How to Carry Luggage on Top of Your Car

Introduction

When your car cannot accommodate your bags, it may be annoying. Fortunately, the additional space on your car roof allows you to transport your belongings.

You can take your belongings on any long drive if you properly secure them on the car roof. We will take you over every choice available for your roof and how to ensure the safety of your belongings while you're driving.

The best solution to secure your luggage load lengthwise and widthwise is by tying it down straps when carrying your luggage on top of your car. It is also safe to use carriers such as roof boxes, bags, and baskets.

Advantages

• Save space.
• Makes for a more pleasant experience.

Disadvantages

• Roof load impacts driving by elevating the centre of gravity.
• Drive carefully to avoid shifts or damage.
• Clearances on bridges, garages, etc., may need to be revised.
• Increases wind resistance, which lowers fuel efficiency.

1. Consider the Load Capacity

You should never go overboard, even though your car roof gives you additional space to haul around bags and other bulky objects.

Make sure you don't go over the load weight limit on your car by checking it through:

• The owner's manual
• Do a search on the internet for the model and manufacturer of your vehicle to learn the load limit for your car.

It helps to prevent damaging your car; therefore, it is advised that you stay within the limits specified in the owner's manual.

2. Choose a Luggage Carrier

Certain cars come equipped with a roof carrier as normal.

If Not:

• You can install a roof rack attachment that properly fits your car.
• Consider acquiring durable and high-quality crossbars, towers, and mounts, depending on the specifications of your roof rack.

Advantages

• This will provide your luggage with a sturdy base, keeping it safe.
• Although factory-fitted baggage carriers are smooth and provide a flawless fit, some add-on carriers-such as bicycle racks or tents-can support heavier loads and have designs and features customized to meet your unique requirements.

3. Determine the Size of Your Luggage

Before you stack your bags on the top of your car, evaluate the width of the car's roof and your luggage to ensure everything would fit.

• For maximum stability, stack larger bags atop lighter ones.
• It is important to make sure that no objects are sticking out over the windshield that could block the driver's view.

4. Load your Luggage

Make sure the weight is distributed equally throughout your car roof.

• Your baggage must fit within your cross-bar baggage storage spaces, not over them.
• Do not place heavier baggage on one side, this shall affect the car's momentum.
• Place your single-loaded bag in the middle of your car roof.

5. Safeguard your Luggage

You should confirm that everything is securely fastened on the car's roof so that luggage won't move or escape.

To secure your luggage use:

• Ratchet straps: Strong and securely fastened luggage.
• Nylon rope.
• Cinch straps.
• Bungee cords.

Make sure you have enough rope or straps to cover your load at least twice. Thread them through the windows and secure them inside your car for added safety.

6. Protect the roof

To prevent scratches or damage to car roofs from moving luggage, place a thick, soft blanket or net on top of everything before loading. It will provide cushioning to absorb shocks and prevent damage.

Spider Netting is a material that can be used to cover your load and protect it from flying debris.

7. Take a test drive

When driving, be attentive to any sounds of movement or flapping. Take any rattling or clanging noises seriously as a warning to check and secure your load.

8. Drive Safely

The extra weight on the roof will change the car's handling. Drive gently and avoid sudden stops or turns. When driving on the highway, ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Conclusion

Properly loading bags onto a vehicle is essential for a great travel experience. Using the right equipment to transport your belongings can make long journeys more enjoyable. However, be mindful of not overloading your vehicle, as it can be dangerous and secure your luggage properly for a safe trip. Remember to drive carefully, take breaks to check your roof cargo, and prioritize safety above all else.