The Best Cargo Carriers and Roof Boxes for Your Car

Our top recommendation is a heavy-duty cargo box from SportRack. The Vista XL is designed to fit on SportRack roof rack systems, as well as square, round, and most factory racks. Of course, we recommend checking the guide to make sure it’ll fit your specific vehicle prior to purchasing. If it does, you’re getting a rear-opening cargo box that offers up to 18 cubic feet of storage. It’s constructed from durable and UV-resistant ABS and has a maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds.

SportRack includes all the mounting hardware necessary for installation and removal, and no tools are needed to get this cargo box installed onto your roof for your next trip. Another nice feature is that it includes a key lock to secure the contents of the box if you’re taking a rest spot or grabbing a bite to eat. Best of all, once your trip is all done, simply clean it off with mild soap and water so it’ll last you for many more journeys ahead.

The RoofPax Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the best-reviewed option on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

So why is this rooftop cargo carrier rated so highly? There are a number of reasons, but at the top of the list is safety. If you don’t have a roof rack, the RoofPax roof bag locks down with four rugged door hook straps rather than straps that go inside the car like on some other brands. Straps that go inside the car can interfere with your vehicle’s airbags and are illegal to use in some states. RoofPax even gives you a pair of extra door hook straps, just in case. And to help keep noise down, there are ten elastic Velcro strap restraints to prevent the straps from flapping in the wind.

Another reason for the high marks from owners is protection from the elements. The RoofPax rooftop cargo carrier is outfitted with double waterproof closing zippers, waterproof dual seam technology, and water-repellant double coating.

One more benefit of the RoofPax rooftop cargo carrier is an amazing warranty. All zippers and buckles have a lifetime warranty, while there is a five-year warranty on tears in the fabric.

There are four different versions of the RoofPax rooftop cargo carrier ranging from 15 to 23 cubic feet, so you can easily find exactly what you are looking for.

The Fivklemnz rooftop cargo carrier has proven to be incredibly popular with consumers looking for extra storage space. It offers up to 15 cubic feet of additional storage space, enough room to carry four to six suitcases.

Unlike hard shell carriers, when you aren’t using the Fivklemnz, it can be folded up and stored in the carry bag that comes with it. Once folded, it’s about the same size as a smaller backpack, so it’s easy to store.

The bag is made of 600D Oxford cloth and sports a waterproof zipper protected by a double flap that keeps the weather outside. The manufacturer boasts this is 100% waterproof and rainproof, so your stuff will stay dry.

When it comes time to install, the Fivklemnz cargo carrier comes with a non-slip protective mat, so you can use it even without a roof rack system and not have to worry about scratching up the roof of your vehicle. It also locks down with eight adjustable straps so everything stays safe and secure even at highway speeds.

The RoofBag Cargo Carrier Bag has a simple yet effective design. Manufactured in the U.S., these roof cargo carriers are 100-percent waterproof and feature Triple-Seal technology for maximum protection in extreme weather. Offering 15 cubic feet of storage, this option works on any vehicle with side rails, cross bars, or even without a roof rack. It uses a secure waterproof strap system with buckles for easy access.

Constructed from heavy-duty polyester that has been liquid-coated with vinyl on both sides, this cargo carrier does a fantastic job of resisting heat and cold. Easy and quick installation with plenty of storage, this is a versatile option for those on a budget.

We understand not everyone has a roof rack on their vehicle, and if you’re one of those people, consider this rooftop cargo carrier from ROOF MASTER. We named it our most versatile pick for its ability to be used on vehicles with or without roof racks, although you’ll have to purchase the door hooks separately if you want to use it on a vehicle without a roof rack.

It offers up to 16 cubic feet of storage and uses extra wide straps with Duraflex buckles and a high friction mat to ensure it stays on your roof once it’s secured to your vehicle. This option is a soft-shell cargo carrier that is manufactured from military-grade Nylon Cordura fabric, which the company claims has five times the strength and wear resistance of high-grade PVC, which is often used on other cargo bags. Naturally it’s waterproof and is equipped with a waterproof zipper.

