I need to get some sort of storage system for camping and traveling. We have 5 kids, so with me and the wife, we fill up either of our D1's. Was looking to get a roof rack (because they look bad ***), but am thinking that maybe a big yakima box (or 2) would be the smarter way to go.

Does anyone know a compelling reason why I should get a rack instead of a box? (other than the bad *** looking argument)??

The costs are about the same, so it isn't a money issue. But If we have a bunch of camping etc... stuff on the rack, then I have to worry about protecting it from the elements.

thanks in advance

 

I guess it depends on what you take camping. If you are just looking for a place to put the sleeping bags and clothes then the cargo box is going to be great. If you are planning on using it to carry things like spare fuel and equipment then I think the rack is the way to go.

As far as future as well there will be a greater market for the cargo boxes if you decide ot get rid of the Rover, the rack would sell too but you may not get your money out of it.

I would go with a rack since it is more versatle and has a greater carrying capacity as far as square footage is concerned. It looks sweet as well. There are plenty of element eliminating bags as well to store stuff in when on the rack.

Just my .02

 

You can remove the cargo carriers when not needed to help with the MPG.
A roof rack not so easy to remove.

 

Good point, I would personally go with the rack anyways.

 

with the rack, i don't think the main con is protection from elements. dry bags can take of that.

the main con is protection from theft. it is very hard to secure gear in a rack.

 

Personally, I'd go with the rack. If it's good enough for Camel Trophy it's good enough for me

 

With 5 kids, I'd go with the Cargo box. It gives you an everyday "trunk". Right now you likely have to remove everything out of your cargo area every time you want to take the whole family to dinner. As bad *** as a rack is, the box would seem more practical in your circumstance. (Unless you've a few adventurous boys who's idea of a good time is straping down a few lawn chairs on the roof rack and sitting up there while you roam the plains of eastern Colorado in search of that hard to find white buffalo? )

 

I did not see the OP mention security as one of the issues, obviously the cargo box would be better for that.

I still like the rack, you put lumber or long items up there when you need to run the hardware store, tou can put your coolers and other odd shaped items up there for camping, you may still be able to park in your garage with the rack and maybe not the cargo box.

If you have 5 kids you need a trailer to haul your gear for camping.

Another idea would be a custom built swing out carrier for the back, it would give you the cargo ability and security if you found a great lockable container, and you would not loose any gas mileage due to the air flow. Would not look as cool but it is an option.

 

I use a Yakima Skybox 18 and it works great for carrying all of our camping/adventure gear while keeping it dry/protected. It frees up the interior for kids and dogs. It's a snap to remove and store when not needed. I agree that the racks look great on our Disco's, but I consider it a permanent, unsecurable way to go.

 

And you could always get a roof rack AND a hitch mounted cargo box. Best of all worlds!




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