Do you intend to buy a roof rack for your family SUV? Good for you, as that can change your vehicle into a cargo-hauling machine, ideal for road trips.
Or even carrying heavy-duty camping gear. However, numerous options in the market can leave you confused, and you may buy the wrong roof rack, hindering your outdoor adventures.
Therefore, this guide will tell you how to pick a roof rack for your family SUV.
Contents
What Is Your Vehicle’s Roof Type?
Every SUV owner knows that not all vehicle roofs are the same.
The design of your roof directly determines what type of rack or accessory system you can install.
Understanding your roof’s structure is the first step toward choosing the right mounting system for your travel, adventure, or work needs.
Below are the most common roof types and how they impact your setup:
Raised Side Rails
These rails are elevated slightly above the roof and run from front to back, leaving a visible gap underneath. This design allows for easy installation of crossbars and other accessories.
Extremely versatile for multiple uses such as bike racks, cargo boxes, or kayak mounts.
Installation typically requires simple clamp-style mounts.
Provides strong support and even load distribution.
Commonly found on SUVs and crossovers built for active lifestyles.
Flush Side Rails
These rails also run along the length of the roof but sit flush with the surface, with no gap beneath them.
Their sleek, aerodynamic appearance gives the vehicle a clean look but requires specialized mounting hardware.
Uses specific clamps designed to lock onto the integrated rails.
Offers a seamless, modern aesthetic preferred by many SUV owners.
Provides reliable support once installed correctly but may take longer to mount compared to raised rails.
Ideal for drivers who prioritize both style and utility.
Fixed Points
Fixed mounting points are often hidden under removable covers on the vehicle’s roof.
These are designed for racks that bolt directly into the structure, offering maximum stability.
Perfect for those who want a permanent or semi-permanent rack setup.
Allows for heavy-duty mounting suitable for cargo boxes or rooftop tents.
Reduces wind noise since no rails are exposed.
Common on modern SUVs or vehicles without factory rails.
Understand The Weight Capacity
Before loading your gear, it’s vital to understand how much weight your roof can safely handle.
Overloading a rack can lead to poor vehicle handling, excessive wear on mounting points, and even structural damage.
Manufacturers specify weight ratings for both the rack and the vehicle, and you must never exceed these limits.
Roof weight capacity is divided into two categories:
Dynamic Load
This refers to the weight your roof rack can support while the vehicle is in motion.
- Typically ranges between 165–220 lbs (75–100 kg) for most SUVs.
- Includes the combined weight of your cargo, rack system, and any additional accessories.
- Important for maintaining vehicle stability, steering control, and fuel efficiency.
- Always subtract the rack’s own weight from this total to calculate your available load capacity.
Static Load
This measures how much weight the rack can bear when the vehicle is parked. It’s especially relevant if you’re mounting a rooftop tent or stationary storage system.
- Can often exceed 600 lbs (270 kg) depending on your rack and SUV design.
- Important for camping setups where people or heavy gear rest on top.
- Still requires even weight distribution across the bars to prevent roof damage.
- Always consult your manufacturer’s manual to confirm safe limits.
Just remember to subtract the rack’s weight and any extra accessories from the total dynamic limit.
Choose The Right Rack System
Choosing the right rack system for your SUV is one of the smartest upgrades you can make to improve versatility and organization.
A properly selected system transforms your vehicle into a capable cargo hauler, giving you the freedom to take more on every trip while keeping your cabin comfortable and clutter-free.
What you plan to carry, be it luggage, sports gear, or outdoor equipment, should guide your decision.
Each rack type offers specific benefits, making it easier to find a setup that fits your exact needs.
Below are the most reliable and practical options to consider:
Crossbars
Crossbars are the backbone of any roof rack setup.
They run horizontally across your roof and provide the foundation for nearly every type of rack attachment or accessory.
Without them, most other components simply wouldn’t have a mounting point.
- Versatility: Supports ski carriers, bike racks, kayak mounts, roof tents, and cargo boxes.
- Material Options: Available in steel for strength or aluminum for lightweight durability.
- Design Benefits: Aerodynamic shapes reduce wind noise and drag, improving fuel efficiency on long drives.
- Ease of Use: Quick to install, adjust, or remove depending on the season or trip.
- Practical Value: Essential for anyone who frequently changes gear setups or needs an adaptable transport system.
Crossbars are often the first investment for adventure seekers, contractors, or families who regularly carry different types of cargo.
Once installed, they become a permanent base for endless combinations of storage solutions.
Cargo Boxes
Cargo boxes offer enclosed storage that’s both aerodynamic and weatherproof, ideal for travelers who need secure, clean, and dry space for their belongings.
They are particularly useful on long road trips or camping adventures where protection and organization are top priorities.
- Weather Protection: Shields gear from rain, snow, dust, and debris.
- Security: Equipped with lockable latches to deter theft and unauthorized access.
- Aerodynamics: Sleek design minimizes wind resistance and noise, contributing to smoother rides.
- Storage Benefits: Keeps luggage, sleeping bags, and valuables safe without crowding your interior.
- Convenience: Mounts directly to crossbars with user-friendly clamps or quick-release systems.
- Extra Advantage: Some models open from both sides, offering easy access even in tight parking spots.
Cargo boxes are the perfect match for families or outdoor enthusiasts who prefer an organized, low-maintenance solution. They combine functionality with sleek aesthetics, making them a top-tier choice for most SUV owners.
Cargo Baskets
Cargo baskets deliver open-air storage for bulky, irregularly shaped, or dirty items that wouldn’t fit comfortably inside an enclosed box.
Their raised sides and rugged steel construction make them ideal for heavy-duty or off-road use.
- Flexibility: Handles oversized loads such as coolers, jerry cans, spare tires, camping gear, or firewood.
- Accessibility: Open design allows for quick loading and unloading without removing lids or locks.
- Security Options: Easily paired with cargo nets, bungee cords, or tie-down straps to stabilize gear.
- Durability: Typically made from powder-coated steel for long-lasting resistance to rust and weather.
- Visual Appeal: Adds a rugged, expedition-ready look suited for overlanding and adventure builds.
- Customization: Can be combined with auxiliary lights, shovels, or recovery gear mounts for off-road setups.
Cargo baskets are best suited for drivers who value utility and adaptability over a polished appearance.
They shine in demanding environments where practicality takes precedence, like construction work, off-roading, or multi-day camping trips.
Final Advice
Before purchasing any roof rack, double-check compatibility with your SUV’s roof type, weight ratings, and intended purpose. Investing in a quality system saves time, enhances safety, and gives you the flexibility to travel with confidence.
For durable, well-designed systems built for real-world adventure, contact Front Runner AUS, a trusted provider of roof racks and accessories engineered for SUVs and family vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a roof rack increase wind noise while driving?
Yes, a roof rack can increase wind noise and affect fuel economy.
Are my SUV’s factory side rails all I need?
To carry gear, you must purchase and install crossbars (running side-to-side) onto the side rails.