Why cant I use ratchet straps for tie downs????

You can use anything you want to, the reason for the spring loaded tie downs is that there is some give whenever you go thru a gutter at an angle, over a bump, twist in and out of a driveway, or any other unforseen stress that may make one side need some give and (NOT) tear out one of the tie down eyes from the camper. But this is just my opinion and you do not know me from anywhere.