5 Practical Reasons Why Everyone Should Own Ratchet Straps
Have you recently used a pair of tie-down straps for a
one-time use? If you’re wondering what you’re going to do with straps that may
only need to be used once, then we’ve got some news for you. Whether you’re
planning to move cargo again or not, quality ratchet straps will always be a
handy asset to have.
Sometimes referred to as ratchet straps, tie-downs are one of the most handy items you can keep in your
garage, car boot, or emergency kit. This post takes a look at a few of the many
ways that ratchet straps can come in handy when you least expect them.
Useful for More Than Just Hauling
When you first think of ratchet straps, you can be forgiven
for thinking that they are only useful for hauling cargo or tying your ATV to a
trailer for a weekend away. The reality is that you can use these nifty straps
for everything from securing items to your car’s roof rack to using them in a
roadside emergency. Here’s a breakdown of why we believe you should hang onto
your ratchet straps.
1. Securing Items for Transport
The primary reason for owning a few pairs of tie-down straps
is to secure items to trailers, trucks, and utes. This can involve cargo on a
professional level for your business, or even simply to move furniture when
you’re relocating.
An extensive range of lengths and sizes is available, making
it super-easy to find the perfect straps to secure your cargo, no matter how
big or small. Ratchet tie-down straps are the perfect way to secure cargo,
boxes, furniture, or even bikes and cars to specialised trailers.
2. Towing a Vehicle in an Emergency
Emergency teams will agree that every vehicle should have a
set of durable and strong tie-down straps as part of their breakdown kits.
These can be handy in an emergency and can assist you or someone else in the
event of a breakdown. Tie-down straps make it possible for one vehicle to pull
another car out of getting stuck in mud or even to tow it to a garage.
When you’re getting ready to buy the perfect straps for your
breakdown kit, it’s essential to consider the weight of your vehicle. Choosing
straps that are strong enough to pull the weight of your vehicle without
snapping is essential to avoid a potential accident.
3. Take Your Recreational Vehicles With You on Your Camping Trip
Australians are well known for loving the outdoors,
especially in the summer months. Boating, racing bikes and ATVs are among the top weekend activities. However, if you’re
thinking about taking up one of these hobbies, you will need a way to get your
ATVs or bikes to the track. The solution lies in a car trailer, several sturdy
tie-down straps and some load binders to provide additional support to the
load.
4. Make Storage in Your Garage Simpler
DIY enthusiasts love ratchet straps because they can be used
just about everywhere for so many different reasons. Using your garage space
for storage? People who need extra storage space often tie extra items to the
garage roof using a set of tie straps. Strong and weight-appropriate straps
will make it possible to store boxes and bags without the risk of them falling.
5. An Assortment of Camping Uses
If you’re planning a camping trip, then you’ll be eager to
learn how tie-down straps can make your camping site more organised and
functional. Here are some of the more common uses to keep in mind:
- Tying your kayak or canoe to your vehicle roof: While you
can tie your kayak or canoe to your vehicle roof or trailer using a rope, our
experts recommend using tie-down straps instead as they’re more secure. The
ratchet feature ensures additional security.
- Use as a lantern line: If you’re camping with children or
elderly people, it’s a good and safe idea to string a few ratchet straps
between trees at your camping site. Simply hang a few lanterns across the strap
to light up the whole camping site. This will make it easy for everyone to see
where they are walking, and there’s no risk of knocking a ground lantern over.
- Tying a canoe or kayak up in the camping site: If you’re
going to leave your kayak or canoe on the water’s edge, it’s a good idea to
secure it to the nearest strong tree. This will give you peace of mind that
your kayak is secure.
- Make rope swings: A fun way to keep children entertained
during weekend camping trips is to create a few rope swings. The easiest way to
do it is to attach a flat plank to a couple of ratchet straps and then secure
it to a tree. Essentially, the straps will replace the more traditional ropes.
Final Thoughts
Ratchet straps have an assortment of uses and, if stored
properly, can be safely used for a long time. This means it’s a good idea to
add them to your outdoor gear and emergency kit. You’ll be glad you did!
