High gasoline prices are here to stay. In fact, gas prices have gotten so high that consumers are more interested in a car's M.P.G. rating than any other feature. People want their cars to use less gasoline, which means choosing a car with better fuel efficiency and aerodynamics. Unfortunately, many road-tripping drivers are unknowingly destroying their cars' aerodynamics, and thus M.P.G. If you plan ahead on your next vacation or road trip, there is a way to save 20 percent on your fuel bill.

When you prepare for a road trip or vacation an important consideration is room for passengers and all the gear you plan to carry. For some people buying a roof top carrier is the answer. But before you shell out up to $650 for a roof mounted box and all the mounting hardware, consider the hidden costs as well.

The major hidden cost of roof mount carriers is aerodynamic drag. Roof mounted carriers cause a significant amount of drag, cutting gas mileage by a significant amount. Independent test reports by two consumer research groups have come to the same conclusion. Their tests indicate an average 20% loss in gas mileage with roof mounted carriers. That is a lot of money thrown to the wind.

In this age of energy conservation and fuel economy, there is a better way to carry your gear--rear mounted cargo carriers. Rear mounted cargo carriers are proven to save fuel, time and are easy to use. The better ones are aerodynamic and shaped to improve airflow. They easily mount directly to the rear of the vehicle, and, unlike rigid roof boxes, they can be folded up and easily stored.

Before your next road trip, get to know more about rear mounted cargo carriers. They have virtually no drag, thus reducing your fuel bill substantially.