Making Motor Trend Memories
Car travel tips for transporting extra luggage on a road trip
If you still have luggage leftover after carefully packing the trunk of your car, you may need to invest in a roof rack or cargo carrier to stow your remaining belongings. Driving with parcels attached to the exterior of your vehicle requires extra consideration and the following car travel tips can prepare you for any potential challenges.
Anticipate weather damage. In order to protect items on the roof from any weather conditions you may encounter on the road, use UV resistant, waterproof bags.
Remember your extra load. The expression, "Out of sight, out of mind," can unfortunately lead to damage when driving with a roof rack. Don't forget that the luggage has added height to your car before you enter a parking garage or drive-thru.
Safety precautions. Leaving easily removable belongings attached to your car in a public parking area could result in theft. If you're carrying a large number of items on your road trip, you may want to secure them indoors as soon as you reach your destination before driving (and parking) around town.