Planning to go on vacation? If your car isn’t big enough to handle all your luggage, then a hitch cargo carrier will solve your problems. Vacationers will find roof racks to be an important car accessory.
There are two main types of carriers: a hitch carrier is towed behind your car, and a roof version is strapped to the roof rack of the car. Regardless of the type, these cargo racks can increase your vehicle’s cargo capacity by up to three times.
Hitch cargo carriers (sometimes called a hitch cargo basket or hitch-mounted carrier) are towed using receiver hitches, square-shaped holes about 2 inches in diameter, and are located under the rear bumper. People who own vehicles without receiver hitches have the option of having them installed at a body shop, but this process is time consuming and expensive.
A hitch-mounted cargo basket or roof rack has these advantages over its roof-mounted counterpart.
- They will not create wind resistance that interferes with the aerodynamics of the vehicle and the amount of gasoline you would consume while driving, as well as the handling of the vehicle.
- Locations with low headroom areas, such as parking lots and fast food restaurants, pose problems for vehicles with roof racks.
- Vehicles with limited roof space, such as trucks and vans, often use them. People who own SUVs find it difficult to search for roof racks that fit their vehicle.
- Roof racks are difficult to load and unload and can open or break during travel.
However, there are a few things to remember if you buy a
basketball hitch or carrier.
- Because they ultimately increase the length of the vehicle by 2-3 feet, people often get into accidents when parking or backing up.
- This type of hitch carrier, especially the big box types, can consume a lot of storage space.
- The use of hitch brackets typically requires adjustments to the vehicle’s taillights and license plates.
Here are some things to consider when choosing the type of cargo basket or roof rack that suits your needs.
- Are there other people to help lift and carry heavy loads like bags or tents? If you’re limited in terms of this, a hitch-mounted rack, since it’s lower to the ground, is a better choice than a roof model.
- Is your garage tall enough to allow a large amount of luggage on the roof of the car? If you often go places with little headroom, roof racks are a no-no.
