Top 5 Mistakes Kiwis Make with Bungee Cords (and How to Avoid Them)
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Bungee cords are a Kiwi classic — every ute, shed, and boat trailer seems to have a bundle of them kicking around. They’re cheap, stretchy, and quick to use. But here’s the truth: bungee cords are also one of the most misused tie downs in New Zealand. And when they fail, the results can be frustrating, costly, or downright dangerous.
So, let’s break down the top 5 mistakes Kiwis make with bungee cords — and more importantly, how to avoid them.
1. Overstretching the Cord
It’s tempting to pull a bungee as tight as possible to lock something down. The problem? Overstretching weakens the cord and increases the chance of snapback.
Avoid it: Never stretch beyond 50–70% of the cord’s relaxed length. Better yet, use an adjustable strap (like Tack Strap) that adapts to your load without over-pulling.
2. Relying on a Single Cord
One lonely bungee cord won’t keep a kayak, bike, or chilly bin secure on New Zealand’s bumpy backroads. Loads shift, hooks slip, and suddenly your gear is gone.
Avoid it: Always use multiple points of contact. Tack Strap’s 4-way design lets you create a cross-pattern that locks gear in place and prevents sliding.
3. Hooking onto Weak Anchor Points
A bungee is only as strong as what it’s hooked onto. Fence wire, plastic crates, or thin edges are notorious for bending, snapping, or letting the hook fly free.
Avoid it: Always attach to solid anchor points — roof racks, ute tie-down loops, or trailer rails. Tack Strap’s steel-core overmolded hooks grip reliably without bending out of shape.
4. Using Worn-Out or Sun-Damaged Bungees
New Zealand’s UV levels are brutal. Cheap rubber cords crack, fray, and lose stretch after a season or two in the sun. Many Kiwis don’t notice until a strap fails mid-trip.
Avoid it: Regularly check cords for wear. If they look cracked or feel soft, retire them. Tack Strap is built with UV-resistant materials designed to last longer in tough Kiwi conditions.
5. Trusting Bungees for Irregular or Heavy Loads
Bungees are fine for holding a tarp, but ask them to secure a motorbike, kayak, or toolbox and you’re asking for trouble. They simply aren’t designed for awkward or heavy-duty loads.
Avoid it: For valuable gear, upgrade to something designed for stability. Tack Strap’s non-slip grip pad applies downward pressure that bungees can’t, keeping your load steady no matter the shape.
The Smarter Alternative for Kiwi Adventures
Bungees will always have a place — but not when it comes to securing valuable outdoor gear. Whether you’re hauling a motorbike, kayak, or camping kit, Tack Strap is a safer, stronger, and longer-lasting choice.
👉 Ready to avoid the bungee blues? Shop Tack Strap in NZ and keep your adventures strapped in tight.