Are you seeking a fast and safe way to transport your luggage on a car roof rack? Very well. If this is your desire, I assure you you’ve come to the right place. Luggage is a perfect medium to pack your things sophisticatedly and free up space inside the vehicle.
In this article, I’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of safely and efficiently loading your luggage on a roof rack. So, let’s check how to put luggage on a car roof rack without a hassle. Let’s check:
How to Properly Load Luggage on a Roof Rack? Secure and Organize
If your car doesn’t have adequate space inside to fit the belongings you need, it might be very frustrating for you. You can easily convey your load on the rack. Besides, you must know how to use the roof rack’s space in the best way. In that case, you must understand how to properly load luggage on the rack.
Let’s check how you can properly load luggage on the roof rack –
Purchase the Right Rack
Before loading your luggage, ensure that you have a suitable roof rack installed on your vehicle. Roof racks come in various shapes and sizes. So select one that is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model. Hence, choosing a rack with a weight capacity that can fit your willful load is vital.
It will be best for you if you can purchase a specific roof-mounted roof rack. In that case, you can consider purchasing Thule ProRide 591 Bicycle Carrier Roof-Mounted Rack or RockyMounts Tomahawk Upright Mount. Both are leading the market and incredibly reliable due to their high-load capacity and sturdy materials.
Cam Straps
Cam straps are the most sophisticated media to load luggage on the roof rack. They won’t let your luggage slip off the rack and hold it tight. Therefore, it will be your best decision if you choose to use a heavy-duty piece like cam or ratchet straps.
Ensure that the straps are of appropriate length and width, capable of holding the load securely in place. These straps’ holding capability is mesmerizing and can offer the ultimate security.
Bungee Cords
Bungee Cords are perfect for tying your loads for the second time. You can’t consider them for primary use since they’re a bit hard to handle. But they can bring added security measurement for the secondary role.
Use Protective Covers
If your luggage is not packed in protective covers or bags, you must consider investing in them. Waterproof covers and durable bags are vital. Consequently, they can safeguard your items from rain, dust, and other potential hazards during travel from one place to another.
Take Help from Somebody
If you can’t put your luggage ideally on the rack, you can take assistance from somebody. It’s not bad if you fail to do all of it yourself. Don’t let your ego go too high! Henceforth, if you need help, take it and put the luggage properly. End of the day, you need the ultimate security above anything else.
Double-Check the Security
After securing the luggage, take a moment to inspect the load. Give each strap a gentle tug to confirm that everything is tightly fastened. Additionally, gently shake the luggage slightly. So you can check for any signs of movement. If any adjustments are needed, do it instantly. As a result, you can ensure a safe journey.
Check Vehicle Clearance and Height Restrictions
Before hitting the road, ensure the loaded luggage does not exceed the maximum height restrictions set by local authorities or the roof rack manufacturer.
Additionally, consider the height clearance for parking garages, low bridges, and other potential obstacles on your route. Adjust the load if necessary to maintain safe clearance.
Before Loading the Luggage on the Rack
You need to care about some essential things before loading the luggage on the roof rack –
Check the Vehicle’s Weight Limit
Before putting your luggage into the rack or the vehicle’s roof, you must know their weight limit. Don’t worry about it. You can easily find out the weight limit of their respective manuals. Further, you can also find the weight limit on the Google search.
Put the Heavy Products on Top
It would be wise to put heavier products on the vehicle top. Then, put the smaller or lighter ones in the middle or last segment.
Distribute Weight Evenly
To maintain stability and prevent any damage to your vehicle, it is crucial to distribute the weight evenly across the roof rack. Therefore, the weight of your vehicle should be distributed along the roof to maintain balance. This will help maintain the vehicle’s center of gravity.
Further, it will significantly reduce the risk of instability or tipping during the journey.
Things to Do While Driving on the Road
Your task isn’t complete after putting luggage on the car roof rack. You also need to do something while driving on the road –
Drive Safely
Once you secure your luggage, you’re ready to hit the road. However, your driving style should change now that you’re carrying an additional load on the roof. Remember that the roof load will affect your car’s overall height and weight.
So drive with caution and maintain the advised speed limit. Don’t forget to listen to the sounds of the wind – if you hear anything suspiciously loud, please pull over and check your luggage.
Stop and Check the Luggage
Stop and check the luggage every 30 minutes. Moreover, you should check the straps whether they’re tightly knotted. If you find that everything is ok, you can move on.
Final Words
Loading your luggage properly on a roof rack is essential for a safe and stress-free journey. By following these steps, you can ensure that your belongings are securely fastened and evenly distributed. Further, it can reduce the risk of accidents or damage to your vehicle.
Always check your vehicle’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific roof rack model. Let’s try these techniques the next time you go on a trip. Safe travels!
F.A.Q.s
Can I put my suitcase on the roof rack?
Yes, you can put it since roof racks are made for carrying various types of luggage. However, before placing a suitcase, you must consider its weight limit, weight distribution, manufacturer’s instructions, etc.
Can I exceed the weight limit without a sturdy roof rack?
No, it’s crucial never to exceed the weight limit specified by the vehicle and roof rack manufacturers. Even if the roof rack seems sturdy, exceeding the weight limit can compromise the vehicle’s handling and safety. So, beware of it and don’t make a mistake since it can be too costly.
How do I protect my luggage from weather conditions?
If your luggage is not waterproof or weather-resistant, consider using protective covers, bags, or tarps. This helps shield your luggage from rain, dust, and other external elements during the journey. As a result, your trip will be excellent and tension-free.
