When you purchase a minivan, you’re going to want to put items on the roof at some time. It’s the greatest way to transport weirdly shaped, awkward, and additional objects that won’t fit in the minivan but that you want or need to transport. As a driver, it is your job to securely secure your goods in order to avoid injuries on the road.
It is critical to understand how to attach something securely to the roof of your minivan.
How to Tie Something to the Roof of Your Minivan
Step 1
Stack objects evenly across your roof or if you have one, a roof rack. Place your heavy objects on top of lighter items to help them stay in place.
Step 2
To prevent your things from moving or falling out, cover the load with netting or a trap.
Step 3
To keep your things from moving from front to back, use a tie-down strap. Then attach the tie-down to the frame or roof rack of your minivan. Tie-downs should not be attached to your bumper.
Step 4
Use 1-2 more tie-downs to keep goods from moving left to right. If you don’t have a roof rack, thread the tie-down through the open windows of the car and connect the hooks inside.
Supplies Required for Installing Things Over your Minivan
✔️ Ratchet Straps
You can use rope, but explaining how to tie knots to folks who aren’t familiar with fundamental knotting procedures is difficult.
Furthermore, proper ratchet or cam straps are rock firm and will not slip or loosen with vibrations. Check that the straps have a holding power of three times the weight of the cargo.
✔️ Rope
Ratchet straps are recommended by experts, although rope may offer some wonderful diversity to the mix. If you’ve been tying knots from infancy, this will come naturally to you.
Otherwise, you’ll need to know some trucker’s knots. Alternatively, ratchet straps, cam straps, and maybe bungee cords can be used.
✔️ Bungee Cords
When it comes to bungee cords, they should not be used as primary tie-downs. They are dangerous and difficult to manage. They can, however, be handy for keeping bicycle wheels from spinning, attaching a tarp, or tying goods together. However, never rely completely on them to support a load.
✔️ Tarp
To avoid flying debris, cover everything with a durable net or water-proof tarp once you’ve finished strapping down your load.
✔️ Roof Rack
Consider getting a particular rack for some goods to save time and add some extra safety to the mix.
Roof Rack Options for your Minivan
Roof racks are used for a mixture of purposes. Bicycle transport, furniture relocation, and cargo loading There is a wide range of transport roof racks available to meet your requirements. And there are many options on the market.
➖ The P-Bar
This is the entry-level roof rack. This is the most affordable choice and is compatible with the majority of minivans. If your minivan lacks roof rails, it can take up to 75 kg. If it does, it can be approximately 65 kg.
However, keep in reason that the roof rating of the minivan governs how much you may load on your roof. Always double-check.
The P-Bar is perfect for having your vehicle roof escapades started. Lower in price and widely accessible at most auto accessories stores. This is great for novices seeking the fundamentals of roof racks. Kayaks, canoes, lightweight furnishings, and motorcycles are all ideal candidates.
➖ Whispbar
This is where we advance in the roof rack hierarchy. The Whispbar blends sleek style with technical creation. The moniker comes from the point that it is the quietest roof rack on the market.
This serene attachment is compatible with the vast majority of minivans on the market. It has a load grading of 75 kg, relying on a few variables. It is also quite fuel-efficient, with 75% less wind drag than traditional roof racks.
The Whispbar, with its clean and elegant designs, does not detract from the appearance of your minivan, but rather enhances it. This is great for those who value aesthetics and design. It is capable of withstanding heavier weights. From various athletic and adventure things to mid-weight furnishings. This is a convenient and inexpensive solution that is also perfect for camping and off-road trips.
➖ The Whispbar HD
This is great for those that want a stronger duty choice. The Whispbar HD adds a few more intriguing elements to your minivan’s top, increasing its versatility. The biggest difference is the load rating, with the HD version competent of supporting up to 100 kg.
Given the HD model’s enhanced weight capability, the grunt and durability are also increased to accommodate additional stress and loads. Despite being a beefier variant, the model is as silent as a whispbar. And it still has a good fuel economy.
When compared to other brands and models with greater “drag,” this will save you money. It is perfect for bigger loads and a bit extra. Perfect for a single piece of heavy equipment or a mixture of athletic and trip equipment. The additional features are reflected in the pricing. However, they are an excellent addition for the avid adventurer and off-the-beaten-path expert.
