For the perfect camping trip, many campers do not want to do without their bikes. So you are more flexible even in foreign places and can explore nature or enjoy excursions. But what is the best way to transport the bikes? The most space-saving and elegant way to transport them is bike racks mounted directly on the car or camper. That way, you do not always have to disassemble it to store it in the trunk. The bikes are ready for use on vacation, and you save the tedious assemble. But not all bike racks are the same, and the different types have their advantages and disadvantages. To give you a better overview, we have summarized the essential features.

Different types of bike racks for cars and campers

Mounting location

Roof rails: you mount your bikes in an upright position at several points at once.
Trunk or tailgate: Bicycles are hung on the rack and attached to the frame with straps.
Cargo area of a pickup truck: these are usually crossbars with bolts or quick-release clamps to secure them to the vehicle.
On the spare wheel: these are designed for many Jeeps and SUVs. You can attach them to the car using an arched rack frame.
Trailer hitch: these bike racks are attached with a clamp and have a platform on which you put the bikes.

Most bike racks consist of different bars, clamps, and brackets. These individual parts usually consist of steel or aluminum and plastic components.

Additional features

Collapsible: these types are mainly convenient when it comes to storage and transportation.
Tiltable: tiltable bike racks are usually attached to the trailer hitch and allow quick and easy access to the luggage compartment without the bike still attached.
With a license plate holder
With built-in rear lights

These additional functions are partly dependent on the mounting location. The amount of bikes you can transport depends on the type of rack.

Are you planning your next camping trip? Find the best campsites with our app!

Tips for the maintenance and use of bicycle racks for cars and campers

Before mounting the rack, make sure it is compatible with your car or camper.
Read the instruction manual carefully. Often, you have to make adjustments after mounting to ensure safe transport.
Before mounting, clean the rack and the mounting location on the car or camper.
Use the bike rack only for transporting bikes and not other objects.
Make sure that the bicycle does not protrude more than 40 cm from the sides of the car or camper.
Observe the instructions on the permissible load of the bicycle rack.
Remove the accessories from the bike. After all, you don't want to lose anything and cause damage.
Before setting off, make sure that you secure the bikes.
During the journey, you must be especially careful on slopes, inclines, or narrow paths.

Find the perfect bike rack for your car or camper

The perfect bike rack depends not only on the vehicle but also on your own needs. If you have no idea where to start, we have presented a bike rack in more detail. The Oris bike rack is designed for two bikes with a total weight of 60 kg. Thus, you can even transport several of sometimes heavy e-bikes without any problems. The bike rack can be tilted, making it easy for you to access your luggage space. Furthermore, it is foldable, allowing for space-saving storage. It has halogen lights and is approved for speeds up to a maximum of 130 km/h.

Share this post with your friends

Visit us on social media

You could find this interestig, too...

Wild camping in Northern Macedonia
Even though camping in the wild is not officially allowed in Macedonia, it is still tolerated in most cases. However, there are a few points you should keep in...
Campsite, camper van site or wild camping?
You're not sure what kind of place is right for you? We have an overview of the different types of pitches and their characteristics.
Wild camping in Scotland
In Scotland, wild camping is defined as camping in a small group for two to three nights. It is permitted by law to camp on open and uncultivated land and land...
Campfire on camping vacation - What to consider?
Campfires and camping go hand in hand, but what do you have to consider and where are campfires allowed at all? We have everything you need to know.
Wild camping in Belgium
Wild camping is not allowed in Belgium and especially on the coast, there are no exceptions. Penalties of up to 150 € can be imposed. But off the coast, it...
Camping in the rain - Pastime in the campervan in bad weather
With these tips, you will never be bored again during your camping vacation despite the rain. Get creative, work effectively, or relax - you decide.