Which Cargo Carrier is Right for Your Vehicle?

When the opportunity for a trip comes up, the last thing you want to worry about is whether you have enough space to bring the gear you need. From your weekend getaways to cross-country trips, the right cargo carrier can make all of the difference in keeping your trip organized, secure, and stress-free! But, with so many different options on the market, it can be stressful to know which one is right for your vehicle and lifestyle. 

Let's break down the main options and highlight some of our favorite brands. 

1. Roof Racks

Roof racks are the most versatile way to expand your vehicle's carrying capacity. Perfect for bulky items like your roof top tent, kayaks, snowboards, or cargo boxes, a quality roof rack system can use unused roof space and turn it into extra functional storage. The plus side is they make roof racks for almost every SUV and truck on the market with lots of different styles to choose from. 

- Rhino Rack: Known for their rugged durability and modular accessories, Rhino Rack is ideal for off-roaders or overlanders who need a system that can handle rough trails.

-Front Runner: Their slimline rack is one of our most sold racks at the shop and for good reason! It's lightweight, low profile, and has a range of bolt on accessories to match your lifestyle making it one of the ultimate racks on the market. 

-Yakima: A great choice for families and everyday adventures, Yakima offers user-friendly mounting systems, aerodynamic designs, and plenty of cargo box options for skis, bikes, and camping gear. 

-ARB: Trusted by overlanders worldwide, ARB roof racks are built tough for heavy duty expeditions. With steel and alloy options, they're designed for extreme durability and seamless integration with ARB's wide range of accessories. 

-Some other favorites include, but are not limited to, Prinsu and Leitner Designs. 

Best for: Adventures who want flexibility and plan to carry a wide variety of gear on top of their vehicle. 

2. Hitch Racks

If your vehicle has a hitch, you can add extra storage without touching the roof. Hitch racks are ideal because you can keep heavy gear low to the ground which makes it easier to load and unload. 

-Yakima EXO System: A modular hitch mounted system that lets you swap between cargo boxes, bike racks, and even kitchen setups. This is perfect for families that do it all! 

-Pakmule: Made in the USA, Pakmule racks are 100% aluminum, rust-proof, and built to handle some serious loads. With multiple add-on options, they're a favorite for hunters, campers, and anyone who needs a lightweight but strong hitch solution. Make sure you also check out their MotoMule for dirtbikes! 

Best for: Those who want easy access, carry heavy gear like coolers, or don't want to life their cargo overhead. 

3. Rear Storage Systems

Sometimes, it's not about needing extra space, but making better use of the space that you already have. Rear storage systems and seat deletes help you create more interior space and keep you organized, protect your gear from moving around, and making packing up fast and efficient.

-Goose Gear: Precision-built storage solutions like drawers, seat deletes, and camp kitchens that are vehicle specific and designed to fit perfectly in your vehicle. 

-Decked: Drawer systems built tough enough for work trucks and off-road rigs, offering secure lock-able storage for your truck bed while also keeping it functional. 

-ARB: Roller drawers from ARB are heavy duty, modular systems designed for overlanders and 4x4 enthusiasts. Built from corrosion-resistant aluminum, they provide smooth sliding access and customizable organization for gear, tools, and camping essentials. 

Best for: Overlanders, campers, and work professionals who want a clutter-free, organized setup inside their rig or in the bed. 

Choosing the Right Cargo Carrier for You

When deciding which solution is right for you, you should consider the following. 

-Vehicle Type: Do you have a truck, SUV, or a crossover? Do you have a hitch or roof rails on your vehicle?

-Weight limits: Roof racks and hitch systems have different load ratings so make sure you choose a setup that can handle your gear. It's also important to take note of your vehicles roof weight rating. 

-Gear Types: Bikes, skis, tools, recovery gear, camp kitchen-each may call for a different solution. 

-Access and convenience: Do you prefer everything within reach in your vehicle? Or, do you want to maximize space?

We work with trusted brands like the ones mentioned above because they deliver durability, thoughtful design, and peace of mind carrying your gear. Whether you're gearing up for an overland trip or packing to drop your kid off at college, we'll help you find the cargo carrier that is right for you. 

Give us a call at 908-454-6973 or email us at sales@ok4wd.com for assistance in picking the right setup!