Whether you're carrying bikes, kayaks, camping gear, or extra cargo, etrailer can help you find the right racks, carriers, and outdoor gear for your vehicle and your next adventure.Not sure where to start? Choose what you're bringing or how you want to carry it below.
See how other neighbors carry bikes, kayaks, camping gear, and extra cargo on vehicles like yours.
Real-World Rack & Carrier Experience
Getting your gear to your destination starts with choosing a rack or carrier that works with your vehicle, your gear, and the way you travel. At etrailer, we install and test bike racks, roof racks, cargo carriers, watersport carriers, and other outdoor gear so you can see how they fit, how they install, and what to expect before you hit the road.With more than 75 years of helping neighbors, 35,000+ installations, and over 1 million photos and videos, etrailer has worked with these setups firsthand and can help you find one that works for your vehicle and what you want to bring.
What's the best way to carry extra gear on my vehicle?
The best option depends on what you're carrying and how much space you need. Roof racks and cargo boxes keep your hitch available, while hitch-mounted cargo carriers make heavier or bulkier gear easier to load. Bike and watersport carriers are designed specifically to secure bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, skis, and similar equipment.
Should I carry my gear on the roof or on the hitch?
Roof-mounted carriers keep gear out of the way and leave the area behind your vehicle open, but they require lifting your gear higher. Hitch-mounted carriers are generally easier to load and work well for bikes, coolers, luggage, and other bulky items when your vehicle has a compatible hitch.
How do I know if a rack or carrier fits my vehicle?
Start with your vehicle's year, make, and model. Vehicle-specific fit information can help you find compatible roof racks, bike racks, ladder racks, and other carriers without guessing. Also check the weight capacity of your vehicle, hitch, roof, and carrier before loading your gear.
What should I check before traveling with a rack or carrier?
Make sure the rack or carrier is properly installed, stay within its weight capacity, and secure your gear with the appropriate straps, tie-downs, or locks. Check the setup again after driving a short distance, especially when carrying bikes, kayaks, or bulky cargo.
How do I choose between a rack, box, basket, or cargo carrier?
Think about what you're carrying, how often you'll use it, and where you want the gear on your vehicle. Roof boxes provide enclosed storage, roof baskets work well for bulky or dirty gear, and hitch cargo carriers keep heavier items lower and easier to load. If you're carrying bikes, kayaks, skis, or snowboards, a purpose-built carrier will usually provide the most secure fit.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Tell us what you're driving and what you want to bring. Call, chat, or send us a message and we'll help you find a rack, carrier, or outdoor gear setup that fits your vehicle and your next adventure.
