To find the best rooftop cargo carrier for your car, consider your car’s roof dimensions, weight capacity, and whether it needs crossbars. Research reputable brands, read user reviews, and prioritize carriers with weatherproof materials for optimal protection.
How to Find Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier for Car?
If you want to go on a trip very recently, you will need to make sure that you have enough storage space to carry all of your important things.
People who want to go on a trip during their vacation or those who want to go on a camping trip usually like to use roof cargo boxes. These rooftop cargo boxes enable you to get your luggage and other items on the top of your vehicle.
There are various kinds of roof cargo boxes available on the market, and before you buy one of these roof cargo boxes, you need to acquire a lot of information. By reading this article, you will learn all about these cargo boxes, and you will be able to find the right one for you.
So it would be best if you took the time to read through all this important information, and you will also find all of your answers to any questions about these cargo boxes.
Are Rooftop Cargo Boxes Worth it?
Making sure if you really need a roof cargo box is pretty simple. You need to consider how much you want to go on trips and what type of things you need to take with you. If you want to take a large amount of stuff on your trip or to your vacation destination, then you should buy a roof cargo box and install it on top of your car. These cargo boxes make it very much easier to carry your luggage and other necessary items.
So before you buy any of these roof cargo boxes for your car, you have to make sure that you really need one. You have to consider many things, such as whether your belongings will pleasantly fit in your vehicle, is there be enough space for everyone to sit with your luggage in the car? It actually depends on how large your family is or how many people you will take with you on your next trip.
If you go on road trips regularly and you take four people or more on your trips, then having a roof cargo box will really be great for you. You may have to spend a good quality roof cargo box a good amount of money, but a good quality roof box is really worth the money because you can carry all of your important items with you on your trips.
These cargo boxes are very famous among both people who go on trips regularly and people who go on a trip once or twice a year. It is a secure way to carry the items that also help you make enough space to accommodate your family members or friends in your vehicle.
Most of the available roof cargo boxes are fairly priced as well. You should have a budget of at least $300 or more for buying a normal roof cargo box. This is surely an affordable price, and you will be getting something that will be useful to you, and it will also last for many years. Some cargo boxes are available at more affordable prices, such as the Thule Sidekick Cargo Box.
- Compact roofbox, ideal for small loads such as camping gear or golf clubs
- Sturdy U-bolts with reinforcement plates and adjustable brackets provide a assured fit to rack
- Compact design leaves room for other roof mounted accessories
- Passenger side opening for easier loading and unloading
- External Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 15.5 in
- Internal Dimensions: 48 x 23 x 13.5 in
- Load Capacity: 75 pounds
- Volume: 8 cu ft. of storage space
- Product weight: 16 pounds
It would be best if you found a roof cargo box that has the ability to fulfill your needs within your budget. If you do not have a lot of money to buy a roof cargo box, then you might look for a rooftop cargo bag. These types of cargo carriers work just like the hard cargo boxes, but they do not come with a hard shell design as the cargo boxes do. These cargo bags usually are made out of waterproof materials so that they can keep all of your items safe and dry during the trip.
So we recommend you take the time to consider all of your choices and then choose the best cargo box that will work great for you. If you are on a tight budget, then something like a rooftop cargo bag will work great for you. If you need to carry a lot of things, then buying a large-sized cargo box will be great.
If you perfectly consider your requirements, it will never be hard to spend your cash carefully.
Do You Need a Roof Rack?
Many people do not know that you will need a roof rack if you really want to install a roof cargo box on top of your car. If you don’t previously have a roof rack installed on your vehicle, you have to buy a roof rack system that is compatible with both your car and the roof cargo box you will buy. Besides, many vehicles come with a factory-installed roof rack as a conventional feature. It is also likely to purchase and install them on your car without it being too big of a deal.
Moreover, there are different kinds of aftermarket roof rack systems available on the market. So you can also consider them. When you are for the right roof rack system for your vehicle, you need to make sure that it can manage the proper quantity of items.
All the roof racks will be rated for a certain amount of weight carrying capacity. For instance, a roof rack might be able to handle up to 150 lbs of weight.
