Are you ready to take your Tacoma off the beaten path and into the wild outdoors? Whether you’re an avid camper seeking remote backcountry spots or an extreme off-roader pushing your truck to its limits, having the right roof rack is essential for maximizing your adventures.
But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the style best suited for your needs? Should you prioritize load capacity or ground clearance? How much cargo space do you need to be stretched out above the roof versus safely in the bed?
Before you can pick the perfect rack, you’ve got to consider some important questions. This guide will break down the top five rack styles for Tacoma’s and help you decide which enhances your rig without compromise. Read on to transform your truck into the ultimate over landing.
1. Roof Rack
A roof rack increases the truck’s functionality by creating a new plane for transportation without changing the original design. Weight saving is the feature that has made lightweight aluminum roof racks a standard option.
It adopted a low 17-inch height for maximum ground clearance. Speaking of the tie-down points conveniently placed all along the 72-inch length, you can securely tighten any cargo with crossbars perfectly. With tie-down points along the 72-inch length, you can securely fasten all sorts of freight to the crossbars.
Its subtle design stays sleek on top of the Tacoma without restricting access to the roof like some heavier-duty racks. A Tacoma rack not only boosts utility without impacting the vehicle’s ability to accommodate general trailer parts but also allows the driver to travel with the most favorable approach angles.
2. Roller Rack
If hauling bulky watercraft, bicycles, or luggage is common for your outdoor activities, a roller rack allows for simple solo loading and unloading. A top-rated roller rack system features durable aluminum beams fitted with smooth-rolling wheels.
With the press of a button, the dual sliding rails easily move front to back, letting large items roll onto the roof from either side. A secure lock ensures gear stays put during drives on rough trails.
Weighing only 23 pounds, a roller rack preserves grounding closeness while its movable style streamlines roof installations versus rigid racks. You’ll save time and effort loading solo without added assistance. Especially convenient for watercraft enthusiasts, bike packers, or road trippers, a roller rack permits easy roof transport of big gear not fitting in the truck bed.
Whether boating far lakes or cycling tough routes, its glide eliminates struggling to raise awkward loads high. Say goodbye to strenuous roof-top battles and hello to quick, smooth solo loading for all outdoor outings!
3. Rack Basket
Looking to corral smaller roof-top items while keeping frequently used gear easily accessible? Consider installing a rack basket. Made with over landing in mind, a popular basket mounts to standard crossbars to provide a spacious 78-liter storage compartment up top.
Constructed of heavy-duty weatherproof materials, it features wrap-around sides, dual swing-down rear doors, built-in mounts for additional accessories, and plenty of tie-down points. A basket consolidates small camping items, recovery gear, and other essentials in one place for quick access without cluttering the roof. At only 12 pounds, it adds functionality without bulk.
4. Overland Rack
Those seeking maximum carrying capacity and heavy-duty durability will appreciate an overland rack. It is manufactured from two-inch steel tubing and provides an extra-sturdy 102-inch long, 24 tie-down point platform. With versatile truss construction and a sizable 22-inch bar spread, an overland rack can support over 150 pounds of gear and equipment like rooftop tents, heavy-duty cargo boxes, and more.
Its bulletproof bolted joint design and rugged black powder coat stand up to rigorous off-road use. Although heavier at 30 pounds, its sheer strength transforms the Tacoma’s roof into a serious over landing setup.
5. Bed Rack
To maintain a clear truck bed, a bed rack installed above the bedrails expands cargo capabilities vertically without sacrificing interior space. They provide ample flat floor space perfect for mounting gear like rooftop tents or outfitting with racks and accessories.
The Tacoma’s bed length varies depending on the model – a popular bed rack spans the entire 80 inches of a long bed for maximum versatility. Constructed of lightweight aluminum, it bolts directly to factory tie-down points without modification needed. With a set of crossbars included, it transforms Tacoma’s roofline above the bed into an extended gear-hauling platform.
Conclusion
Choosing the right rack truly transforms your Tacoma into an adventure-ready machine. Consider your primary needs, dream setup details, typical cargo hauls, and intended trails when selecting the proper style. Then, match the appropriate rack to boost its off-road capabilities and over-landing functionality.
Track-tested, heavy-duty racks from reputable brands maximize your Tacoma’s potential for tackling any terrain. Investing in a high-quality system will unlock countless outdoor excursions for years of hardcore fun.
