Luggage: luggage racks and luggage boxes

Packing on a luggage rack: If you are going to use your luggage rack make sure to pack your luggage inside a luggage box. Do not attempt to bungee cord all you luggage to the luggage rack it is just dangerous.

There are three types of luggage boxes:

Wide boxes (usually around 7 feet long by 2 1/2 feet wide) They are great for skis but forget about opening your rear hatch completely. You can fit most carry on luggage in these but not large upright suitors.  

Narrow boxes: (around 7 feet long but are only about 1 1/2 feet wide) again, you have the rear hatch issue. Now these luggage boxes look really cool however they are not useful for packing luggage.

Luggage boxes: (usually are about 5x3 feet) Luggage boxes are what you need for hauling luggage not a sports box. Most are about 5 feet long by 3 feet wide, weigh around 30 pounds. Do not buy a luggage box that rests directly on the car. It will scratch the paint and dent the top of your car. Also check the inside of the luggage box and make sure there are no screws that will tear or snag your new luggage.

Luggage boxes - dos and don’ts

Luggage racks and luggage boxes are an easy way to haul luggage when trunk space is limited. Make sure the luggage rack and box that you buy is reasonably easy to attach and remove as well as easy to load and unload.

Luggage racks a notoriously load. This means that when the car is in motion you hear a constant roaring or whistling noise. Most luggage racks come with a noise reducer. But it only “reduces” the noise not eliminates it. A Luggage box adds weight and wind resistance that will reduce your miles per gallon. Be careful when turning corners your new luggage rack will make your car more top-heavy, thus easier to roll especially in SUVs.