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 secure 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 Car Trunk Organizer---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! Included trunk organizer comes with 3 different size compartments, 12 side bags which will help you organize sundries with ease.
- 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.
- Fit more friends: Add more cargo space so you can bring more friends; SkyBox 16 fits gear for up to 3 people and is roomy enough for skis and snowboards up to 185 cm.
- Less noise, more room: The tapered, aerodynamic design with textured lid (made from up to 80% recycled material!) reduces drag, wind noise and hatch interference.
- Accessible & easy: Internal lid stiffeners add durability and make it easy to open and close; Dual-sided opening allows you to access your gear from either side of your vehicle.
- Keeps gear safe: Our SuperLatch secures the lid to the base, keeping your gear safe and sound; Includes SKS (Same Key System) Locks for extra peace of mind.
- Works with most racks: Fits YAKIMA round, square, factory and aerodynamic bars; Requires a crossbar spread between 24 in and 36 in; Tool-free installation with no assembly required.
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:
- LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY: The Car Rooftop Cargo box offers more than 10 cubic feet of storage capacity, making it a perfect choice for carrying bulky items like luggage, camping gear, & sports equipment. Car topper luggage carrier helps to free up valuable space inside your vehicle for passengers & other essentials. Whether you're going on a leisure trip or a work-related one, DuraLiner rooftop cargo box has enough room to hold all your necessary items.
- ROBUST & COMPACT DESIGN: The Cargo rooftop box is crafted to fit most roof racks with ease and is simple to install and remove. The hardshell rooftop cargo carrier is made from durable materials, enabling it to withstand harsh weather conditions & rugged terrains. Duraliner roof carrier is watertight & lockable, ensuring your belongings stay protected from water damage.
- STURDY MATERIAL: Heavy-duty plastic resists UV damage and maintains a rich finish to protect your belongings from weather. The Cargo Box has a sturdy and long-lasting construction made possible by High-density polyethylene (HDPE), which can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
- EASY INSTALLATION: DuraLiner Cargo Boxes are simple and easy to install. The tool-free assembly and U-bolt securing feature make it a quick process, allowing you to hit the road in minutes. These cargo boxes can be mounted with ease onto most vehicles with Roof rack cargo boxes. Vehicle Cargo Carriers design features a sealed lip, rear entry, and a four-corner latching system to ensure the safety and dryness of your belongings. It is durable & recyclable.
- COMPATIBLE WITH MOST VEHICLES: Car roof cargo carrier is compatible with numerous car makes and models, including Chevrolet, Ford, Isuzu, Jeep, Mazda, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Sprinter, Toyota, and more. Its universal mounting system is adaptable to various roof rack systems, making it a convenient option for customers with different car brands. The Rooftop cargo is specifically designed to fit and function with the roof racks or crossbars of these particular car models.
- 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)
- ▶️ This roof top storage box is universal fit for mounting to max 13 inches wide cross bar, please check the dimension before purchase.
- ▶️ The package comes with [1] 53 inches length storage box, [2] security lock key, and [4] heavy duty tool free installation mounting brackets.
- ▶️ It is constructed of rugged, impact-resistant ABS material to ensure a long lasting life in outdoor conditions. More, it can open from the side and stay open till you close it with the strong support arm.
- ▶️ Opens on the passenger side to 14 inches wide to store bulky items from the side and stays open till you close it, and it is very easy to install without any tool required to assembly.
- ▶️ Overall Dimensions: 53" L x 34" W x 15" H | Capacity: 11 Cubic Feet and up to 110 LBS
- UNLOAD FROM BOTH SIDES - the patent-pending dual side-opening design allows you conveniently load and unload your travel luggage and gear from both sides of the rooftop cargo carrier so you're out of the way of traffic while you unload
- FUEL EFFICIENT DESIGN - the aerodynamic design of the roof rack cargo carrier reduces drag and wind resistance to minimize fuel economy disruption. The 18 cu ft carrier measures 57" x 38.5" x 17.75" and the 10 cu ft carrier is 46.5" x 30.5" x 17.75"
- SECURE LOCKING SYSTEM - this car top carrier secures your luggage with a four-corner cam locking system to ensure that the lid won't blow open while you're on the road with a keyed theft-resistant lock for peace of mind at stops. Includes 2 keys
- WATERPROOF & UV RESISTANT - proudly made in the USA, this waterproof rooftop cargo box is manufactured from durable, all weather high-density polyethylene material that includes a built-in UV stabilizer that resists cracking and fading
- MOUNTS TO CROSS BARS - the car rooftop cargo carrier is a quick and easy no-tool installation and allows you to mount to your vehicle's cross-bars (not included). Pre-drilled mounting holes for cross-bar attachment are drilled 24" on center
- 【UNIVERSAL】This extra long rooftop cargo carrier fits for vehicles with cross bars only, no tool assembly & installation. Increases vehicle cargo space without impeding on passenger comfort.
- 【LARGE CAPACITY】Rooftop cargo box provides 11 cubic feet of additional storage space. The maximum storage capacity of 110lbs when evenly distributed. And it can be opened up to 14" wide to store bulky items.
- 【ROBUST DESIGN】Constructed of rugged, impact-resistant ABS material for long-lasting durability, able to protect your contents from exposure to the inclement weather.
- 【SECURITY LOCKING SYSTEM】Includes key and lock to secure valuables in the box, to ensure cargo safety and s proper lid alignment. It can open from the side and stays open til you close it.