If you successfully buy a roof rack that will work for the amount of weight you want to carry, you are one step closer. The roof rack also needs to fit with the vehicle which you will take on your trips. Some cars are going to be too little for the usual roof racks, while others will be too large.
Finding a roof rack that will work great with your vehicle is not a very hard task, though. To complete this job perfectly, you need to spend a bit of time and make sure to research online. After getting a roof rack installed on top of your car, you’ll be able to install a compatible roof cargo box on it whenever you want. You will be able to use the roof rack for much other work also.
Many people tie their luggage down to the top of the rack by using high-quality ropes. Sometimes people also use these racks to transport things such as bicycles. So you can understand that there are so many uses of a roof rack system.
Most of these roof racks are very easy to install, even on your own. They usually come with all the things you will need to install the roof rack; they also come with detailed instructions. So after buying a compatible roof rack for your vehicle, you will have an easy time while camping,
Are Rooftop Cargo Carriers Safe?
Roof cargo boxes are designed to carry your items with enough security. Many roof cargo boxes require an assembly process in order to get them installed on top of your car. These cargo boxes will require the use of sturdy bolts and reinforcement plates to install the box to your roof rack. This helps the cargo box stay in place while driving, and it should be really steady.
The more cost-effective alternative to the roof cargo box is the roof cargo bag. However, these bags will not provide you the same amount of security as the cargo boxes. Roof cargo bags can be attached to the roof rack by being tied down using heavy-duty straps. Usually, the included straps will help the bag stay in place, and they are also able to provide a sturdy quality.
If you are interested in experiencing the safest experience possible, then you should go for a rugged roof cargo box. With one of these boxes, your items will be more secure, and you will be able to feel peace of mind while driving. It roof cargo boxes are comparably hard to install than usual roof cargo boxes, but they will be very dependable once your job is completed.
You will be installing them with the strongest bolts possible, and you will face no problem even when you will drive through uneven terrain. Moreover, these cargo boxes can usually be locked with multiple locks. If you are worried about anyone getting into your roof cargo box while you are resting at a hotel, you should use the locking mechanism of the cargo box and enjoy peace of your mind.
- Perfect for Road Trip---Take the cargo box to the park, the beach, the sports field, or any place you need to store. Works on all vehicles with rack, suitable for cars, vans, SUVs, etc. Sleek aerodynamic design to reduce drag and has less noise.
- 14 Cubic Feet Cargo Box ---With the large capacity, the roof cargo box can help you securely carry 14 cubic feet worth of essentials, can increase vehicle cargo space without impeding on passenger comfort, more capacity, more pleasure!
- Robust and Security Design---The roof cargo box is designed to withstand heavy use in different types of weather conditions. The metal lid stiffeners at the bottom makes the roof box more stable and safer. With the double-lock design for protecting your valuables.
- 【Note】This product is suitable for vehicles with rack (Compatible with 17” to 22.8” wide rack, the width of the crossbar should be less than 3.1 inches and the thickness should be less than 1.0 inches)
- High Quality Material---The roof box is manufactured from sturdy ABS and PC material for long-lasting use, able to protect your valuables from exposure to the elements and can load 165 lbs capacity, suitable for round, square, factory and most aerodynamic bars.
- Easy to Install---The Goplus roof box equipped with 4 quick connect anchors for easy install and super latch security ensures your lid secure to its base, and your gear is safe. Dual-sided opening for easy access on either side of your vehicle to increased efficiency and convenience.【Note: please do not open the openings on both sides at the same time. The key can only be removed after the cover is closed and locked.】
Roof cargo boxes such as the Goplus Cargo Box are designed with a double lock feature that assures that they will keep your items safe. You will be able to keep your things in the cargo box without worrying about anyone stealing from you.
Are Roof Cargo Boxes Waterproof?
If you are going to travel a long distance, it is very important to consider different conditions. Because during you are driving over the country, there is a good chance that you will face the rain at some point.
When it is raining, you want to ensure that all your belongings are safe and dry. You will be very happy to know that most of these roof cargo boxes come with either waterproof or water-resistant designs.
