Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Car roof boxes (also known as cargo storage boxes) are storage chambers that are attached to the roof of your car and mounted on the built-in or assembled roof shelves of your car and truck. With a roof box, you can stop worrying about how you might be able to store everything you need for outdoor camping at the weekend with your kids or a trip with friends and family.
The additional storage space makes it easier to carry bicycles, ski equipment, fishing tools, and various other large products.
If you’re in the market for a rooftop cargo carrier, then you know it can be hard to find one that is both affordable and fits your vehicle. But if that’s not enough, there are other things to consider as well. So which type of roof top cargo carrier do you need?
This blog post will take all these things into consideration and recommend the best rooftop cargo carriers for any user!
Top 6 Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier Box Reviews
1. SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
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In the first place of our ranking was the SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box. This equipment has a black, shiny housing.The box is equipped with a handle that allows the luggage to be immobilized. Besides, the cover was made of a thick sturdy material. This makes the box durable and stiff.
The user does not have to worry about damage to luggage while driving. This model are built of high quality ABS material that is durable and UV ray resistant.
The equipment’s dimensions are: height – 17.25 inches, width – 38 Inches, length -63 inches, and capacity is 100 lb.
A convenient feature used in this product is the ability to open it from rear sides. Special adapters have been added to the set that allows mounting on wide beams and also allows us to attach the equipment to the unusual rafters of BMW models. This rooftop cargo carrier box is appreciated for its durability.
The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box has rear lid opening to use it in ease and safety. The best thing is that it has aerodynamic shape to minimize air resistance.
What We Liked
- The box has been equipped with the exclusive quick release hardware mounting system. Thanks to it, you can quickly and easily attach the trunk to the car’s beam. All you have to do is lock on special safeguards, and the equipment will be ready for travel.
- The housing is made of very durable ABS material. Such reinforcement is exceptionally resistant to all kinds of shocks and impacts. This guarantees that both the box and its contents are fully protected against typical obstructions on the road.
- The trunk can be opened from rear sides. This is a convenient function because the loading and unloading of luggage are speedy and secure.
- A special grip was installed in the body of the equipment for hanging the box on the garage wall. Thanks to it, the product will be better protected and protected, e.g. against accidental kicks.
What We Did’t Like
- Some consumers believe that the straps included in the kit are too short and sometimes it is difficult to secure all the luggage with them.
- The handle provided is cheap, some of the customer claimed.
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2. Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
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With a massive 22 cubic feet of storage, the XT XXL movement is Thule’s highest-end case. It comes with plenty of features, including an internal ski mount, a sliding lockout safety system, as well as a capacity 165-pound total load.
The extra-wide PowerClick quick-mount system (which offers a cosy “click” as you turn the mount dial to confirm that the frame is connected correctly) makes it a quick and secure fit, and it’s built to sit a little forward on its crossbars to provide trunk access filled with rear windows.
Easy-grip exterior handles and weight cover bracket make it easy to open from both sides of the vehicle. Even with gloves, with a smart slide lock system with different lock and unlock functions to grant you know when the cap in place and closed securely. It pairs up very well with most aftermarket bar kits and comes in black, grey, and white.
What We Liked
- It provides users with safety, durability and comfort.
- It Provide 22 cubic foot of large storage capacity.
- I built with aerodynamic shape for efficiency and fittings, and minimize air resistance.
- Easy to close and open the lid with handle.
- Provide with one key automatic lock to indicate the closure whether securely done or not..
What We Did’t Like
- Some customer claims bad customer care service.
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3. Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box
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Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box is another product that is worth paying attention. This is large, aerodynamic cargo carrier box. The collection includes a wall bracket. An additional advantage is the fast Power-Click assembly system.
A central lock system with a convenient key is used here, which can be removed only after closing all the bolts. Thanks to this, the user can be sure that his trunk has been appropriately secured.
The box can be opened from two sides, so loading your luggage will be more comfortable. The product is compatible with the Thule One-Key System. The roof rack has a vast cargo space – it allows you to load different capacity as it has versatile collection of cargo carrier box. This model is ISO certified and meets City Crash standards. It also available in several dimension according to your requirement.It is ideal for trips to the mountains – it can accommodate up to 5-7 pairs of skis or 3-5 snowboards (maximum length 175 cm). Opinions about Thule roof racks are very flattering. The company’s models are valued for its quality, functionality, and large capacity.
What We Liked
- The cargo carrier box can be opened from dual-sides. This is a convenient function because it provides easy access to all areas of the cargo carrier box from either side of the vehicle for loading and unloading of equipment very quickly.
- The equipment has an PowerClick quick-mount system. For fast and secure fitting it has provided with torque indicator that ensure proper mounting of roof cargo box.
