Abstract: A utility rack is provided that may be swiftly and easily attached to the exteriors of vehicles of various sizes. The utility rack has a carrier bar containing a hollow compartment. A rubber band or a spring inside the hollow compartment is attached at either end to a non-elastic strap which extends from the hollow compartment and outside the carrier bar to hooks or other anchors detachably affixed to anchor points on the vehicle. Locking mechanisms are mounted on the carrier bar to lock the non-elastic straps to the carrier bar by a pawl mechanism or by a pin. The utility rack is placed on the vehicle by pulling on the non-elastic straps and placing their respective anchors on the anchor points of the vehicle and then locking the non-elastic straps to the carrier bar by means of the pawl and ratchet mechanisms or pin-perforated strap locking mechanisms.