roof rack

Meaning

A set of bars secured to the roof of a motor vehicle, used to carry bulky items such as luggage, bicycles, kayaks, or skis. It is a vital accessory for road trips and outdoor adventure travel.

Examples

• We strapped our suitcases to the roof rack to make more room inside the SUV.

  We strapped our suitcases to the roof rack to make more room inside the SUV.

• Before we left, my dad checked that the bikes were securely fastened to the roof rack.

  Before we left, my dad checked that the bikes were securely fastened to the roof rack.

• The rental car didn't come with a roof rack, so we couldn't bring our surfboards.

  The rental car didn't come with a roof rack, so we couldn't bring our surfboards.

• You should buy a waterproof cargo bag if you plan to use the roof rack in winter.

  You should buy a waterproof cargo bag if you plan to use the roof rack in winter.

• He struggled to lift the heavy kayak onto the roof rack by himself.

  He struggled to lift the heavy kayak onto the roof rack by himself.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ We put the luggage on the car roof grid.

  ✓ We put the luggage on the roof rack.

  The specific and correct term for this vehicle accessory is 'roof rack', not 'roof grid' or 'top bars'.

• ✗ I need to install a roof rack on my car's ceiling.

  ✓ I need to install a roof rack on my car's roof.

  The 'ceiling' refers to the inside top of the car, whereas a 'roof rack' goes on the exterior 'roof'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• We don't have enough space in the trunk, so let's tie the tent to the ___.

  💡 The metal bars on top of a car.

  Show answer

  roof rack

• Make sure the straps are tight so the bikes don't fall off the ___.

  💡 The external storage frame on a vehicle's top.

  Show answer

  roof rack