Brief update for folks who are interested.
Following people's kind input, and the fact that we still want more space/declutter the interior on roadtrips, we've come to the decision that a 'hardbox' is what we're after. Main drivers:
1. Storage - for when on-site for all the mess such as boots, toys, etc.
2. Security - we dont want to constantly worry about external cargo
3. Ease / 1-person capability - having attempted to set up a Vango Galli 3 Low last season and expecting help, it dawned on me that those activities are now solely mine whilst my other half takes on the challenge of entertaining a todder (and our newest) in the meantime.
So, of those that didnt make the cut:
1. MFT - absolutely lovely - but too convoluted to order and concerns on any product support/issues. If I could have ordered the black one in the UK easily, i'd have done it straight off. But there are some views that it opens way too easily, even without unlocking.
2. Softbags - as a backup, perhaps. But the constant nagging of security outweighs the convenience.
3. BacRak - the Cali's my pride and joy - and those things are clearly function with no form.
4. Pack lighter - dont be silly - i'm a materialistic millenial - wont do/cant do.
So ultimately, the tossup was between:
1. Thule Backup Box - the original choice....420 litres on a dedicated cargo rack. Hard-shelled and secure, but ultimately takes up a lot of space in the garage. It also cant tilt whilst attached and is a bit cumbersome in general. Overall cost £650.
2. Thule Backspace XT + Velospace XT 3 bikerack. The (soft)hardbox only stores 300 litres, but it's lighter and more easily stored than the Backup Box and less easily cracked/damaged. The rack itself also folds down well, meaning that it can be tucked away easily either on site or at home. In addition, when not used as a cargo rack, it can be used for 3(+1) bikes, up to a total of 60kg. Best of all, it tilts, allowing access to the tailgate. Overall cost £1100.
Though our friends at Amazon, we've now ordered the Thule Backspace XT + VeloSpace XT 3 - albeit for substancially cheaper!
A lightning sale was on today (perfectly timed) which meant we saved a good couple of hundred quid, bringing it down to around £750 for the XT setup. Given the additional versatility (easier bike loading when needed, additional storage, tilt function, overall better quality), we felt it was worth the premium. Should we for some absurd reason need additional storage (soulstyle is having a heartattack right now, eh?) we can always grab a cheap storage bag from Amazon again for the VW bikerack, on the assumption it'll be more difficult to steal/break into it from up high and would be unlikely to be used anyway.
Once the XT setup arrives, we'll trial fit it midday on Tuesday just to make sure it does what we're intending and we'll share a few photos for anyone else interested in the journey.
Thanks again for the feedback guys.