➖ The Trade Bar
This one’s purpose is in the title. This is designed for tradespeople that want a lot of storage space for equipment, materials, and tools. This rack was designed to withstand the rigors of common construction and tradesmen demands.
This can sustain up to 100 kg. It’s a flexible system that recognizes the day-to-day productivity requirements of tradespeople. Strong durability that is built to last.
They are versatile and adaptable, allowing you to quickly put on and remove equipment to go back to work. It is really useful, with a wide weight range. Furthermore, it is broad and roomy to give the finest alternative in terms of equipment movement and administration.
Selecting the Best Roof Rack for Your Minivan
It’s simpler to plan your next journey when you know it’ll be simple to transport all of your things. You can transport your bike and other items with the correct roof rack on your minivan.
❕ Examine the Weight
Strong is preferable to heavy. Many racks are made of hefty materials such as steel, but you don’t have to give up the solidity to reduce weight.
An all-aluminum rack will be 40% more lightweight than steel while giving greater stability and weight-bearing capability.
❕ Choose Modularly
A modular rack allows for simple construction and the addition of rack slats for many objectives.
For example, building a whole platform, replacing incidental damage, and installing objects. The rack is adaptable to anything you require at any given time.
❕ Examine the Accessory Selection
The best rack is one that can serve numerous functions. Having the most accessories opens up unlimited adventure opportunities.
Check that your rack can fit water, gasoline cans, and everything else you may require. And because businesses will make it harder for competitors’ accessories to be displayed on their racks. So be sure you’re not closing yourself off from alternatives you genuinely desire.
❕ Durability and Strength
There is no faster way to spoil a trip than to have a rack fail. If you’re going into the country, an inexpensive rack might not cut it. Make certain that the rack manufacturer focuses on producing elements that has been tested in extreme environments.
Don’t limit your exploration to asphalt because you’re concerned about rack strength. Some of the best camping areas can only be reached through fire roads and dirt trails.
❕ Low Visibility
Any elements you place on your roof will have an effect on noise. The good side is that a subtle profile rack can assist to reduce that impact.
A lower profile facilitates the loading and unloading of equipment. It will make it easier to enter low parking garages and cause less drag, resulting in quieter and loftier fuel consumption.
❕ Product Assistance
There are fly-by-night rack firms out there. They sell shoddy knockoffs, take your money, and then vanish. Choose companies that have been around for decades.
Look for a brand that can provide live customer care to help with rack installation or performance problems.
❕ Learn from the Professionals
Examine what some of your adventure heroes are employing. Perhaps it’s a seasoned explorer or a well-known adventure photographer.
They require the greatest equipment to access the most difficult-to-reach locations. People that require the strongest gear for daily use have done enough testing to know what works.
❕ Product Variety
Search for a firm that manufactures racks and custom pieces for a wide range of minivans. More accessories mean more options for you, no matter what vehicle you’re driving.
In addition, they will have a better idea of prospective solutions to your demands. Your rack will most likely outlast your car. As a result, moving it to your next pair of wheels is always a smart idea.
❕ Metal on Metal
Additional plastic components for the rack and attachments equals more failure points. The plastic hardens, has a lower load rating, fades in the light, and breakdowns are far more frequent.
Companies will utilize low-cost materials because they are less costly, but you get what you pay for. It’s not worth the risk.
What to Pack in your Minivan for a Road Trip
Car Emergency Kit
Before you consider anything else, the most important item that should be in your minivan before embarking on a long journey is your auto emergency kit. It must include all of the essential tools. This is because you never know what problems you’ll encounter on the road.
You should also hold the phone numbers of your trusted technician and emergency contacts handy just in case.
Sanitary Kit
Bring a bag of moist tissue, soap, and hand sanitizer to compensate for the inconvenience. Essentially, a standard hygiene kit with materials that may be customized to your liking.
Medicines
If you’re the sort that feels ill when driving for lengthy periods of time, you know how important it is to carry medications in the car. You never know what you could feel after a couple of hours in a minivan driving over curving roads and hills.
