I've done this for years. I use shallow plastic containers (Kmart?) with the
tops underneath. The tops are fastened with Velcro to the inside rear roof
under the pop top. The container just sits in the top. Usually have soft goods
in these containers (extra clothing, cereal boxes, etc.) so that when the top
is closed, things can be compressed just slightly. To get something out, just
release the top a bit and slide the plastic containers out. There is never a
need to remove the tops which are attached with Velcro. Because of the size
and shape of the containers, on the passenger side I use a plastic rifle case
which is velcroed to the roof. Since it opens on the side you must pop the
top to get into it but it is good for long things (hiking poles). This way you
can use the entire space- containers in the back can be removed by removing
the ones in the front. My containers are perhaps 3" high.

Any other solutions?

Here is a related question. I've often thought it would be great to have a
molded case which would fit the outside front luggage carrier. One would want
it to be fairly strong and waterproof and designed to fit well. Does one
exist? Can things like this be custom made?

  John
  '89 Westy

                                        John P. Stoneback
                                        Computer Science Program
                                        Moravian College
                                        Bethlehem, PA  USA  18018

                                        610-861-1341 (fax 610-625-7918)
                                        jps@cs.moravian.edu