There are endless types of roof boxes available on the market. If you have an SUV, sedan, or across the back, you will easily find a roof cargo box for your car. As with cars, roof cargo boxes also come with various designs, sizes, and different price tags. You can even find a roof box that is perfect for you if you are on a tight budget.
If you are in a hurry, then you can use the links below to buy the best Ford Explorer Roof Cargo Carriers. You don’t need to worry about the quality of the products because we only recommend the best.
– Overall Best – Thule Vector Rooftop Cargo Box
– Editor’s Choice – Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box
Many roof boxes are specially designed for a type of car. So if you have a Ford Explorer SUV, you can easily find a perfect roof cargo box for your car. Many of these roof boxes are universal also. So they will fit with any SUV car. Many roof boxes are also available in different colors, so you can choose the color that matches your Ford Explorer SUV color.
Here you will find some of the best roof boxes for SUVs, such as the Ford Explorer, which are available on the market today.
Roof Box Advantage & Disadvantage
The most important feature of a roof cargo box is that it provides a lot of extra storage space so that you can carry a lot of cargo. Moreover, most of the roof cargo box is compatible with a huge amount of vehicle designs. Some of them are easy to install and made from durable materials. Some roof cargo boxes also provide a waterproof feature.
The disadvantage of a roof cargo box is that it affects the fuel economy, and in the case of electronic cars, it will lessen the range. They also come with limited space for taller items. But after all, these disadvantages are tolerable in front of the benefits provided by a roof cargo box.
Best Ford Explorer Roof Cargo Carriers:
1. Thule Vector Roof Box
The Thule Vector is an elegant, stylish design with seamless integration of the lid, and the base adds a distinctive look to any car. It is made with a smooth and aerodynamic design capable of storing up to 165lbs of gear. The Vector fits 3-5 sets of skis, has felt-lined storage, motion-activated LED lights for better visibility at night, flush-mount closure for included security, double side opening to access equipment from either side of the vehicle, and also a strengthened lid.
The sleek and also modern Thule Vector rooftop cargo box finds balance in power through function! It looks great on any type of roofline while storing and transporting things securely on top of your vehicle.
- Dual-Side Opening: The reinforced lid makes for a smooth, effortless dual-sided opening and closing.
- The rear of Vehicle Access: Full trunk gain access to with minimal danger of contact with the cargo box, thanks to its forward setting on the car roof.
- Secure SlideLock System: The SlideLock system with different locking and opening features automatically secures the lid in place and shows when the box is closed securely.
- PowerClick Quick-Mount System: Easy to install to the PowerClick quick-mount system. The integrated torque indicator clicks when it’s correctly installed, ensuring quick and protection suitably.
- Premium Interior: A premium interior with integrated lighting and a felt-lined base for increased gear protection enhances the user experience.
- Built-in LED-Light: A white-colored interior of the lid combined with a LED light facilitates loading and unloading at night.
- A sleek, aerodynamic cargo box with premium features that compliments the styling of modern vehicles
- Fits 3-5 pairs of skis (up to 200 cm in length)/3-4 snowboards
- Premium felt-lined interior base for increased protection of gear
- Bright, motion-activated LED lights and white interior allow for visibility during nighttime use
- Exclusive flush-mount closure and reinforced lid provides effortless, dual-side opening and closing
- Thule SlideLock system automatically locks the lid in place and shows that the box is closed securely
- Installs in minutes with tool-free, quick-mount system ("clicks" when roof box is secure and properly mounted)
- Included Thule Box Lid Cover protects the box from scratches and dust in storage
- External dimensions: 91 x 35 x 12.5 inches; Internal dimensions: 80.5 x 25.2 x 11 inches
- Load capacity: 165 lbs; Product weight: 65.9 lbs
2. Thule Pulse Roof Box
If you want to go on snowboarding and want to carry your snowboards and skis or go on trips with your family, Thule Pulse is a great roof box for you. So you don’t have to pay some extra money to rent anything.
It can easily accommodate three to five snowboards without any problem. This box is secured with the central locking system, and you can only remove the key when the box is closed and locked correctly.
It is made from textured ABS material, and this box can protect your stuff when you are on the road. So, you don’t have to worry about your item’s security.
The lid of this roof box opens on the passenger side so you can get access to this roof box without being in danger of standing closed to traffic.
Features:
- Rugged and durable design is long-lasting and keeps contents protected during transit.
- Fast and secure fitting using only one hand due to FastGrip quick-mount system that assembles in moments.
- Passenger-side opening for easier loading and unloading.
- The central locking system provides maximum safety. The grip-friendly Thule Comfort key can only be removed if all locking points are securely closed.
- 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
3. Yakima Skybox 21 Carbonite Cargo Box:
This magnificent large 21 cubic feet roof box weighs 75 lbs. It can carry only 28 kg because of its size. At the 21 cubic feet volume range, the other Yakima roof boxes can carry more weight.
