Carry it All: 20 Top Roof Top Cargo Carriers for Your Next Adventure

Prepare to embark on your upcoming journey seamlessly with the aid of our expertly curated list of the finest rooftop cargo carriers available on the market. These innovative products are ideal for a plethora of outdoor adventures, offering a carefree driving experience while simultaneously providing ample storage space for your gear.

Regardless of whether you’re planning a weekend camping excursion, a cross-country road trip, or require additional storage space for your daily commute, our roundup showcases the ultimate selection of rooftop cargo carriers that are certain to meet your needs. Each option presented boasts exceptional quality and a range of features tailored to address your specific requirements. Get ready to explore the best options at your fingertips.

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Reviews

Tactik 10 Cubic ft Roof Top Cargo Carrier - Made in USA

Effortlessly load and unload your gear with the Tactik Roof Top 10 Cubic Ft Cargo Carrier, featuring a patent-pending dual side-opening design that keeps you out of traffic. Its aerodynamic hard shell reduces wind resistance for better fuel efficiency. Made in the USA, it’s waterproof, UV resistant, and installs easily on your vehicle’s cross bars with pre-drilled mounting holes.

INNO Wedge 11 Gloss White Roof Cargo Carrier

Travel with ease and style with the sleek INNO Wedge 660 roof box. This 6-8 pair skis or 4 snowboards carrier is perfect for camping trips or weekend getaways. Its aerodynamic design ensures a quiet drive, while the innovative memory mount hardware makes installation and removal a breeze. With its durable 3-layer sheet and dual side opening, this gear carrier is not only functional but also looks great on your ride. Experience the perfect balance of style and versatility with the INNO Wedge 660.

INNO Roof Cargo Box for Extra Storage Space

When you need more cargo space but don’t want to sacrifice your car’s sleek design, consider the INNO Roof Cargo Box. Its compact square shape provides plenty of room while maintaining a streamlined look. Made from rugged materials, it features a matte black finish that not only looks great, but also ensures durability. This box also offers a wide range of sliding options, minimizing the risk of contact with your car’s hatch. Plus, with the Memory Mount System, installation and use are easier than ever before. And let’s not forget the dual side opening for easy loading and unloading. Perfect for compact SUVs and wagons, this roof cargo carrier is a must-have for any adventurer.

Thule Pulse M Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Experience hassle-free rooftop travel with the Thule Pulse M Cargo Box. It offers a generous 14 cubic feet of storage space and is durable enough to protect your belongings. With a quick-mount design that assembles in minutes, this cargo box is easy to install, making it a convenient option for your next adventure. Its passenger-side opening allows for simple, seamless loading and unloading, while the central locking system ensures your gear remains secure during transit. Designed to fit a variety of roof types, this cargo box is an excellent addition to any vehicle.

Rust-Proof Car Roof Rack Basket for Camping and Traveling

Upgrade your road trips with the TOOENJOY Car Roof Rack, a durable and solid rooftop cargo carrier perfect for storing all your essentials. Crafted with heavy-duty steel tubing and frame, this rugged basket won’t bend or wobble, ensuring a secure and stable ride. Its rust-proof finish, both inside and out, adds to its durability while providing a glossy feel. With a cargo net that keeps small items from falling out and a front spoiler design to reduce wind resistance, your belongings will stay safe and secure. The TOOENJOY Car Roof Rack is compatible with most vehicles and is easy to install, making it a practical choice for your next adventure.

Universal Heavy-Duty Roof Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag

Wielding remarkable versatility, the roof rack manufactured by Arksen boasts ample capacity for transporting bicycles, kayaks, and a myriad of other essential equipment. By leaving your vehicle’s interior unblemished, this rack proves to be a practical and efficient solution to your cargo needs. Its design, crafted from robust steel, ensures that durability is at the forefront, further enhanced by the black powder coating that safeguards against corrosion. As a result, the rack endures with longevity. The universal mounting hardware expedites installation, effortlessly transforming your SUV, truck, or van into capable transporters for your favorite gear. With a payload capacity of 150lbs, you can now confidently carry your cargo without worry. This exceptional rack proudly complements your vehicles’ capabilities, redefining the essence of practicality.

