Hello all, I have a question that some of you may be able to lend some insight into.

In a couple weeks I plan to drive from Indianapolis to northern California in my Mini. I am bringing along my 70 pound dog, and he takes up the whole back of the car, virtually negating the Mini's already modest cargo capacity. I have done the journey a couple times now and I usually ship my clothes via UPS costing between $70 and $100 each way.

I am considering buying a Mont Blanc roof rack and soft sided cargo bag to keep from spending the $100 each time I drive across the country. I plan to take this trip once or twice a year, so the investment in the rack and cargo bag could be justified.

My question is if anyone has experience with the rack or using a cargo bag with their mini? How badly does this affect your fuel mileage? Does the rack/bag create a lot of noise (I plan to be driving 70-75 mph most of the way)? Basically, is this a good idea or not?

Any input is appreciated, thanks.

 

I can offer my 2¢ (my set up). Buy the MINI OEM base rack (if you have an '08 Hardtop it will run you about $250 w/ shipping). And buy the Thule Atlantis 1600 cargo box (which runs around $500 plus shipping). Virtually no wind noise and almost no impact on highway fuel mileage. Use Google Images "MINI Cooper Thule Atlantis 1600" look at the first five (yellow Cooper).