For those who love adventures in nature, the gear required to have a good time in various environments adds up pretty fast. A rooftop cargo box helps organize everything well and increases the comfort and space inside your vehicle while at the same time protecting the interior.
It’s nice to be able to stash damp, smelly, or sharp items up top, too. The longer the road trip, the more valuable rooftop storage will be.
A variety of box volumes and styles exist whether you steer a van, truck, hatchback, or SUV. Here, we highlight a handful of our team’s top choices for the best rooftop cargo boxes available for any size and budget.
For general questions about cargo box design features, use, and maintenance, check out the buyer’s guide, comparison chart, and FAQ at the end of this article. Otherwise, read on for our top picks.
Editor’s Note: For our May 13, 2024 update, we added the Yakima Skybox NX and the Thule Motion 3 XL rooftop cargo boxes.
Best Overall Rooftop Cargo Box
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Model options
12, Lo (15 cu. ft.), 16, 18, 21 -
Volume
12-21 cu. ft. -
Weight Capacity
165 lbs. -
Weight
41-62 lbs. -
Locks included
Yes
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Easy to use, stout, comfortable handle -
Sturdy -
Solid value, yet not as costly as other premium choices -
Opens on both sides
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Not TOTALLY water/weatherproof
Best of the Rest
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Model options
NX 16, NX 18 -
Volume
16, 18 cu. ft. -
Weight Capacity
165 -
Weight
47, 53 lbs -
Locks included
Yes
-
Dual-sided access -
Flat floor optimizes storage -
Lots of headroom for taller equipment -
Easy installation
-
Handle can stick when opening -
Material can get caught in latches -
Not as aerodynamic as other models
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Model options
Sport, L, XL, XXL -
Volume
11, 16, 18, 22 cu. ft. -
Weight Capacity
165 lbs. -
Weight
32, 41, 47, 52 lbs. -
Locks included
Yes
-
Dual-sided access -
Voluminous shape provides space for a variety and high quantity of gear -
Easy installation
-
Latch system isn’t the smoothest -
Not as streamlined as other boxes -
Flimsy lock and key -
Not the stiffest material
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Model options
BX55S, BX85S, BX90R, BX140R -
Volume
4 cu. ft. -
Weight Capacity
50 lbs. -
Weight
35 lbs. -
Lock included
No (there is an integrated padlock hasp)
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Dustproof and wind-, water-, and weather-resistant -
Burly handles snap down to lie flat -
Easy to mount -
Attractive design
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Linear design is less adaptive to fit certain cargo compared to oblong shapes
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Model options
Ridge 240 (there’s also a long Ridge 460 model) -
Volume
8 cu. ft. -
Weight Capacity
110 lbs. -
Weight
20 lbs. -
Lock included
Yes
-
Key can only be removed when the box is locked -
Strong construction -
Compact and light design -
Economic price
-
Only has a passenger-side opening versus a dual-sided opening -
Can’t fit skis or snowboards, which is a dealbreaker for some recreationists
Rooftop Cargo Box Comparison Chart
Rooftop Cargo Box | Model Options | Volume | Weight Capacity | Weight | Locks Included |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Yakima SkyBox Carbonite | 12, Lo (15 cu. ft.), 16, 18, 21 | 12, 15, 16, 18, 21 cu. ft. | 165 lbs. | 41-62 lbs. | Yes |
Yakima RocketBox Pro | 11, 12, 14 | 11, 12, 14 cu. ft. | 165 lbs. | 30, 38, 40 lbs. | Yes |
Thule Motion 3 XL | L, XL, XL Low, XXL, XXL Low | 16, 18, 14, 21, 18 cu. ft. | 165 lbs. | 44, 51, 53, 57, 56 lbs. | Yes |
Thule Vector | M, Alpine | 13 cu. ft. | 165 lbs. | 59, 66 lbs. | Yes |
Yakima Skybox NX | NX 16, NX 18 | 16, 18 cu. ft. | 165 lbs. | 47, 53 lbs. | Yes |
Thule Force XT | Sport, L, XL, XXL | 11, 16, 18, 22 cu. ft. | 165 lbs. | 32, 41, 47, 52 lbs. | Yes |
Pelican BX140R Cargo Case | BX55S, BX85S, BX90R, BX140R | 4 cu. ft. | 50 lbs. | 35 lbs. | 35 lbs. |
Inno Ridge 240 | Ridge 240 (there’s also a long Ridge 460 model) | 8 cu. ft. | 110 lbs. | 20 lbs. | Yes |
Why You Should Trust Us
Steve Andrews has been adventuring in vehicles for 25 years. His main chariot has been alive almost as long: a 2003 Toyota 4Runner. As a go-anywhere 4×4, it can handle almost anything underneath it, taking Steve on adventures all around North America. With a growing family and a dog, though, more space was essential. So Steve set out to find the best rooftop cargo box to pack all the essentials for a family of four (and dog) to join the journey, while still allowing for space inside.