Your roof cargo box will be compatible with pretty much any extreme weather condition. These cargo boxes are made to tolerate heavy rainfall, snow, and even more.
You will be able to ensure that your belongings are dry and safe even when it is raining hard outside. This makes it a lot easier to go on a trip during the rainy season without worrying about your belongings’ safety.
You also need to know that roof cargo bags are also made to be water-resistant. So if you are planning to buy a rooftop cargo bag, you should try to buy the one that comes with the great build quality. The best roof cargo bags will be very water-resistant or waterproof, and they will also do a great job of keeping your valuable items dry and safe inside the box.
They might not be as good as hard shell roof cargo boxes in handling large amounts of stuff, but they will be able to resist the rainwater to damage your items without giving you any problem. Not all roof cargo boxes and roof cargo bags are good at keeping water away from your cargo. So make sure to do research and look through all of the available cargo carrier options. After that, you will be able to find the cargo carrier that will suit your needs the best.
Read More: Are Roof Cargo Boxes Waterproof?
Are Roof Box Makes Noise?
While buying a roof cargo box, some people become concerned about whether or not the roof cargo box is going to make uneasy noise. It is right that some roof boxes might make some noise while you are driving.
Most of the famous cargo boxes that are available on the market today do come with aerodynamic designs. The more aerodynamic the roof cargo box is, the less noise it will make. The noise actually comes when the wind hits the cargo box.
Sometimes these noises become so intolerable, and sometimes the noise will be so low that you will hardly notice at all. That’s why it is very important to find out a quiet roof cargo box.
The Yakima SkyBox is an excellent cargo box with an aerodynamic design, and it is as quiet as possible. The shape of this roof cargo box resists drag so well that’s why it crates very low wind noise. Most people do not even notice the wind noise when using a roof cargo box that comes with an aerodynamic design. Many other cargo boxes on the market will offer you a comparable experience also.
- More Room for Cargo Space: Provides generous 16 cubic feet of secure storage for all your family's gear, perfect for road trips, camping, and outdoor excursions.
- Dual-Sided Access for Convenience: Unique dual-sided opening design allows easy loading and unloading from either side of your vehicle.
- Enhanced Security: Integrated push-button security and SKS locks keep your belongings safe and secure on the road.
- Durable Build: Lid designed with internal stiffeners for durability and easy open and close, and a sleek Carbonite texture for aerodynamics.
- Take It Easy: Since 1979, Yakima has worked to simplify the way people travel and transport recreational sporting equipment. We put safety, sensibility, and street smarts into every product design.
So it would be best if you found an aerodynamic cargo box option. Aerodynamic roof boxes are available in all sizes as well. Whether you are looking for a smaller cargo box or you are looking for something larger than average, you will always be able to find an aerodynamic option available.
If you are going to go on a long-distance trip, then buying an aerodynamic roof cargo box for less wind noise will surely going to be a good idea for you. So we recommend you choose a good roof cargo box that is as quiet as possible in order to enjoy the most calming experience while driving.
Conclusion:
After knowing everything, you will need to find the right roof cargo box for you; it will be a lot easier to make the right decision. There are many fabulous roof cargo boxes available on the market. It would be best if you did not have any trouble finding one that will help you to carry your things securely. These versatile cargo boxes are safe, easy to use, and very handy.
Using a cargo carrier is the most practical way to carry luggage on a road trip for several people. It saves up a lot of space inside of your car so that everyone can sit and enjoy the entire ride with comfort. It also easily lets you know that your luggage is secured and that it will arrive at your destination without any problems.
If you buy a high-quality roof cargo box, you will not face any problems while traveling. Just keep these important pieces of information in your mind when you are shopping for a roof cargo box. It would be best if you tried to buy one that comes with a water-resistant and aerodynamic design.
This will guarantee that you enjoy a great time while on the road. If you are looking for a solution for carrying your items to your next vacation or camping trip, then buying a roof cargo box will be worth your money.
-our editorial board has reviewed this article and has been approved for publication according to our editorial policy.
