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How to Buy a Heavy-Duty Roof Basket

How to · Auto

How to Buy a Heavy-Duty Roof Basket

Get your vehicle ready for spring camping by timing your roof basket purchase right and spreading out the cost.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $400 before anything else
Across the 0% window $22.22/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $400 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A heavy-duty roof basket turns your car into a gear-hauling machine, but loading up the top changes your fuel economy and creates wind noise on the highway. We look at those running costs before buying, because adding weight up high means you burn more gas on every single road trip. Spring camping prep sales are when prices drop, making it the best time of year to grab one without paying full retail.

When you are ready to buy, separate the haggling from how you pay for it. Dealerships and gear shops rarely discount both the hardware and the financing at the same time, so negotiate the lowest bottom-line price first and figure out the payment method after.

Keep in mind that 0% interest is a deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance left on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card when the 18 months are up, regular interest charges will kick in on whatever is left over.

The steps

  1. 01

    Check your crossbars

    Before you buy a basket, measure your existing crossbars and check their weight limit. Most roof baskets need specific clearance and mounting hardware to fit securely without damaging your roof. Buying a basket that doesn't match your setup is an expensive mistake.

  2. 02

    Shop the spring sales

    Camping and outdoor gear usually drops in price during spring prep sales as retailers clear out space for summer stock. Keep an eye on prices for a few weeks before you buy so you actually know if a sale is a good deal. Avoid buying right before major holiday weekends when markup is often higher.

  3. 03

    Negotiate the total price

    Ask the shop to bundle mounting hardware or straps into the price of the basket. If you are buying from a local dealer or specialized shop, push for a discount on installation if you aren't putting it on yourself. Get the final out-the-door price in writing before you talk about how you are paying.

  4. 04

    Use your card window

    If you want to spread out the cost, the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. If you spend $400, that works out to about $22.22 per month over the intro window on purchases of 18 months. Set up auto-pay so you don't miss a month.

  5. 05

    Test fit and load

    Put the basket on your car and take it for a highway test drive before you pack it full of camping gear. Listen for whistling, check that your sunroof still opens if you have one, and make sure your trunk clears the back of the basket when open.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Will a roof basket lower my gas mileage?

Yes, expect to lose one to three miles per gallon because of extra wind resistance. Taking the basket off when you aren't camping saves fuel on your daily commute.

Do I need special tools to install a roof basket?

Most baskets come with universal hardware that tightens down with basic wrenches or Allen keys included in the box. You might need a second person to help lift it safely onto the roof without scratching your paint.

What is the weight limit for a roof basket?

The limit depends on both your vehicle's factory roof rating and the basket itself, usually landing between 150 and 300 pounds. Always check your car manual, as the limit is often lower when you are driving off-road.

Can I leave the basket on my car year-round?

You can, but constant exposure to rain, snow, and sun will cause rust and fade the finish over time. If you only camp in the spring and summer, taking it off for the winter keeps it in better shape.