- This also provided with a lockknob that avoids damage to Thule comfort key.
- This also provide different ranges of cubic feet space capacity like 11,16,18.
What We Did’t Like
- Some customer claimed that it handle got some problem.
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4. Yakima SkyBox Aerodynamic Rooftop Cargo Box
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The Yakima SkyBox Aerodynamic Rooftop Cargo Box is a long carbon frame that can handle camping gear that seats four, as well as skis and snowboards up to 215 centimetres long.
Designed with internal cap stiffeners that is durable and easy to open and close on both sides, with a tapered design to reduce hinge interface and increase internal clearance for awkward gear. SKS locks are included, and Super-latch technology ensures that the lid will lock securely to the base to protect your equipment.
Sleek, the streamlined design reduces friction and wind noise, and quick-release hardware makes it easy to mount. Works with most round, square, and bars, with a minimum, maximum span, and crossbar between 24 to 42 inches.
As with most Yakima cargo carrier boxes, it is made in the United States up to 80 percent recycled material, and a charging network (purchased separately) can be added that connects to a built-in point-of-sale feature. Tie-down and divide storage space into four square feet. The Skybox comes in five sizes, from 12 cubic feet to about 21 cavernous cubic feet.
What We Liked
- Yakima SkyBox aerodynamic shaped Rooftop cargo carrier box built with carbonate and recycled material.
- Aerodynamic shape reduce air resistance to increase it efficiency.
- Yakima SkyBox Aerodynamic Rooftop Cargo Box can be opened bot side.
- It can carry 5 people gear set and its weight is only 47 lbs.
What We Did’t Like
- Hardly found replacement parts.
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5. JEGS 90098 Rooftop Cargo Carrier Box
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The JEGS 90098 Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the fourth product to look out for. It is a very roomy model that will be useful during long trips for summer holidays, as well as winter ski trips.
The weight of this model is 28 lbs, so it is quite easy to carry.This model has a load capacity of 110 lb.
However, its dimensions are length – 57 inches, width – 39 inches and height – 19 inches. Due to its large 18 cubic foot of this carrier box, it is suitable for transporting skis and snowboards.The material from which this equipment is made is high density. Also, it has high damage resistance.
This excellent and cheap rooftop cargo carrier box is locked with a key and is equipped with a unique lock for extra security. Such a closing system ensures full safety.
The device is valued for dependable performance, large capacity and secure assembly system.
What We Liked
- The JEGS 90098 Rooftop Cargo Carrier has a specialized lock system which additionally protects it against accidental opening. we will be able to travel several kilometres safely.
- It is built with sturdy high-density material.
- No tools required to assemble. It requires only 5 minutes to assemble it.
- For fuel economy, it designed with an aerodynamic shape.
What We Did’t Like
- Some of the customer claimed it as flimsy carrier box for being difficulty to open it.
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6. Goplus Waterproof Heavy Duty Roof Storage Box
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The Goplus Waterproof Heavy Duty Roof Storage Box is equipped with a load securing the lock and unique, solid straps for securing luggage.
Also, it has an efficient system that supports opening.Thanks to this, its operation is easy and pleasant.
The product was made of damage-resistant ABS plastic.Thanks to its aerodynamic shape and well-thought-out design, this model not only does not affect the aerodynamics of the vehicle but also does not increase the drag force.Its dimensions are 63 x 31 x 15 inches, and its weight is 25 pounds. This product is valued for its reliable performance, standard capacity and easy to use opening and closing system.
What We Liked
- The model was made of ABS (floor) and HDPE (top cover). The combination of these two materials is a guarantee that the product will serve us for a long time and will not deteriorate too quickly.
- It has an essential Super Latch security system and two key system lock, so it cannot be removed. As a result, it protects us against accidents (sudden opening of the box).
- The product has a capacity of 14 cubic feet and a maximum load of 165 lbs. This means that we can hide many objects in it, which is essential, especially when we are going on a trip with the whole family.
- The cargo carrier box could be opened from two sides – then removing the things stored there would be more comfortable.
- For stability, it is built with metal lid stiffeners at bottom which provides additional rigidity.
What We Did’t Like
- Locks are of poor quality. It look like flimsy.
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Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Cargo Roof Box For Camping
Storage Type
The first question we recommend the buyers to ask yourself before buying cargo boxes is what exactly they want to store in the roop-top storage boxes. I f you want to store Ski equipment. The Skis will undoubtedly identify the shape and style of the box, which requires the “long as well as slim” design and usually a much more expensive product.