Best Seller List of Rooftop Cargo Carrier:
- 18 cubic foot (510 L) internal cargo capacity
- Made from durable UV-resistant ABS material
- Rear opening for easy access away from traffic
- Tool-free mounting hardware for easy installation and removal
- Includes key and lock to secure contents in the box, and the box to your rack
- Fits SportRack Rack Systems, square bars, round bars and most factory racks (check fit guide)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 63 x 38 x 19 in / 160 x 96.5 x 48 cm
- Min-Max Crossbars Spacing: 23 5/8 - 29 3/4 in (60 - 75.5 cm)
- Max Weight Capacity: 100 pounds (45 kg)
- Functional rooftop cargo box provides 14 cubic feet of additional packing space
- Rugged and durable design keep contents protected
- FastGrip quick-mount system assembles in minutes
- Passenger-side opening for easy loading and unloading
- Central Locking system provides maximum safety
- Thule Comfort Key can only be removed when all locking points are securely closed
- Fits 3-5 snowboards (max length: 155 cm)
- External dimensions: 67 x 35 x 16 inches; Internal dimensions: 61 x 33 x 14 inches
- Load capacity: 110 lbs; Product weight: 34 lbs
- Height off crossbar: 16 inches. Fast and secure mounting
- 【DURABLE CONSTRUCTION】Crafted from high-quality ABS material, the hard shell rooftop cargo box ensures long-lasting durability. Its waterproof and UV-resistant design protects luggage from various weather conditions, making it ideal for road trips. The aerodynamic shape also reduces fuel consumption and noise for a smoother ride
- 【SPACIOUS 12 CUBIC FEET STORAGE】With dimensions of 54.3 in L x 31.5 in W x 13.4 in H, the rooftop cargo box offers 12 cubic feet (340 L) of extra storage space. With a maximum capacity of 165 LBS, it significantly increases storage capacity for your belongings
- 【UNIVERSAL FIT】Compatible with all vehicles equipped with a roof rack, including cars, vans, and SUVs. Prior to purchase, please verify compatibility by checking the roof rack fitting guidelines
- 【CONVENIENT DUAL-SIDED OPENING】The dual-sided opening system allows easy access from both sides of the cargo box. Includes 2 keys and 2 straps for added security. Ensure one side is locked when opening the other side
- 【RELIABLE WARRANTY】GarveeTech is committed to delivering high-quality products and meeting customer expectations. Enjoy a one-year warranty for added peace of mind. For any inquiries, our team is available to assist you within 24 hours
- LARGE CARRYING CAPACITY: This premium Sailnovo Rooftop Cargo Bag 20 cubic feet of storage car bag capacity and can hold 5-7 suitcases, camping tents, sleeping bags, and more. Made of soft shell material, roof rack cargo carrier can be folded into a storage bag to save space when not in use! Note: Our roof bag is not suitable for vehicles with sliding doors.
- MORE SAFETY: Besides load capacity, stability is arguably the most essential factor in a vehicle's top carrier. Our car roof cargo carriers are designed with 6 built-in reinforced straps, extra 6 door hooks, and 2 long luggage straps. For safety reasons, the more straps and clips for securing the bag to the roof, the better!
- TEAR-RESISTANT & WATERPROOF: Features three layers of 1000D Oxford cloth waterproof material, Sailnovo rooftop cargo carrier bag is twice as strong as other brands' 500D fabrics. We found that different brands could easily tear through the seams, so our roof rack cargo carrier doubled up our seams and widened the waterproof zipper flaps!
- EASY TO INSTALL: We provide 6 heavy-duty tie-down straps and 6 safety hooks that can be easily attached to the vehicle's Luggage rack in minutes; fits most roofs with crossbars/side rails/baskets or bare tops without racks; fits most size vehicles such as cars, SUV's, pickups, station wagons, hatchbacks, hardtop crossovers.
- WHAT YOU GET: 1 car rooftop carrier bag, 6 safety hooks, 2 reinforced straps, 1 storage bag, 1 user manual. The Sailnovo cargo carrier is water and fade-resistant, dust, sun, wind, and rain resistant. You don't have to spend as much as you would for a roof box, but you have a bag that has all the features of a car roof box!
