Choosing the right setup for your vehicle, especially when thinking about overland-style bed racks, can be a tough decision. You want practicality, durability, and of course, something that works for your needs. But, like anything else, there are upsides and downsides. So, what exactly are they?
What’s an Overland Bed Rack?
An overland bed rack sits over the bed of your truck, giving extra space to carry gear. Whether you’re going on long road trips or just need to store extra stuff, the bed rack is a popular choice among off-roaders, campers, and adventurers.
Pros of an Overland Bed Rack
- Extra Cargo Capacity One obvious benefit is you can carry more stuff. The bed rack opens up vertical space, giving you more room for gear like bikes, camping equipment, and rooftop tents. This is super helpful if you’re going on long trips where you need a lot of supplies. Most bed racks can handle around 500 to 1,000 pounds of gear, depending on the brand and model. That’s more than enough for a weekend camping trip.
- Versatility These racks are incredibly flexible. You can add accessories like light mounts, fuel storage, or even fishing rod holders. Many people also use them for a rooftop tent, which is a game-changer for camping. You don’t have to sleep on the ground anymore, making it safer if you’re in bear country.
- Better Weight Distribution By distributing weight above the bed rather than just filling the bed, it helps balance out the load. This can improve handling, especially on rough terrains. A well-distributed load is key for reducing the risk of rollover accidents.
- Protection of Gear If you’re heading into areas with heavy brush or bumpy terrain, your gear will stay safer up on a bed rack than it would in the truck bed itself. Dust, mud, and even water can damage your belongings if they’re stored directly in the bed without proper protection.
- Great for Off-Roading For those who love to off-road, the overland bed rack can keep heavy gear off the ground, reducing the chances of damage during rough rides. Off-roading enthusiasts agree that these racks help keep gear safer by keeping it elevated.
Cons of an Overland Bed Rack
- Wind Resistance and Fuel Economy One of the biggest drawbacks is wind resistance. Having gear stacked high on your truck affects your vehicle’s aerodynamics. This can lead to lower fuel efficiency. Research by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that any cargo placed on top of a vehicle reduces fuel economy by up to 25%, especially at highway speeds. So if you’re planning long drives, prepare for more frequent stops at the gas station.
At 65 miles per hour (mph), the cargo box on top of the Toyota Corolla resulted in a decrease in fuel economy of 25%, but the cargo tray produced only a 1% decrease.
https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/fact-981-june-12-2017-using-cargo-box-top-vehicle-can-reduce-fuel-economy-25
- More Weight on the Truck While it gives you extra space, you’re adding more weight to your vehicle. If you’re already carrying a lot of heavy items, this extra weight could strain your suspension and brakes. Studies suggest that trucks often lose 20-25% of their braking power when overloaded.
- Height Restrictions Bed racks make your vehicle taller. This can cause issues when you’re parking in garages or going through drive-thru windows. You need to always be mindful of height restrictions, especially if you’ve got a rooftop tent up there.
- Cost A good overland bed rack isn’t cheap. Prices range anywhere from $600 to $2,000, depending on the material and brand. If you’re on a budget, this might be a significant downside. Not to mention, you’ll likely want to add accessories, which can increase the cost even more.
- Installation Installing a bed rack might not be as straightforward as some think. Although some racks are designed for DIY setups, others may require professional help or at least a second pair of hands. It’s easy to mess up the alignment, especially if you’ve never installed one before.
Key Takeaways: Is It Right for You?
If you’re an avid camper, off-roader, or just someone who needs extra space, the pros of an overland bed rack outweigh the cons. They offer increased cargo capacity, versatile mounting options, and can even enhance the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. However, if you’re more of a casual driver, the fuel economy and cost factors could be deal breakers.
When choosing, always check the weight capacity, material, and compatibility with your truck. Some racks, made from steel or aluminum, are heavier but more durable, while others may be lighter but less sturdy. Steel bed racks are ideal for heavy-duty use, while aluminum options are better for lightweight gear.
In the end, it depends on how you plan to use your vehicle. Frequent road-trippers and adventurers might find the overland bed rack invaluable, while everyday drivers may want to skip this one.
