Thinking of ways to get the most out of your tonneau cover? Besides protecting your truck bed from weather and theft, it can be a practical surface for storing or transporting things. Let’s explore some ideas on what to safely place on your tonneau cover and how to use it efficiently without damaging it.
Using Your Tonneau Cover for Extra Storage
The surface of a tonneau cover is sturdy, but not all covers are built the same. Knowing your cover’s weight capacity and structure is key to understanding what you can put on it.
Lightweight Items for Short Trips
For short trips, lightweight items can be placed temporarily on the tonneau cover. Things like camping gear, light tools, or sports equipment are generally safe if you’re driving locally and don’t plan to leave them up there for too long. But remember, wind resistance can move unsecured items around, so always secure them with bungee cords or a cargo net.
Avoid placing items that are too heavy, like filled coolers or heavy boxes, as they might leave dents or scratches, especially if it’s a soft tonneau cover. For soft covers, stick with lighter gear to avoid potential wear and tear.
Cargo Racks for Added Security
If you have a hard tonneau cover, adding a cargo rack can make it easier to secure items on top. These racks are designed to be installed on certain tonneau covers, giving you a place to tie down bulkier items without damaging the cover. Some racks can be adjusted or even removed when not in use, making them versatile if you don’t always need the extra space.
Cargo racks work well for carrying items like kayaks, ladders, or bike racks—anything you want to keep stable during a drive. Just make sure the tonneau cover you have is compatible with racks before installing one.
Practical Everyday Uses for Your Tonneau Cover
You don’t have to be hauling big gear to make use of your tonneau cover. Many truck owners find practical, everyday uses for this surface that can come in handy.
Picnic Table on the Go
A tonneau cover makes a convenient spot for a quick tailgate picnic. If you’re out camping or just on a long drive, pop open the cover and lay out your snacks and drinks. The cover’s flat surface is perfect for resting food items, drinks, and even small cooking gear if you’re out in nature.
For extra protection, place a tablecloth or a mat on the cover first to avoid spills or scratches. This also keeps things from sliding around, especially on smooth, hardcovers.
Mobile Workbench
Truck owners often need a sturdy work surface, and a hard tonneau cover can serve as a quick workbench for light projects. If you’re in a remote location or just need a spot to place tools, the tonneau cover can provide a temporary workspace. Just avoid banging too hard or using sharp tools that might damage the surface.
Use a mat underneath tools to prevent scratches. This is especially helpful if your truck has a retractable tonneau cover or folding cover, which may be more prone to small dents.
Seasonal Decorations and Displays
A tonneau cover can even be useful for personal projects, like displaying seasonal decorations. If you’re parking at an event or just want to show off some holiday spirit, use the cover to place decorations safely above the truck bed.
For example, in colder months, you can lay out winter decorations or even a small display if you’re part of a parade or community event. The key here is to secure everything properly so it won’t fall or blow away.
Things to Avoid Putting on Your Tonneau Cover
While tonneau covers are durable, they’re not indestructible. Here’s a quick look at what to avoid putting on top to keep it in good shape.
Heavy Objects
Excessive weight can damage the tonneau cover, especially soft covers that aren’t designed for heavy loads. Items like large toolboxes, concrete bags, or anything that exceeds the weight limit can cause the cover to sag or even break.
If you need to transport something heavy, consider loading it directly inside the truck bed under the tonneau cover, rather than placing it on top.
Sharp or Pointy Items
Sharp objects can scratch or even puncture your tonneau cover. Things like garden tools, saws, or any sharp metal should be avoided unless they’re securely wrapped. Scratches not only look bad but can reduce the cover’s lifespan, especially on soft covers.
Unsecured Items
Even if you’re transporting lightweight items, anything that isn’t tied down can be risky. Loose items can slide off while driving, which can cause damage to other vehicles and potentially be dangerous. Use straps, nets, or any securing mechanism to make sure everything stays in place.
The Versatile Tonneau Cover: More Than Just a Cover
Your tonneau cover can be more useful than you may have thought, serving as storage, workspace, and even display space when needed. Whether you’re using it for day-to-day errands or on a longer trip, knowing how to safely use the surface will keep your cover looking good and lasting longer. Just make sure to avoid heavy or sharp items to protect your investment.
