A car roof rack is an accessory that allows you to carry extra or bulky items on your car's roof, freeing up space inside the vehicle. It's especially useful for long trips, moving, or when you need to transport bulky equipment such as bicycles, suitcases, skis, or sports equipment.
Types of Car Roof Racks
Car Roof Box
A roof box is a closed container that attaches to the roof of your vehicle. These boxes offer a large load capacity while protecting items from dust, rain, and other weather elements.
Advantages :
Safety and protection for the load.
Higher load capacity than other types of roof racks.
Key lock for added security.
Disadvantages :
It increases the height of the vehicle, so care must be taken with low structures.
Slightly higher fuel consumption due to aerodynamic drag.
Net or strap luggage rack
This type of roof rack is an elastic net or a series of straps that allow you to secure bulky or bulky items to the vehicle's roof without using a box. It's often used for non-fragile loads, such as sports bags, backpacks, or blankets.
Advantages :
Lightweight and easy to assemble.
Cheaper than roof boxes.
It takes up little space when not in use.
Disadvantages :
Less safe than a closed box.
It does not protect the contents from the elements.
Universal Luggage Rack
Universal roof racks are generally metal platforms or racks that mount on the vehicle's roof. They can be used to carry items of various shapes and sizes and are equipped with side bars to secure the load.
Advantages :
Very versatile and adaptable to different types of objects.
Easy access to transported items.
Good strength and load capacity.
Disadvantages :
They expose the cargo to the elements.
They require a securing system (straps or netting) to keep the load secure.
Roof Bike Rack
This type of rack is specifically designed to transport bicycles. It is mounted on the roof of the vehicle, where the bicycle is secured using a special bracket.
Advantages :
Safe and stable for transporting bicycles.
It doesn't take up space in the trunk.
Disadvantages :
Requires the vehicle to be equipped with roof racks.
It may be inconvenient to mount heavy bicycles on the roof.
Rear or tow hook bike rack
While not technically “roof” racks, bike racks that mount to the rear of your car or to the towbar are another option for carrying gear without taking up your roof.
Advantages :
Easy to use, allows you to load bicycles quickly.
It does not increase the height of the car.
Disadvantages :
It may obstruct access to the trunk or visibility of the headlights/rear lights.
Some models are not compatible with all vehicles.
Roof racks or roof bars
Roof racks are a support system that mounts directly to the vehicle's roof. These bars can be used to secure various accessories such as roof boxes, bike racks, or other travel equipment.
Advantages :
Versatile and suitable for various types of loads.
They allow you to transport objects of different sizes.
Disadvantages :
They require initial installation on the vehicle.
They do not offer protection from the elements (unless used with a box).
Considerations for Choosing a Car Roof Rack
Vehicle type : Check that the roof rack is compatible with your car type (especially if you don't have roof bars already fitted).
Load capacity : Choose your roof rack based on how much you need to carry. Boxes and net racks have varying capacities, while roof racks allow you to mount various accessories.
Security : If your cargo is valuable or fragile (e.g. sports equipment or electronics), a lockable box is the best choice.
Ease of assembly and disassembly : If you have to frequently assemble and disassemble the roof rack, opt for a solution that is simple and quick to use.
Aerodynamics and fuel economy : Roof boxes and other accessories can increase wind resistance, affecting fuel consumption. Choose an aerodynamic model to minimize this effect.
General Advantages of a Car Roof Rack:
Increased Space : Perfect for long trips or when you need to carry bulky equipment.
Flexibility : You can adapt it to different needs (luggage, sports equipment, etc.).
Convenience : Frees up space in the trunk for other items, keeping the car interior tidier.
