P3PPY said:
I didn’t realize how tough this would be to decide. Screw it, I’ll just do both. :)
I like that there’s been some research on MPG (or liter, rather — though I didn’t do that conversion so I’m just taking your summary at face value). Once I get this little one to sleep I’ll see if we have crossbeams or what.
I like the utility of hauling little things here or there on the hitch carrier any old time - like the bikes and a buggy just strapped down.
wheres a good coin to flip...?
I personally prefer to use quarters for a coin toss, good visibility and wide enough to get good rotation.
Im sure others have their favorites for coin toss that may be better for your application 
i have that crossbar setup from the video. It seems like there's not much to lose by getting one of those roof carriers, less time involved too and we have just a few days. Wife wants to just pack lighter and not bother. I guess this will be a test of how feasible that is. If not, then cargo box it is. We have a decent-sized shared storage shed.
This roof box is probably a good one if your willing to drive to Midland. Being a Volvo factory accessory , I'm sure it was a rebranded Thule or Yakima (high end stuff.)
If you hate it or don't want to store it, sell it for the same price when you return.
In reply to John Welsh :
I never had one that nice! That's a good price. I've had two "turtle" ones, along the way (price was right at time of need- one was free!) and one of the zippered bags ( was used more on the hitch hauler or on flatbed than on roof)
I like that long style.
That would be nice! I don't think I can get that far just now. BTW John I like the wheel covers you used. My wife too dislikes the blackish wheels we got like yours.
