Ever crammed suitcases, camping gear, and souvenirs into your car, wishing for a little extra space? We’ve all been there! That feeling of Tetris-ing everything in, praying the trunk closes, and hoping you don’t have to leave anything behind. For families, road trippers, and anyone who loves to travel, that struggle is real.
Choosing a car roof cargo box can feel like a puzzle itself. There are so many sizes, shapes, and brands! How do you know which one is tough enough for your adventures and fits your car? The wrong choice can mean wasted money, a poorly packed vehicle, and a lot of frustration. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you avoid those problems!
In this post, we’ll make the process easy. We’ll break down everything you need to know, from the different types of boxes to picking the right size for your needs. You’ll learn how to measure your car, compare features, and find the perfect roof box to expand your cargo space. Get ready to travel with ease and bring everything you need! Let’s dive in and discover how to choose the perfect car roof cargo box!
Our Top 5 Car Roof Cargo Box Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Car Roof Cargo Box Detailed Reviews
1. Thule 614 Pulse Cargo Box
Rating: 8.6/10
Need more space for your gear? The Thule 614 Pulse Cargo Box, Medium, Black gives you extra room! This rooftop cargo box is perfect for trips. It adds 14 cubic feet of storage space to your car. It’s a smart way to carry luggage, skis, or other equipment on your adventures.
What We Like:
- Provides 14 cubic feet of extra storage.
- The design is tough and strong. It keeps your things safe.
- The FastGrip system makes it easy to install in minutes.
- It opens from the passenger side for easy loading.
- The Central Locking system keeps everything secure.
- The Thule Comfort Key only comes out when locked.
- It can hold 3-5 snowboards. (Up to 155 cm long)
- Mounting is fast and secure.
What Could Be Improved:
- It may be difficult to store when not in use due to size.
- Load capacity is 110 lbs.
The Thule 614 Pulse Cargo Box, Medium, Black is a solid choice for anyone needing more cargo space. It is a reliable and convenient way to carry your gear.
2. JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier for Car Storage – Large Roof Rack Cargo Carrier – Heavy Duty Weatherproof Storage – Made in USA – 18 Cubic Ft – 110 Lb Capacity – Aero Hard Shell Cargo Carrier
Rating: 8.8/10
Need more space for your next trip? The JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier is here to help! This hard shell carrier sits on your car’s roof. It gives you an extra 18 cubic feet of storage. It is made in the USA and built to last. It can hold up to 110 pounds of your gear. This carrier keeps your stuff safe and dry. It’s perfect for luggage, sports equipment, and more.
What We Like:
- This carrier is made of strong HDPE plastic.
- It has a large 18 cubic foot capacity.
- The design is made to be aerodynamic. This helps save on gas.
- It has a weatherproof seal to protect your things.
- You can load and unload it from either side.
- It is easy to install with no tools needed.
- The carrier is made in the USA.
- It comes with a lifetime guarantee.
- It can hold up to three golf bags.
What Could Be Improved:
- If your car’s crossbars are not adjustable, you might need to drill holes.
The JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a great way to add storage to your car. It is a reliable and easy-to-use solution for your travel needs.
3. SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
Rating: 8.6/10
The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box, Black, is a great way to add extra storage to your car. It fits on top of your vehicle and holds a lot of stuff. This cargo box is designed to keep your gear safe and dry. It’s perfect for road trips, camping, or carrying extra luggage. The rear opening design makes it easy to access your belongings, even when parked near traffic.
What We Like:
- It has a large 18 cubic foot capacity. You can pack a lot of items inside.
- It’s made from strong UV-resistant ABS material. This helps protect your gear from the sun.
- The rear opening is easy to use. You can open it from the back of your car.
- You don’t need tools to install it. This makes setup simple.
- It has a key and lock. This keeps your stuff safe.
- It fits on many different roof rack systems.
What Could Be Improved:
- It has a weight limit of 100 pounds. You can’t put too much heavy stuff in it.
- Check the fit guide to make sure it fits your car.
The SportRack Vista XL is a handy cargo box for extra storage. It’s a good choice for anyone needing more space in their car.
4. SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box
Rating: 9.3/10
The SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box is a great choice for extra storage on your car. It is a compact roof box made for smaller items. You can use it for camping gear or golf clubs. Its smart design leaves space on your roof for other things. The box attaches safely to your roof rack with strong U-bolts. It opens on the passenger side for easier loading and unloading.
What We Like:
- It is compact. It fits small loads well.
- The design saves space. You can still carry other things.
- The U-bolts are strong. The box stays secure.
- It opens on the passenger side. This makes loading simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s only ideal for small loads, so larger families may need more space.