However, if you’re looking for a little more storage space for family camping trips or short golf trips, a smaller “short and stocky” version like the Sport-Rack panorama may meet all of your requirements for part of the tour effort.
However, you don’t have to narrow down your ski season to find an exact fit: each of the “long and slim” designs we’ve tested for this test is available in a range of sizes that will surely meet the needs of the highest skier. The basic shape is everything.
Size And Shape
The next consideration was the size and shape of the car roof box. A wide box consumes even more space and is also easy to use if it can be opened from both sides. If you have to pick other products made of bicycles onto the roof at the same time, a slim or medium-sized box makes a lot more sense. There are generally few size restrictions, but you need to make sure that you can open any tailgate when the roof system box is on-site.
If you think this could be a problem, consider leaving the package a little overhanging at the front – you’ll never see it while driving. Make sure the box is the least long enough to hold the most extended things you might want to place in it. In our situation, this had to include our awning posts, and we also thought it could be great if we could get the windbreak as well.
Even without such things, more length means more space, so it is worth using a much longer box if you want it to be used by a family.
Roof Rack
Roof boxes are connected to roof racks that cross the vehicle from one side to the other. Benches can be attached to existing placement factors that are defined in the roof covering, to existing rails that run the entire length of the roof or simply attached to the body.
A minority portion of cars has an old-fashioned gutter that can be used for security. This did not fully encourage us as there were two additional installation points near the front, in addition to four in the rear. Still, we can see that the first ones may have been a bit as far forward as the rear ones far behind for the kind of more extended roof box we were thinking about.
To do justice to Land Rover and various other brands with comparable installation points, I should explain that they were designed for roof rails from front to back. Some cars, like the publisher’s old Passat CC, don’t have roof pole installation points,
Height Of The Cargo Roof Box
When adding a roof box, it is essential to monitor the increased height of your cars and trucks. Also, you need to take into account the height restrictions of tunnels, entire parking lots, and various other places with limited height.
If you get a car roof box without considering the overall height of your car, and you can drive the vehicle into a place of limited height, damaging your vehicle and roofing box, and possibly face high penalties. Put the three bumps together to get the overall height of your car with the cargo roof system box, and add an extra margin of at least a few inches to make sure of your safety.
How long Do You Want To Keep The Cargo Roof Box Mounted?
Some people find that if you leave your roof box in your vehicle most of the time, it works well. If you have a safe, hard, weatherproof option, this can work, but you will probably intend to remove your box when you are not using it to reduce wind resistance and wear.
You may face several difficulties in attaching and detaching them. Several people may need to increase the boxing safely without scratching the roof color of your truck. Some brand names offer quick release clamps, which will undoubtedly speed up the setup and removal of your box considerably. In contrast to conventional U-bolt locations, this function is of the utmost importance.
Installation
Most boxes can be easily locked onto and off your car roof system shelf. Locking alternatives can include several problems, and some racks may require two people to install them securely without scratching your vehicle’s roof system.
If you have to put it on and take it off quickly, this is much more important – for example, if you park in a garage with low ground clearance or need to load/unload soon at the camping site, you want to do it. Sure, it is effortless and quick to lock your box uninstall. The easy installation for each type of shelf varies depending on what is already in your car.
Compatibility
While most cars certainly fit in some kind of rack, not all are the same size. We looked for options that would surely fit both extremes of the area, as well as more general options that would surely help the majority of people. You should always check that the dimensions that fulfill your required storage capacity. In general, however, we have prioritized designs that are suitable for even more types of trucks.
Safety
Given that rooftop carier boxes are made with sturdy materials but you have to remind in mind that the cheaper the box and the less robust and secure the packaging, the thinner the product. Many family members have been using rooftop cargo carier boxes for many years, and even with 50 or two being the distinction between a product and a good one. it makes sense to do that Exchange market. All of the boxes we offer have undergone detailed crash tests to meet ISO requirements. If you are considering other brand names that consist of supermarket brands, please contact the safety inquiries! When you are most likely to wear skis, look for boxes with a “safety nose,” an additional internal energy-absorbing obstacle designed to prevent skis from bursting over the front of a box in a high-performance accident.
Sealing
Sealing is usually done to the highest quality of the molded part, the length of the overlap between the cover and floor, and the system for covering the roof covering rod to repair openings or holes in the base. Several boxes have a flat lid support base with an internal overlap that is part of a complicated system of complete sealing.
Security
It is worth remembering to pay attention to all types of roof rack protection. These include belts, paws, and handles designed to keep our luggage in a stable position. Thanks to this, we will be sure that the items we transport will not fall apart while driving. This is also important when opening and closing the roof rack.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a rooftop cargo carrier?
