With the cost of living continuing to influence holiday plans, more motorists are choosing to holiday by car across the UK and Europe this summer. As a result, breakdown specialist Start Rescue is urging drivers to ensure roof racks, roof boxes and bike carriers are fitted correctly before setting off to avoid dangerous incidents and expensive repairs.
As families pack more luggage into their vehicles, roof-mounted storage solutions are proving increasingly popular. However, incorrectly secured roof bars, boxes and cycle carriers can quickly become a serious safety hazard if they loosen or detach while travelling.
Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue, is encouraging motorists to carry out regular checks throughout their journey rather than relying solely on the initial installation.
“Take the time to check every fastening nut and strap – not just when you fit the rack but regularly during your journey,” said Puffett. “At motorway speeds, the wind can easily loosen fixings and cause roof-mounted loads to escape.”
First-Time Users Need Extra Care
With many drivers using roof storage systems for the first time during the 2026 holiday season, it’s important to understand that adding luggage to the roof changes the way a vehicle handles.
Drivers should also remain aware of the increased overall vehicle height. Low bridges, height-restricted car parks, overhanging tree branches and other obstacles can easily catch roof boxes or bike carriers, potentially causing significant damage to both vehicle and equipment.
Pack Smart for Safer Driving
Start Rescue also recommends checking the vehicle owner’s handbook for the manufacturer’s maximum roof load before packing.
Heavy luggage should always be placed inside the vehicle wherever possible, while lighter, bulkier items are better suited to a roof box. This helps maintain a lower centre of gravity, improving stability, braking performance and cornering behaviour.
Motorists should also remember to adjust tyre pressures when carrying additional loads and ensure roof boxes and bicycles are securely locked whenever the vehicle is left unattended.
Puffett added:
“Check the maximum weight a roof rack or box can hold in the owner’s manual and adjust tyre pressures to suit. Try to pack heavy bags in the car and lighter items in the roof box to keep the car’s centre of gravity as low as possible for safe driving. And remember to lock boxes and bikes to deter thieves.”
Award-Winning Breakdown Protection
Start Rescue, part of the Call Assist group, continues to build a strong reputation for customer service. The company has achieved Which? Recommended Provider status for an unprecedented seven consecutive years, making it the longest-running breakdown provider to receive the accolade.
Both Start Rescue and Call Assist are also recognised as Which? Trusted Traders, reflecting the organisation’s rigorous independent assessment of customer service and business standards.
Further recognition includes:
- 4.7-star Trustpilot rating
- Five-star Defaqto rating for its 3 Star Breakdown Policy
- Finder Customer Satisfaction Awards 2024 winner for Breakdown Cover
- 4.9 out of 5 overall customer satisfaction
- 94% customer recommendation rate
These accolades underline the company’s commitment to providing reliable roadside assistance for motorists travelling throughout the UK and Europe.
Motoring Echo Top Tips: Roof Box & Roof Rack Safety Checklist
Before heading off on your summer road trip, take a few minutes to complete these essential safety checks:
✔ Check Every Fixing
Ensure all roof bars, clamps, straps and mounting bolts are fully tightened before departure and inspect them at every fuel or comfort stop.
✔ Know Your Roof Load Limit
Never exceed the manufacturer’s maximum roof weight, including the weight of the roof box or carrier itself.
✔ Pack Heavy Items Low
Keep heavy luggage inside the vehicle and use roof boxes for lighter, bulky items to improve stability.
✔ Remember Your Vehicle Height
Make a note of your vehicle’s new overall height to avoid low bridges, height barriers, garages and car parks.
✔ Adjust Tyre Pressures
Additional luggage means additional weight. Inflate tyres to the loaded vehicle pressures recommended in your owner’s handbook.
✔ Drive More Smoothly
Allow longer braking distances and take bends more gently, as roof loads raise the vehicle’s centre of gravity.
✔ Lock Your Roof Box and Bikes
Use all available locks and security devices to help deter opportunist theft during rest stops and overnight stays.
✔ Recheck Throughout the Journey
Long motorway journeys and strong crosswinds can gradually loosen fittings, so inspect everything regularly.
Motoring Echo Verdict
Roof boxes and bike carriers can transform the practicality of a family holiday, but only when they’re fitted and loaded correctly. Spending a few extra minutes checking fixings, weight limits and load distribution before and during your journey could prevent a dangerous roadside incident, protect other road users and ensure your holiday gets off to the best possible start.
