Choosing a Luggage Carrier For Your Car

Stuffing the car for a road trip can feel like a game of Tetris, but having extra space for people and luggage helps everyone enjoy the ride. A luggage carrier for your car frees up valuable interior space, while also enhancing vehicle safety by shifting the weight of the cargo to the roof. This helps keep the center of gravity low and minimizes the risk of rolling over during high-speed turns or sudden stops.

Car top carriers are available in a variety of materials, shapes and sizes to fit your specific needs. Some require rack rails, while others attach directly to your car’s roof via straps or a trailer hitch. Look for a cargo box with dual-sided opening capacity for easy access to gear, an internal compartment that’s watertight and weatherproof, and a sturdy design that can withstand road debris without damage.

If you choose a roof-mounted cargo bag, be sure to secure it properly with ratchet straps. Loose baggage can fly off during rough driving, potentially damaging your car or injuring passengers. Unsecured loads account for preventable crashes, injuries and property damage every year.