Mitsubishi Motors suggests ways to extend your car’s storage options
There’s always one more thing to take on holiday than you have room for, and the answer to this problem is often a roof rack of some kind.
Strictly speaking, roof ‘racks’ are relatively rare these days, being rather restricted in terms of what they can carry, but they do provide a rigid load platform. More common are roof bars, which can be spaced to suit various loads. Some cars have fixed roof rails; others use bars that attach to the roof gutter. It may be best to choose ones with fittings designed to suit the gutter profile of your car, in order to ensure a secure fixing. Bars and racks usually have a range of attachments to allow items such as bicycles to be carried.
For general use, a roof box may be best. These hold various items, protect contents from the weather and have less impact on fuel economy. However, they’re relatively expensive, take up significant space when stored, and if side-hinged, it can be difficult to reach some items, especially if the box is fitted to a tall car.

Roof-rack checklist
 • Know what you need to carry before buying.
 • Check what’s available for your car. Car manufacturers usually sell a range of systems. Some makes have fittings to suit specific car models, which tend to fit more securely than universal systems.
 • Note the load capacity of the rack, and of your car. The permissible roof-rack load (and overall payload capacity) will be in your car’s handbook.
 • Expect increased fuel consumption.
 • Check all fittings are tight before setting off, and the load itself is secure. Stop and recheck after a few minutes, and again at each routine stop on a journey.