Common Overhead Storage Options for Club Cars

Need more cargo space without losing seating? Overhead storage on a Club Car uses roof racks and ceiling bins to secure coolers, gear, and bags above.

Outfitting a golf cart with overhead storage is one of the easiest ways to reclaim space without cluttering the floor or rear seat kit. Purpose-built roof racks and ceiling bins mount to the factory canopy or struts, turning unused airspace into organized, secure capacity for day trips, errands, or league play. Below, you’ll find the most common options, what they carry best, and how to choose a setup that fits your Club Car (Precedent, Tempo, DS, or Onward) and your daily routine.

Overhead storage options for Club Cars

• Low-profile crossbars: Two adjustable bars span the canopy to support soft cargo, duffels, or a compact dry bag. They keep weight close to the roof for quiet, low-drag hauling and work as a base for future baskets.
• Basket-style roof rack: A welded, powder-coated basket with raised edges that contains loose items (jackets, towels, range buckets). Look for tie-down points, drain holes, and a shallow front fairing to reduce wind noise.
• Enclosed ceiling bin: A rigid bin that mounts under the roof skin or to the front/rear struts. Great for valuables you’d rather stow out of sight—gloves, rangefinders, first-aid kit—while keeping the floor clear.
• Overhead soft sling/net: A breathable mesh hammock that straps to the roof frame. Ideal for bulky but light items like rain gear or extra layers; cinch straps prevent shifting on bumpy paths.
• Modular accessory plates: Flat panels with slot patterns for rod holders, speaker pods, or radio pouches. They pair with crossbars and let you rearrange mounts as needs change.
• Overhead console with compartments: A shallow, multi-pocket organizer for small essentials—tees, balls, sunscreen, wipes—so you don’t dig through seat pockets mid-round.

Fitment keys before you buy

• Model & year: Verify compatibility with your exact Club Car generation (e.g., Precedent 2004+, Tempo, DS). Strut spacing and canopy thickness vary by model.
• Accessories: Rear seats, enclosures, sound bars, or light bars may share mounting real estate. Choose systems that include spacers or alternate brackets for these add-ons.
• Load rating: Check both static and dynamic ratings. Many roof systems comfortably handle light/medium loads (often 20–75 lb total). Stay within the manufacturer’s limits to protect the canopy and keep handling predictable.
• Clearance & height: Remember garages and trailers. A basket may add 2–5 inches; measure the new overall height so you still clear doorways.
• Materials & finish: Powder-coated aluminum or steel resists corrosion. Look for stainless hardware, nylon lock nuts, rubber isolators, and UV-stable straps.

What types of items can be stored in overhead compartments?

Overhead systems excel with light to medium cargo that benefits from quick access and staying dry. Secure heavier or fragile items lower in the vehicle.

• Soft goods: Jackets, towels, rain gear, hats, spare gloves, picnic blankets.
• Course gear: Range buckets (secured), ball shag bags, alignment sticks, collapsible ball retrievers.
• Event & family items: Diaper bag, lunch cooler (small/soft-sided), sunscreen kits, collapsible chairs (lightweight).
• Hobby extras: Lightweight camera bag, binoculars, fishing rod tubes (with dedicated mounts), yoga mats.
• Emergency/safety: Compact first-aid kit, ponchos, small tool roll, jumper leads in a soft pouch.

Avoid putting very heavy, liquid-filled, or sharp-edged items up high. If you must carry a cooler, choose a soft model and strap it to a basket’s tie-downs; confirm that the weight is well within the rack’s dynamic rating.

How to choose the right overhead system

1. Define the mission: List the top five things you’ll carry most weeks. Soft goods and jackets? Choose a soft sling or low-profile basket. Mixed items including small valuables? Add a ceiling bin or console.
2. Measure twice: Note canopy width, strut spacing, and current overall height (including any light/sound bar). If you store the cart in a garage or toy hauler, reserve 2–3 inches of extra clearance.
3. Match mounting style: Crossbars that clamp to struts install fastest; basket kits may bolt through the canopy with sealed hardware. Under-roof bins avoid added height but require solid mounting points.
4. Plan tie-downs: Choose racks with perimeter rails, D-rings, or slots for cam straps. Add a cargo net for quick containment of soft items.
5. Mind the center of gravity: Keep weight as low and as centered as practical. Even modest overhead loads can change how the cart feels in sharp turns; pack light and drive smoothly.

Installation and care tips

• Dry fit first: Assemble loosely, check alignment with enclosures or rear seat handrails, then torque fasteners to spec.
• Seal penetrations: If you drill the canopy, use rubber washers and a dab of sealant to keep water out; deburr holes to protect the roof skin.
• Silence the rattle: Add thin rubber shims where metal meets metal. A small front fairing or wind deflector can reduce whistle at speed.
• Routine checks: Re-torque after the first hour of use, then every few weeks. Inspect straps and nets for UV wear; replace at the first sign of fray.
• Clean & protect: Rinse after salty or dusty use; apply light silicone to strap buckles and a corrosion inhibitor to exposed hardware.

Quick comparison table

Bottom line

Overhead storage turns unused airspace into practical capacity while keeping seats open and the floor uncluttered. Pick the style that matches your cargo, verify fitment with your Club Car’s canopy and accessories, and stay within rated loads. With a well-chosen rack or ceiling bin—and a couple of cam straps—you’ll carry more, stay organized, and keep your golf cart tidy on every outing.