Whether you’re preparing for a bike ride, hitting the slopes of a ski area or just packing up all your gear before heading out on vacation; carrying it is key. Strapping down anything that could potentially fly off and because injury is essential in ensuring nothing gets lost along the way.
Step 1: Choosing a Cargo Carrier
Carrying cargo is a task that requires great attention to detail. There are many different types of carriers, each with their own benefits and drawbacks- so it’s important you know what features matter the most for your needs before making any purchases or decisions! Think about how much gear will be going into storage on top of whatever else might need protection from weather elements such as rain storms at sea (or even just rough seas.
Roof Bags
Roof bags offer the same protection from rain and snow as a hard-shell roof box. Roof boxes are more secure, have an extra layer of security in case it slides off when being towed on your vehicle’s rack or if you drive over something sharp with no bag attached (the latter can happen), but there is always some level chance at what would otherwise be extremely unlikely: losing everything inside due its perforated design which provides ventilation while retaining moisture levels below 50%.
Bag makers know this vulnerability well so most also make sure their products come equipped with straps meant for mounting onto appropriate surfaces such as naked rooftops without any sort bestowing upon them too much aerodynamic drag either through sleek lines.
Trays and Roof Baskets
Roof baskets and trays are an essential part of your camping gear because they allow you to stack everything on top. However, if there is no ground beneath them or some other form of protection from moisture then these containers will not provide enough stability for storing wet clothing that has been left out in the rain all day long. To solve this problem consider getting yourself one/two waterproof bags designed specifically with roofs catering towards campers who need extra storage space during vacations at mountain cabins.
Roof Boxes
Roof boxes are the best option for long term storage. They offer superior security by enclosing your gear and protecting it from rain, snow or sunlight damage that can ruin irreplaceable possessions like clothes. Roof bags make great vehicle camping essentials as well because they’re easy to transport anywhere you go (especially with roof racks for suv). However, if footprinting is an issue then consider buying one of these instead – just remember not all models fit every type of car.
Step 2: Strapping Down Your Gear
The tie-down process varies depending on which carrier type you plan to use, but they are all really simple. Make sure the carabiner has been installed correctly before loading cargo in order for it not break or otherwise fail during transit. If this doesn’t work and your load becomes unsecured while being towed behind a vehicle don’t worry. Simply unhooking both sides will release whatever tension was applied when connecting them together so that nothing gets damaged by accident due its weight alone (unless there were other issues).
Roof Baskets and Trays
To load your basket, first install the roof rack and secure it to your vehicle with straps. Make sure that any items on top of or near where they connect can’t fall off while driving as this could cause serious injury. If there is not enough height for baggage under these conditions attach them by tying down ropes around posts along both sides of the crossbar (first image below).
Baskets make great storage spaces since most vehicles don’t come equipped with adequate deep cabinets inside- otherwise all those things pushed up against door jambs would be lost forever facing eternity in obscurity behinds.
A roof luggage rack net can also be used to help secure your belongings. However, note that it’s often difficult to find a net suited for the exact size of your particular load and as such may not securely hold onto what you’re transporting in place without straps first (or even better: both). Some nets come with their own set; others allow Cargo Straps of rooftop cargo bag which attach easily under any car or truck hood when needed.
To attach a cargo net, drape it over your luggage on the roof basket or tray. Attach the hook of each end with some strong adhesive if needed and you are all set.
FAQ’s
Q. Is it considered illegal if you tie something on the roof of your car?
A. Roof bags are not illegal but they do need to be tied securely so you don’t end up in jail. The proper way of tying these items will ensure that an officer won’t arrest your butt for something it wasn’t even against the law.
Q. Are Cargo boxes secure on the roof of a car?
A. As with the car, it’s possible to secure your roof box in such a way that makes break-ins nearly impossible. You can lock down any windows or rooftop access points on top of securely locking its contents within an inner container making them much less tempting for thieves looking to take advantage during emergencies.
Q. Does the cargo box need to be centered?
A. The best place for a cargo box is on the side of your car that faces away from traffic. If you want to install it somewhere else, we recommend mounting them behind seats or in back so they don’t get in people’s way while driving down the road.