- For a better experience, please try to fill the roof bag with enough items to avoid water pooling on the roof due to an unfilled bag.Please note: Not recommended for vehicles with sunroofs; recommended driving speed limit: ≤ 65 mph (105 km/h).
- The teeth of the zipper are prone to water leakage, please ensure the zipper is fully closed; After closing the zipper, please cover the zipper waterproof flap, and the Velcro is fastened when in use. Note:This roof bag is not suitable for vehicles with sliding doors.
- Please note that the Sailnovo rooftop cargo carrier is not 100% waterproof in extreme weather, so please pack your clothes in an extra dry bag!
- If you have any problems with receiving or using our car top carrier, please to contact us and we will do our best to make you happy!
- Rugged & Weatherproof Construction：Our rooftop cargo carrier built from premium ABS material, this hard shell rooftop cargo box is waterproof and UV-resistant. It shields your luggage from rain, snow, and sun, while the aerodynamic design minimizes wind noise and reduces fuel consumption—a perfect companion for any road trip.
- Spacious 12 Cubic Feet of Storage:Offering a generous 12 cubic feet (340L) of extra storage, this cargo box measures 54.3"L x 31.5"W x 13.4"H and supports up to 165 lbs. Easily expand your vehicle’s cargo capacity for camping, vacations, and everyday travel.
- Universal Roof Rack Compatibility:Compatible with all vehicles equipped with a roof rack, including cars,vans, and SUVs. Please check your vehicle’s roof rack specifications before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
- Easy Dual-Sided Access & Security:Features a convenient dual-sided opening for quick loading and unloading from either side of your vehicle. Includes 2 secure locks and 2 straps to keep your gear protected. Remember to keep one side locked while accessing the other for added safety.
- Easy Assembly: Enjoy a quick and hassle-free setup! Our rooftop cargo box comes complete with all necessary components and clear instructions
- Universal Fit - This roof top storage box is universal fit for mounting to max 13 inches wide cross bar, please check the dimension before purchase.
- Spacious Capacity - Expand your vehicle's cargo capability significantly with 11 cubic feet of spacious storage and a robust 110 lb weight limit. Designed with a 14-inch wide opening for easy loading of large gear, this box provides ample room for luggage and essentials while keeping your passenger area comfortable and uncluttered. It's perfect for families, road trippers, or outdoor adventurers.
- Secure Lock, Stable Travel - The key lock system keeps your valuables safe. You can only remove the key after all lock points are fully secured. The belongings and luckages stay firmly in place inside during your drive, even on bumpy roads – no shifting or falling out. Open it from the passenger side for easy loading and unloading.
- Impact-Resistant Protection - Built with UV-protected, weather-resistant ABS, the cargo box shields contents from rain, sun, snow, and impacts while maintaining structural integrity in all conditions for reliable long-term performance.
- Overall Dimensions - 53" L x 34" W x 15" H | Capacity: 11 Cubic Feet and up to 110 LBS. Package includes [1] 53 inches length storage box, [2] security lock key, and [4] heavy duty tool free installation mounting brackets.
- 【2025 UPGRADED BASED ON YOUR NEEDS】The Sailnovo rooftop cargo carrier is made of waterproof PVC material, offering cold resistance and tear resistance for safe driving in harsh weather conditions. This car roof bag includes reflective strips, while the car roof cargo carrier's reinforced welding design keeps your luggage secure.
- 【LARGE CARRYING CAPACITY】This premium roof rack cargo carrier is 51" (L) X 39" (W) X 17" (H) with 20 cubic feet of storage capacity can hold 5-7 suitcases, travel luggage cases, camping tents, sleeping bags, and more. Made of soft shell material, it can be folded into a storage bag to save space when not in use!
- 【ALL-ROUND WATERPROOF PROTECTION】Made of military-grade 1000D PVC material, our car roof cargo carrier bag features triple-layer weather protection. The reflective Velcro design not only effectively shields against heavy rain but also ensures visibility during night driving. Our rooftop cargo bag is upgraded with 10 widened waterproof patches and enhanced sealing design.
