Summer is here and for a lot of people that means vacation! If you’re traveling by car, you are probably thinking about luggage. Especially if you’re traveling with kids, right?! There is so much to take with: clothes, towels, favorite toys, bathroom supplies, the just-in-case medicine etc. How are you going to fit everything you need in? But, say, you’re not traveling. You’re a hockey player, skier, or just a sports fan, and you really need something to help you get your equipment around. Safely and securely, of course! How can you do that? Maybe you’re moving – either yourself or your child to college. There is always way more luggage than you originally anticipated. You could definitely use some added space in your car. Quite frankly, sometimes the trunk just isn’t enough. Even with added back seat space. So a good idea to solve all these problems might be installing a rooftop cargo carrier. They can greatly increase your cars’ storage – and save you some trouble. Of course, there’s plenty to choose from. What to consider when looking for one? Think about size (both of the cargo carrier and your car), weight, materials used to make the rooftop cargo carrier and your budget. There are also different types of carriers – bags (soft-shelled), boxes (hard-shelled), baskets and even some hitch-mounted carriers (more on that in our buyer’s guide section). Here, we’ve compiled a list of 10 best rooftop cargo carriers – soft- and hard-shelled. So once you’re ready, take a closer look at our top picks.
Good carrier at an affordable price that fits all cars – those with side rails, cross bars or no racks at all. It’s waterproof and includes heavy duty straps that secure the carrier at all highway speeds. It’s pretty durable in all kinds of weather (even extreme) and is tear- resistant. It comes in two sizes – 11 cu. ft and 15 cu. ft as well as two types: standard and premium. It is easy to install and doesn’t interfere with your car doors or windows. If you’re not sure how to put it on, don’t worry, it comes with an installation booklet. It is made in USA. RoofBag also gives you a one-year warranty.
Durable yet not too expensive. The newly upgraded version is 100% waterproof and features coated zippers. This carrier fits cars with or without racks and is made with heavy duty material to withstand all weather conditions. There are 8 quality straps with an extra feature that locks them in the door. The rooftop carrier is 15 cu. ft and comes with a storage bag. There is a nice addition to the Car Top Carrier – a protective mat for your cars’ roof. You also get a 2 year money-back guarantee.
hule is a well-known and trusted brand for all sorts of cargo carriers. This one is a sturdy carrier with an aerodynamic shape. The installation to Thule and most factory racks is quick and easy. It opens from both sides for easier access. Thule Force Cargo Box comes in different sizes and offers large interior capacity for all your luggage needs. The dominant feature is a diamond-textured AeroSkin shell. The carrier is weather resistant and quiet, even if left on for months. It has built-in Thule SecureLock technology that ensures proper closure. Simple to use even in more extreme conditions; provides hands free access to gear.
Another hard-shell carrier that’s 18 cu.ft. The carrying capacity is 110 lbs. There are no tools required to assemble it; the carrier comes with mounting hardware and two keys. It’s important to note though that it fits only on cross rail systems that are rated at least 150 lbs. Majority of customers say it’s lightweight, sturdy and well made. It also provides easy access. Jegs Performance Rooftop Cargo Carrier comes with a lifetime guarantee. It’s made in the US.
A good cargo bag for all vehicle roof tops. It’s 16 cu. ft. Premium materials (like military grade Cordura fabric) and unique design (zipper with a double flap) keep your luggage safe and dry. Although it is a soft shell, it’s pretty heavy duty. P.I. Auto Store Roofmaster carrier is easy to install – and in case of any questions, there are handy instructions. It does, however, need to be installed on side rails, cross bars or a basket. Straps do not go through the inside of the vehicle. This rooftop carrier has been tested for its safety and durability – and you can check out the videos online. It is light and easy to store. Also, it comes with a 12 month warranty.
A reliable cargo carrier. It’s really big because it measures 20 cu. ft. so you can put in those extra sleeping bags or large items. Dual seam technology, dual zipper, 600-Denier Polyester Material make it durable and weather resistant. It’s easy to install and stow away. STDY cargo carrier has 6 built-in straps to tie it to the roof rack. First most vehicles. To ease the loading and unloading process, it has rubber covered handles. In the package you get the carrier, 8 strong and wide straps as well as a storage bag. There is a 6 month warranty should anything go wrong.
It’s another big rooftop cargo bag measuring 20 cubic feet. It’s waterproof and weather resistant; and made from specially formulated, non-toxic materials. It may look a bit unattractive, but it is soft, breathable and lightweight. It fits all types of vehicles, including cars, vans and SUV’s with or without racks (although using racks is recommender for safety reasons). Intey Cargo Bag comes with a waterproof bag cover to better protect your luggage in all weather conditions. It takes only minutes to install and has a 2 year warranty.
One more affordable storage bag that fits almost all vehicles with a car bar or a car rack. This one is 15 cubic feet. But do make sure you don’t fill it too full! Easily foldable and expandable. It’s made with rainproof material. Also, the zippers on this rooftop bag are heavy duty and waterproof. It comes with eight straps to secure proper installation. Not sure how to do it? You can always check the attached instructional booklet. BougeRV carrier comes with a 1 year warranty.
Buyer’s Guide!
One more hard shell option that’s black and has volume of 18 cubic feet. It’s durable and weather resistant. It opens in the rear so it’s easily accessible. You can even use your rear bumper to get to it when it’s on the roof! It comes with a U-Bolt hardware mounting kit and includes a lock to keep your things safe. The weight capacity is 100 lbs. This cargo box fits most roof racks, but if you’re not sure you can always check their guide online. Sport Rack Vista has a quick release mounting system. It’s spacious and aerodynamic so it should be pretty quiet during traveling. It comes with a lifetime warranty. It’s good to note that SportRack is a member of the Thule companies (widely known hard-shell rooftop carrier producers).
Waterproof, heavy duty rooftop cargo carrier with a capacity of 14 cubic feet. Lightweight but sturdy. It works on all vehicles with racks. It’s aerodynamic and built to withstand heavy use in various weather conditions. The bottom has metal lid stiffeners, so the box is more secure and stable. Goplus has a double-lock design to protect your luggage. It can load 165 lbs and is easy to install (quic-release mounting, 4 anchors). Opens on both sides for easy access and convenience. It comes with 2 numbered keys that can be duplicated in case you lose them as well as instructions.
As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for something smaller or larger, more durable or with an easy access – there are many storage solutions available. Take a minute or two, think about your needs and compare your favorites to reach a decision. Whatever your budget or need, there is a rooftop cargo carrier just for you. So, go ahead and pack that extra bag or additional gear. You never know what you might need while vacationing or playing sports. And you most definitely don’t want to forget anything while moving!