For outdoor enthusiasts, a vehicle’s gear-carrying capability is as important as what’s under the hood. Cargo systems, whether they are original equipment or aftermarket add-ons, do one of two things. First, they organize existing storage space and provide mounting points. Secondly, they add capacity with roof or hitch-mounted accessories. Here are some our favorite cargo carriers.
Minnesota-based Du-Ha was started by a car salesman who wanted a better way to organize items under the back seat of his pickup truck. Du-Ha’s under-seat cargo organizers hold everything from tools to fishing rods and camping equipment. Ohio-based A.R.E produces tonneau covers, racks, and carriers for all types of pickups. We especially like its pickup vault that adds deep locking drawers for truck beds.
Thule Force roof cargo carrier
Swedish manufacturer Thule is best known for its bike and roof racks catering to cyclists and other endurance athletes. The new Thule Force box, available in five sizes, snaps in place on the vehicle’s crossbars in about five seconds. A two-in-one key locks the storage box and ensures that the carrier is locked in place at the same time.
Yakima makes a variety of hitch, roof, and cargo bed racks and carriers for outdoor enthusiasts. A new “Crashpad” made of foam and nylon covers the truck’s tailgate so it can be used to secure bicycles.
RamBox cargo carrier
Ram’s RamBox cargo management system consists of locking containers integrated into the sides of the cargo box. The bins are weatherproof, lockable, and drainable and are large enough to hold tools, fishing, and hunting gear. Nissan’s TITAN Box storage boxes are a similar design and, unlike the RamBox feature, can be removed from the truck.
Nissan TITAN Box
Mopar’s Jeep Tent attaches to all Jeep vehicles. It includes a full rain fly, overhead storage net, inside pockets and storage bag, and attaches to the rear of the vehicle, creating extra storage space. A camper tent available on the Nissan Titan XD, shown at the top of this page, covers the cargo bed for sleeping under the stars.
Mopar Jeep Tent
Nissan’s Divide-N-Hide cargo system on the two-row Rogue includes 18 adjustments of panels to organize items of different sizes into the car’s rear space. The system includes hidden storage for valuables and a lower deck for stashing taller items. The Honda Ridgeline’s In-Bed Trunk stashes and locks cargo in a secret compartment under the cargo bed.
The GearOn accessory system available on the Chevrolet Colorado includes mounting points for bicycles, skis, snowboards, and kayaks. It also accommodates a bed-mounted tent.
Cargo-Ready Cars
If you are shopping for a new vehicle, features such as in-floor channels and cleats for securing tie-down ropes make it easier to secure large items inside the vehicle. Make sure the cargo area has enough lighting for loading up at night. Most roof racks or carriers require crossbars for mounting.
Look for some sort of rear bumper protection to avoid chipping the paint when loading large gear. Pass-through doors enable car owners to extend the cargo floor for longer items such as skis and snowboards, while fold-flat rear seats make it possible to quickly stow a bicycle inside the vehicle when the weather is bad.
