Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities like camping are fond of trucks due to their ample space at the back. You can use this extra space in the truck bed to pack a lot of stuff. Once you’re packed, you can concentrate on the trip.
But this isn’t the only burden that comes to mind when you’re traveling – and you know it.
What if you suddenly face rain during your trip? Let’s be real; all pickup truck owners have wondered the same thing:
How to keep luggage dry in truck bed?
The space at the back of most trucks is usually open, leaving your cargo unprotected and exposed to rain and other weather conditions. That poses a significant problem for most commuters, but you don’t have to worry.
We’ll guide you through some of the options to help you keep your luggage dry and safe.
Keeping Your Luggage Dry In The Truck Bed: 5+ Proven Tips
A typical feature of a truck is the space at the back section of the vehicle – behind the cab – called a truck bed. It’s used for hauling cargo rather than serving as a space for passengers.
This open space in the back of your truck probably keeps you wondering – what about the weather? Admittedly, it would be a struggle to find a way to keep your stuff dry during rainy days or even away from harsh rays of the sun – or dirt and debris, for that matter.
Let’s look at several great options on how to keep your luggage dry in a truck bed.
1. Tonneau Covers
Tonneau covers are truck bed covers made specifically to cover and protect the luggage placed at the back of the truck. They’re manufactured according to the specifications of individual truck models, meaning they fit correctly at the back.
They’re built with the intention to provide a dry and safe ride for your stuff at the back. Tonneau covers can protect your cargo from rain – and other elements – and keep it dry until you reach your destination.
These days, manufacturers are producing tonneau covers in various sizes and shapes. Even more so, they’re available in different styles and designs.
So, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. If you’re struggling to decide which cover to get for your truck, we get it.
You don’t need to hurry in this matter, though. Research thoroughly and read our buying guides before purchasing to get the cover that satisfies your needs.
Take a look at the best tonneau covers here.
2. Truck Bag
The so-called “truck bags” are made from non-breathable PVC; this material makes truck bags water-resistant.
By using epoxy and heat fusion, the seams of the bag are sealed very tightly. This feature of truck bags ensures maximum protection to the luggage inside them.
No outside element can go through the truck bags and damage the cargo you’ve packed inside them.
These bags are lightweight, making them very easy to carry – just roll them up, and you’re ready to go. Frequent travelers prefer handy products like this while they’re on the go.
Truck bags are one of the most convenient choices available on the market and can help you protect your stuff from rain and other elements while traveling in your truck.
But again, before buying such products, do proper research to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.
3. Constructor Bags And Storage Bins
If you want a cheaper solution for the rain problem, you can try contractor bags. These bags can also serve a purpose when you’re running late and haven’t arranged anything to keep your luggage safe at the back of your truck.
Some constructor bags can provide a durable, single-use solution to keep your stuff dry while traveling.
Constructor bags are made of three millimeters of polyethylene. Best of all, these bags are up for sale in almost any local hardware store.
When using constructor bags as a protective cover, ensure that bags are sealed tightly before hitting the road.
Seal the luggage in a contractor bag, then use a second bag to cover it from the opposite direction. By doing so, you’ll provide a dual-barrier that prevents leaking.
Also, ensure that the tape side of the first constructor bag faces the second bag’s bottom so that the ends of the luggage are fully protected.
If you can find storage bins big enough to fit your stuff in, it could be a decent option for keeping your luggage dry. If people you’re traveling with use duffle bags or smaller suitcases, you might be able to pack everyone’s stuff into these storage bins.
We’ve never tried this option personally – but we think it could work. Plus, many people have these storage bins sitting around their houses already.
4. Truck Bed Riser
Protecting your cargo from the rain isn’t enough to keep it dry. You also have to protect your luggage from the water that’s collected in the truck bed.
This water can damage your stuff from below and make your efforts to keep it dry go in vain. Therefore, it’s essential to protect your luggage from underneath, too.
You can use wooden shipping pallets; they perform pretty well in this department.
If you place your cargo in an elevated way, it will definitely help keep it away from the accumulated water in the truck bed – and, in turn, prevent it from getting drenched.
If you’re unable to find wooden shipping pallets, we recommend you just cut a few 2×4 pieces of wood. Space them evenly on the truck bed and arrange your luggage on the top.
These will look – and act – like a riser for your luggage, protecting it from any water accumulation in the truck bed.
5. Tarp And Bungee Method
The so-called tarp and bungee method is one of the most efficient ways to keep your belongings dry in a truck bed. People use it to prevent their cargo from getting soaked – often without spending a dime.
You see, the materials required in this method are available on the market – but you could probably find most of them in your garage. The best thing about the tarp and bungee method is that it’s easy to pull off; anyone can do it:
Start by stacking two large tarps, one above the other. Then, place this in the truck bed and make sure that they’re set flat.
Now, put your cargo in the center; fold the first tarp to wrap it around the payload. You’ll need to secure the ends of the first tarp by using a bungee cord – or any durable cord, really.
Next, roll your cargo in the second tarp. Don’t forget to check if the ends are tightly closed.
If you aren’t happy with this method and want more protection, you can use duct tapes to seal the edges for extra caution.
When you see this setup on the truck bed, it will look like a giant burrito on the wheels. It’s funny – but it works.
If you’re a frequent traveler and carry a lot of stuff, then this simple tarp and bungee method is a safe and suitable solution for you.
Additionally, if you need to load a kayak, you can use this method to cover the kayak if the weather seems to be getting worse.
Bonus Tip: Securing Luggage In Truck Bed
Any cargo that escapes from your truck while you’re on the go is a dangerous projectile.
On that note, a secure load starts with a secure and safe vehicle.
Every truck has a weight limit – and you shouldn’t exceed it. Be sure that your tailgate latches correctly and will stay closed if your cargo pushes against it. When loading your truck, don’t forget that several forces can shift or move your load.
It’s crucial to balance and strap your cargo to prevent it from shifting. Even items that are below the edge of the truck bed or trailer need to be secured.
The most secure way of keeping your luggage safe in the truck bed is using a hard tonneau cover.
These open from the inside and give access to the truck bed when needed – but you have to open the tailgate first, meaning it’s very safe.
How To Keep Luggage Dry In Truck Bed? – Final Words
There you have it; several options on how to keep luggage dry in truck bed while traveling.
If you’re frequently on the move and usually haul some cargo, be sure to consider one of the above-discussed options to keep your luggage safe from different weather conditions.
The crucial thing here is to know the dimensions of your truck bed and research the materials you want to use to cover your cargo and keep it dry. If you want guaranteed protection, though, go with a tonneau cover.