DuraLiner 10 Cu. Ft. Rooftop Cargo Carrier Box - RT10D (Easy-Install, Lightweight, Watertight)

Experience seamless convenience with the DuraLiner Rooftop Cargo Carrier Box - RT10D. Its high-density polyethylene (HDPE) construction ensures durability against harsh elements, while the 4 corner latching system keeps your belongings secure and dry. Easily installed on most vehicle roofs, this cargo box features a no-tool assembly and simple U-bolt securing, making it a hassle-free addition to your outdoor adventures.

Innoraide Black Roof Cargo Carrier BRA240BK

Elevate your compact ride’s storage game with the INNO Ridge Roof Cargo Box. This sleek, aerodynamic box provides 8 cubic feet of space to stow your gear, all while being lightweight and easy to mount on most factory crossbars. Built with INNO’s signature 3-layer ABS for extreme durability, this box offers a perfect blend of style and functionality.

Large 18 Cubic Foot Car Top Cargo Carrier

Add room to your travels with the Car Top Cargo carrier, designed to alleviate the hassle of lugging bulky items. Made with durable high-density polyethylene, its aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance and aids in fuel economy, making your trip smoother. Despite a few shortcomings, most customers appreciate the extra 18 cu ft of storage space and its ease of assembly.

Rooftop Luggage Carrier with Wind Fairing

The Discount Ramps (RBC-4938HD) offers a practical solution for expanding your vehicle’s cargo space. Designed with a strong wire mesh basket floor and frame, this roof basket effectively accommodates extra gear and equipment while allowing for easy water flow during inclement weather. The slick black wind fairing reduces noise and wind resistance, ensuring a smooth ride. Installation is a breeze thanks to a simple universal mounting system that fits square and round crossbars. With a heavy-duty 2.5cm D steel frame and a black paint finish, the RBC-4938HD provides reliable durability and style.

Universal Car Top Luggage Holder with Extension Roof Rack

The XCAR roof rack carrier is a sturdy solution for SUV owners seeking extra storage. Crafted with heavy-duty steel and boasting a black powder coating, it promises a long-lasting performance. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it can accommodate up to 150 lbs of gear. Universal in design, it’s compatible with several car types and bar configurations. Just ensure the crossbar’s distance is over 29.7 inches for optimal use.

Aerodynamic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag - Affordable and Convenient

The EasyGo Aerodynamic Rooftop Cargo Carrier is unlike traditional canvas bags; it’s designed for smooth travel. Its low-profile aerodynamic shape, with tapered front and rear, reduces drag, offering better fuel efficiency. Compared to hard-sided carriers, the easy-to-store folding design doesn’t take up much space and requires no tools for installation. Boasting a 3.0-inch thickness, it carries a substantial 8 cubic feet of cargo - suitable for 80% of travelers. Despite an initial hiccup with customer service, the carrier itself is a clever and adaptable choice for any road trip enthusiast.

CargoSmart 10 Cu ft Soft Sided Car Top Carrier for All Vehicles

The CargoSmart 10 Cu ft Soft Sided Car Top Carrier Bag offers a spacious storage solution for your outdoor adventures. Perfect for cars, SUVs, vans, and RVs with roof racks, it’s designed to free up your car’s interior space. Its compatibility with CargoSmart’s universal roof rack and CargoSmart roof top basket ensures a hassle-free fit. Constructed from heavy-duty vinyl, you can rely on it to withstand wear-and-tear. The heavy-duty zipper and protective flap provide extra protection from dirt and moisture, keeping your belongings dry. Easily attach the carrier to your roof using the included straps, and fold it flat for storage when not in use.

Waterproof RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier for All Car Sizes

The RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the ultimate solution for secure, waterproof, and spacious storage on any car. Designed to fit any car size with or without a roof rack, it boasts military-grade fabric that withstands harsh conditions while maintaining fuel efficiency and quiet operation. With dimensions large enough to hold the contents of five suitcases, this car top carrier is the perfect choice for any adventure.

