Loading

How much weight can you put in a car roof bag?

The amount of weight you can safely put in a car roof bag depends on several factors, including the specific bag's weight capacity, the weight distribution, and the structural integrity of your vehicle's roof. Generally, most car roof bags can hold between 50 to 150 pounds, but it's essential to check the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure you don't exceed the weight limit.


Understanding Car Roof Bag Weight Limits


Car roof bags are designed to provide additional storage space for your vehicle, allowing you to transport bulky or oversized items that won't fit inside. These bags are typically made of durable, water-resistant materials and are secured to the roof of your car using straps or other attachment methods.


The weight capacity of a car roof bag is an important consideration, as exceeding the recommended limit can lead to several issues, such as:


  • Damage to the bag or its attachment points

  • Instability and potential for the bag to come loose while driving

  • Increased fuel consumption and decreased vehicle handling due to the added weight

  • Potential damage to the vehicle's roof structure



It's crucial to check the manufacturer's specifications for your specific car roof bag to determine the maximum weight it can safely hold. This information is usually provided on the bag's packaging or in the accompanying user manual.


Factors to Consider When Loading a Car Roof Bag


In addition to the weight capacity, there are other factors to consider when loading a car roof bag:


  • Weight distribution: Ensure the weight is evenly distributed within the bag to maintain stability and balance on the roof.

  • Roof strength: Verify that your vehicle's roof can support the weight of the loaded bag, as some cars may have lower weight limits than others.

  • Driving conditions: Adjust your driving style and speed when transporting a loaded roof bag, as the added weight can affect your vehicle's handling and braking performance.

  • Bag securement: Properly secure the bag to the roof using the provided straps or attachment points to prevent it from shifting or coming loose while driving.



By considering these factors and following the manufacturer's recommendations, you can safely and effectively use a car roof bag to transport additional items without compromising the safety or performance of your vehicle.

Can I carry stuff on the roof of my car?


Although it's not illegal to strap things to the roof of your car, it is illegal in all 50 states to travel with an unsecured load.



What can you put in a car roof bag?


They are typically used to store luggage, sports equipment, or other items that cannot fit in the boot. When choosing a roof bag, it is important to consider the size of your car, the amount of luggage, and the type of items you plan to store.



How much weight can you put in a roof bag?


Don't Confuse Weight with Capacity
The HandiHoldall may be able to hold up to 320-litres but it has a weight limit of 50kg, which means you need to think carefully about what is best to pack into the roof bag and what would be better in the boot.



How much weight can I carry on my car roof?


So the reason there's a roof load limit is twofold; first, the roof itself can carry only a certain amount of weight, and second, the negative effect on car handling and stability. So this is why roof load limits are put in place by carmakers. Usually, the limits are between 50 and 100kg, sometimes as high as 200kg.



How much weight can I put on my car's roof?


Most vehicles have a dynamic roof capacity of 165 Ibs. Static weight capacity is how much your vehicle can support when not in motion. A general guideline is that static weight capacity is roughly 8 to 10 times greater than the dynamic weight capacity.



What not to put in a roof box?


What doesn't belong in the roof box? Really heavy items like a stroller shouldn't go in the roof box. It's better to put them in the trunk, which should have more space thanks to the roof box.



What is my car's roof weight limit?


Exceeding these weight limits can cause damage to your car, the roof rack, and is dangerous when driving. In general, most cars have a roof weight limit of around 70kg but you must check your roof weight limits before purchasing any roof tent.



How much weight can a car roof handle?


Remember that roof rack weight ratings already have a safety cushion factored in. So, if your roof rack is rated for 150 pounds, it is designed to safely carry that load. Overloading a roof rack could severely damage your vehicle and pose a risk to other drivers around you if something were to come loose while driving.



Can I put something on my car roof?


Any items on the roof must not obstruct the driver's vision in any way. Items can protrude no more than 50cm from the sides or rear of the car. Items can protrude no more than 15cm over the front of the car. Items on the roof cannot exceed more than 100kg.



Why is it hazardous to carry excess weight on the roof of your car?


Exceeding this limit could strain your vehicle's structure and compromise safety. Furthermore, exceeding the roof load capacity can impact your vehicle's handling. The more weight on the roof, the more unstable the car may feel, especially when making turns or driving on uneven roads.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.