Your vehicle should suit your lifestyle and needs, not the other way around. While getting a bare ute from the factory is a great purchase, upgrading it can increase its functionality and value.
A great aspect of this vehicle is the fact that it offers endless customisation options. While some ute accessories focus only on appearance, you can also find useful upgrades that can improve your vehicle’s capability and help it reach its full potential. Whether you’re a tradie, an outdoor enthusiast or a professional in general, here are six suggested upgrades for efficiency and organisation:
Checker Plate Toolbox
Storing and transporting gear in your tray is not the best way to stay organised. Loose items might shift, your tools will probably get damaged and in the worst scenario, your prized possessions will be exposed to the elements. So, to avoid this mess and protect your gear, you might want to get a robust checker plate tool box. It’s the easiest way to bring order to the chaos and offers many benefits.
When it comes to picking a material, you have free rein. But among the various options aluminium and stainless steel stand out for a good reason. They’re impact-resistant and built to handle the toughest weather conditions while keeping your tools safe and sound. In rain, shine, or wind, these aftermarket accessories will stay strong and won’t warp. This durability means your investment will pay off in the long run.
In addition to durability, ute owners prefer checker plate toolboxes over other options for the added grip that the non-slip pattern provides. This ensures that whatever you’re storing stays securely in place, minimising the risk of damage.
Check plate toolboxes also offer robust functionality and have various storage options. Some models have drawers, others have shelves and you can even find toolboxes that combine the two. That said, you can choose a layout that fits your needs and preferences.
Another great benefit of a checker plate tool box is the high level of security it provides. These boxes are equipped with stainless steel piano hinges and heavy-duty stainless steel T-locks. This means you will have peace of mind knowing your tools and valuables are protected from theft. But if you want extra security, opt for locks fitted with bolts instead of rivets.
Before you reach for your wallet, consider the toolbox’s size and weight. Measure your tray and choose a model that fits snugly without adding too much bulk to your vehicle.
Roof Rack
A roof rack is another handy accessory for your vehicle. You can choose a permanent or removable model; it all depends on your needs and preferences. Most ute owners interested in outdoor activities install a roof rack to carry their camping gear including their rain tarp or rooftop tent. If you’re using the rack for this purpose, it’s important to secure your setup.
You can also use the roof rack to transport equipment like bicycles, kayaks or skis. Just don’t forget to secure the load to protect your gear from damage and prevent safety risks for other vehicles.
Ladder Rack
If you need to carry long items like ladders, pipes or timber, a ladder rack is a must-have upgrade for your ute. This accessory can add some height to the back of your vehicle and extend the useful space. This is extremely helpful for enhanced organisation because installing a ladder rack will free up valuable space in the cabin or tray.
Cover or Canopy
If you need basic protection for your tray, a ute cover is great for everyday use. It shields smaller items from rain and dust while keeping the tray accessible. A cover works well if you want a sleek, low-profile look and don’t need extra height or storage space.
A canopy is better if you need extra storage or want to keep bulky items secure and weatherproof. It’s perfect for carrying camping gear, tools, or pets. Canopies also work well for tradespeople who need an enclosed space for storing their equipment.
Tow Bar
You should also consider installing a tow bar. It’s a useful add-on that can help you in many different scenarios. For example, if you have a tow bar you can rescue a vehicle stuck in the mud or sand. Or in some cases, you might need to transport a big load that doesn’t fit in your tray. With a tow bar, you can attach a trailer to your ute and complete the task. Whether helping a buddy out or using it for your needs, a tow bar is a must-have accessory.
Bull Bar
When you’re off-roading or driving in rural areas, hitting an animal, like a kangaroo, can cause some serious damage to your ute. Plus, critical chassis damage could leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. That’s why you need a bull bar. This upgrade can protect the front of your ute, including the bumper, headlights, and windscreen. If an accident happens, you’ll be glad you added that extra layer of protection.
