NFT: NFT: Cargo carriers for SUV

And would get a get rails and a cargo box despite the expense. Haven’t used one myself, but a friend did. If you choose to go the route:

1) Get the optional roof mat. Will help hold the bag in place.
2) Make sure you fill the bag all the way. If you don’t, it will flap around and be likely to rip, and could possibly loosen the straps.
3) Make sure whatever you put in is watertight/proof.
4) Be prepared to keep your speed down and for a very loud trip.
5) Check the straps frequently and make sure it’s tight.

You can use one of these tow hitch carriers. I had one for my Jeep. Easy, comes right on and right off the hitch and there are different sizes and weight ratings. Perfect if you have a hitch.

also saves wear and tear on your car

shaped carrier for my existing roof rack. Its contents were very light. In a trip from N.Y to AZ, my gas mileage went from my usual over the road mileage of 28 mpg down to 13 mpg. Just something that people usually don't think of when carrying items on the top of the car.

Kanga “Hurricane” Roof Pouch.

The great thing is it folds up to nothing when not in use. The straps work without roof rails, though I prefer to tie to rails...

In comment 14476575 carpoon said:

Quote:

shaped carrier for my existing roof rack. Its contents were very light. In a trip from N.Y to AZ, my gas mileage went from my usual over the road mileage of 28 mpg down to 13 mpg. Just something that people usually don't think of when carrying items on the top of the car.

and the extra RPM's needed to maintain your speed is probably pretty hard on the engine

similar that we use maybe once or twice a year, usually when traveling around Christmas because of all the extra crap we have. I believe it's called Roofbag. It's not perfect but gets the job done. I have an SUV without roof rails. I bought the optional mat but I'm not sure it did much and ripped after the second use. The optional duffel bags came in handy.

Obviously, just be sure to tie secure it tightly and don't leave the excess from the straps on the outside of the car, it will make a horrible buzzing noise.

I am going to take a look at this thing as the local Walmart has the 10 cu FT version. That will at least give me an idea. Pete I wasn't sure about the mat. The reviews on the mat were only so-so with people saying similar things as you.

I Love Clams Casino. I will look in the rental idea. That never crossed my mind. Renting a bigger truck may be a solution.

carpoon: I didn't the mileage would drop that much. Damn!

Jim in Fairfax. The things you mentioned have me thinking. Thanks.

I will look up the Kanga as well

My daughter is a traveling nurse and purchased the rightline, she planned to use that while saving for a roof rack and carrier (which are way way more expensive). Four years later and after round trips from NJ to NC, FL, Boston, AZ and UT she still has it and never had a problem. The only assignment it didn't make the trip for was Hawaii but that's explainable.

A couple of tips, use something to protect the roof of the car (she uses an old yoga mat that she cut to the perfect size). Don't leave it on the car too long, again to protect the paint. Finally, you have to secure the straps (and cut the yoga mat correctly) so they don't make noise. It took us 2 or 3 stops the first time we used it until we got things right.

I use a cartop carrier every time I drive up to New England from my home in Florida. I usually lose only 3 or 4 mpg, unlike Carpoon's experience.

Thank you for all the info.

I went with the 15cu Rightline 100% waterproof sport version. It was on sale at Walmart for a lot less than ordering it online. The mat was also on sale. With the savings it came to $120 with the mat compared to buying them together online at $171.

I will take all the suggestions you gave about using the bag (including putting some things in plastic to be safe) and give it a go.

Thank you again. Appreciate the help.