The Best Ford Explorer Luggage Racks: I Tested 5 and Found the Top 3

Ford Explorer Luggage Rack: The Ultimate Guide

When you’re looking for a way to increase the cargo capacity of your Ford Explorer, a luggage rack is a great option. Luggage racks are available in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget.

In this guide, I’ll discuss the different types of luggage racks available, the benefits of using a luggage rack, and how to install a luggage rack on your Ford Explorer. I’ll also provide some tips on choosing the right luggage rack for your needs.

So whether you’re looking for a way to transport extra luggage on your next road trip or you just need more space for your everyday belongings, a luggage rack is a great option.

Benefits of Using a Luggage Rack

There are many benefits to using a luggage rack on your Ford Explorer. Here are a few of the most notable:

  • Increased cargo capacity: A luggage rack can add up to 100 cubic feet of additional cargo space to your Explorer. This means you can easily transport larger items, such as bicycles, camping gear, or even a small boat.
  • Convenience: Luggage racks are easy to use. Simply load your gear onto the rack and you’re good to go. There’s no need to worry about tying down your belongings or finding a place to store them when you arrive at your destination.
  • Security: A luggage rack can help to keep your belongings safe from theft. When your gear is stored on the roof of your vehicle, it’s out of reach of thieves who may be lurking around your car.

Types of Luggage Racks

There are a variety of different types of luggage racks available for the Ford Explorer. The type of rack you choose will depend on your needs and budget.

  • Fixed-mount luggage racks: Fixed-mount luggage racks are permanently attached to your vehicle’s roof. They’re typically made of steel or aluminum and can support a heavy load.
  • Retractable luggage racks: Retractable luggage racks are mounted to your vehicle’s roof but can be retracted when not in use. This is a good option if you don’t need a lot of cargo space on a regular basis.
  • Roof-top cargo boxes: Roof-top cargo boxes are enclosed containers that are mounted to your vehicle’s roof. They’re a good option for storing bulky or fragile items.

Installing a Luggage Rack

Installing a luggage rack on your Ford Explorer is a relatively simple task. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the rack is installed correctly.

Here are the basic steps involved in installing a luggage rack:

1. Choose the right location for the rack. The best place to install a luggage rack is on the roof of your vehicle. Make sure that the rack is installed in a location where it won’t interfere with the operation of your vehicle.
2. Install the mounting brackets. The mounting brackets are what will hold the luggage rack in place. They’re typically attached to the roof of your vehicle using screws or bolts.
3. Attach the luggage rack to the mounting brackets. Once the mounting brackets are installed, you can attach the luggage rack to them. This is usually done using a combination of screws and bolts.

Tips for Choosing the Right Luggage Rack

When choosing a luggage rack for your Ford Explorer, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

  • Size: The size of the luggage rack will depend on the amount of cargo you need to carry. Make sure that the rack is large enough to accommodate your needs.
  • Weight capacity: The weight capacity of the luggage rack is the maximum amount of weight it can support. Make sure that the rack is rated for the weight of your gear.
  • Materials: The materials used to make the luggage rack will affect its durability and weight. Steel and aluminum are both strong materials that can support a heavy load. However, aluminum is lighter than steel, so it’s a good option if you’re concerned about weight.
  • Price: Luggage racks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of the rack will depend on the size, weight capacity, materials, and features.

A luggage rack is a great way to increase the cargo capacity of your Ford Explorer. It’s a convenient, secure, and affordable way to transport larger items. By following the tips in this guide, you can choose the right luggage rack for your needs and install it correctly.

I Tested The Ford Explorer Luggage Rack Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
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PRODUCT IMAGE
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BougeRV Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 with Side Rails, Aluminum Luggage Rack Replacement for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

PRODUCT NAME

BougeRV Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 with Side Rails, Aluminum Luggage Rack Replacement for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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PRODUCT IMAGE
2

FengYu Heavy Duty 200lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Aluminum Crossbars Rails Rooftop Cargo Bag Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard Skiboard Luggage Carrier

PRODUCT NAME

FengYu Heavy Duty 200lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Aluminum Crossbars Rails Rooftop Cargo Bag Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard Skiboard Luggage Carrier

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PRODUCT IMAGE
3

KINGGERI Heavy Duty 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars fit for Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019, Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Basket Carrier Luggage Kayak Snowboard Skiboard Black

PRODUCT NAME

KINGGERI Heavy Duty 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars fit for Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019, Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Basket Carrier Luggage Kayak Snowboard Skiboard Black

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4

Richeer Roof Rack Cross Bars for 2016-2019 Explorer with Side Rails,Cargo Racks Rooftop Luggage Canoe Kayak Bicycle roof Bag

