Comparison January 8, 2026
Tacoma Bed Rack vs. Tonneau Cover: Which Storage is Best?
Overland rack or secure cover? We debate the pros and cons of bed racks vs tonneau covers for your gear.
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Azeem Iqbal
Azeem Iqbal
Note: Information is for reference only. Always consult your vehicle manual for official specifications.
The Storage Dilemma
You have a truck bed. Do you want to stack it high (Rack) or seal it up (Cover)?
The Bed Rack (The Overland Look)
- Best For: Roof Top Tents, mounting Maxtrax/Rotopax, carrying kayaks/bikes.
- Pros: Maximizes vertical storage. Looks tough.
- Cons: Security. Anything in the bed is exposed to thieves and weather.
The Tonneau Cover (The Practical Choice)
- Best For: Groceries, tools, camping gear you want dry.
- Pros: Security. Lock the tailgate, and your gear is safe (mostly). Improved MPG (slightly).
- Cons: You lose the ability to carry tall items like dirt bikes without removing the cover.
The Best of Both Worlds?
BillieBars allow you to run crossbars over a tonneau cover. This lets you mount a tent/bike racks while keeping the bed dry and locked below. It is the ultimate “weekend warrior” setup.
? Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a bed rack with a tonneau cover?
Only with specific models. Racks like the 'BillieBars' or 'KB Voodoo' are designed to mount over Retrax or soft rolling covers. Most standard racks clamp to the rails, blocking covers.
Are tonneau covers waterproof?
Water-*resistant*. No cover is 100% waterproof in a car wash, but hard folding covers like the BakFlip keep 99% of rain out.
How much weight can a bed rack hold?
Most steel bed racks are rated for ~700-1000 lbs static (parked) and 300-400 lbs dynamic (driving), which is plenty for a Roof Top Tent.
About Azeem Iqbal
We are dedicated to providing accurate, easy-to-understand information. Our goal is to help you make informed choices for your vehicle.
