Alans17
Well-Known Member
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I’m looking at ways to expand storage for a road trip later this year and exploring roof racks and cargo carriers. I feel like I’ve identified the pros and cons of each, but I’d be curious to hear what y’all are doing and why.
Here’s what I think are the pros and cons of each. Seems like most of the pros of each are the cons of the other and vice versa. It may just be a matter of opinion and they aren’t mutually exclusive.
Roof rack:
Pros
Pros
Pros
FWIW, I do plan to do some wheeling, but I could remove a hitch cargo carrier if I go that route. Right now I’m leaning towards the hitch cargo carrier since it’s cheaper and won’t get used that often. Plus we will be loading and unloading a lot so having it all near the ground would be convenient.
The second option would be a DIY bed rack to keep costs low. But I’m still open to any option if someone can think of something I haven’t.
Thoughts?
Here’s what I think are the pros and cons of each. Seems like most of the pros of each are the cons of the other and vice versa. It may just be a matter of opinion and they aren’t mutually exclusive.
Roof rack:
Pros
can be left on permanently
easy to wheel with it on
doesn’t impede tailgate or back up camera
some models offer mounts for lights
Consrelatively expensive
difficult to access if bed is full
may impede freedom panel removal
raises center of gravity
potential fuel economy hit
relatively low weight capacity
Hitch cargo carrier:Pros
relatively inexpensive
easy to reach stuff
freedom panels can still be easily removed
doesnt impact center of gravity
minimal impact to fuel economy
can be used easily on multiple vehicles
high weight capacity
Consimpedes tailgate and back up camera
kills departure angle while wheeling
must have a place to store it when not in use
makes vehicle longer
Bed rack:Pros
doesn’t impede roof or freedom panel removal
Can be stored on vehicle
higher potential weight capacity over roof rack
minimal fuel economy if impact if mid height rack
Consimpedes rearview mirror
raises center of gravity
expensive
may be inconvenient to access
FWIW, I do plan to do some wheeling, but I could remove a hitch cargo carrier if I go that route. Right now I’m leaning towards the hitch cargo carrier since it’s cheaper and won’t get used that often. Plus we will be loading and unloading a lot so having it all near the ground would be convenient.
The second option would be a DIY bed rack to keep costs low. But I’m still open to any option if someone can think of something I haven’t.
Thoughts?
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