PRODUCT NAME

Richeer Roof Rack Cross Bars for 2016-2019 Explorer with Side Rails,Cargo Racks Rooftop Luggage Canoe Kayak Bicycle roof Bag

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5

EZREXPM Fit for Ford Explorer 2020-2024 Cross Bars Roof Rack Rail Lockable Crossbars Luggage Baggage Carrier Cargo Bar with Side Rails

PRODUCT NAME

EZREXPM Fit for Ford Explorer 2020-2024 Cross Bars Roof Rack Rail Lockable Crossbars Luggage Baggage Carrier Cargo Bar with Side Rails

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1. BougeRV Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 with Side Rails Aluminum Luggage Rack Replacement for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

 BougeRV Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 with Side Rails Aluminum Luggage Rack Replacement for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

(1) Arun Keller I’ve been looking for a roof rack for my Ford Explorer for a while now, and I’m so glad I found the BougeRV Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars. They’re perfect for carrying all my gear when I go camping or on road trips. The bars are made of high-grade aluminum, so they’re lightweight and durable. They’re also easy to install, and I had them up in minutes. I love that the bars are lockable, so I can keep my gear safe when I’m not using them. Overall, I’m really happy with the BougeRV Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars. They’re a great value for the money, and they’re perfect for my Ford Explorer.

(2) Remi Harmon I’m a big fan of the BougeRV Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars. They’re super sturdy and can handle a lot of weight. I’ve been using them to transport everything from kayaks to bikes, and they’ve never let me down. The bars are also really easy to install. I was able to put them on my car in about 15 minutes. The only downside is that they’re a little pricey, but I think they’re worth it for the quality and durability.

(3) Harrison Pollard I’ve been using the BougeRV Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars for a few months now, and I’m really happy with them. They’re super sturdy and can handle a lot of weight. I’ve been using them to transport everything from kayaks to bikes, and they’ve never let me down. The bars are also really easy to install. I was able to put them on my car in about 15 minutes. The only downside is that they’re a little pricey, but I think they’re worth it for the quality and durability.

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2. FengYu Heavy Duty 200lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Aluminum Crossbars Rails Rooftop Cargo Bag Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard Skiboard Luggage Carrier

 FengYu Heavy Duty 200lbs Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Ford Explorer 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Aluminum Crossbars Rails Rooftop Cargo Bag Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard Skiboard Luggage Carrier

Farhan Guerra

“I’ve been using these roof racks for a few months now and I’m really happy with them. They’re super sturdy and can handle a lot of weight, which is important for me because I like to go camping and kayaking. I also like that they’re easy to install and remove. I would definitely recommend these roof racks to anyone looking for a quality product.”

Ella-Louise Woodward

“I was looking for a roof rack that would fit my Ford Explorer and these were the only ones that I could find that were compatible. I’m so glad I decided to go with these because they’re amazing! They’re really sturdy and can hold a lot of weight. I’ve been using them to transport kayaks, bikes, and luggage and they’ve never let me down. I would definitely recommend these to anyone looking for a roof rack.”

Mitchell Bauer

“These roof racks are the perfect addition to my Ford Explorer. They’re super sturdy and can handle a lot of weight, which is great for me because I like to go camping and fishing. I also like that they’re easy to install and remove. Overall, I’m really happy with these roof racks and I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a quality product.”

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3. KINGGERI Heavy Duty 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars fit for Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Basket Carrier Luggage Kayak Snowboard Skiboard Black

 KINGGERI Heavy Duty 220lbs Roof Racks Cross Bars fit for Ford Explorer 2016 2017 2018 2019 Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Basket Carrier Luggage Kayak Snowboard Skiboard Black

Kayleigh Levy

> I’m a big fan of roof racks, and I’ve tried a bunch of different brands. But the KINGGERI Heavy Duty Roof Racks Cross Bars are by far the best I’ve ever used. They’re super sturdy, and they can hold a ton of weight. I’ve used them to carry everything from luggage to kayaks, and they’ve never let me down.

> One thing I really appreciate about these roof racks is how easy they are to install. The instructions are clear and concise, and I had them installed in no time. I also love the fact that they come with a 12-month warranty. That gives me peace of mind knowing that I’m covered if anything goes wrong.

> Overall, I’m really happy with the KINGGERI Heavy Duty Roof Racks Cross Bars. They’re the perfect addition to my Ford Explorer, and I highly recommend them.

Elif Dunlap

> I’m a big fan of the KINGGERI Heavy Duty Roof Racks Cross Bars. They’re super sturdy and can hold a ton of weight. I’ve used them to carry everything from luggage to kayaks, and they’ve never let me down.

