Inside or Roof Rack?

its ok to use a roof rack, but for hard trail conditions your center of gravity will suffer
I used a Thule Ascent 1700 for a few years, dufflebags, backpacks etc
light gear up top, heavy gear inside to keep the center low
 
its ok to use a roof rack, but for hard trail conditions your center of gravity will suffer
I used a Thule Ascent 1700 for a few years, dufflebags, backpacks etc
light gear up top, heavy gear inside to keep the center low

This mirrors how I feel about it. I use my rack for awkward things that don't fit anywhere else well like my spare tire and as an attachment point for my awning and trail tools.
 
its ok to use a roof rack, but for hard trail conditions your center of gravity will suffer
I used a Thule Ascent 1700 for a few years, dufflebags, backpacks etc
light gear up top, heavy gear inside to keep the center low

This is basically our plan. We're going with a Keeper weatherproof bag on the rack, that'll have our tent, chairs, sleeping bags, etc. Basically all of the lightweight yet bulky stuff. The heavy stuff - fuel, water, cooler/fridge, kitchen, tools, all of that will be in the back of the rig.
 
Recently picked up four Pelican Air cases (1615). They're 40% lighter than standard Pelicans, and low profile. Ratchet straps and cable lock through the handles make them secure, and secure. 100% water proof. Pad lockable. Lightweight stuff up top...IMG_4727.PNG
Heavy stuff (water, tools,etc.) low and centered...
IMG_4712.JPG