Message Forums

Both

Les

OK here goes.

How much extra space do you need?

If there are a lot of light items such as sleeping bags, clothing etc then a roof box will probably suffice.  The downside is they are awkward to load and unload especially if you are shorter than 6 foot  .  There will be greater wind resistance especially on motorways but not that much you'll notice a great difference on your fuel gauge.  Parking on car parks is no different to a normal car, just take extra note of car parks with height barriers, but most will be ok.

If you want the extra space for bulkier heavier items, then a trailer is the way to go.  The downside is it is harder to park as you will probably take 2 spaces (end to end).  Depending on how big or heavy it is, it will have an effect on accelleration and fuel consumption.  Again not that much to be of real concern.  You will need to fork out for a towbar and associated electrics for the trailer lights.

Trailers are easy to load and unload.

First you need to decide what extra space you require, what type of car you have and what you are prepared to spend.

If funds are tight then a roof box would be the best solution to start with.

Hope that helps a little

BOTH!

Before we had the FC we spent years frame tenting and went through the same issue you are having. One point to consider is fuel consumption. The roof box was first and noticably expensive on fuel due to the drag. when the trailer was added  and we were restricted to 60mph ish the fuel consumption was noticably better. I was looking at fitting the roof box to he trailer to cut down the drag and also stop the pain of height restrictions. We have now changed to a FC and so far have not needed the roof box but i am sure we will.

trailer is a must and then the extra sides and then the roof box, make sure you buy a trailer big enough!!

Definately - Trailer

I managed to get a lovely second hand one from Ebay.  The size (in old money) is 5ft lg x 3 wide x 2 ft deep which is ideal.  Me and OH plus 2 toddlers don't travel light - but it all fits snug into this size trailer.

Push the loaded trailer back into the garage when you get back from each outing.  Then with clothes, odds and food in your car boot you're ready to go again.

Also agree  - towing actually improves my MPG - as normally everywhere is at speed.  Slowing down to 60mph when towing I manage to get 50 mpg from my 2 ltr diesel.