Just keep the medications away from direct sunshine because it alters their chemical components.
Pandemic Essentials
While road trips can be enjoyable, it is critical to be aware of the following safety procedures in place during this epidemic. Our manner of life has changed slightly since the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus. Having said that, you should always bring your facemasks with you. Which, by the way, must be worn inside your vehicle if you have a someone inside.
Face shields are also required in some establishments. As a result, you must keep them in your automobile as well. Of course, don’t forget to include alcohol in your hygiene kit, since it is also necessary during this epidemic.
Snacks and Water
Bring foods that will help you keep a peaceful stomach and an active mind while driving. Potato chips are fatty and may irritate your stomach, whereas drinks are high in sugar and might deplete your energy and send you to sleep.
It is preferable to carry fewer chips. Bring extra energy bars and only water. Simply choose the healthier options.
Mobile Phone Holder
If your minivan lacks offline GPS navigation, you’ll have to rely on your mobile. Driving while holding your phone is dangerous, which is why you require something to hold your phone.
As a result, you may quickly glance at it without losing attention on the road. Just remember to configure your navigation app when you’re not driving, or have your passenger do it while you’re driving.
Pillows and Blankets
Sleepyheads will benefit from pillows and a blanket. Passengers, on the other hand, take turns napping. Accompany your driver since driving is difficult, especially when everyone in the back is snoring.
It would be wonderful if you enjoyed the journey from start to finish. You may also keep the driver awake by engaging in intriguing talks.
Sun Shield Mesh
It’s only natural that it feels twice or three times as hot in the summer as it does on other days. It’s summer, and the sun is always shining, making everything sizzle.
If your minivan lacks a sunshade that can be pulled up and down to cover the windows. They’re really useful, especially in the summer when you don’t turn on your air conditioner.
Aside from these fundamental necessities, you may want to include some goods for enjoyment. Look for a playlist that matches your preferences, or create your own.
Cooler
You don’t need a fridge or cooler, but having one makes life so much simpler. If you have the room and want adventure van accessories since you’ll be venturing off the beaten road.
A cooler is the cheapest and most convenient way to keep your food fresh and your beverage cold. In terms of upfront cost, this is the lowest option. Buying ice is expensive, so it all relies on how much you want to use it.
Car Jump Starter
In case the battery fails, a jump starter is useful to have on hand. It may also be used to power a fan and charge phones at night if your car isn’t hooked to electricity.
Shoe Holder
Plastic storage containers with snap-on tops make excellent shoe holders. On the interior, they even fit exactly alongside our mattress.
If you have limited room, you can always keep them outside because they are waterproof. Just remember to clean them down before returning them to the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do you load items into a minivan?
A: You may secure goods and keep them from sliding about by using or lashing straps and anchor points in the minivan’s cargo area. Items should be tied to the vehicle in the direction of movement rather than perpendicular to motion to give more restraint if the contents are shaken while traveling.
Q: How do ratchet straps work on a minivan roof?
A: To tighten the strap, feed it all the way through the ratchet. Tighten the knot just enough to keep the suitcase from shifting.
Q: Without a rack, how do you secure a minivan roof?
A: If you don’t have a roof rack, pass the tie-down straps through the doors rather than the windows. It’s better to lay down a blanket or towel first to protect your roof from damage.
Q: What exactly are lashing straps?
A: It is a type of fastener used to secure goods during the trip. They are simply webbing with hardware attached.
Q: What is the best way to utilize bungee cords on a minivan?
A: To keep your baggage stable in your car, wrap a bungee rope over them. Wrap a bungee cord securely around the luggage and the seat in the passenger seat. Hook the rope ends together to hold the bag in place while driving.
Final Thoughts
Remember the key detail of “load rating,” which indicates that it is vital to adhere to the specified bar load rating to maximize safety. Perhaps more importantly, grasp your minivan’s “roof” load rating. If the roof cannot hold the load rating of the bar, it must not be overloaded. First and foremost, safety during driving.
Beyond safety, there are many other aspects to consider when thinking about purchasing a minivan. If you’re weighing the decision to buy a minivan, we recommend checking out our pros and cons of minivans to get a comprehensive view.