The Yakima Skybox 21 Carbonite can also give you access from the dual side, and it is available with a super latch, which makes the opening and closing easier. The tapered exterior of this roof box is stunning. And it can reduce drag. You can install it without any tools.
To install it, You have to follow the following steps only:
- Open the lid
- Release the clamps
- Loosen the thumbwheels
- Position the roof box on your roof rack crossbars
- Slide it back so that the clamps engage the load bars
- Tighten the thumbwheels
- Then engage your lever clamps.
That’s it! After completing these steps now, your Yakima Skybox Carbonite is correctly installed on the roof of your vehicle, and it will not slide down from your roof bars. If it does slip, open the lid of your roof box and tighten the levers to secure it.
The price of this roof box is as like as the Thule. Now you can ask us why you should buy the Skybox? Then the answer is – It is available with lid stiffeners, which makes it much durable than the Thule. Moreover, the installation process for this roof box is more comfortable than the Thule cargo box also. It only takes minutes.
Some important feature of Yakima Skybox 21 Carbonite:
- Tool-free installation
- 21 cubic feet
- Load capacity 28 kg
- Sleek aerodynamic Carbonite textured lid; Designed with internal lid stiffeners for durability and easy open and close
- SuperLatch security ensures your lid is secure to its base, and your gear is safe; Dual-sided opening for easy access on either side of your vehicle; Tapered design reduces hatch interference
- No assembly required; Tool-free installation/removal from vehicle; SKS Locks included
- Fits Yakima round, square, factory, and aerodynamic bars; Minimum and maximum crossbar spreads: 24" - 42"
- Hauls gear for up to 5 campers; fits snowboards and skis up to 215cm; Available in five sizes: Lo, 12, 16, 18, and 21 cubic feet
4. Thule Hyper XL Rooftop Cargo Box:
The sleek design of this box makes it one of the most aerodynamic roof boxes on the market. The aerodynamic design helps it to reduce drag and noise.
Not only this roof box is exceptionally aerodynamic, but also it can carry up to 110 pounds at a time. So if you want to pack a lot of items in your roof cargo box when you are going on a trip with your family or friends, then this roof cargo box could be an excellent option for you.
The rear-angled base and the expanded mounting points make the installation process very easy for this roof cargo box. Moreover, these also help you to get access to this box quickly. These also don’t make any problem in opening the door of the trunk of your car.
This box’s mounting system makes a click sound if you connect this roof cargo box with your Honda Odyssey correctly to ensure that your roof cargo box is secured and let you know that you are ready to ride.
- Patented AeroNose Design reduces drag and noise making it the most aerodynamic box available.Load capacity 110 lb
- Reinforced Ultra-Thick Lid and Base for maximum durability
- Patented Rear-Angled Base and expanded vehicle mounting points help maximize trunk and hatch clearance
- AcuTight Mounting “clicks” when you reach optimal hold to ensure your box is secured to the rack
- Integrated Light for nighttime loading and unloading. Fits Thule AeroBlade and Thule SquareBar. Load capacity snowboards-3-5
5. Rhino-Rack MasterFit Roof Box
If you are looking for something to transport snow skis or fishing equipment, the Rhino-Rack MasterFit roof box can be a great option for you. It is compatible with Ford Explorer SUV as well as many other SUVs also. It is made out of sturdy ABS plastic, and it comes with a sleek design that really looks great. The design also helps the roof box to resist drags and save your fuel bill.
The roof box allows you to “twist to tighten and press to lock,” making it very easy to use. It is very easy to install also. It comes with all the hardware.
Finding a roof cargo box for an SUV is not a big deal. Many roof boxes are universal so that they can fit with any type of SUV car. You should consider the weight because it will let you know that it will fit your vehicle.
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6. Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box
The Thule Motion XT is a perfect example of a sleek, aerodynamic, modern roof box. According to its size and storage capacity, it is perfect. For this fantastic combination, the Thule Motion XT is one of today’s best roof boxes.
You can get this roof box unit in both 16-foot and 22-foot. And its interior dimensions are 79 x 31.5 x 15. The 22-foot long variant is the more extended variant for roof boxes; it will be easy to fit safely on large vehicle roofs.
As we mentioned before, this box can give you access to both sides. So it will be easy to load or unload anything in it without any trouble. Also, you can use it in unfavourable weather conditions easily. It can easily stay in place when the weather is wet or snowy because it has a superior grip system.
It is so handy and easy to use. And it is available with an easy mounting system. With its mounting system, you will be able to install this roof box within five minutes. Also, it’s sturdy and functional with a locking system. If you accidentally leave your roof box unlocked, that locking system can keep your roof box secured. It has a smooth and aesthetic design.
