Voodoo11

Pros/cons? Doing some research.

jcs07jk

I personally do not like the look of roof racks on the jeep. I just think they seem to stick out in a awkward way, if your talking about the racks for the soft top. Just looks strange with bars going from bumpers/body/windshield up over roof Have not seen any of the ones made to bolt to hard top around town. I have a trailer for hauling stuff

CerOf

rack is nice for off-road.

For just traveling...I'd go with a small trailer. Gas mileage probably wouldn't take as big a hit with a very small trailer 5'x8' type of trailer compared to a roof rack with all your luggage, etc, on top.

jeffncs

Trailer, unless you have a unique need for a roof rack. Comparing $, it's a wash. Personally, I would buy the trailer - offers more utility (mulch, lumber, aftermarket bumpers, etc.).

JN

ronjenx

With this JK, it's the first time I haven't had both. I use my trailer quite a bit, but still miss the convenience of the roof rack for certain things.

Runewolf1973

I have the Wild Boar roof rack. Really like it and sometimes I get more compliments on the rack than I do on the Jeep itself. Anyways, I got it from the dealership in hardly used condition for free. They only asked me $80 to install it. I used some auto grade silicone and a little touch up with black paint and it looks like brand new. Certainly gives the Jeep a more fuctional, useful look. People say it looks like I'm ready for a safari. Nothing but good compliments on it.

09RubiconUnlimited

I have the gobi low profile rack and a camper trailer. I have not used both but I like the option. Depending on location and type of wheeling I could use either or both. The trailer has 40 gal water storage plus I have generator, kitchen, two propane tanks and a large tent. The jeep rack has the same tent with screen room and awning so it's more of where I will go and if I want to tow the trailer plus with the trailer I have more room to carry things without losing seating to fit in the JK.
When I don't want the rack I can remove it keep the windshield section as a light bar as well.
I like the option so that's me.

Voodoo11

I'm leaning to the rack first. It doesn't require any extra room in my driveway.

I do, however, like the versatility of the trailer. I'm also worried the rack will look weird topless.

I guess you can't have everything.

scouter4life

If you're asking for off-road in particular, it depends on the kind of off-roading you do. If you plan to do longer term expedition type trips, then there is argument for either and possibly both. I have a rack and love it. It's been used off road many times and have had no issues, however you are limited on the weight nor do you want a ton up there is you are doing a lot of off camber trails as the last thing you want is more weight up top. For that kind of trail, a trailer would be much better.

Cost is also a big factor, a trailer properly equipped will run you several thousands, unless you know how to weld and have access to all the steel and equipment you need to build/add onto the trailer. You can get a real nice rack for about $1000.

As for look with the top off, does not look weird at all in my opinion.

Phantasm

I went with the rack cause I tow a boat.
Rack can be found in my sig block below...