Cargo boxes, racks make it easy to bring along the fun

Ever wonder how to get your outdoor equipment for bicycling, kayaking or camping to your destination without damaging your vehicle, gear or family peace? Cargo boxes, racks, baskets and bags provide that extra space.

“Cargo boxes are popular because cars are getting smaller,” said John Bauer, founder of Rack N Road stores. “These are great for camping, family vacations and for dog owners. The dog takes up a lot of cargo space.”

Rooftop or rear-mounted cargo storage is available in various forms and sizes, and Bauer recommended choosing one sized for your car and the items you’ll be transporting.

Hard shell cargo boxes usually include a lock, giving you a second level of protection for your belongings. If you travel during an unexpected rainstorm, the hard shell keeps your gear safe and dry.

“I haven’t seen one that was broken into during my 20 years in this business,” Bauer said.

Hard shell, rooftop carriers are designed for aerodynamics and help reduce wind resistance, too. They mount directly to bar systems, don’t touch the roof, weigh less and reduce wind noise.

Other rooftop options include baskets and bags. Baskets offer more storage options but less protection against the elements and possible theft.

A good alternative to the basket or the hard shell storage is the rooftop storage bag, Bauer said. These protect your gear from weather, are aerodynamically styled for gas savings, fold flat when empty and may be mounted with or without a roof rack.

Racks may be factory installed, mounted in the door jamb or mounted permanently to the roof. Sports utility vehicles often have factory-included rails that make attaching specialty boxes or racks quick and easy.

“More often, we’re doing a permanent mount on the roof,” Bauer said. “It’s a tailored fit for the gear and the vehicle.”

If you prefer to mount at waist level, hard shell cargo boxes, wire baskets and weather-resistant bags are an option, Bauer said. Trailers can accommodate bike racks. And whether you carry cargo on the roof or in the rear, your vehicle will be either taller or longer.

“Watch out for low parking garages or even your own garage,” Bauer said. “We see people come in about once a week with damaged racks because they forgot about the rack.”

With so many options, how do you choose? Bauer offered the following suggestions:

• Rooftop systems should be shorter than the roofline. “Any part of it hanging over the windshield will cause added drag,” Bauer said.
• A kayak or surfboard requires a different system than if you’re carrying bikes or camping supplies. Smaller items like tents and sleeping bags can be carried in bags or boxes. Kayaks, surfboards and bikes can be carried on the roof or in the rear, even on a trailer.
• Check your vehicle’s year, make and model for systems that will fit. One size does not fit all vehicles. Major cargo manufacturers have fit guides or visit your local shop for a custom fit.
• Small cargo trailers provide convenient storage for almost any-sized vehicle. With a hitch, you can haul an open or enclosed trailer and get your gear safely to your destination.
• Choose a hard shell, lockable container to keep your cargo safe from the elements and thieves. These are available in many sizes and can be used on the roof or in the rear of the vehicle.

“It should look and function properly on your vehicle, based on what you are carrying, whether golf clubs in the summer or skis in the winter,” Bauer said.