Beginner’s Guide to Renting a Car Carrier

Beginner’s Guide

Not sure where to start or which car carrier is right for your car? No problem. We have come up with a quick checklist and an instruction video for you when selecting a rental rooftop carrier.

Step 1: What size of car are you planning to use?

1. The size of your car does make a difference. If you plan on using a SUV or Minivan any of our car carriers work.
2. If you are using a smaller compact car such as a Honda Civic or a Ford Focus, not all of our rooftop bags are right for you.  Our Yakima and Thule 857 (depending on your rack situations, see step 2) are best for these types of smaller compact cars.

Step 2: Does your car have any type of rack systems on the roof?

Option 1: Naked Roof

Option 2: Side Rails Carrack System

Option 3: Cross Rails Carrack System

1. If Option One, you have a naked roof, you can still rent our carriers. Just focus on our Rightline and Yakima options to attach to cars with no rail system.
2. If Option Two, your car has a rail system but it only runs down the sides of the car and does not cross. You should focus on our Yakima and Rightline options.
3. If Option Three, your car has a rail system which has a cross rail system. This set up is ideal. Cross rail systems can either come with the car or you can purchase one to attach to your car. With option three, you can focus on any type of luggage carrier we offer.

Step 3: How much stuff are you planning on putting in the rooftop bag?

1. As Much as possible–> Check out Our Rightline Sport 3 Luggage Carrier Option, it is the largest we offer. It is 18 cubic feet which is the equivalent of 4 to 6 bags/suitcases depending on luggage size and weight.
2. A fair amount–> Check out our Yakima  and Thule 867 and Sherpak Car Carrier Options. They run 14 to 15 cubic feet the equivalent of 3 to 4 bags/suitcases depending on size and weight.

Yakima

Rightline

Thule