The 10 Best Roof Boxes Review by Expert (2023)

Suppose you want to go on a trip with your family members or friends. In that case, you might be thinking about buying a roof cargo box for your car because roof cargo boxes come with a massive amount of storage space so that you can accommodate all of your stuff inside the box and ride in comfort without thinking about the security of your stuff. Moreover, roof cargo boxes are best for transporting things. You can transport luggage, camping equipment, fishing rods, skis, and snowboards.

If you are in a hurry, then you can use the links below to buy the best roof cargo boxes for your car. You don’t need to worry about the quality of the products because we only recommend the best.
– Best Overall – Thule Motion XT
– Best Wide Range Options – Yakima Skybox
– Most Aerodynamic Roof Box – INNO Wedge Plus Cargo Box
– Value for Money – JEGS 90098 Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Overall Best
Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, Large
Wide Range Option
YAKIMA, SkyBox Carbonite Aerodynamic Rooftop Cargo Box for Cars, Wagons and SUVs
YAKIMA - RocketBox Pro Compact Rooftop Cargo Box for Smaller Cars, 12 (adds 12 cubic ft. of storage)
Aerodynamic Design
INNO BRM864MBK Wedge Plus Cargo Box 13 Cubic FT (Black)
Profile18S™ Rooftop Cargo/Ski Box (18 cubic feet) Grey
Product
Thule Motion XT
Thule Force XT
YAKIMA SkyBox
YAKIMA RocketBox Pro
INNO Wedge Plus
Malone Profile18S
Opening
Dual Side
Dual Side
Dual Side
Dual Side
Dual Side
Dual Side
Volume
18 cu ft
16 cu ft
Available in five sizes: 15 Lo, 12, 16, 18, and 21 cu ft
Available in 11, 12 & 14 cu ft
13 cu ft
18 cu ft
Dimension
L: 84.5" W: 36" H: 17"
L: 74.75" W: 33" H: 16"
Wide range of sizing options
Wide range of sizing options
L: 80" W: 33" H: 17.5"
L: 78.75" W: 32.3" H: 15.75"
Weight
46 lbs
41 lbs
From 47 lbs up to 75 lbs
Ranging from 30 to 38 lbs
44 lbs
55 lbs
Overall Best
Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Product
Thule Motion XT
Opening
Dual Side
Volume
18 cu ft
Dimension
L: 84.5" W: 36" H: 17"
Weight
46 lbs
Buy on Amazon
Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, Large
Product
Thule Force XT
Opening
Dual Side
Volume
16 cu ft
Dimension
L: 74.75" W: 33" H: 16"
Weight
41 lbs
Buy on Amazon
Wide Range Option
YAKIMA, SkyBox Carbonite Aerodynamic Rooftop Cargo Box for Cars, Wagons and SUVs
Product
YAKIMA SkyBox
Opening
Dual Side
Volume
Available in five sizes: 15 Lo, 12, 16, 18, and 21 cu ft
Dimension
Wide range of sizing options
Weight
From 47 lbs up to 75 lbs
Buy on Amazon
YAKIMA - RocketBox Pro Compact Rooftop Cargo Box for Smaller Cars, 12 (adds 12 cubic ft. of storage)
Product
YAKIMA RocketBox Pro
Opening
Dual Side
Volume
Available in 11, 12 & 14 cu ft
Dimension
Wide range of sizing options
Weight
Ranging from 30 to 38 lbs
Buy on Amazon
Aerodynamic Design
INNO BRM864MBK Wedge Plus Cargo Box 13 Cubic FT (Black)
Product
INNO Wedge Plus
Opening
Dual Side
Volume
13 cu ft
Dimension
L: 80" W: 33" H: 17.5"
Weight
44 lbs
Buy on Amazon
Profile18S™ Rooftop Cargo/Ski Box (18 cubic feet) Grey
Product
Malone Profile18S
Opening
Dual Side
Volume
18 cu ft
Dimension
L: 78.75" W: 32.3" H: 15.75"
Weight
55 lbs
Buy on Amazon

But if you do not know what to look for while buying a roof cargo box, you don’t have to worry. There are only a few points that you should keep in mind while purchasing a roof box. And after understanding the details, choosing the perfect roof cargo box for you will be very easy.

