed to all kinds of weather conditions, it’s only natural to make sure that you get one that can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Look for ones made from materials such as aluminium and stainless steel, as they are more resistant to rust and corrosion.
Also check for any additional features designed to protect your items during transport, such as waterproof covers or rain guards. These will help keep your gear dry even in the most extreme weather conditions.
Ease of Installation and Removal
Getting the right roof rack is only half of the job – you also need to be able to install it on your vehicle with ease. Look for ones that come with a simple, tool-free installation process and are easy to remove when not in use. This will save you time and effort when it comes to loading up your vehicle for your next outdoor adventure.
Noise Level While Driving
The last thing you want is a noisy roof rack that will make driving uncomfortable. Make sure you check for reviews online or ask the manufacturer about this before making a purchase. Most models are designed with noise-reducing features such as rubber-padded clamps, aerodynamic shapes and rubber strips to reduce drag.
Maintenance Requirements
Of course, you also need to factor in the maintenance requirements of your roof rack. Regular cleaning and inspection are important in order to keep it in good condition and ensure its long-term performance. Check for any specific instructions that come with the product or ask a professional if needed.
Additionally, make sure to look for parts that are easy to replace in case of a malfunction or accident. This will help you save time and money when it comes to repairs or replacements, as well as give you peace of mind that your roof rack will keep performing at its best.
