Carrying a roof rack equipped with a travel cargo carrier can be a great way to get a little extra storage space. However, it can present some dangers as well. Nowadays you can find roof racks with cargo carriers, bike racks, canoe racks, and much more. It’s very important to make sure that you have picked out one that is designed for your car. In addition, installation is key in making sure it can’t get loose while driving. Make sure and be aware that your car is now taller. In addition, your car might be more top-heavy, so be careful. And finally, know the weight limits of your roof rack and your car as well. Roof racks can help create extra storage space, but be mindful that you are using them properly.
Vacationing Safety: Tips for Your Roof Rack and Other Equipment
Proper Installation
It’s important to make sure that you pick out equipment for your roof rack that is specific to your car. Some rigs are made for many different vehicles, but you’ll want to check the specifications of your car and the rack. You can usually find these in your driver’s manual. In addition, you must install the roof rack equipment properly. An improperly secured roof rack could come off of your car and create a major hazard for other drivers.
New Height
If you drive a normal SUV or car, you’ve probably never paid much attention to the maximum height signs in parking decks and overpasses. However, if you’ve attached something to your roof rack, make sure that you are aware of the new height of your car. For example, if you’ve mounted bikes vertically on top of your car you may no longer fit in some parking decks. You wouldn’t want to crack your equipment on a low ceiling.
Different Weight Distribution
In addition to a new height, your car’s weight distribution might be different when you attach something to your roof rack. If what you’re carrying is extremely heavy it can cause your car to be more top-heavy than usual. If this is the case, you’ll be more likely to get into rollover accidents. Make sure and be extra careful if it’s very windy out. You’ll also want to slow down more for sharp turns to prevent your car from becoming unbalanced.
Know Weight Limits
Finally, it’s important to know the weight limits of your car. Also, know the weight limit of your roof rack when attaching equipment. If you’ve already packed your car very full and are attaching more onto the roof, you can overload the vehicle. This can cause extra strain on your tires and engine. It can even cause tire blowouts in extreme cases. Your owner’s manual should have weight specifications for your vehicle and your roof rack. Check them before attaching extremely heavy equipment.
Attaching equipment or cargo carriers to your car’s roof rack can be a great way to get a little extra storage space. However, it can cause some issues and you’ll want to do your research beforehand. Make sure and purchase gear that works with your car and install it correctly. In addition, keep in mind that your car is now going to be taller than usual, so be aware of low-clearance areas. Your car might also be more top-heavy than usual so take that into account when driving. Finally, make sure that your car and your roof rack can handle the extra weight you plan to put up there. Finding a roof rack rig that works for all of your vacationing needs can be a great way to save a little space in your car and maximize the fun gear you can take with you on a trip.