One disadvantage to any compact car is lack of cargo space, and the Prius is no exception. We can pack a lot into the trunk, but sometimes we need more space. For those occasions, we have a roof rack, shown here with a tent and a cargo box full of camping equipment.

We use this roof rack for carry building supplies, too. Lumber can be strapped to the rack directly. To carry 4x8 sheets of drywall or paneling, I first strap a pair of 8-foot 2x4s to the rack. Then I strap the sheets to the 2x4 to prevent the sheets from flexing.

We could also buy accessories for this rack for carrying bikes, skis, canoes, kayaks, or many other things.

Of course, carrying things on the roof decreases our mileage by 10-15 mpg at highway speeds.