Steve has worked as a professional guide for both hiking and backcountry skiing/snowboarding, so he has a keen sense of packing for efficiency. Using this knowledge, he worked hard to pack every square inch of the boxes we tested to ensure that we knew how it worked under a full load.
Aside from Steve’s backcountry prowess, he also has studied statistics and math, and nerding out on the interior space and weight ratios was second nature. This combined with a penchant for getting off-road (with precious cargo both inside and on top of the vehicle) makes him an ideal tester for these rooftop boxes.
How We Tested Rooftop Cargo Boxes
Steve’s 4Runner is an ideal vehicle to test out rooftop cargo boxes. Being an older V8 vehicle, gas mileage is a large concern for attaching any extra accessories to a vehicle. So Steve set out a baseline for 50 miles on the highway and measured the gas consumption without any boxes compared to the boxes on top. In addition, since the vehicle has a higher roof, putting stuff in and out of the box is a bit more difficult than say, a Honda Civic.
To further add to that, Steve enlisted help from a tech-savvy, gadget-loving friend who has the latest Tesla model Y, where battery consumption can be measured by the minute. Combining this data allowed us to measure the efficiency of these boxes without having to trust the manufacturer’s word for it.
Additionally, we tested how easy or difficult it was to install these boxes. Can it be done single-handedly, or do you need help from a friend (or several friends)? Is the latching system secure? How easy or difficult is it to open the box with a bunch of gear in the other hand? And when it’s time to close it shut, do you need to fidget the handle to make sure it’s closed or is it one simple maneuver?
Then, we paid close attention to how secure the box was on the roof while driving. The last thing you’d want is any vibration or deafening noise to scare others around you. So, after ensuring we installed it correctly, we checked the box at speed with the windows and sunroof open to see how kind it was to those around us.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Rooftop Cargo Box
Roof Length Compatibility
It’s key to make sure the box can seamlessly pair with your vehicle’s roof and rack, especially if you have a top-hinged trunk. First, position the front crossbar as far forward as possible (some are not adjustable). Then open the hatch and measure from the back hatch to the center of the vehicle’s front crossbar.
That distance needs to exceed the hatch clearance of a cargo box, which is listed on the manufacturer’s website. You’ll also want to be sure the length doesn’t hinder visibility up front or hit any antennas.
Rack Setup
If you’ve never owned a rooftop setup, this is rack 101. The mount is a component that runs lengthwise (front to back) and attaches to the top of your vehicle. Generally, vehicles come with factory mounts like raised rails, tracks, or fixed points.
If you’re working with a bare roof, you can permanently mount a rack or opt for a setup that’s compatible with the door jamb. Two crossbars or load bars sit perpendicular to the roof and are attached to the mount via four compatible towers. Crossbars vary in size and shape.
Each cargo box is compatible with specific crossbars, so make sure those crossbars work with your vehicle and mount or if an adapter is required.
Carrying Purpose and Capacity
Before you start shopping for a rooftop cargo box, take a look at your gear. What do you need and intend to carry on trips? Shorter or packable items like camp chairs or sleeping bags generally fit well in rooftop cargo boxes.
Lengthier items like skis, paddles, golf clubs, and strollers will require a longer box like the Yakima Skybox Carbonite — make sure the box’s internal dimensions fit the length of your equipment.
Read the width and height of each box to help conceptualize the overall volume. Boxes also list the gear capacity in cubic feet (or inches or liters). The more people in your group, the more space you’ll need for each individual’s gear.
Weight
There are two weight factors to take into account: the cargo box weight and the weight capacity of the box. The cargo boxes listed here range from 20 to 66 pounds without any cargo. The majority of these carriers safely hold a weight capacity of up to 165 pounds, but others are lower, around 110 or even 50 pounds.
Don’t sacrifice the cost for a less structural cargo box if you need to transport heavier items. Your heftiest cargo, like a loaded cooler, is easier and safer to store inside the vehicle.
Check with each box manufacturer for a specific box’s weight limits. Likewise, check the owner’s manual of your vehicle for the recommended maximum load. You’ll need to subtract the weight of the box, aftermarket towers, and crossbars, as well as the max weight of the cargo stored inside the box.
