Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications General Mods Hitch or Rack...Solution for Luggage Txport

I would like to weigh the pros and cons of installing a trailer hitch as opposed to getting a roof-bag or a temporary roof rack.

I plan on driving from NJ to florida, and would like input as to any good rooftop or trunktop bags, boxes...or any temporary luggage-rack kits that can be installed.

I'd actually like to avoid a trailer hitch unless it can be done for under $100 us, and if I did have one I would just end up getting one of those cargo 'platforms'

So far it looks like my best possibility would be to get a 'bag' that sits on the roof and is tied down by J hooks on the insides of the doors..but I'd like to know if there's a better solution than that in about the 100 dollar range.

Also will i need a roofpad to prevent scratching my black finish?


99 Contour SE Zetec Auto, 36k Miles

A roof rack will add frontal area to the vehicle. Now you will be pushing a big brick through the air. This year I made 10 trips at 700km per trip pulling a trailer. For me , it worked well.