Whether you’re hitting the road for a weekend camping trip, hauling your kayak to the lake, or simply moving a few things across town, securing your gear to your roof rack is essential. The last thing you want is for your cargo to shift, flap, or—worse—fly off while you’re driving.
That’s where high-quality straps and tie-downs come into play.
With so many options on the market, finding the right tie-downs can be confusing. From cam buckle straps to ratchet straps and bungee cords, each type has its purpose. This buyer’s guide breaks it all down for you, helping you choose the best and safest options for your next adventure.
Why You Need Reliable Straps and Tie-Downs
Your roof rack can handle a lot—but only if you secure your gear properly. Quality tie-downs ensure:
Safety: Loose cargo can be dangerous to you and other drivers.
Protection: Proper tie-downs prevent scratches, dents, or damage to your vehicle and gear.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your items are secure lets you focus on the road—not what’s happening above it.
Types of Tie-Downs for Roof Rack Loads
Before buying, it’s important to know the different kinds of straps and tie-downs available. Each serves a specific function, and choosing the wrong one can result in poor performance.
1. Cam Buckle Straps
Best for: Lightweight to moderate loads like luggage, surfboards, or roof boxes.
Cam buckle straps are easy to use and don’t require a lot of strength to tighten. You simply thread the strap through the buckle and pull it tight. Unlike ratchet straps, they won’t overtighten and crush your gear.
Pros:
Simple to use
Doesn’t damage cargo
Great for quick jobs
Cons:
Not ideal for heavy loads
Can loosen slightly over time if not properly secured
2. Ratchet Straps
Best for: Heavier loads like lumber, furniture, or kayaks.
Ratchet straps offer the most secure hold. They use a ratcheting mechanism to tighten the strap, giving you maximum tension and grip.
Pros:
Very secure
Great for heavy-duty hauling
Reliable over long distances
Cons:
Takes longer to set up
Can overtighten and damage fragile gear
3. Bungee Cords
Best for: Short trips or holding lightweight items in place.
Bungee cords stretch and hook around your gear. While they’re not the most secure option, they’re useful for keeping covers or tarps in place or bundling smaller items.
Pros:
Quick and easy
Inexpensive
Reusable
Cons:
Limited strength
Not ideal as a primary tie-down
4. Rope or Paracord
Best for: DIY fans or traditionalists hauling camping gear or tarps.
Rope can be effective if you know how to tie knots properly. It offers flexibility and strength, especially for irregularly shaped loads.
Pros:
Flexible and adjustable
Cheap and reusable
Good for experienced users
Cons:
Can slip if not tied correctly
Slower to secure and adjust
Top Picks: Best Straps and Tie-Downs for Roof Racks
Let’s dive into some of the best products available. These selections are based on customer reviews, durability, ease of use, and performance.
1. Rhino USA Ratchet Straps
Why it’s great: Made in the USA and known for rugged quality. With a break strength of 5,208 lbs, these straps can handle heavy loads with ease.
Key Features:
Coated steel hooks
Reinforced edges to prevent fraying
Ideal for kayaks, canoes, lumber, and other large items
2. Keeper Cam Buckle Tie-Downs
Why it’s great: Perfect for securing luggage, bikes, or surfboards to your roof rack. They’re lightweight but strong enough for most standard loads.
Key Features:
Non-marring hooks
10 ft. length offers flexibility
Quick-release cam buckle design
3. StrapRight 4-Pack Cam Buckle Straps
Why it’s great: A favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. Easy to use, great for paddleboards and roof bags.
Key Features:
Soft rubber covers on buckles to protect your car
Heavy-duty polyester webbing
Carrying bag included
4. Augo Ratchet Tie-Down Straps
Why it’s great: Budget-friendly without sacrificing safety or strength. A good pick for occasional use.
Key Features:
Rubber-coated S-hooks
High break strength (over 1,500 lbs)
Includes a storage bag for easy transport
5. Nite Ize CamJam Cord Tightener
Why it’s great: Great for quick lashings or lightweight gear. It allows you to tighten ropes and cords without needing to know complicated knots.
Key Features:
Easy rope tensioning
Lightweight and compact
Ideal for camping gear or small roof boxes
What to Look for When Choosing Tie-Downs
With so many choices out there, here’s what to keep in mind while shopping:
1. Load Weight
Consider the combined weight of your cargo. Heavier items (like canoes or furniture) need ratchet straps, while lighter gear (like luggage or camping gear) can use cam buckle straps.
2. Strap Length
Longer isn’t always better. Make sure the strap is long enough to wrap around your load and attach securely to the roof rack. For most loads, 10 to 15 feet is a good range.
3. Breaking Strength vs. Working Load Limit
Breaking Strength: Maximum load before the strap fails
Working Load Limit (WLL): Safe weight the strap can handle daily
Always use the WLL when planning your load. Aim for tie-downs with a WLL that’s at least half of your total cargo weight.
4. Material Quality
Look for polyester or nylon webbing—they’re UV-resistant and hold up well in all weather conditions. Cheap straps can fray or snap quickly, especially with repeated use.
5. Ease of Use
If you plan to remove and reattach your gear frequently, cam buckles or quick-release straps save time. Ratchets offer more security, but they take a few extra minutes.
Tips for Safely Securing Roof Rack Loads
Use Crossbars and Side Rails
Always tie down to a secure part of your roof rack, not just the cargo.Double-Check Tension
After securing your load, pull the straps to make sure everything’s tight. Re-check after 10–15 minutes of driving.Avoid Wind Noise
Loose ends can flap and create noise or even damage your car’s paint. Tie off extra strap length or use Velcro loops.Distribute Weight Evenly
Place heavier items toward the center and balance the weight side to side.Follow Local Laws
Some states have regulations about how loads must be secured on a vehicle. Use red flags for overhanging gear if required.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use bungee cords instead of tie-down straps?
Answer: Bungee cords are fine for light items or temporary fixes, but they’re not ideal for securing roof rack loads over long distances or at high speeds. They can stretch or snap, making them unreliable for heavier cargo.
Q2: What’s the difference between cam buckle straps and ratchet straps?
Answer: Cam buckle straps use a pull-and-lock mechanism and are great for lighter loads. Ratchet straps have a crank system that lets you tighten the strap with much more force, making them better for heavy-duty hauling.
Q3: How many straps should I use on my roof rack load?
Answer: At a minimum, use two straps—one at the front and one at the back. For long or heavy items, add a third strap in the middle. More is always better than not enough when it comes to securing cargo.
Final Thoughts
The best straps and tie-downs for roof rack loads combine safety, strength, and ease of use. While no single product works for every situation, knowing your load size, weight, and gear type will help you make the right choice.
Whether you're taking your paddleboard to the beach or hauling a new mattress home, don’t underestimate the importance of good tie-downs. They're a small investment that can save you a big headache.
So, grab the right straps, pack your gear, and hit the road with confidence. Your next adventure awaits—and now, your roof rack is ready for it.
