Transport Your Christmas Tree in a Volkswagen

The holiday season is here, and for many in Rhode Island, that means finding the perfect tree to fill your home with that classic holiday scent and cozy atmosphere. But let’s be honest, getting that tree from the farm to your living room can be a hassle.

What if we told you it doesn’t have to be? At Speedcraft Volkswagen, we’ve put together a few tips to make transporting your tree in your VW SUV easier and less stressful. Holidays are for spending time with family, not wrestling a tree into your car.

Whether you prefer strapping the tree to your car’s rooftop or using the generous interior cargo space, follow these quick steps to get your tree home easily and securely this holiday season.

Step 1: Prep Your VW SUV and Supplies

Before you head out, a little preparation goes a long way. To protect your vehicle and yourself, make sure to gather:

• Blankets or tarps: To catch any loose pine needles, dirt, or sap.
• Ratcheting straps or strong rope: Avoid bungee cords, as they can stretch and loosen during transit.
• Utility gloves: To protect your hands from sticky sap and sharp needles.
• Reflective flags or tape: Essential for visibility if you’re driving after dark.

Step 2: Measure Everything Twice

There’s nothing worse than getting the perfect tree home only to find it doesn’t fit. Before you leave, measure the space in your home where the tree will go. Then, measure your vehicle’s cargo space or roof rack to ensure you can transport it safely.

Step 3: Loading Your Tree

You’ve found “the one!” Now, it’s time to get it home.

Most tree farms will have netting available to wrap your tree tightly, which limits loose branches and prevents scratches. If not, use an old blanket or tarp.

Transporting Inside Your SUV:

1. Fold down the rear seats to maximize cargo space. For smaller items, use the underfloor storage in models like the ID.4 EV.
2. Lay down your blanket or tarp to protect the interior.
3. Load the tree with the trunk-end first, pushing it as far forward as possible to prevent sliding.
4. Secure the tree using your vehicle’s interior anchor points with ropes or straps.

Transporting on Your SUV’s Rooftop:

1. If your VW is equipped with crossbars, they provide a secure base and protect your roof’s paint.
2. Position the tree with the trunk facing the front of the vehicle. This reduces wind resistance and protects the branches from damage.
3. Use strong ratcheting straps or durable ropes to fasten the tree securely to the crossbars.

Step 4: The Pre-Drive Safety Check

Before you pull out of the lot, double-check your work.

• On the rooftop? Give the tree a firm tug to ensure it’s secure. If it moves, tighten the straps until it’s solid.
• Inside the car? Make sure your view from the front windshield, rear window, and mirrors is not obstructed.

If you’re driving at night with the tree on the roof, attach a reflective flag or tape to the end of the tree to make it visible to other drivers.

Step 5: Quick and Easy Cleanup

Once you’re home and have unloaded your tree, the blankets you laid down should make cleanup simple. Quickly check for any stray sap spots and clean them immediately to avoid stains.

With these tips, your Volkswagen SUV is the perfect partner for your holiday traditions. From all of us at Speedcraft Volkswagen, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

Ready for a new holiday adventure vehicle? Explore our inventory of spacious Volkswagen SUVs today or stop by our dealership in Wakefield, RI!