How to Use a Cargo Carrier for Camping Gear
By Klymit - Official Site | Lightweight Camping Gear | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to load, secure, and use a rooftop cargo carrier for camping gear, including setup tips and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Answer
To use a cargo carrier for camping, attach it securely to your vehicle's roof rack or door frame, load heavy items low and centered, and strap everything down before hitting the road.
Why Use a Rooftop Cargo Carrier?
A rooftop cargo carrier frees up space inside your vehicle, making long camping trips more comfortable for passengers and protecting gear from the elements. It's especially useful for bulky items like sleeping bags, tents, and camp chairs that take up valuable cabin space.
Before you start, check your vehicle's roof load rating and ensure your roof rack (if you have one) is in good condition. If you don't have a roof rack, many carriers—like the Rightline Gear models—use Car Clips that attach to the door frame weather molding, so you can still use a rooftop carrier without a rack.
Weatherproof vs. Waterproof: What's the Difference?
Not all cargo carriers offer the same level of protection. Some are weatherproof, meaning they resist rain and moisture but may not be fully submersible. Others are 100% waterproof, keeping your gear dry even in heavy downpours.
For most camping trips, weatherproof carriers are sufficient, but if you expect torrential rain or plan to ford shallow water, a waterproof model like the Rightline Sport 2 gives extra peace of mind. Always dry your gear before storing it in the carrier to prevent mildew.
How to Use a Cargo Carrier for Camping Gear
- Attach the carrier to your vehicle: Place the carrier on your roof centered side-to-side. If you have a roof rack, thread the straps through the rack bars. If not, use the provided Car Clips to hook the straps onto the door frame weather molding. Tighten all straps evenly until the carrier is snug and doesn't shift when you push it. Check that the straps aren't rubbing against sharp edges or door seals.
- Load heavy items low and centered: Open the carrier and place heaviest items (like coolers or camp stoves) at the bottom, centered over the vehicle's roof. Lighter, bulky items (sleeping bags, tents) can go on top. Avoid overloading—check your vehicle's roof load limit and the carrier's capacity. Keep the load balanced left-to-right to prevent handling issues.
- Secure the load inside the carrier: Use the carrier's built-in tie-down loops or add your own straps to keep items from shifting during transit. Even if the carrier is weatherproof, loose gear can slide and damage the carrier or your vehicle. Give the load a firm shake before driving; if it moves, tighten the straps.
- Close and double-check the zippers and flaps: Close the carrier's zipper completely, making sure no fabric is caught in the zipper track. If your carrier has a roll-top closure, fold it correctly and secure the buckles. Check that all straps are flat and not flapping. A loose flap can tear at highway speeds—do a final walk-around.
- Drive carefully and re-check periodically: Drive at moderate speeds, especially in crosswinds. After the first 50 miles, pull over and re-tighten the straps—they may stretch slightly. Repeat checks on long trips. If you hear unusual wind noise or feel the car pulling, stop and inspect the carrier.
Cargo Carrier Options
- Rightline Gear® Range 2 Cargo Carrier: The Range 2 Car Top Carrier is weatherproof and attaches to vehicles with or without a roof rack. This gives you flexibility if your vehicle lacks a roof rack, and the weatherproof construction protects gear from light rain and road spray.
Rightline Gear® Range 2 Cargo Carrier - Rightline Gear® Ace 2 Cargo Carrier: The Ace 2 Car Top Carrier is weatherproof and made from UV protected PVC Semi-Coated Mesh for durability. UV protection helps prevent fabric degradation from sun exposure, extending the carrier's life on sunny camping trips.
Rightline Gear® Ace 2 Cargo Carrier - Rightline Gear® Sport 2 Cargo Carrier: The Sport 2 Car Top Carrier is 100% waterproof and attaches to vehicles with or without a roof rack. For trips in heavy rain or wet climates, this carrier keeps your gear completely dry, offering the highest level of protection.