At first, you should know that every type of roof cargo box does not fit with every kind of vehicle. So you have to make sure that the roof box you want to buy is suitable for your car or not. There are a huge number of roof boxes that fit with almost every type of car. Moreover, nowadays finding the perfect roof cargo box for your car is very easy. So you don’t have to take so much hassle in finding a perfect roof box for your car.

Many roof boxes are available in different sizes. The number of cubic feet is being used in measuring the size of the roof cargo boxes. The smallest roof box size is nine cubic feet, and they can be as large as 22 cubic feet or more. You can choose the size of your wish. The size that is suitable for you depends mostly on the amount and size of the items you want to carry with your roof cargo box.

At last, you have to see the materials that are used in making the roof box. Most roof cargo boxes are made with two layers—a soft layer on the inside and a hard layer on the outside. Soft layers are generally made with some nylon or polyester, and the hard layers from the outside are usually made with hard plastics like ABS plastic or PC plastic. You can choose any of them. It depends on your taste.

People generally buy a roof box to increase the amount of storage space of their car. A roof cargo box comes with a great amount of storage so that you can store all of your items inside the box and have extra space in your back seat and the trunk of your car. So if you want, you can add one or two more people while going on a trip without compromising anyone’s comfort.

There are thousands of roof box options available on the market. Each of the roof models comes with unique features and attractive looks. So if you want to explore some of the excellent roof boxes on the market, you don’t have anything to worry. Here we have mentioned the top 10 roof boxes of 2020. You can find the details of every box and know about their unique features so that you can choose the perfect one for you with confidence.

The 10 Best Roof Boxes:

1. Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Thule is one of the most famous rooftop cargo box manufacturer. They are famous because of the build quality of their products. They make very high-quality roof boxes that come with a great amount of storage space.

The Motion XT cargo carrier from Thule is one of the most sold roof cargo boxes. It comes with an aerodynamic design and a beautiful look. This roof box is available in two colors that are grey and black. And you can get this roof box in four sizes starting from 16 cubic feet, and the bigger variant is 22 cubic feet.

Roof boxes are made to provide you with extra storage and to keep your items safe and dry inside the box. Thule Motion XT comes with a very durable design, and the box is fully waterproof. So you do not have to worry about your stuff getting wet when you are driving in any extreme weather. Your stuff will always remain dry and safe inside the box.

At last, this roof cargo box comes with an attractive glossy finish. The box is very lightweight also so you will be able to lift the box easily. Moreover, the installation and removal process for this box is very easy. This box makes a ”Click” sound when you close the box to ensure that it is completely shut and you are ready to drive safely. The weight carrying capacity for this roof box is 165 lbs. Because of its very high-quality build, you will be able to use this box for many years without breaking or damaging it.

Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier, XL, Black
  • Roof-mounted cargo box provides 18 cubic feet of additional packing space
  • Designed for optimal space efficiency, aerodynamics, and vehicle fit
  • Quick-mount system "clicks" when roof box is secure and properly mounted
  • Dual-side opening for quick access from either side of the car
  • Easy to open and close with grip-friendly handles and supporting lid-lifters
  • Full trunk access and no roof box contact
  • Lid automatically locks in place and indicates a secure closure (One Key System compatible)
  • Fits 5-7 pairs of skis / 3-5 snowboards
  • External dimensions: 84.5 x 36 x 17 inches; Internal dimensions: 79 x 31.5 x 15 inches
  • Load capacity: 165 lbs; Product Weight: 46 lbs

2. Yakima SkyBox Rooftop Carrier

Yakima

Yakima is also a famous roof cargo box manufacturer. The Yakima SkyBox Rooftop Carrier is available in sizes from 12 to 21 cubic feet. This roof box comes with a very durable design, attractive look, and a great amount of storage.

This cargo box is very easy to install. And the installation process does not require any tools. So you will be able to install this roof box very easily on the roof of your car by yourself. To install this box, you have to follow some simple steps. And after your work is done, you will also be able to remove the box very easily.

