Bed is usually empty, but yea that’s a concern when you’re hauling on a long trip. The trunk also contains the spare tire, so it’s hard to access the spare tire when hauling stuff.

Why do you own a truck if you usually don't use the bed?

The same reason I own a car with a rear seat and a roof rack.

Using the bed doesn't necessarily mean leaving things in it at the end of the day.

It’s a short bed with large cab. Meant for occasional light hauling, not for everyday usage. The Ridgeline is more car/SUV than truck. Refined for city driving and light duty.

I'm sure it's a great truck but I'm not seeing any refinement for city driving. Not in my city anyway.

You can buy giant drawers to put in the bed of a pickup, and still have access to what's in them even when loaded.

Example: https://truckvault.com/vehicles/pickup but there are others.