Cooper
New Reader
5/26/09 7:23 p.m.
Have any of the MINI (non Clubman) owners out there figured out the best way to pack for an event? 4 16" tires/wheels, helmet, tools, jack, cooler, overnite bag... No trailer, no support vehicle. Not wanting scuff up the interior too much so I was wondering if any one has worked out a good order here. I am anticipating the need for some tire totes. Any and all comments/suggestions welcome.
Thanks, Steve
Cooper
New Reader
5/26/09 7:26 p.m.
By the way...1st event coming up, I'll change my picture then if anyone get's a good shot of me.
Per Schroeder
Technical Editor/Advertising Director
5/26/09 7:38 p.m.
Ok, yes, get tire totes.
fold rear seats down, leave rear parcel tray cover at home.
put small items in rear footwells (tools, air gauge, etc.)
put blanket across backs of rear seats/quarter panels.
stack two tires each side.
Jack goes in way back, preferably on a blanket or the factory rubber cargo mat. helmet goes on top of jack, cooler next to that. If you've got more luggage, it can go on top of the cooler.
I put my magnets underneath the factory rear rubber cargo tray and then the jack on top of that. Never seemed to hurt the magnets.
Kim and I have gone back and forth between Florida and WI or KS like this...by stacking the tires 2 by 2, you can still see over them and out the back window.
If you have an IKEA near you there are some bags in the garage area that work great as ite totes. They are opaque plastic with black zippers and handles. I have worn out a set after about 3-4 years, will be getting some more. Just used them in the wife's brand new Fit with no problems, not even noise.
Cooper
New Reader
5/26/09 8:00 p.m.
I like the idea of good visibility behind me! Wasn't sure if they would fit laying down, I will give it all a test fit well before my first event with the car. Must find a good old blanket. Next step will be to order a set of tire totes, I would guess these might make the tires a bit easier to load/unload too!
Many thanks Per.
Cooper
New Reader
5/26/09 8:04 p.m.
Nearest IKEA is about 500-600 miles unfortunately. Heck, I'd get lost in there anyway Great suggestion though, thanks.
there is also "hidden" storage between the wheels you are carrying if you are clever. put the wheels back to back to give you the most amount of room to store things between them
Dorsai
New Reader
5/26/09 9:23 p.m.
I'm thinking IKEA sells online, and shipping on those bags can't be very expensive. Just a thought.
Cooper
New Reader
5/27/09 3:33 p.m.
Good one on the "storage in the wheel".
Time to look at IKEA.com for a look see.