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Luggage Racks – an essential accessory when travelling by car

Many people prefer to travel by car. This method of travel has many advantages – it can be less costly, less stressful and more flexible. Many car travelers “accessorize” their vehicle with products that can make their trips more enjoyable. Luggage racks, for example, can free up valuable space in trunk or passenger compartment or they can carry all that extra gear you just can’t travel without. Luggage racks come in two basic styles – OEM and safari.

OEM luggage racks (OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer) are widely available as generic add-ons for practically any vehicle from an economy car to an oversized SUV. These racks are often constructed of lightweight aluminum that gets a durable powdercoat finish. Struts run along the length of the vehicle with bowed crossbar pieces for strength. Look for an aerodynamic design and if the rack uses plastic, be sure it is high-density ABS. There should be roof savers at the points where the rack attaches to the roof. Roof savers are pads placed between the rack and its point of attachment. OEM racks are just flat grids for attaching your gear.

Safari luggage racks also mount to the roof but have raised sides to help keep the load from shifting. Also made from aluminum, a safari rack has a 5” stanchion that makes securing your luggage easier. Safari racks can be mounted to an existing rack or to the vehicle’s rain gutters. Look for a baked-on powdercoat finish and tubing at least ¾” in diameter.

Whether you choose OEM or safari luggage racks, there are a variety of ways to accessorize them. You may want just a simple cargo net or a more complex hardsided carrier. One innovative design utilizes a pair of waterproof rolling duffelbags that gives the convenience of a softsided carrier with the functionality of a piece of luggage.

When outfitting your car for a long road trip, remember that luggage racks are an affordable way to add additional storage space to your vehicle. OEM or safari, racks are easy to install and offer a high degree of functionality with a relatively small price tag.

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