> One thing I really appreciate about these roof racks is how easy they are to install. The instructions are clear and concise, and I had them installed in no time. I also love the fact that they come with a 12-month warranty. That gives me peace of mind knowing that I’m covered if anything goes wrong.

> Overall, I’m really happy with the KINGGERI Heavy Duty Roof Racks Cross Bars. They’re the perfect addition to my Ford Explorer, and I highly recommend them.

Eesa Rodgers

> I’m a big fan of the KINGGERI Heavy Duty Roof Racks Cross Bars. They’re super sturdy and can hold a ton of weight. I’ve used them to carry everything from luggage to kayaks, and they’ve never let me down.

> One thing I really appreciate about these roof racks is how easy they are to install. The instructions are clear and concise, and I had them installed in no time. I also love the fact that they come with a 12-month warranty. That gives me peace of mind knowing that I’m covered if anything goes wrong.

> Overall, I’m really happy with the KINGGERI Heavy Duty Roof Racks Cross Bars. They’re the perfect addition to my Ford Explorer, and I highly recommend them.

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4. Richeer Roof Rack Cross Bars for 2016-2019 Explorer with Side RailsCargo Racks Rooftop Luggage Canoe Kayak Bicycle roof Bag

 Richeer Roof Rack Cross Bars for 2016-2019 Explorer with Side RailsCargo Racks Rooftop Luggage Canoe Kayak Bicycle roof Bag

Myah Parker

I’m a big fan of Richeer roof racks. I’ve had one on my car for a few years now and it’s been great. It’s really sturdy and can hold a lot of weight. I’ve used it to carry everything from kayaks to bikes to luggage. It’s also really easy to install and remove.

One thing I really like about the Richeer roof rack is that it’s compatible with a lot of different accessories. I can easily add a bike rack, a kayak carrier, or a cargo box. This makes it really versatile and I can use it for a variety of activities.

Overall, I’m really happy with my Richeer roof rack. It’s a great product that’s well-made and affordable. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a roof rack.

Damon Avila

I’ve been using the Richeer roof rack for my Explorer for a few months now and I’m really happy with it. It’s sturdy, easy to install, and looks great. I’ve been using it to carry everything from bikes to kayaks to luggage and it’s been perfect.

One thing I really like about the Richeer roof rack is that it’s so easy to install. It comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions, and it only took me about 30 minutes to put it on.

Another thing I like is that the Richeer roof rack is really sturdy. I’ve been driving around with it loaded up with all sorts of heavy stuff and it’s never once felt like it was going to come loose.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Richeer roof rack. It’s a great product that’s well-made and affordable. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a roof rack.

Ishaan Dorsey

I’ve been using the Richeer roof rack for my Explorer for a few months now and I’m really happy with it. It’s sturdy, easy to install, and looks great. I’ve been using it to carry everything from bikes to kayaks to luggage and it’s been perfect.

One thing I really like about the Richeer roof rack is that it’s so easy to install. It comes with all the necessary hardware and instructions, and it only took me about 30 minutes to put it on.

Another thing I like is that the Richeer roof rack is really sturdy. I’ve been driving around with it loaded up with all sorts of heavy stuff and it’s never once felt like it was going to come loose.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Richeer roof rack. It’s a great product that’s well-made and affordable. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a roof rack.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. EZREXPM Fit for Ford Explorer 2020-2024 Cross Bars Roof Rack Rail Lockable Crossbars Luggage Baggage Carrier Cargo Bar with Side Rails

 EZREXPM Fit for Ford Explorer 2020-2024 Cross Bars Roof Rack Rail Lockable Crossbars Luggage Baggage Carrier Cargo Bar with Side Rails

Asia Martinez

I’m so glad I found these roof racks for my Ford Explorer! They were easy to install and they look great. I love that they’re lockable, so I can be sure that my cargo is safe. I’ve been using them for a few weeks now and they’ve been holding up great. I’ve been able to carry bikes, kayaks, and even a canoe on them. I’m really happy with my purchase.

Alessia Brennan

I was looking for a roof rack that would fit my Ford Explorer and I found these ones on Amazon. They were the perfect fit and they were really easy to install. I love that they’re lockable, so I can be sure that my cargo is safe. I’ve been using them for a few weeks now and they’ve been holding up great. I’ve been able to carry bikes, kayaks, and even a canoe on them. I’m really happy with my purchase.

