Carriers for Every Ride: How to Choose the Right Bike Racks and Roof-Mounted Accessories

Your roof tent adventure isn’t just about sleeping on top of your car—it’s about everything you want to bring with you. Bikes, kayaks, extra gear… the right carriers turn your vehicle into the ultimate adventure machine.

Here’s how to choose the right racks and carriers for your setup—keeping load limits, tent compatibility, and your activities in mind.

✅ 1. Roof vs Rear Mount: Picking the Right Spot

✔ Roof-Mounted Carriers

• Perfect for bikes, kayaks, surfboards.

• Keeps rear access clear.

• Great with baskets for extra storage.

• Works well if you have enough roof load capacity alongside your roof tent.

✔ Rear/Tailgate-Mounted Carriers

• Ideal if your roof tent uses most of your roof load limit.

• Keeps weight lower for better handling.

• Easy to load/unload, especially for bikes.

• Essential for taller vehicles or limited roof space.

 Shop bike racks and carriers

✅ 2. Know Your Roof Load Limits

Your car’s roof can only carry so much weight safely.

✅ Dynamic Load: When driving.
✅ Static Load: When parked with people in the tent.

If your roof tent already weighs ~50kg, adding bikes or kayaks on top may push you over.

That’s why rear-mount options are a smart choice for big trips.

✅ 3. Mounting Options for Kayaks, Boards, and More

✔ Roof bars with T-slots for easy fitment.
✔ Adjustable kayak or canoe carriers.
✔ Surfboard cradles that work alongside roof tents.
✔ Tie-down points for security.

Our range is chosen for multi-sport trips—so you can camp, paddle, and explore without worry.

✅ 4. Roof Baskets and Utility Carriers

Roof baskets are your flexible friend.

✔ Carry extra bags, firewood, camping chairs.
✔ Keep wet or muddy gear outside.
✔ Secure boxes and coolers with straps.
✔ Can even support roof tents (just check load rating).

A basket is an easy way to expand space, especially for family trips.

Shop roof boxes and storage solutions

✅ 5. Designed for Roof Tent Compatibility

Not every carrier is roof-tent-friendly.

✅ Low-profile designs clear tent mounts.
✅ Secure fitment even with bars loaded up.
✅ Rear racks that keep the roof free for your tent.
✅ Mounting kits for T-slots and aero bars.

We stock only tested, compatible options, so you can buy with confidence.

✅ 6. Planning Your Setup: Tips for Success

✔ Add up all weights carefully.
✔ Consider roof vs rear for balance and handling.
✔ Think about loading ease (especially solo trips).
✔ Plan for weather—secure waterproof bags if needed.
✔ Keep access to your roof tent ladder clear!

Build your bundle page

At My Roof Tents, we don’t just sell carriers—we help you build the best adventure rig.

✔ Handpicked, roof-tent compatible racks.
✔ Rear-mount solutions for heavy loads.
✔ Accessories for bikes, kayaks, boards, and storage.
✔ Expert advice from real UK overlanders.

Make your next trip better, safer, and more fun. 

Ready to choose the perfect carriers? Make sure your gear, bikes, and boards come along for the ride.

 Explore Carriers and Racks