This roof cargo box comes with dual openings. So you will be able to get access to the box very easily and load and unload things faster from the box. It also comes with a tapered aerodynamic design. This design helps the box in resisting air so that you can get a good fuel economy when you are going on a long road trip. The durable design of this box can keep your items safe inside the box. This roof cargo box also makes a click sound to ensure you that the box is fully closed and you are ready to ride.  

You can take the size that is perfect for the roof of your car. You will be able to mount this Yakima SkyBox with the Yakima roof racks. And it takes only a few minutes to be installed. High-quality materials are used in making this cargo box. So this box will last for a long time.

590 Reviews
Yakima SkyBox Carbonite 12 Cubic Foot Hard Shell Vehicle Roof Box Cargo Carrier with Aerodynamic...
  • Generous 12 cubic feet of cargo space, carries all your gear and essentials in the roof carrier box that features a SuperLatch security system for ultimate security
  • Boasts a sleek aerodynamic carbonite textured lid that not only enhances its visual appeal but also reduces wind drag, contributing to improved fuel efficiency during your travels
  • Engineered with internal lid stiffeners, the cargo box ensures long-lasting durability while maintaining easy opening and closing functionality, enhancing user experience
  • With a dual-sided opening, you can access the gear from either side of the vehicle, adding convenience to traveling with a tapered design that minimizes hatch interference
  • Available in 12, 16, 18, and the spacious 21 cubic feet, fit for your vehicle needs; Accommodates gears for up to 3 campers and can securely hold snowboards and skis up to 215 centimeters

3. INNO Wedge Plus -Most Aerodynamic Roof Box

INNO Wedge Plus Cargo

This roof cargo box is from INNO. It is a very high-quality roof box. It comes with an aerodynamic design and an attractive look. You can get this roof box in both black and red colors. But some features are missing in this box that is available in this type of roof boxes.

This roof box also comes with a diffuser and a special mat that can be used in reducing noise. You have to place the mat at the bottom so that it can help in reducing noise while you are driving. This INNO Wedge Plus is very easy to install and remove. After watching the design of the INNO Wedge Plus roof box, you might be thinking about its storage capacity. But you don’t have to worry. This roof cargo box is made to carry skis, fishing rods, and tents without any problem. So it comes with more storage capacity than you think.

This roof box comes with waterproof feature. So you do not have to worry about your stuff when you are driving in wet weather conditions. Some rooftop carriers of the market weights more than 150 lbs. but this roof box is very lightweight. It weighs only 44 lbs. so you will be able to install and remove the box more quickly and easily whenever you want.

If you are looking for a good quality roof box that can keep your stuff safe in any extreme weather conditions, then this roof cargo box could be an excellent choice for you.

12 Reviews
INNO BRM864MBK Wedge Plus Cargo Box 13 Cubic FT (Black)
  • Rugged matte Black finish
  • Comes with inner mat protest your gear, nose reduction and easy to clean up
  • Memory mount system, for the easiest installation and use of any cargo box on the market
  • Widest range to slide front for minimal risk of contact hatch
  • Dual side opening

4. Thule Force XT Cargo Box

Thule Force Cargo Box

This roof box is also from Thule. This is the second Thule roof box in our list of top 10 roof cargo boxes 2020. Thule Force XT Cargo Box is not as costly as the Thule Motion XT. But the build quality for this box was not compromised. This roof box also comes with a great amount of storage space and available in different sizes. This Thule Force XT is very easy to install and remove. Moreover, you will be able to get access to this box very easily. And it can handle stuff so well.

This roof box also comes with Thule iconic ”click” sound feature so that you came to know that your roof box is perfectly closed and you are ready to go. This box is fully waterproof also. So that you can ride in any extreme weather with this roof box. Moreover, this roof box does not require any tool to get installed, which makes the installation process more quick, easy, and fast.