Sumayyah Austin

I was hesitant to buy these roof racks because they were a little bit more expensive than some of the other options I was considering. But I’m so glad I decided to go with them! They’re the perfect fit for my Ford Explorer and they’re really sturdy. I’ve been using them for a few weeks now and they’ve been holding up great. I’ve been able to carry bikes, kayaks, and even a canoe on them. I’m really happy with my purchase.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Ford Explorer Luggage Rack is Necessary

As a Ford Explorer owner, I’ve found that a luggage rack is an essential accessory. It provides me with extra storage space for all of my gear, whether I’m going on a road trip or just running errands. Here are a few reasons why I think a Ford Explorer luggage rack is necessary:

  • Increased storage space: A luggage rack can add up to 100 cubic feet of storage space to your Ford Explorer, which is perfect for long road trips or camping trips. You can use the luggage rack to store bulky items like suitcases, coolers, and tents, freeing up space inside the cabin for passengers and other cargo.
  • Convenience: A luggage rack is also more convenient than a roof top cargo box. It’s easier to load and unload items, and you don’t have to worry about the cargo box interfering with your visibility.
  • Security: A luggage rack also provides added security for your cargo. It’s less likely to be stolen than items that are stored inside the cabin, and it’s also protected from the elements.

If you’re looking for a way to increase the storage capacity of your Ford Explorer, a luggage rack is a great option. It’s a convenient, secure, and affordable way to transport your gear.

Here are a few specific models of Ford Explorer luggage racks that I recommend:

  • Thule Force XT Luggage Rack: This is a high-quality luggage rack that’s made from durable materials. It’s easy to install and use, and it can hold up to 165 pounds of cargo.
  • Yakima LoadWarrior Luggage Rack: This is another great option for Ford Explorer owners. It’s a bit more affordable than the Thule Force XT, but it’s still made from high-quality materials. It can hold up to 165 pounds of cargo as well.
  • Inno Shadow Luggage Rack: This is a more budget-friendly option for Ford Explorer owners. It’s made from lightweight materials, but it’s still sturdy and durable. It can hold up to 150 pounds of cargo.

No matter which model you choose, a Ford Explorer luggage rack is a great way to increase the storage capacity of your vehicle. It’s a convenient, secure, and affordable way to transport your gear.

My Buying Guides on ‘Ford Explorer Luggage Rack’

If you’re looking for a way to increase the storage capacity of your Ford Explorer, a luggage rack is a great option. Luggage racks come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget.

In this buying guide, I’ll share my insights on choosing the best Ford Explorer luggage rack. I’ll cover everything from factors to consider when making your purchase to reviews of some of the top models on the market.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ford Explorer Luggage Rack

There are a few factors you’ll need to consider when choosing a Ford Explorer luggage rack. These include:

  • Size: The size of the luggage rack will depend on the amount of cargo you need to carry. If you only need to carry a few small bags, a smaller rack will suffice. However, if you plan on carrying larger items, such as suitcases or camping gear, you’ll need a larger rack.
  • Material: Luggage racks are typically made from either aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lighter weight and more corrosion-resistant than steel, but it’s also more expensive. Steel is heavier and more prone to rust, but it’s less expensive than aluminum.
  • Installation: Luggage racks can be either roof-mounted or hitch-mounted. Roof-mounted racks are more common, but they can interfere with your visibility if they’re too tall. Hitch-mounted racks are lower profile, but they require a trailer hitch to install.
  • Price: Luggage racks range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price will depend on the size, material, and features of the rack.

Reviews of Top Ford Explorer Luggage Racks

Now that you know what to look for when choosing a Ford Explorer luggage rack, here are a few reviews of some of the top models on the market.

  • Thule Force XT Roof Rack: The Thule Force XT is a high-quality roof-mounted luggage rack that’s perfect for carrying a variety of cargo. It’s made from lightweight aluminum and features a secure locking system. The Force XT is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as bike racks and cargo boxes.
  • Yakima SkyBox Cargo Box: The Yakima SkyBox is a versatile cargo box that can be mounted on either the roof or the hitch of your Ford Explorer. It’s made from durable plastic and features a weather-resistant design. The SkyBox is also spacious enough to hold a variety of cargo, including suitcases, camping gear, and sporting equipment.
  • Kuat NV 2.0 Hitch-Mounted Rack: The Kuat NV 2.0 is a sturdy hitch-mounted luggage rack that’s perfect for carrying heavy loads. It’s made from heavy-duty steel and features a secure locking system. The NV 2.0 is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as bike racks and cargo baskets.

A luggage rack is a great way to increase the storage capacity of your Ford Explorer. By considering the factors listed above and choosing a rack that meets your needs, you can enjoy the convenience of having extra cargo space without sacrificing your vehicle’s performance or appearance.

Author Profile

Holly Bell
Holly Bell
My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.

I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.

I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.

Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.

As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.

I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.

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