All Overlanding Essentials

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Base roof racks

• A roof rack system includes three components: cross bars that run horizontally across a vehicle's roof, towers and fit kits or clips
• Cross bars serve as the base for attaching other racks, such as cargo roof boxes, roof bike racks or kayak racks

Bike racks

Options include:

• Bike hitch racks attach to a vehicle trailer hitch
• Roof bike racks secure your bike to cross bars by attaching the bike's fork, frame or wheels
• Trunk car racks attach to trunks or rear hatches with straps

Watercraft racks

Options like J-cradles are designed to carry kayaks, paddle boards or canoes

Ski and snowboard racks

Roof-mounted options require crossbars while hitch-mounted options secure skis and snowboards on the back of the vehicle

Cargo roof boxes

These hard-sided containers mount to a roof rack and keep gear secure. They're versatile for storing long, loose or odd-size gear in an enclosed system.

Where on your car do you want to haul gear?

• Roof carriers leave your trunk free but require lifting gear overhead
• Trailer hitch racks secure gear on the back of your vehicle

Which rack fits your vehicle?

Use brand guides find car racks that fit your vehicle.

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• Cargo roof box: Offers the most capacity and easy access to trunk; ideal for longer items like skis or odd-shaped loose gear; requires lifting gear overhead
• Hitch cargo box: Easier to load and unload, more aerodynamic than roof options, but may limit access to your trunk
• Cargo roof basket: An affordable option when hauling bulky items that can’t neatly fit inside a contained cargo box, like camp chairs
• Cargo roof bag: Soft-sided affordable option that doesn't require a car roof rack; can be folded and stored when not in use

What size will you need?

Consider who and what you will be hauling, as well as the vehicle hauling it with.

• Length: If you plan on carrying skis or lengthy items, consider a box that's at least 6 feet long. Otherwise, a length between 4 to 6 feet will work just fine
• Gear capacity: Smaller boxes work well for solo travelers or two-person trips, while families may need a larger box