INNO Gloss Black Roof Cargo Carrier

The INNO Wedge 660 Gloss Black roof cargo carrier offers a sleek, low-profile design that fits various vehicle racks. This durable 19,000-cubic-inch cargo box boasts easy one-handed opening and features a safety lock system, ensuring your gear stays secure during travel. With a capacity to carry up to 6-8 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards, the INNO Wedge makes the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures.

SportRack Skyline XL Cargo Box: Car Top Carrier for Storage

Experience the freedom to carry more on your next adventure with the SportRack Skyline XL Cargo Box. Boasting a spacious 18 cubic feet, this rooftop carrier offers ample space for your gear, while its durable high-density design ensures added stability on the road. With its passenger-side opening, you can easily access your cargo without worrying about traffic. And if you need to take it off your vehicle, the Skyline XL is easy to attach and remove. Plus, it comes with locks to secure your contents and a fit guide to ensure a proper installation for your specific vehicle make and model.

SportRack SR7011 Car Top Carrier: Horizon M Cargo Box

The SportRack SR7011 Horizon cargo box is a rugged and secure solution for those needing extra room on their roof. With its centralized lock, easy-opening design, and compatibility with various roof rack systems, this cargo box is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts in need of ample storage. Despite the complexity of its assembly and potential installation challenges, the Horizon cargo box has proven to be a durable and weather-resistant choice for those seeking a high-quality alternative to pricier brands.

Weather Resistant Car Top Carrier with Adjustable Straps

The Cargoloc Deluxe Roof-Top Cargo Carrier is a practical and weather-resistant solution for carrying extra gear on your car. With its PVC-lined interior, sleek design, and easy-to-use straps, this carrier provides ample storage space to accommodate various items. Whether you’re heading on a cross-country road trip or just need extra room for camping gear, the Deluxe Roof-Top Cargo Carrier has got you covered.

Cabela’s 18 Cu. ft. Roof Cargo Carrier

Cabela’s TrailGear Roof Cargo Carrier offers ample storage space for your camping and road trips. With a 18 cubic feet capacity, it’s perfect for packing in those extra items. Plus, its 4-season durability and high-density polyethylene material ensure you’re covered throughout every season. Its low aerodynamic design means minimal wind noise and fuel economy interruption, leaving you more time and less money to enjoy the journey. Not to mention, the no-tool assembly and installation make it a breeze!

SportRack Vista XL Rear-Opening Cargo Box for UV-Resistant Roof Storage

Experience the ultimate convenience and durability with the SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box, boasting a spacious 18 cubic feet of storage for all your road trip essentials. This high-end cargo box, designed for those heading to the great outdoors, features a rear-opening system for easy loading and unloading away from the hustle and bustle of the road. With a tough ABS construction and a UV-resistant design, your belongings will remain safe and secure. The tool-free mounting hardware ensures a simple and safe installation and removal process, while the included lock keeps your contents secure. Embrace the ease and functionality of the SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box on your next adventure.

Buyer’s Guide

When you’re short on storage space in your vehicle, a roof top cargo carrier can be an excellent solution. These carriers are designed to securely transport your gear, giving you more room in the cabin of your car. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for you. Here is a buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision.

Capacity and Size

The first factor to consider when choosing a roof top cargo carrier is its capacity and size. Roof top carriers come in various sizes and capacities, so you want to choose one that can hold your gear without compromising the stability and safety of your vehicle. Measure your car’s roof to ensure that the cargo carrier you select is the right size. You also want to consider the load-carrying capacity of the carrier, as this will determine how much weight you can securely transport.

Material and Durability

The material and durability of a roof top cargo carrier are also important factors to consider. Look for carriers made from heavy-duty materials, such as aluminum or steel, which will provide better protection for your gear and withstand harsh weather conditions. Pay attention to the carrier’s construction, including its locking mechanism and straps, to ensure that it is secure and reliable.

Installation and Removal

A roof top cargo carrier should be easy to install and remove from your vehicle. Look for carriers with user-friendly installation processes, such as quick-release mounting systems, which will allow you to take the carrier on and off your car with ease. Additionally, consider the weight and size of the carrier when removing it from your car, as this will impact the ease of installation and removal.

