School is finished, and everyone’s eager to take their families out for an outdoor summertime adventure. Extra cargo, like kayaks and boats, can be too big to fit into your truck bed. Sturdy truck racks fitted onto your vehicle are ideal for transporting oversized gear. Factory roof racks and aftermarket carriers are valuable upgrades to any vehicle, so take note of the appropriate safety measures to secure your rooftop load before your next trip.

Do:

Use sturdy straps.

The preferred option for tying gear onto truck racks is using tie-down straps. Ratchet tie downs are the most dependable as their audible ratcheting sound signals a secure fit as you increase tension. Avoid bungee cords since their elasticity will allow your gear to shift, potentially causing it to fall off.

Observe Clearance.

Additional items on top of your vehicle add height to your car or truck. That added peak is easy to underestimate when driving under a low hanging bridge or an underground parking garage. Measure your vehicle’s new height and steer clear of low overhangs to avoid costly accidents and spilled cargo.

Don’t:

Speed.

The higher center of gravity and additional weight will modify the dynamics of your car, causing a slight change to your vehicle’s steering and braking capacity. Wind resistance and lift may push your load in different directions, providing additional driving challenges. Drive slowly and carefully to reach your destination safely, and pull over if the wind picks up.

Obstruct visibility.

Factory truck racks are positioned to place your bags outside of your visibility, but large items, like kayaks and boats, require additional precautions. Do your best to center larger items on your rooftop to avoid distracting overhang in the front and rear of your vehicle.

If you’re seeking a truck rack for your vehicle, contact the team at Hawaii Campers in Hilo. For over 30 years, these professionals have provided Big Island drivers with a variety of accessories for outdoor excursions, including trailers, truck racks, and seat covers. Dedicated to customer service, this company also offers free statewide shipping to any neighbor island. View their selection online, or call (808) 935-8349 to place an order.