The Thule Motion XT can bear 165 lbs. without any problem. In terms of safety, It is compatible with the One Key System, making it much easier to lock your roof box and keep your stuff safe. If you want to go on trips frequently with your roof box, then this one could be an excellent choice for you.
Some of the other attractive advantages featured by Thule Motion XT are:
- A glossy white and black finish
- A lightweight fiberglass body
- Robust construction helps to keep your stuff safe.
- Enough storage space for an average of five to seven skis or three to five snowboards
The Thule Motion XT will cost you nearly $800. But remember that; you will get what you are paying for, one of the best quality roof boxes. Moreover, you will carry skis or anything this kind of long stuff with this roof box.
- 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
Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing Roof Box:
There are a variety of roof boxes available on the market. Among them, To choose the ideal roof box for your Ford Explorer, you have to consider the following things:
- Ease of attaching the box
- How you can access your contents
- The size of the box
- How secure the box is
- The durability of the box
- Security of the locking system
- Amount of storage space
- How are you going to store your roof box when you’re not using it
- If it’s waterproof
- Aerodynamics of the box
- If the lid is designed to stay open easily
Final Thoughts
If you want the best rooftop cargo Box for your Ford Explorer, you can choose one from this list. After buying one of these roof carriers, now you are ready to ride with comfort and go on a trip with your family members or friends without worrying about enough storage space for your items.
After deciding, pick the perfect roof cargo box from this list for your next journey. After installing your roof box and packing all your important items in it, you will be able to enjoy a more comfortable ride.
-our editorial board has reviewed this article and has been approved for publication according to our editorial policy.
Best Seller List of Ford Explorer Roof Cargo Boxes:
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 【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"L x 31.5"W x 13.4"H, the rooftop cargo box offers 12 cubic feet (340L) 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
- 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】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
- Easy Dual Access: This rooftop cargo box features convenient dual-side opening panels, allowing you to load/unload from either side of your vehicle - perfect for tight parking spaces. The stay-open lids with gas struts provide hands-free access while loading gear, eliminating the need to walk around your vehicle.
- Heavy-Duty Capacity: Engineered with reinforced structural supports, this roof top box safely carries bulky luggage, camping gear and sports equipment. The impact-resistant hard shell maintains perfect integrity even at highway speeds, making it ideal for road trips and family vacations.
- Locking Security: Your belongings stay protected with the roof box's built-in locking mechanisms (includes 2 keys). Heavy-duty reinforced straps with anti-theft buckles ensure the car top carrier stays firmly attached to any roof rack system throughout your journey.
- Weatherproof Shell: The car roof box features UV-resistant ABS material and premium silicone seals that keep contents completely dry in heavy rain or snow. The wind-resistant design eliminates noise while driving, making it quieter than standard cargo carriers.
- High Compatibility: This versatile roof top cargo box fits most SUV, crossover and truck roof racks with its adjustable clamp system. The low-profile design maintains garage clearance while offering exceptional storage capacity - perfect for small families and adventure travelers alike.
- 【Overall Dimensions】70'' L x 31'' W x 15'' H , Capacity: 17.7 Cubic Feet volume and holds up to 165 lbs;
- 【Durable & Weatherproof Protection】Crafted from impact-resistant ABS material, this rooftop cargo box withstands harsh UV rays, rain, snow, and road debris while maintaining a sleek, glossy finish. Designed to hold 165 lbs of gear, its rugged shell defends luggage, sports equipment, or camping essentials from the elements, ensuring your belongings stay dry and intact mile after mile;
- 【Double-Side Opening for Hassle-Free Access】Uniquely designed to open from both sides, allowing easy loading of bulky items like skis, suitcases, or coolers. The self-supporting gas struts keep the lid securely open while you organize, and the key-lock system ensures it stays closed until you’re ready to unlock;
- 【Aerodynamic Design for Quiet, Fuel-Efficient Travel】Engineered with a wind-cheating profile, this cargo box minimizes drag and noise at highway speeds. The smooth contours reduce fuel consumption and eliminate whistling sounds, delivering a quieter, smoother ride compared to bulky competitors;
- 【Secure Travel with Anti-Theft Locking System】Two security keys lock all securing points simultaneously (keys removable only when fully closed), deterring theft during stops. Reinforced straps and a robust frame keep the box anchored, even on rough terrain. Perfect for road trips, ski weekends, or family vacations—travel smarter, not harder!
- 【Tool-Free Installation & Universal Compatibility】Fits round, square, and most aerodynamic roof racks with no tools required—simply clamp it onto your vehicle’s crossbars using the pre-assembled mounts. It offers 17.7 cubic feet of storage, ideal for a wide variety of vehicles, including cars and SUVs. Always check your roof rack specs for compatibility.
- 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 : 2025-09-22
