The decision to buy or rent a rooftop cargo carrier depends on your frequency of use and storage capabilities. If you frequently travel and lack storage, buying could be cost-effective long-term; however, if occasional use and storage are concerns, renting might be more practical.
Should You Buy or Rent Rooftop Cargo Carrier?
If you are going somewhere with a lot of cargo, a rooftop cargo carrier can help you to store all the cargo with ease. Rooftop cargo carriers are also suitable for any kind of vacation trip; you can even go fishing and camping with these. They are not so expensive, too, according to the features they are providing.
Different kinds of rooftop cargo carriers are available out there, made out of different materials, and come in different sizes and designs. So you can easily find a good one whether you are looking for a rooftop carrier to carry from a few small suitcases to several snowboards or fishing rods.
If you are on a tight budget but you need a rooftop cargo carrier for your trip, then you might be thinking of renting a rooftop carrier instead of buying one. But the question is, “Is that really the most efficient thing to do?”
The answer to this question actually depends on several factors. So we recommend you to read this article fully, and we hope that it will help you make the decision.
How Many Trips Per Year Do You Take? Rooftop Cargo Carrier Rental
If you go on trips frequently, we recommend buying a rooftop carrier instead of renting one because it will be more cost-effective. Rooftop cargo carriers are available at a price range starting from around 50 dollars to several hundred dollars. But if you rent a rooftop carrier for three days, that will almost cost you the same, and at the end of the long run, buying a roof box will cost you less.
If you want to buy the perfect rooftop cargo carrier for you, you have to research what type of carrier will be best for you according to your budget. You should check the size capacity, the installation process, and the material used in making the carrier. If you go on a trip only once a year or less, then leasing a carrier will be best for you. Otherwise, it is better to buy a cargo carrier.
How Is the Carrier Attached to the Vehicle?
The process of attaching the carrier to your car is also an important thing to consider. Moreover, many rooftop carriers need a roof rack to be attached, and some can be attached with or without any roof rack. So of them, just use a rope or strap to tie the carrier to the top of your car.
If the cargo carrier you liked requires a permanent roof rack, but you do not want to add one on top of your car, then you should look for something else and find something that does not demand you to make any permanent change to your car.
If you previously have a roof rack installed on top of your car or are going to install one, you can either purchase or lease the carrier. You should also consider other factors before you make the final decision. But you should always remember to check the manual provided by the manufacturer to determine whether a roof rack is required or not. If you do that, you will not face any problem, and there won’t be anything surprising after you get the carrier itself in your possession.
If you are searching for something that does not require you to have a roof rack, there are still many options available to either buy or rent. The leasing companies have many kinds of products that do not require any roof rack so that you can easily choose to lease one for your roof rack-free car.
How Much Stuff Will You Be Bringing with You?
Another thing you should consider before you buy a rooftop cargo carrier is what you want to carry with that? Different types of carriers come in different sizes, which are measured by cubic feet. You can easily find carries available with ten to up to 30 or more cubic feet of storage capacity.
Large cargo carriers can be very expensive, but you can lease them at an affordable cost. The carriers with 20 to 30 cubic feet of storage capacity are generally soft roof bag types of carriers; besides, some hard shell roof cargo boxes also. You can carry a lot of items with these. If you need a big cargo carrier and need to use it even a few times a year, it will better for you to buy a rooftop cargo carrier instead of leasing one.
A good quality and large enough cargo carrier can be expensive, but you can buy it for around under 100 dollars. When renting a cargo carrier, you have to pay more for the bigger and most high-quality one. So you should buy your own cargo carrier as your need and test.
How Will You Store the Carrier When it Isn’t Being Used?
When you plan to buy a rooftop carrier, you also have to think about what you will do with it when not in use? If you install a cargo carrier on top of your vehicle, it will affect your car’s gas mileage. You will have to pay more money to fill up your tank, so you should remove the carrier when not in use. But the question is what to do with the carrier after removing it from the roof of your car?
If you buy a soft cargo bag type of carrier made from polyester or some type of plastic, it will come with a storage bag to easily store it. But if you buy a hard shell cargo carrier, it can be a little hard for you to store it because you have to have a good place to hang it when not in use. You can install a rack on your garage or shed on the walls so that you can hang the carriers there.
If you want a soft type of cargo carrier, it won’t matter if you lease it or buy it. But if you choose a hard-shell rooftop carrier but do not want the hassles to find a place to store it, you should just go ahead and lease it instead.
-our editorial board has reviewed this article and has been approved for publication according to our editorial policy.
Best Seller List of 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
- 【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 : 2025-10-30