If you are looking for a compact cargo carrier, the Sidekick Rooftop Storage Box is a practical solution. Made to meet the needs of travelers who want to avoid larger designs without sacrificing practicality, the cargo carrier is a top solution with its eight cubic-foot capacity. With a length of 48 inches, it will not cover the entire surface of the roof on most mid-sized cars, and it also won’t create too much wind resistance.

The carrier comes with a self-standing top lid (so you can load it easily) and a simple locking mechanism to keep your belongings safe. It is also durable, and it represents a solution that can be used in all seasons. Lightweight at under 20 pounds, many people will easily be able to install it themselves.

In the past few years, Amazon’s own brand, Amazon Basics, has entered several markets by offering quality products at affordable prices. Its rooftop cargo carrier bag gets our nod if you’re shopping on a budget, offering up to 15 cubic feet of space. It’s a fairly basic offering, but is constructed from 100-percent waterproof material with a design that protects the carrier against grit, sun, rain, and wind.

With this option, you’ll find a zip closure (wraps halfway around the bag) with hook-and-loop flap to keep the inside contents completely dry, and the company says the zipper is waterproof. It features one-inch wide polypropylene straps to keep the bag attached to your carrier for safe transport. And since you’re not always using a cargo carrier bag, it’s nice to know Amazon Basics’ option folds compact for easy storage.

If you want the best of the best, Thule's Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box offers unparalleled quality and versatility. It starts with a dual opening design which lets you access the cargo carrier from either side of the car. Attachment is made easier with a torque-limiting PowerClick quick-mount system that doesn't let you over-tighten the box when attaching it to your crossbars.

As a premium car top carrier, the Thule offers not just locking security but a special LockKnob that makes it both easy to open and close and protects the key from damage. It has a massive 165-pound weight capacity, and the 22-cubic-foot XXL size is 90 inches long, 35.5 inches wide, and 18.5 inches tall—enough to fit up to seven pairs of skis or five snowboards.

The Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box comes in 11-, 16-, 18-, and 22-cubic-foot sizes, and some sizes are available with a fitted four-piece Thule Gopack Duffel Set, too.

Steel rooftop car carriers and car roof racks tend to be exposed to harsher conditions, and it makes sense to buy a high-quality one to reduce worries about rust and breakage. Yakima is a premium brand with a lifetime warranty, so you can just install and forget it. This heavy-duty cargo basket is rated for 140 pounds and measures 44 inches long x 39 inches wide x 6.50 inches high. At 25 pounds it weighs more than some other options, but it's also one of the best-built rooftop car carriers you can buy.

Carriers like this offer versatility that bags and boxes don't, as they will hold long and tall cargo. They're also a great place to strap dirty or wet things that you don't want to put in your trunk. This roof basket is a great option for carrying cargo, but it requires additional straps and cargo nets to make sure your load is secure. If you want even more space but don't want to upgrade to Yakima's huge MegaWarrior, you can even bolt in an 18-inch extension.

With a taller profile compared to the other Thule cargo boxes, the Pulse Cargo offers one of the best solutions for extra carrying space. It is available in 11, 14, and 15 cubic feet capacities and can be purchased as a set with four fitted Thule Gopack duffel bags. It is built to handle weights of up to 110 pounds in all versions and can even hold ski equipment, between four and eight pairs of skis, depending on the size of your Cargo Box.

With a self-standing lid design and an integrated anti-theft locking mechanism with keys, it is a practical solution for adventurous drivers who need a safe place to store their ski equipment. Made from ABS plastic, the Pulse Cargo Box is also a durable solution for people who will be driving in rainy or snowy conditions.

With a universal design and metal construction, this luggage carrier is one of the simplest and most durable designs on the market. It represents a solution that is easy to use and even looks a bit retro. Made with a metal frame with a length of 43 inches and a width of 39 inches, the carrier is easy to store when not in use due to its compact size.

This roof basket is a great option for carrying cargo, but it requires additional straps and cargo nets to make sure your cargo is secure. However, they do offer combos with nets, bags, and even a fitted semi-rigid hard-sided Pro Cargo Bag. Larger 64- and 84-inch lengths are also available. This is a great option for drivers who don’t experience too much rain or snow.

