Whether you're heading to the slopes with skis, snowboards, or a vehicle full of winter gear, we'll help you find the right rack or carrier for your vehicle and your trip. Choose from roof-mounted and hitch-mounted ski racks, enclosed cargo boxes, and other ways to keep your gear secure on the road.Not sure where to start? Choose how you want to carry your winter gear below.
Getting to the slopes safely means carrying your gear securely and preparing your vehicle for winter roads. At etrailer, we install and test ski and snowboard racks, roof racks, cargo carriers, tire chains, and other winter travel gear on real vehicles so you can see how they fit, how they work, and what to expect before your trip.With over 75 years of helping neighbors, 35,000+ installations completed, and more than 1 million photos and videos, we've worked with these setups firsthand and can help you find the right gear for your vehicle and winter plans.
What's the best way to carry skis and snowboards?
Roof-mounted ski and snowboard racks keep your gear secure and leave room inside your vehicle, while hitch-mounted racks keep skis and boards lower for easier loading. A roof cargo box provides enclosed storage for skis, snowboards, boots, and other winter gear. The best option depends on your vehicle, how much gear you're carrying, and how easily you want to load it.
Do I need a roof rack for a ski or snowboard carrier?
Most roof-mounted ski and snowboard carriers attach to crossbars, so you'll need a compatible roof rack unless your carrier uses another mounting system. Start with your vehicle's year, make, and model to find a roof rack that fits, then confirm that your ski or snowboard carrier is compatible with those crossbars.
Should I use a ski rack or roof cargo box?
A ski and snowboard rack keeps your gear easy to access and takes up less space on your roof. A roof cargo box provides enclosed protection from snow, road salt, and weather and can also hold boots, helmets, and other winter gear. Choose based on how much equipment you're bringing and whether enclosed storage matters to you.
Should I carry winter gear on my roof or hitch?
Roof-mounted carriers keep the area behind your vehicle open and work well for skis, snowboards, and enclosed cargo storage. Hitch-mounted carriers keep gear lower and can be easier to load. Your vehicle's available roof or hitch capacity, the amount of gear you're carrying, and how often you need rear access can help determine which setup works best.
How do I choose the right tire chains for my vehicle?
Start with your vehicle's year, make, and model and the tire size printed on your tire sidewall. Tire chains need to fit your tires while also meeting your vehicle's clearance requirements. Chain styles vary in traction, ride quality, clearance needs, and ease of installation, so always check your vehicle owner's manual for tire-chain restrictions before choosing.
When should I put tire chains on?
Install tire chains when road conditions or local requirements call for additional traction. Practice installing them before your trip so you know how they fit before you're dealing with snow or ice. Follow the chain manufacturer's installation instructions and speed restrictions while the chains are in use.
Need Help Choosing?
Tell us what you're driving, what winter gear you're bringing, and where you want to carry it. Call, chat, or send us a message and we'll help you find the right ski rack, snowboard carrier, cargo setup, or tire chains for your vehicle.