The Thule Force XT comes with an attractive look and an aerodynamic design. The aerodynamic design can resist air so well, and it helps you get a good fuel economy during your trip. This roof box is suitable for every type of tour. You will be able to carry anything you want with it. Moreover, this roof box comes with a dual side opening so that you can have access to this box from both the driver and passenger side of the vehicle. If you are looking for a high-quality roof box that looks awesome, then you can buy this box without thinking much.

2 Reviews
Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box

5. Yakima RocketBox Pro Cargo Carrier

Yakima RocketBox Pro

If you have a small or medium-sized car, and you are looking for a perfect roof cargo box, then the Yakima RocketBox Pro roof box could be an excellent choice for you. This roof box comes with 11 cubic feet of storage space. So you will be able to carry skis, snowboards, tents, and anything you want with this roof box.

This roof box from Yakima comes with a sleek, attractive, and aerodynamic design. It is very durable also. It also comes with a dual side opening so that you can get access to this box easily. The manufacturer provides all of the hardware you need to install this roof box with your roof rack or crossbar. This roof box does not require any tools to get installed. And the installation process of this box takes only a few minutes.

This roof box is very safe for your stuff. Because it comes with the SKS (same key system) locks, a pair of keys, and a push-button lock system. So you don’t have to worry about the security of your stuff inside the box.

This roof box can accommodate anything as lengthy as 7 feet in it. So if you are looking for a roof cargo box that can hold all of the stuff without breaking or damaging the box, then the Yakima RocketBox Pro could be a great choice for you.  

You can buy this roof box for less than $450. If you buy this cargo box, you will get a durable, lightweight roof box with top-notch security at a very reasonable price.

YAKIMA RocketBox Pro 14 Cargo Box
  • Material: ABS injection-molded plastic (80% recycled)
  • Dimensions: 58 x 36 x 16 in
  • Volume: 12 cu ft
  • Opening: dual side access
  • Compatibility: round bars, square bars, most factory bars

6. Malone Profile 18S Rooftop Carrier

Malone Profile 18S

The Malone Profile 18S Rooftop Carrier comes with 18 cubic feet of storage space. It is available in both silver and black colors. These colors blend well with most of the cars. The massive amount of space inside the box can hold anything you want. This roof box is excellent for every type of trip.

This rooftop cargo box comes with very attractive. It’s sleek and durable design makes the look of your vehicle more eye-catching. It comes with a UV- and scratch-resistant design. So this roof box will not get damaged if you put it under the direct sunlight. The Malone Profile 18S can hold up to 165 lbs. It also comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty to assure you about the high build quality and durability of this box. So you will be able to use this roof box for many years with full of confidence.

If you are looking for a roof cargo box that can easily carry huge items such as musical instruments or evacuation supplies. In that case, the Malone Profile 18S Rooftop Carrier could be a great solution for you. If you want to buy one of the Malone Profile 18S, you have to spend $500.

Profile18S™ Rooftop Cargo/Ski Box (18 cubic feet) Grey
  • Dual side opening lid for installing to either side of the vehicle
  • 18 cubic foot volume fits most requirements for 3-4 skiers
  • Gas piston assist hinges provide smooth opening/closing
  • Quick attach mounting brackets for simple installation
  • Low Profile delivers perfect aerodynamic shape

7. SportRack Horizon Cargo Carrier

SportRack Horizon Alpine

The SportRack Horizon Cargo Carrier is a very lightweight roof box. But it can carry a huge amount of weight. This roof box is available in three different sizes, and the base variant comes with up to 17 cubic feet of storage space. The build quality of this roof box is also good.

The SportRack Horizon is made of ABS materials, so it is very durable and long-lasting. And it is fully waterproof also. So it will keep your items dry when you are driving in any extreme weather. This roof box can give you access from the passenger side so that you can safely load and unload things from it. Moreover, this roof box can fit with most of the factory roof racks and crossbars. So you don’t have to buy any particular type of roof rack or crossbar to install this roof box on the roof of your car.

This roof box not only keeps your items dry in wet seasons but also can keep your items safe from dirt and dust. It comes with an aerodynamic design so that the design can help you in getting more fuel economy.