Weatherproofing and UV Protection

If you plan to use your roof top cargo carrier regularly, it’s essential to choose one with weatherproofing and UV protection features. This will help protect your gear from the elements, ensuring that it stays in good condition, even after extended periods of use. Look for carriers with waterproof materials, such as sealed seams and weatherproof zippers, and UV-resistant coatings to protect your gear from the sun’s rays.

FAQ

What is a roof top cargo carrier?

A roof top cargo carrier is a device that provides extra storage space on top of your vehicle. It is designed to fit securely onto the roof of your car, van or SUV, and typically consists of a framework that can hold a variety of equipment or luggage. These carriers are often used by outdoor enthusiasts for camping, hiking, or cycling trips, or by people who need to transport large items that won’t fit inside their vehicle.

Roof top cargo carriers come in different sizes and styles, with varying capacities and features. They may be soft-shell or hard-shell, depending on the level of protection and durability required. Soft-shell carriers are generally more lightweight and easier to install, while hard-shell carriers offer better security and protection against the elements.

How does a roof top cargo carrier attach to my vehicle?

There are several methods by which a roof top cargo carrier can be attached to a vehicle. Most commonly, they use a system of straps and clips that wrap around the vehicle’s roof rails. These straps typically lock into the roof rails, providing a secure connection. Some carriers also use integrated locking mechanisms to prevent theft.

It’s important to ensure that the carrier is properly installed and securely fastened to the roof of your vehicle. This will not only prevent the carrier from causing damage to your car, but also ensure that it stays firmly in place during transportation. Each carrier model may have specific installation instructions, so it’s always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer’s manual or guidelines.

What is the weight capacity of a typical roof top cargo carrier?

The weight capacity of a roof top cargo carrier can vary widely depending on the model and size. Typically, however, carriers can accommodate between 100 to 500 pounds of cargo. This is a rough estimate and actual capacity may vary depending on the specific carrier model and manufacturer recommendations. It’s important to follow the weight capacity guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure the safety and longevity of your roof top cargo carrier.

Overloading your cargo carrier can not only damage your vehicle and compromise safety, but it can also void your warranty or cause your carrier to become unrepairable. So, when calculating the weight of items to be transported, remember to include the weight of the carrier itself, any additional equipment, and the weight of your passengers, if applicable.

What types of vehicles can use a roof top cargo carrier?

Roof top cargo carriers are designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, vans, and even some trucks. However, it’s important to choose a carrier that is compatible with the specific make and model of your vehicle. This is because different vehicles have different roof heights and rail configurations.

Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to check the compatibility of your vehicle with a particular roof top cargo carrier. Additionally, some carriers may have height or width restrictions, so it’s also a good idea to measure your vehicle before making a purchase to ensure a proper fit and a safe connection.

How do I prevent my cargo from moving around in the carrier during transportation?

To prevent your cargo from moving around while transporting, it’s recommended to use tie-down straps, ropes, or nets to secure your items within the carrier. These can hold your items in place and help to prevent them from being damaged during travel. Some carriers come with adjustable or removable partitions that can help to further organize and secure your cargo.

Additionally, always properly secure your carrier to your vehicle to prevent any movement or shifting of your cargo. It’s also important to distribute the weight of your items evenly across the carrier to help reduce potential damage and provide a stable transport. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation and safety guidelines when loading your roof top cargo carrier.

Will a roof top cargo carrier affect my car’s fuel efficiency?

Yes, a roof top cargo carrier will generally have an impact on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. The added weight and the increased aerodynamic drag caused by the carrier can lead to a small decrease in fuel economy. The extent of this impact will depend on the size and weight of the carrier, as well as the type of car you have and the speed at which you are driving.

However, it’s essential to remember that the occasional use of a roof top cargo carrier is unlikely to significantly impact your overall fuel consumption. If you use the carrier regularly, you may want to consider other measures to help improve your vehicle’s fuel economy, such as maintaining healthy tire pressure or removing unnecessary weight (e. g. , unused equipment or luggage).

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