Everything You Need to Know About Cargo Carriers

These options are made with their own strengths and weaknesses and there is a type of cargo carrier for every need and type of vehicle. There is a voluntary international ISO/PAS 11154 standard for roof racks and cargo carriers, you can check a manufacturer's website to see if they follow it. Many larger manufacturers also perform their own rigorous testing for durability and safety.

Roof bags are typically made from heavy-duty waterproof textiles. They can be easily mounted by a single person since they are not too heavy and they can come with a carrying capacity of around 15 cubic feet. The main advantages of roof bags include:

Disadvantages of Roof Bags

Rooftop baskets first appeared in the 1970s and have largely remained unchanged, with their metal profile and good versatility for different objects that can be secured with different straps. The main advantages of roof baskets include:

Disadvantages of Roof Baskets

Rooftop baskets are very practical, but at the same time, they are among the most exposed when it comes to cargo safety while traveling at high speeds and you have to take extra measures to make your cargo secure. The main disadvantages of rooftop baskets include:

If you are looking for maximum carrying capacity and security, rooftop boxes are one of the leading options. They are also very popular, so you have multiple designs from many brands to choose from. Most of the rooftop boxes also come with anti-theft protection and a good aerodynamic performance for reduced drag. Here are the main reasons to consider a rooftop box:

Disadvantages of Roof Boxes

Even rooftop boxes have a few disadvantages. The main issue for some people is that they need help to place them into position on the roof of the car. Another disadvantage to the system comes with the fact that you need considerable storage space when the rooftop box is not on the car. The main drawbacks to using a rooftop box include:

Hitch-mounted cargo carriers are not as popular these days, but drivers can still find them useful in certain situations. For example, if your car can’t be fitted with a roof rack or with roof rails and it has a hitch receiver, these carriers can be a solution to consider. With a design that goes behind the car, hitch-mounted cargo carriers also typically come with reduced wind resistance compared to rooftop cargo carriers. The main advantages of the hitch-mounted systems include:

Disadvantages of Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carriers

Even these solutions that are mounted next to the trunk of the car have a few disadvantages you will need to consider when making a purchase.

How Cargo Carriers Affect Gas Mileage

Top Safety Tips when Traveling with Cargo Carriers

Using a cargo carrier involves adapting your driving style. The top driving speed is reduced with each type of carrier and the car maneuverability is also impeded with some types of designs. Here is what to consider to make sure you’re traveling safely with a cargo carrier.

1. Weight Ratio

2. Equally Distributed Weight

Another important aspect to remember when using a cargo carrier is to secure the load. Regardless of the design you use, there are different straps that can be used to keep the load in place. You want to avoid situations where the load can move when cornering, as this can lead to accidents or things falling out and posing a risk to other motorists.

If you have an open cargo basket, you will need to purchase a cargo net like the one pictured or sturdy straps to keep your items secure.

Many drivers believe that only roof baskets need to have their loads secured, but this is far from the truth. Some of the leading manufacturers offer out-of-the-box straps to secure large items such as sporting equipment even inside a rooftop box.

4. Visibility

Visibility is often obstructed by some types of cargo carriers. For example, rear window visibility can be obstructed by hitch-mounted cargo carriers. Reverse cameras can also be blocked by these types of carriers. This is why you need to do your best to load the cargo in such a way in which the obstruction is minimal.

5. Tire Pressure Adjustments

If you are transporting heavier loads, tire pressure is even more important than usual. Make sure that the pressure of the tires is set to a level that is recommended by the manufacturer before you drive off with the cargo carrier mounted. At the same time, you need to ensure the load is as evenly distributed as possible as this will reduce the pressure on specific tires.

6. Load Height

It is often the case that the straps that come with the cargo carrier are not enough to secure your load. A simple way around this issue is to simply purchase more straps and ensure that your cargo will not move, even on sharp corners. Cam buckle straps only cost a few dollars each, roll up for storage, and are available with flat ends or hooks to give you many attachment options.

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