Traveling across Europe can be an exhilarating experience, offering diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and historical landmarks. However, managing luggage can be a challenge, especially when you need to maximize space in your vehicle. The 17 Cu Ft RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier promises to provide a solution for this problem. In this review, I will share my detailed experience using this cargo carrier on a European road trip, evaluating its performance, durability, and overall utility.
Initial Impressions
The 17 Cu Ft RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier arrived neatly packaged and included everything needed for installation: the bag itself, a protective mat, and sturdy straps. The material felt robust and waterproof, promising to safeguard our belongings against the unpredictable European weather. The size seemed ideal for our needs, offering ample space without overwhelming the car’s roof.
Key Features
- Capacity: 17 cubic feet
- Material: Heavy-duty, waterproof fabric
- Compatibility: Fits most vehicles with or without roof racks
- Installation: Simple strap system
- Accessories: Protective mat and straps included
Installation Process
One of the main advantages of the RoofBag is its easy installation. Whether your vehicle has a roof rack or not, the included straps are designed to secure the bag firmly in place. Our car does not have a roof rack, but the bag’s design allowed us to strap it directly onto the roof with minimal effort. The protective mat was a thoughtful addition, preventing any potential scratches to the car’s roof.
Steps for Installation
- Positioning the Mat: Place the protective mat on the car roof to avoid scratches.
- Placing the Bag: Position the RoofBag on top of the mat, ensuring it is centered.
- Securing the Straps: Loop the straps through the bag’s loops and door frames, then tighten them to ensure a snug fit.
- Double-Checking: Verify that the bag is secure by gently tugging on it and ensuring there is no significant movement.
Performance on the Road
With the RoofBag securely fastened, we set off on our European adventure. Our trip took us through various terrains and weather conditions, providing a comprehensive test of the bag’s capabilities.
Storage Capacity
The 17 cubic feet of storage was more than sufficient for our needs. We managed to fit several suitcases, backpacks, and even a few smaller items like shoes and a tent. This extra space in the car made our journey much more comfortable, allowing us to keep the interior free from clutter.
Weather Resistance
During our trip, we encountered rain, snow, and even some sleet. The RoofBag’s waterproof material held up exceptionally well, keeping our belongings dry throughout the journey. The zippers are designed to be water-resistant, and the overlapping flap provided additional protection against the elements.
Stability and Aerodynamics
One of our concerns was how the bag would affect the car’s handling and fuel efficiency. Surprisingly, the RoofBag was quite aerodynamic. While there was a slight increase in wind noise, it was not disruptive. The bag remained stable even at highway speeds, with no noticeable impact on the car’s stability or fuel consumption.
Durability and Maintenance
After several weeks on the road, the RoofBag showed minimal signs of wear. The heavy-duty fabric proved resilient against the rigors of travel, and the straps maintained their integrity. Upon returning home, cleaning the bag was straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth was sufficient to remove any dirt and grime accumulated during the trip.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Spacious: 17 cubic feet of storage provides ample space for luggage.
- Easy Installation: Simple strap system allows for quick and secure setup.
- Durable: Heavy-duty, waterproof material ensures longevity.
- Versatile: Compatible with cars with or without roof racks.
- Protective Mat: Included mat prevents scratches on the car roof.
Cons
- Wind Noise: Slight increase in wind noise at higher speeds.
- Accessibility: Accessing items in the bag requires stopping and unstrapping, which can be inconvenient during long trips.
Final Thoughts
The 17 Cu Ft RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier proved to be an invaluable asset on our European road trip. Its spacious interior, robust construction, and ease of use significantly enhanced our travel experience by providing the extra storage we needed. While it did introduce some minor wind noise, this was a small trade-off for the benefits it offered. For anyone planning a road trip or simply needing additional cargo space, the RoofBag is a reliable and practical solution.
Tips for Future Users
- Pack Smart: Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top to maintain stability.
- Check Straps Regularly: Periodically check and tighten the straps to ensure the bag remains secure.
- Weather Preparation: While the bag is waterproof, consider placing sensitive items in additional protective covers for added security.
Affiliate Link
If you’re interested in purchasing the 17 Cu Ft RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier, you can find it here.
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