Materials
Cargo boxes are built with durable plastic, and a handful have additional reinforcements, such as the steel along the base of the Thule Vector. Others are coated with an additional finish for extra durability and weather resistance. For example, the Pelican BX140R Cargo Case has a corrosion-resistant coat.
The hardware, like the latches and lock systems, vary in quality, which is reflected in the price. Overall, the size and materials influence the box’s weight, too.
Water Resistance
Most rooftop cargo box designs are extremely weather-resistant, thanks to a waterproof shell and weather sealing, so they’ll generally do a great job of blocking snow and rain. Some even feature a liner for water resistance, like the integrated rubber gasket of the Pelican BX140R Cargo Case.
However, none of these cargo boxes claim to be completely waterproof. We recommend you store any water-sensitive, precious cargo in a dry bag or inside the rig.
Extra Features
A handful of the top-shelf designs have extra features for comfort, utility, and ease of use. For instance, we appreciate the interior LED lights of the Thule Vector, as well as its long handle strap.
Installation and Ease of Use
Installing a rooftop cargo box can vary from model to model, but there are a few general steps and tips to ensure a smooth setup. First, always start by reading the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully. Most cargo boxes are designed for easy installation, often requiring no tools, thanks to hand-tightening knobs and pre-installed mounting hardware.
For ease of use, look for boxes with dual-side opening features. This allows you to access your gear from either side of the vehicle, which is particularly handy in crowded parking lots or when parked on busy streets. Additionally, check if the box has a quick-release system which makes it easy to attach and remove without much effort.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your rooftop cargo box is crucial to ensure its longevity and performance. Regularly check and tighten the mounting hardware, as vibrations from the road can loosen connections over time. Clean the box with mild soap and water, avoiding abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish or weaken plastic components. If you notice any cracks or damage, address them immediately to prevent further issues.
Security Features
Security is a paramount concern when storing valuable gear atop your vehicle. Opt for cargo boxes with robust locking mechanisms. Many high-quality models come with locks that secure the contents and latch the box to the base rack, making it difficult to remove without a key.
Keyed locks are a convenient feature, allowing you to use the same key for the cargo box and your rack system, reducing the number of keys you need to carry. Some premium models include advanced security features like reinforced locking points and tamper-resistant locks, providing peace of mind when your vehicle is out of sight.
Choosing the right rooftop cargo box involves considering how it complements your vehicle, the type of gear you plan to carry, and the features that enhance usability and security. By focusing on compatibility, capacity, weight, materials, water resistance, and additional features like easy installation and robust security, you can select a model that meets your needs and ensures safe and efficient travel with all your essential equipment.
FAQ
Rooftop cargo boxes are not all created equal. The designs vary by weight, dimensions, gear capacity, and rigidity. You’ll need to consider what type of gear you need to haul as well as your vehicle length and roof capacity.
The best rooftop cargo box will fit well with adequate hatch clearance. Also, note certain cargo boxes are compatible with specific crossbar or load bar models, shapes, and size ranges. Be sure to get the correct setup for your vehicle.
A larger rooftop cargo box might not be the best choice for your vehicle and purpose. If a box length exceeds the rooftop clearance, it can hinder the hatchback when it swings up, or it can potentially hang over the roof in the front, impeding windshield visibility.
Bigger designs are more challenging to move and store, have a greater impact on fuel efficiency, are costlier, and are noisier while on the road. Be sure not to exceed the maximum length and weight your vehicle’s roof can carry.
Place the heaviest and the majority of the cargo in the center of the box and the lightest items toward the nose and tail. Use tiedown straps, which are included in some designs, to secure loose goods if the box isn’t full.
Though many cargo boxes are weatherproof, most manufacturers suggest putting electronics and valuables in a dry bag for extra protection.
Without additional weight, empty cargo boxes can get slightly jostled around by the wind, which could cause audible drag. If you don’t mind the potential noise, then it’s technically fine to drive with an empty rooftop cargo box. That said, the lifespan of the box will be extended if you store it safely away from the elements between long periods of nonuse.
Also, removing the cargo box could lead to greater fuel economy in the long haul. But for weekend warriors who commute 20 minutes to work several days a week, the repeated mount time might not be worthwhile, especially in a mild climate.
When your rooftop cargo box isn’t mounted on your vehicle, it’s good to store it in a cool, dry indoor space like a garage, attic, or basement. It’s ideal to keep it out of direct sunlight and extremely hot or cold temperatures.
You can set the box flat on the ground — or atop a couple of 2x4s — or rig it to hang on a wall via the base side.