- 【SAFETY & EASY INSTALLATION】Our cargo bag adopts an aerodynamic design to reduce fuel consumption and minimize road noise, includes 6 reinforced door hooks for solid mounting, plus upgraded zippers and security locks to better protect your cargo. Quick 15-minute installation process.
- 【ALL THAT YOU NEED IS INCLUDED】You will receive 6 x door hooks (non-slip leather),1 x safety lock,1x anti-slip mat,1x manual,1x roof bag organizer (drawstring),1x door hook storage bag, and 1x 20 cubic feet roof cargo box, ensuring you can easily install it in just a few minutes without the need for additional car storage accessories.
- 【FOR MOST CARS】Are you struggling to pack for your family trip? 20 cubic feet roof top cargo carriers save you more space in your car. Easily carry around 6 people's luggage. Roof racks, no roof racks, and car rooftop cargo carriers are available for any size, sedan, or SUV and compatible with crossbar.(NOTE: Sliding door is not applicable)
- For a better experience, please try to fill the roof bag with enough items to avoid water pooling on the roof due to an unfilled bag. Please note: Not recommended for vehicles with sunroofs; recommended driving speed limit: ≤ 65 mph (105 km/h).
- If you have any problems with receiving or using your car top carrier, please contact us; we will do our best to make you happy!
- Spacious 16 Cu Ft Storage: This hard shell roof cargo carrier offers a generous 16 cubic feet of space, ideal for road trips, vacations, or outdoor gear. Overall dimensions: 58.3"(L) x 35.4"(W) x 13"(H)
- Heavy-Duty ABS + PMMA Build: Made from durable ABS and PMMA materials, this car roof box is UV-resistant, impact-resistant, and weatherproof to protect valuables in harsh outdoor conditions
- Dual-Side Opening & Secure Lock: Features dual-side opening for convenient loading/unloading. Lock system ensures the key can only be removed when securely closed for maximum safety
- Tool-Free Installation: Quick and easy mounting with no tools required. Compatible with most round, square, and aerodynamic crossbars for universal fit on cars and SUVs
- Passenger-Side Accessibility: Designed for safety and convenience, the box opens up to 14.5" wide from the passenger side with strong support arms to hold the lid open during use
- 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐥 - Roof cargo box is universal, fits for vehicles with cross bars only, and no tool assembly and installation. Can help increase cargo space without impeding on passenger comfort.
- 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐮𝐦 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 - Made of high quality ABS plastic, hardness and durable for long lasting using. Can help protect your contents from exposure to the inclement weather.
- 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨 - 110 LBS loading bearing, strong support arm. Cargo box dimension: 53 inches X 34 inches X 15 inches, design with black textured surface finish and non-slip bottom.
- 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - Great design with secure key lock, gives us peace of mind when storing our luggage, and also easy opening and closing. Also it can use in variety weather such as rainy, dirt and freezing, etc,.
- 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 - 1 X cargo roof box, 1 X pair of keys, 4 X ABS plastic mounting brackets and mounting hardware as shown.
- Perfect for Road Trip: Take the cargo box to the park, the beach, the sports field, or any place you need to store. Works on all vehicles with rack, suitable for cars, vans, SUVs, etc. Sleek aerodynamic design to reduce drag and has less noise.
- High Quality Material: The roof box is manufactured from sturdy ABS and PMMA material for long-lasting use, able to protect your valuables from exposure to the elements and can load 130 lbs capacity, suitable for round, square, factory and most aerodynamic bars.
- 16 Cubic Feet Cargo Box with Car Trunk Organizer---With the large capacity, the roof cargo box can help you securely carry 16 cubic feet worth of essentials, can increase vehicle cargo space without impeding on passenger comfort, more capacity, more pleasure!
- Secure & Convenient Use: In order to keep your belongings secure, this vehicle cargo carrier is designed with the security lock that has keys. More importantly, Dual-sided opening for easy access on either side of your vehicle to increase efficiency and convenience.
- Easy to Install: With equipped hardware and detailed instruction, the car rooftop cargo carrier is easy to be mounted to the car top. Then you can start a hassle-free trip with your family and friends to appreciate the wonderful scenery along the way.
Last Update : 2025-10-28