This roof box comes with a great amount of extra space to increase your car’s storage capacity. And it is very easy to install and remove. You can get this roof cargo box for only in $300. So if you want to buy a good quality, long-lasting roof box at a very reasonable price, then this roof box could be an excellent choice for you.

366 Reviews
SportRack SR7016 Horizon Cargo Box, 16-Cubic Feet, Black
  • Rugged construction made from impact resistant ABS material
  • Quick release attachment kit included for easy installation and removal
  • Holds 4-6 pairs of skis (up to 178 cm) or 3-4 snowboards

8. FIVKLEMNZ Cargo Carrier Bag

FIVKLEMNZ Cargo Carrier Bag

The FIVKLEMNZ rooftop carrier is a rooftop cargo bag. It is one of the best seller rooftop carrier bags. It comes with a soft design. You can get this rooftop carrier bag for only $80, and it comes with 15 cubic feet of storage space. There is also an included protective mat that comes with this roof bag so that the roof of your car won’t get scratched or damaged. When you drive on any bumpy or hilly road, the protective mat will help the roof bag to stay in place.

This roof bag comes with everything that you will need to install it. You can get this roof bag in a black design with bright orange trim. The roof bag is made of 600D Oxford cloth, so it is very durable and will last for a long time. Moreover, the bag is fully waterproof. You will be able to carry everything you want with this roof bag.

The FIVKLEMNZ is very easy to install and remove. Moreover, you do not have to worry if you don’t have any roof rack install on the roof of your car because you will be able to install this rooftop bag with or without any roof rack. And it fits well with almost every type of car on the market. If you don’t need to use this roof bag, you can remove the bag from the roof of your car and store it in a tiny space by simply folding it.

7,160 Reviews
FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack...
  • 【Most Safe Design】: For security reasons, we use 8 reinforced adjustable straps to keep the cargo carrier in place. In addition, equipped with free anti-slip mat to keep the cargo bag stay in place even in high speed road or bump road, no slip, no scratch to your car.
  • 【Large Storage Space】: FIVKLEMNZ roof bag (46*34*17 inch) was designed to solve the problem of limited storage space in the car. 15 cubic feet rooftop cargo carrier allows you to hold 4-6 suitcases, travel luggage cases, tents, sleeping bags, and more. Free up inside vehicle space for more comfortable on the way.
  • 【Easy to Install】:FIVKLEMNZ rooftop cargo carrier fits for any car, truck, or SUV. If there is not roof side rails on your car, it can be quickly and easily installed to roof rack in minutes with 6 door hooks.
  • 【100% Refund or Replacement】:7x24 online customer support, ask us anything at any time. Backed by 30 days money-back guarantee and 12 months limited warranty.

9. JEGS 90098 Rooftop Cargo Carrier

JEGS 90098

The JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier comes with 18 cubic feet of storage space. It also comes with a very durable design, and it is fully waterproof also. 

This roof cargo box comes with a very easy installation process, and the installation does not require any tools or special equipment. You will be able to install this roof box only in a few minutes. Moreover, no roof rack is needed to install this roof box. So you do not have to spend extra money on buying a roof rack.

This rooftop cargo box comes with two sets of keys, so if you accidentally lose one of them, then you do not have to worry. It also comes with all of the hardware that you will need to install the box. This roof box can hold up to 110 lbs. It will be long-lasting, so you will be able to use this roof box for a long time without any fear.

This rooftop cargo box is made of high-quality materials. So it will last for a long time, and it will keep all of your stuff safe inside the box. It is very lightweight also so you will easily install and remove it from your car.

The JEGS Rooftop cargo box can hold anything as lengthy as 57” so you will be able to carry large items such as tents and extra luggage without any problem. You can get this roof box for only in $220. So it is a very affordable roof box and best for the people looking for a roof box at an affordable price.

JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier for Car Storage - Large Roof Rack Cargo Carrier - Heavy Duty Weatherproof...
  • Secure & protect your gear in this 18 cubic ft. HDPE plastic hard shell vehicle cargo carrier; high-capacity interior dimensions 57 L x 38 1/2 W x 17 3/4 H inches; aerodynamic design for fuel efficiency
  • Weatherproof storage for your luggage with a four corner locking system, front latch, and weather-tight seal for ultimate car rooftop protection and security
  • Easy & convenient loading and unloading from either side of the car make for smooth travel and hassle-free storage
  • No tools required, easy assembly and installation. All mounting hardware and simple instructions are included to get you safely on the road quickly
  • Made in USA, limited lifetime guarantee. The JEGS car top carrier’s high-quality construction and performance give you peace of mind
  • Holds 3 golf bags

10. ToolGuards Rooftop Cargo Carrier with Mat

ToolGuards Rooftop Cargo Carrier

The ToolGuards Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a very good quality roof bag. It comes with 15 cubic feet of storage space so that you can use it for any trip. This roof bag is also fully waterproof and available in neutral black with bright-yellow trim.

ToolGuards cargo bag is very easy to install, and you will be able to install this roof bag with or without any roof rack. It comes with coated zippers and extra-tough stitches so that the roof bag can last for a long time.

You can get this roof bag for only in $80. The included mat keeps the roof of your vehicle safe from being scratched or damaged and helps the roof bag to stay in place when you are driving.

This roof bag comes with a great amount of storage space and an aerodynamic design to help you get a good fuel economy.

If you are looking for a long-lasting, lightweight, and durable roof bag at an affordable price to carry all of your items on trips, then you can take the ToolGuards Rooftop Cargo Carrier. It comes with a two-year warranty so that you can choose this roof bag with full of confidence.

Roof Cargo Bag 15 Cubic for Cars with or Without Racks - Rooftop Cargo Bag - car Carriers Rooftop -...
  • 100% WATERPROOF & MILITARY-GRADE DURABILITY | Made from durable military-grade tarpaulin, our heavy-duty cartop cargo carrier is designed to withstand all climates and weather conditions without breaking, moving, or leaking. Our vehicle roof storage system is designed with 100% waterproof features and zippers.
  • QUALITY BAG | Our lockable zips have been developed and improved over the years to ensure your luggage arrives just as you packed it dry, safe, and secure. The softshell car roof box also features double-layer welded components as well as freeze-resistant clips & straps, for a roof bag that will last.
  • FITS ANY CAR - WITH OR WITHOUT ROOF RACK | Our rooftop cargo carrier is compatible with all hard roofed cars and SUVs, utilizing a flexible mounting system. Take advantage of our simple step-by-step manual and instructional video for a fast and easy set-up.
  • NO ROOF RACK, NO PROBLEM | we’ve got you covered because every Tool Guards car roof bag comes with straps for every type of installation and set up. We include both sets of straps for installation on cars with roof racks and those which have no overhead roof racks.
  • BONUS PRODUCTS | Also included with the roof bag, is a protective roof topper mat to prevent scratches or slipping, a carry bag for easy storage when not in use, and a TSA-approved padlock, for that extra level of security.
  • CUSTOMER SERVICE and 1 YEAR WARRANTY | Our car top carrier comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty, If you have any questions or issues, please don't hesitate to send us a message through Amazon, and our amazing customer service team will be more than happy to help.

Summary:

When you go to buy a roof box, you will see thousands of options before you. But you have to choose a roof box that is perfect for you. Whenever you go on any trip, you want to enjoy freedom. And you may know that space is all about choice, so you have to make a perfect decision about buying your roof box. And after choosing an ideal roof box, you will be able to enjoy your trip perfectly. 

Every roof box listed here is unique with its unique features. Every roof box is perfect for a particular type of use.

You have to make your decision carefully. Remember, why are you buying this roof box and which peculiarities are essential for you. See which roof boxes can fulfill your importance and then buy the best roof box for your next big adventurous trip.

-our editorial board has reviewed this article and has been approved for publication according to our editorial policy.

Last Update : 2024-06-27

A dedicated automotive enthusiast and the Co-Founder of this platform. With a profound love for cars and a keen eye for top-notch accessories, I’m thrilled to share my expertise with you.

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