[aerohead]

If you are going to be near water,lose the roof rack,get a swing-away spare tire mount for over the hatch.Buy a entry-level kayak and open it up at the seat location.Load all your gear into a kayak,and mount that (upside-down) to a smaller roof rack system close to the roof.The kayak will have virtually no drag,it will protect your gear from the worst weather,and you'll have the use of the kayak( by temporarily refitting the seat).Your fuel savings will easily cover the cost of the kayak.If you're clever,you'll be able to fit everything creatively inside the boat,and with help from your travel mates,it won't be any trouble to load and secure the boat.