We have a hitch and a rear mounted rack (securely holds 5 bikes). We cannot put our bikes in the minivan due to the kids being in there and there are 5 of us and 5 bikes. I know there are several on here who are ble to securely carry their bikes inside their cars. If we did not need the seats, I would opt for that. As for a top carrier, I am too short, I would never be able to get them on and off.