- 【SPECIFICATION】Size: 11 Cubic Feet Internal Storage, 110lbs Max Capacity | Overall Dimensions: 53" L x 34" W x 15" H | Surface Finish: Black Texture Finish
- DUAL-SIDE OPENING FOR EASY ACCESS: Dual-side opening design allows you to open it from either the driver side or the passenger side, which brings more convenience for loading and unloading. (NOTE: There is protective film on the lid. Please peel off the film before use.)
- FAIR CAPACITY: With 11.65 cubic feet maximum storage capacity and 150lbs loading capacity, the roof cargo carrier can allow for more space in your car. What’s more, its streamlined design will reduce drag and noise during driving.
- LOCKING SYSTEM FOR SAFETY: It is designed with locks on both sides and comes with keys for protecting your valuables. And the stiffeners at the bottom of the roof cargo box strengthen its stability.
- EASY TO INSTALL: It is simple in structure and light in weight (approximately 31.3lbs). It won’t be difficult for you to lift it and install it to your car. And it can work with most vehicles with crossbars, such as car, suv, van, etc. Applicable Cross Bar: Max. Width 2.36”. Max. distance between bottom holes for installation: 25.59”. Min. distance between bottom holes for installation: 18.5”.
- QUALITY MATERIAL FOR DURABILITY & BETTER PROTECTION: Made from ABS material for long-lasting use. And it can protect your luggage or equipment from being exposed to sun, rain or dust. And it is protected with 3-Year Warranty.
- SPACIOUS, STYLISH, AND AERODYNAMIC: Textured/Glossy finish with glossy side linings blends in seamlessly with your vehicle. 17 Cu Ft (480 L) of cargo capacity provides ideal storage for skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, duffel bags, and still leaves room for your other gear. Supports up to 130 lbs (60 kg) weight capacity.
- SECURE AND WATER-RESISTANT: Central locking system ensures that the key cannot be removed until the box is locked. Weather-resistant & water-resistant. Comes with 4 (four) keys and 2 straps.
- TOOL-FREE INSTALLATION AND UNIVERSAL FITMENT: Comes fully assembled and ready to mount on your vehicle. Tool-free mounting hardware for easy installation and removal. Fits vehicles with roof racks/crossbars (Roof racks are not included).
- DUAL-SIDE OPENING AND CLOSING: Convenient loading and unloading of your gear from both sides of the cargo box. Dual side opening also helps with easy mounting and de-mounting the carrier from your vehicle.
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Made from heavy-duty, UV-resistant, and impact-resistant ABS material. Lightweight, sturdy and durable. Made in Turkey, Assembled in the U.S.A.
- ▶️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 and most aerodynamic bars.
- ▶️ It is constructed of rugged, impact-resistant ABS material to ensure a long lasting life in outdoor conditions. More, it can open from the side and stay open till you close it with the strong support arm.
- ▶️ Opens on the passenger side to 14 inches wide to store bulky items from the side and stays open till you close it, and it is very easy to install without any tool required to assembly.
- ▶️ Overall Dimensions: 62.2" L x 31.1" W x 15" H | Capacity: 15 Cubic Feet and Up to 130 LBS | ABS Plastic Mounting Brackets
- ▶️ Excellent Customer Service - We have been committed to providing best customer service to our customer and we usually make a respond in 3 hours. Just feel free to come to us when you have any doubts or inquires about our product or service.
- SPACIOUS, STYLISH, AND AERODYNAMIC: Linings blends in seamlessly with your vehicle. 17.7 Cu Ft (500 L) of cargo capacity provides ideal storage for skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, duffel bags, and still leaves room for your other gear. Supports up to 130 lbs (60 kg) weight capacity.
- SECURE AND WATER-RESISTANT: Central locking system ensures that the key cannot be removed until the box is locked. Weather-resistant & water-resistant. Comes with 4 (four) keys and straps.
- TOOL-FREE INSTALLATION AND UNIVERSAL FITMENT: Comes fully assembled and ready to mount on your vehicle. Tool-free mounting hardware for easy installation and removal. Fits vehicles with roof racks/crossbars (Roof racks are not included).
- DUAL-SIDE OPENING AND CLOSING: Convenient loading and unloading of your gear from both sides of the cargo box. Dual side opening also helps with easy mounting and demounting the carrier from your vehicle.
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Made from heavy-duty, UV-resistant, and impact-resistant ABS material. Lightweight, sturdy and durable. Made in Turkey, Assembled in the U.S.A.
- LARGE CARRYING CAPACITY: This premium roof rack cargo carrier 51" (L) X 39" (W) X 17" (H) with 20 cubic feet of storage capacity can hold 5-7 suitcases, 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!
- 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!
- EASY TO INSTALL: We offer 8 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 roofs without racks; fits most vehicles such as cars, SUV's, pickups, station wagons, hatchbacks, hardtop crossovers.
- TEAR-RESISTANT & WATERPROOF: Features three layers of 1000D PVC waterproof material, Sailnovo rooftop cargo carrier bag is twice as strong as other brands' 500D fabrics. We found that other brands could easily tear through the seams, so we doubled up our seams and widened the waterproof zipper flaps!
- WHAT YOU GET: 1 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.
- 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.
- 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 feel free to contact us and we will do our best to make you happy!
Last Update : 2023-09-30