The SportRack Sidekick Cargo Box is a good option for people who need extra space. It is simple to use and offers a safe way to carry your gear.
5. Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet
Rating: 9.4/10
Need more space for your next road trip? The Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier is here to help! This 21 cubic foot, 100% waterproof car roof bag is tough. It’s made for all vehicles, with or without racks. It comes with everything you need, including an anti-slip mat, door hooks, and extra straps. This carrier is built to keep your gear safe and dry, no matter the weather. Get ready to pack up and go!
What We Like:
- The 840D fabric is super strong and resists wear and tear.
- It’s completely waterproof, with special features to keep rain out.
- Easy to set up with straps, door hooks, and a non-slip mat.
- Holds a lot of stuff – 21 cubic feet!
- Comes with everything you need, including a storage bag and extra straps.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included luggage lock could be improved.
This car roof cargo carrier is a great way to add extra storage to your car. It is a reliable and easy-to-use solution for any trip.
Roof Cargo Box Buying Guide: Your Travel Buddy
Are you ready to pack more for your next trip? A car roof cargo box is a great way to get extra space! This guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
You need to know what makes a good roof cargo box. Here are some things to think about:
-
Size and Capacity:
The box needs to be big enough for your stuff. Measure your cargo. Know how much space you need. The box’s capacity is usually measured in cubic feet.
-
Opening Style:
Some boxes open from the side. Others open from the back. Side opening is often easier. It lets you access your things from the curb.
-
Mounting System:
Make sure the box fits your car’s roof rack. Check what kind of crossbars you have. The mounting system should be easy to use. It also needs to be secure.
-
Aerodynamics:
A box with a good shape can help with gas mileage. It reduces wind noise too. Look for a box with a sleek, low profile.
-
Locking Mechanism:
A good lock keeps your things safe. Make sure the box locks securely. This will deter thieves.
Important Materials
What the box is made of matters. It affects the box’s strength and how long it lasts.
-
Plastic:
Most boxes are made of plastic. ABS plastic is a common choice. It’s strong and durable. It can handle tough weather.
-
UV Protection:
Look for a box with UV protection. This helps prevent the plastic from fading or cracking in the sun.
-
Hardware:
The hinges and latches should be made of strong metal. This makes sure the box opens and closes easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can affect the quality of a roof cargo box.
-
Construction:
A well-made box will have strong seams. The plastic should be thick enough. This will help the box last longer.
-
Weather Resistance:
The box should keep water and snow out. Look for a good seal around the lid.
-
Ease of Use:
The box should be easy to install and remove. The lid should open and close smoothly.
-
Brand Reputation:
Do some research. Read reviews. See what other people say about the brand.
User Experience and Use Cases
A roof cargo box helps in many situations.
-
Road Trips:
Roof boxes are perfect for road trips. They hold luggage, camping gear, and more.
-
Family Vacations:
They give families extra space. You can pack everything you need for a fun vacation.
-
Outdoor Adventures:
Use a roof box for skis, snowboards, or other sporting equipment.
-
Everyday Use:
Even for short trips, a roof box can be useful. You can store groceries or other items.
Car Roof Cargo Box FAQs
Here are some common questions about roof cargo boxes:
Q: How do I know if a roof cargo box will fit my car?
A: Check the box’s compatibility list. Measure your car’s roof rack. Make sure the box is the right size for your roof.
Q: How do I install a roof cargo box?
A: Follow the instructions that come with the box. Most boxes attach to your crossbars with clamps or bolts. You should tighten the clamps securely.
Q: How much weight can a roof cargo box hold?
A: The weight capacity varies. Check the box’s specifications. Don’t overload the box.
Q: Will a roof cargo box affect my gas mileage?
A: Yes, it can. A more aerodynamic box will have less of an effect. Drive at a reasonable speed.
Q: How do I clean a roof cargo box?
A: Use mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals. Rinse the box thoroughly.
Q: Can I leave a roof cargo box on my car all the time?
A: You can, but it might affect your gas mileage. Consider removing it when you don’t need it.
Q: How do I store a roof cargo box when I’m not using it?
A: Store it in a garage or shed. Keep it out of direct sunlight. This will help protect it.
Q: Can I use a roof cargo box with a sunroof?
A: It depends on the box and your car. Check the box’s specifications to make sure it won’t interfere.
Q: What is the difference between a hard-shell and a soft-shell roof cargo box?
A: Hard-shell boxes are more durable and secure. Soft-shell boxes are more flexible and easier to store when not in use.
Q: How do I choose the right size roof cargo box?
A: Consider what you plan to carry. Measure your cargo. Choose a box that is big enough for your needs.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!