Jeep offers several roof rack configurations, and the right one depends on your model, top type, and the kind of gear you carry. Here are the three main systems to consider: 

• Removable Crossbar Systems: Clamp onto the hardtop drip rail of Wrangler and Gladiator models with no drilling required. Easy to install and remove, they support Mopar-compatible carriers for bikes, skis, and cargo baskets. The Mopar Removable Roof Rack Kit is a popular factory option with a 150-pound weight capacity. 

• Side Rail Crossbar Systems: Designed for models like the Grand Cherokee that come with factory-installed side rails. The crossbars slide and lock into preset positions along the rails, supporting up to 165 pounds of cargo including watersport carriers, luggage pods, and bike mounts. 

• Full-Length Roof Rack Platforms: Aftermarket options that bolt directly to the vehicle body or hardtop. These heavy-duty platforms offer the largest cargo area and highest weight capacity, making them the go-to choice for overlanding and extended off-road trips. 

Each system works with a different set of Mopar® and aftermarket carriers, so matching the rack to your Jeep model is the first step. 

Here's a quick side-by-side look at how each system stacks up: 

Overlanding, camping gear, rooftop tents 

Use this as a starting point, then check with our parts team to confirm the best fit for your specific Jeep and top configuration. 

Compatibility depends on your Jeep model and top configuration. Here's a breakdown by model: 

• Jeep Wrangler (JL): Mopar® Removable Roof Rack Kit (Freedom Top® hardtop only, not compatible with Sky One-Touch® Power Top or soft tops), plus aftermarket full-length platforms for hardtop and frame-mount setups. 

• Jeep Gladiator (JT): Mopar® Removable Roof Rack Kit (same hardtop drip rail system as the Wrangler), plus aftermarket full-length platforms for overlanding builds. 

• Jeep Grand Cherokee (WL/WL L): Mopar® Side Rail Crossbars that lock into factory-installed mounting points, compatible with all Mopar® roof-mounted carriers for bikes, kayaks, luggage, and snowsport gear. 

If your vehicle doesn't have factory rails or a hardtop, aftermarket platforms with custom brackets are available for most Jeep models. Our parts team can verify compatibility using your VIN. 

If you cycle the trails at Borderland State Park on weekends and hit the slopes in winter, removable crossbars give you the flexibility to swap carriers and take the rack off when you don't need it. Families in Mansfield and Easton who regularly load up for road trips to Cape Cod or beach days at Horseneck will appreciate side rail crossbars for their quick setup and secure fit. Serious off-roaders and overlanders heading into the Great Woods or beyond should look at full-length platforms built to handle rooftop tents, recovery gear, and heavier loads across rough terrain. 

Always check the weight capacity of both the rack and your vehicle's roof. Mopar removable crossbars support up to 150 pounds, while side rail kits handle up to 165 pounds. Distribute weight evenly across the bars and secure all cargo with rated tie-downs before driving. Keep in mind that a loaded roof rack raises your vehicle's center of gravity, so adjust your speed on highways and turns accordingly.