Car-top carrier or basket?

[labdogs42]

Right now, we tow our pop up camper with my Dodge Grand Caravan. I'm looking into getting a car-top carrier or basket to stow some more of our camping stuff. We like to take our dogs camping with us, but we can't fit everyone in the van right now, so I'm hoping this might help! I think I want to stay away from the clamshell type carrier because I don't want to store something that huge in my garage in the winter. Im' thinking the basket type looks good as long as I put waterproof stuff in it. What kind of stuff do you carry on the top of your tow vehicle? Has anyone used one of these gadgets? Can I lash Rubbermaid bins up there? I was looking at this one on the Cabela's site Any thoughts?

 

[LONE-STAR]

Right now, we tow our pop up camper with my Dodge Grand Caravan. I'm looking into getting a car-top carrier or basket to stow some more of our camping stuff. We like to take our dogs camping with us, but we can't fit everyone in the van right now, so I'm hoping this might help! ?

I would not put your dogs on the roof. As for the topper I have no clue I drive a truck.

 

[labdogs42]

I would not put your dogs on the roof. As for the topper I have no clue I drive a truck.

LOL. The dogs ride in crates in the back of my van, that's why I have no space left!

 

[ElementCamper]

I have owned both, my opinion:
Basket-More capacity since not limited by the lid in a carrier. Slightly more 'cool' factor as carriers I think are dorky looking.
Closed carrier-Keeps stuff dry, more aerodynamic. No need to tie stuff down, just close and lock the lid.

Now disadvantages to both:
You constantly have to remember either one is up there so you don't scrape them off under low overhangs. Both a pain to store when not using them. Pain to get off and on (I have a Honda Element and to me it is very tall and hard to reach, I'm 5'9"). Need to make sure you can still get in the garage.

 

[AuburnJen92]

I would not put your dogs on the roof. As for the topper I have no clue I drive a truck.

I was thinking the same thing when I read this!