Expert Warns Homebound Travellers Against Carelessly Using Roofboxes

Jakarta — Sony Susmana, a senior driving safety expert and instructor from Safety Defensive Consultant Indonesia (SDCI), has cautioned the public planning homebound travel (mudik) not to carry excessive baggage, thereby avoiding the need for a roofbox.

“Roofbox should not be used just because others are using it. It is actually only additional space when the boot is full. We should assume mudik is not a house move, so only bring what is necessary,” said Sony Susmana when contacted in Jakarta on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

He continued that if homebound travellers genuinely require a roofbox as an additional component for carrying luggage, Sony recommends filling it only with lightweight items.

This is not merely an advisory suggestion. Loading excessive or heavy items can cause a vehicle to slip more easily when cornering.

“If a roofbox is absolutely necessary, fill it with lightweight items so it does not compromise vehicle balance. As a consequence, vehicle speed should be limited to no more than 80 km per hour, particularly on toll roads with heavy wind or provincial roads with many branches,” he said.

Using a roofbox on a vehicle not only increases potential hazards. Fuel consumption will also increase significantly. Furthermore, roofbox use can alter vehicle aerodynamics.

As a result, wind resistance increases and forces the engine to work harder against it.

When a vehicle engine works harder than usual, fuel consumption can increase by approximately 5 to 15 per cent.