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)
- ▶️ 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
- This car roof box is manufactured from sturdy ABS and PMMA material for long-lasting use and shiny, 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.
- Overall Dimensions: 55.91" L x 29.53" W x 14.96" H, Capacity: 13 Cubic Feet volume and holds up to 130 lbs
- Opens on the passenger side to 13inches 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.
- Double side opening for easy loading and unloading,Key can only be removed when all locking points are securely closed
- Cargo Box: Length: 48.3 Inch, Width: 26.1 Inch, Height:10.6 Inch, Weigth: 20.2 Lbs, Max Load: 110 Lbs. This premium cargo box is perfect for all your travel needs. Featuring a sleek matt black finish, it is designed to be Waterproof and UV Protected, ensuring your belongings stay safe in all weather conditions. Compatible with all vehicles. "2 Straps + 2 Locks + 4 U bolts + 4 T-bolts are included, the bolts material are STEEL. T bolt dimensions: Length 25 mm; Width 19 mm; Height 5.5 mm."
- Cargo Box for Roof Rack: Our high-quality cargo box for roof racks is pre-assembled for easy installation. Its Dual-Side Opening feature allows convenient access from both sides of the vehicle, making packing and unpacking a breeze.
- Vehicle Hard-Shell Carriers: These vehicle hard-shell carriers are crafted from durable PS UV Protected material, providing superior protection against sun damage and harsh elements. The matt black finish adds a stylish touch to your vehicle.
- Dual Side Opening: This versatile roof rack cargo carrier boasts a Waterproof design to keep your gear dry. The Dual-Side Opening function enhances usability, and the pre-assembled unit saves you time and effort during installation.
- Pre-Assembled and Compatible with SUVs: This premium cargo box, designed with a sleek matt black finish, is the perfect storage solution for your SUV. Our rooftop cargo carrier offers a spacious and secure solution for extra storage. Made from PS UV Protected material, it features a matt black finish, is fully Waterproof, and comes pre-assembled for your convenience.
- 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.
- This car roof box is manufactured from sturdy ABS and PMMA material for long-lasting use and shiny, able to protect your valuables from exposure to the elements and can load 130 lbs capacity, suitable for round, square and most aerodynamic bars.
- 15.5 Cubic Feet Cargo Box with Car Trunk Organize,With the large capacity, the roof cargo box can help you securely carry 15.5 cubic feet worth of essentials, can increase vehicle cargo space without impeding on passenger comfort!
- 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.
- The package comes with 58.3 inches length storage box,security lock key,tool free installation Mounting Brackets. (Note: The key can only be removed after the cover is closed and locked.)
- Opens on the passenger side to 14.5 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.
- CAPACITY - 12.7 cu. ft. / 360L; Maximum Storage Capacity of 110lbs when Evenly Distributed
- OVERALL DIMENSIONS - 55" X 34.5" X 14" (L x W x H); Opens to 14" Wide to Store Bulky Items
- FITMENT - Attaches to Vehicles with Cross Bars Only; It can Open from the Side and Stays Open Til you Close It
- HEAVY DUTY CONSTRUCTION - Constructed of Rugged, Impact-Resistant ABS Material, Black Textured Finish for Long-Lasting Durability
- EASY INSTALLATION Comes with Security Locking System and Keys; No Tool Assembly & Installation
- 22 cu.ft / 562 L Capacity: The rooftop cargo box maximizes roof space, providing extra spacious storage. It supports a max load of 165 lbs and includes two straps to securely fasten items inside, meeting diverse storage needs.
- Compatible with Various Crossbars: Fits crossbar installation center distances of 20.8-40.5 inch / 529-1028 mm. Includes complete installation tools, no drilling required. Features bottom metal bars for enhanced stability.
- Dual Opening & Dual Locking: Equipped with anti-theft locking devices on both sides, allowing access from either side. Six locking points enhance security, while sturdy support arms keep the box open until closed for convenient access.
- Upgraded Thickened ABS Shell: Enhanced thick ABS material offers impact resistance, waterproof, rust-resistant, and heat-resistant properties. Suitable for outdoor use in various weather conditions, it withstands bumps and prolonged use without damage or deformation.
- Reduced Wind Resistance and Noise: Streamlined aerodynamic design reduces drag and wind noise, ensuring a smoother driving experience.
- Secure & protect your gear in this 18 cubic ft. HDPE plastic hard shell vehicle cargo carrier; high-capacity interior dimensions 57 L x 38 1/2 W x 17 3/4 H inches; aerodynamic design for fuel efficiency
- Weatherproof storage for your luggage with a four corner locking system, front latch, and weather-tight seal for ultimate car rooftop protection and security
- Easy & convenient loading and unloading from either side of the car make for smooth travel and hassle-free storage
- No tools required, easy assembly and installation. All mounting hardware and simple instructions are included to get you safely on the road quickly. The base is pre-drilled for 24in crossbar spacing - if your vehicles crossbars are NOT adjustable the plastic base can be re-drilled to match your vehicle (20in to 30in bar spacing)
- Made in USA, limited lifetime guarantee. The JEGS car top carrier’s high-quality construction and performance give you peace of mind
- Comfortably Holds 3 golf bags, up to 5 if stacked depending on size.
- Perfect for securing gear on roof rack or truck bed
- Extremely durable and weather resistant construction
- Heavy duty handles and tie-down plates for secure mounting
- Large 36" x 20" x 11.5" interior storage capacity
- Designed for secure roof mounting with Cargo Roof Mount (sold separately)
Last Update : 2025-04-22