There are a few things to consider when you’re looking for the best rooftop cargo carrier. The first consideration is what type of vehicle do you have? A lot of roof top carriers won’t fit certain vehicles so it’s always important to check that your car can support one before purchasing it.
After checking compatibility, you need to think about how much weight the carrier will have to bear. If your rooftop cargo is heavy, you’ll want a high-weight capacity carier. To find out how much weight it can hold, check the manufacturer’s specifications for specific cars and models or read reviews from other users who’ve owned that product before.
Finally, where on your vehicle will you be mounting the carrier? Will it be on the hatch or a roof rack, and will you need to order additional components for the installation process.
Are roof cargo boxes worth it?
Roof cargo boxes are a great way of transporting your gear on top of the roof until you need to use it, but they’re not always worth their cost if you don’t plan to use them often. If that sounds like what you want, then a rooftop carrier is probably for you!
What is the best roof rack system?
There are a lot of different choices when it comes to roof rack systems, and each one has its own benefits. My favorite is the Thule T-rack system because I feel like the hooks can be removed quickly for easy storage in your garage or carport with an optional fitted cover that protects them from rain.
If you need to store your roof cargo box in the carport, it’s best to choose a system that doesn’t require any tools for installation. That way you can simply place the components on top of the vehicle and have everything secure in just seconds!
Do I need a roof rack for a cargo carrier?
No, you don’t need a roof rack for your cargo carrier. But if you want to install it on top of your car or truck, then you’ll need one!
There are two common types of racks: the first is called an “included” system and the second is referred to as a “universal” system.
The included system is designed to work with a specific type of vehicle and usually includes the rack, crossbars, and mounting hardware. The universal system can be installed on many different types of vehicles using an adapter kit that you purchase separately for each make or model.
Both include features like anti-sway cradles which prevent your cargo from shifting and a lockable cargo box that can be secured with an included cable or padlock.
Why should you invest in roof racks?
They’re one of the easiest ways to improve fuel efficiency by removing unnecessary weight from your vehicle’s engine, which reduces emissions too! And they are pretty darn handy when you need additional storage space on a long road trip.
Do you need crossbars for cargo bag?
No, you do not need crossbars for your cargo bag. However, if you’re looking to carry something other than a standard-sized load, it’s best that you get them.
This is because the cargo bag attaches to your crossbars and not the roof, so it will be a lot more secure.
Which is better Thule or Yakima cargo box?
Yakima and Thule are two of the most popular brands on the market. And while it’s difficult to decide which is better, you can get a good idea by reading up reviews online or asking your friends who use either brand.
Thule also has a lifetime warranty for their cargo box, so they may be worth considering if you plan to use the cargo carrier frequently or for long periods of time.
Why are Thule cargo boxes so expensive?
Thule cargo boxes are the most expensive on the market, but they also come with a lifetime warranty. This means that if you want to extend your investment into something that will last for years and years of use, it might be worth looking at their products.
I found out this week that my roof’s not going to work for carrying cargo. I need to replace it with a Thule cargo carrier roof, but all of the ones in my area are really expensive and so is installing one on top of my house. Should I just get an affordable box?
If you’re looking for something that won’t break your budget, then perhaps look at other brands before deciding which rooftop cargo carrier to buy.
What is the best rooftop cargo carrier?
There are a few things to think about when looking for the best rooftop cargo carrier. One is that it needs to work with your vehicle and fit on top of it. You also want something that will carry heavy items like kayaks or bikes, as well as small items like groceries or suitcases.
There are a lot of companies that make cargo carriers for cars. I recommend the Thule company because they have many styles and sizes, and if you ever need help with your purchase, they will give you excellent customer service. You can also find models that will carry bikes or a car top tent.
If you have a vehicle, and want to carry things on the roof, then Thule is a good choice. Thule has been making these carriers since 1953. They make it easy for you to find the right size and style for your vehicle.
How much does a roof cargo box affect gas mileage?
Rooftop cargo carriers can affect gas mileage. If you are carrying a lot of weight, like kayaks or bikes on your roof, this will decrease fuel efficiency and increase how much money it takes to fill up the tank. However if you just have some suitcases or groceries in the carrier then there should not be an effect at all.
Final Thoughts
When we go on vacation or have irregularly shaped equipment, the trunk in the car may not be enough. That is why it is worth equipping with a roof rack. When choosing it, you need to be guided by the quality of craftsmanship, capacity, and shape that will not reduce the comfort of driving. To facilitate your selection, we have reviewed the top rated rooftop cargo carrier box, which comprises the most compelling offers available on the market.
Here you will get top car fire extinguisher, that will also need you most to keep it in your car for safety purpose.