Imagine this: your car is packed to the brim, but there’s still that one last bag of camping gear, those skis, or maybe even your kid’s bike that just won’t fit. Sound familiar? For many families and adventure-seekers, finding enough space for all their essentials is a constant challenge. This is where a roof box swoops in to save the day, offering a brilliant solution to expand your car’s carrying capacity.
But let’s be honest, choosing a roof box can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many sizes, shapes, and features! You might be wondering: Which one is best for my car? Will it be easy to install? How much gear can it actually hold? These are all great questions, and figuring them out can be a little overwhelming.
That’s exactly why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for, understand the different types of roof boxes available, and feel confident picking the perfect one for your next adventure. Get ready to say goodbye to Tetris-style packing and hello to stress-free journeys!
Our Top 5 Roof Box Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Roof Box Detailed Reviews
1. SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
Rating: 9.1/10
Expand your adventures with the SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box. This black cargo box gives you a huge 18 cubic feet of space. That’s 510 liters! You can fit lots of gear inside. It’s made from strong, UV-resistant ABS material. This means it will last a long time and won’t fade in the sun. The rear opening design is super handy. It lets you load and unload your stuff from the side of the road, away from traffic. This makes it safer and easier.
What We Like:
- Huge 18 cubic foot (510 L) storage space for all your gear.
- Durable, UV-resistant ABS material protects your items and lasts.
- Rear opening design offers easy access without blocking traffic.
- Tool-free mounting hardware makes installation a breeze.
- Includes a key and lock for secure storage of your items and the box itself.
- Fits a variety of rack systems, including SportRack, square, round, and most factory racks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The maximum weight capacity is 100 pounds (45 kg), so you can’t overload it.
- Requires specific crossbar spacing (23 5/8 – 29 3/4 inches) for proper fit.
The SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box is a practical and secure way to carry more on your next trip. It makes packing for family vacations or weekend getaways much simpler.
2. 69 Inch Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier
Rating: 9.5/10
Hit the road with confidence and extra space using the 69 Inch Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier. This hard-shell carrier adds a generous 17 cubic feet of storage, perfect for all your gear. It’s built tough and designed for easy use, making it a fantastic addition for any adventure.
What We Like:
- It offers a large 17 cubic feet of storage, holding up to 165 lbs of your belongings.
- The durable ABS material protects your gear from rain, snow, and sun, keeping everything dry and safe.
- Dual-side opening makes loading and unloading bulky items like skis or suitcases super easy.
- Self-supporting gas struts hold the lid open, so you can pack without a struggle.
- The aerodynamic design cuts down on wind noise and improves fuel efficiency.
- A secure anti-theft locking system keeps your items safe with two keys.
- Installation is a breeze with no tools needed, fitting most roof racks.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it claims 17 cubic feet, the description also mentions 12.4 cubic feet of storage, which could be confusing.
- You need to check your specific roof rack’s specs to ensure compatibility.
This cargo box is a smart way to expand your vehicle’s carrying capacity. It offers a great combination of durability, convenience, and security for all your travels.
3. Thule 613 Pulse Cargo Box Alpine
Rating: 8.7/10
The Thule 613 Pulse Cargo Box Alpine, Black is a fantastic addition for anyone needing more space for their adventures. It offers a generous 11 cubic feet of extra room, perfect for skis, snowboards, or all your camping gear. Its tough build keeps your belongings safe and sound, no matter the weather.
What We Like:
- It adds a huge 11 cubic feet of storage space.
- The box is built tough to protect your stuff.
- You can set it up super fast with the FastGrip system.
- It opens on the passenger side, making loading easy.
- The Central Locking system keeps everything secure.
- The special Thule Comfort Key ensures it’s locked tight before you can remove it.
- It holds up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards.
- It’s a good size at 88.5 inches long.
- It can hold up to 110 lbs of gear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The box is a bit heavy at 30 lbs.
- The height off the crossbar is 11.3 inches, which might be a bit high for some.
This Thule cargo box is a reliable and practical solution for expanding your vehicle’s carrying capacity. It’s a smart investment for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
4. EcoSummer Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier Dual-Side Opening
Rating: 9.2/10
Hit the road with extra space thanks to the EcoSummer Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier. This hard shell carrier attaches to your car’s roof rack, giving you a secure place to store your gear. It’s built tough and keeps your belongings safe from the weather.
What We Like:
- It’s made from strong ABS material that’s waterproof and protects against the sun.
- You get a huge 12 cubic feet of space, perfect for all your vacation or camping stuff.
- It’s easy to load and unload from either side of your car.
- The locks and straps keep your items safe and sound.
- It fits most cars with a roof rack.
- Setting it up is quick and simple.
- The design helps cut down on wind noise and might save you a little on gas.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to make sure your car has a roof rack before buying.
- It’s important to remember to lock one side before opening the other for safety.
The EcoSummer Rooftop Cargo Box is a smart way to carry more on your next adventure. It offers great storage and protection for your gear.
5. Thule Force 3 – Size XL – 18 cu ft – Aerodynamic roof Mounted Box – Dual-Sided Opening with Locks – Tool-Free Install – Weatherproof Design – for SUVs
Rating: 9.4/10
The Thule Force 3 XL is a large, aerodynamic roof box that adds a massive 18 cubic feet of storage to your vehicle. It’s built tough for active lives and looks good doing it. Installation is a breeze, and you can access your gear from either side. Plus, it’s tested to be super safe and secure.
What We Like:
- It’s really durable and keeps its sleek look.
- It’s made for busy people who love adventures.
- You can install it quickly without any tools.
- A handy click tells you when it’s attached safely.
- You can open it from both sides, making it super convenient.
- It’s been tested a lot to make sure it’s safe and strong.
- The SlideLock system makes closing and locking easy and secure.
- It’s weatherproof, so your stuff stays dry.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the XL size is great, it might be too large for smaller cars.
- The price point is an investment, so budget-conscious buyers might look elsewhere.
This roof box is a fantastic upgrade for anyone needing extra space and security for their gear. It offers peace of mind and makes hauling your essentials simple.
Your Guide to the Perfect Roof Box
A roof box is a fantastic way to add extra storage space to your car. It’s like giving your car a handy backpack for all your gear. Whether you’re heading on a family vacation, going camping, or just need more room for sports equipment, a roof box can be a game-changer. Let’s dive into how to find the right one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a roof box, keep these important features in mind:
- Size and Capacity: Roof boxes come in different sizes. Think about how much stuff you usually carry. Do you need to fit luggage for a family of five, or just your skis for a weekend trip? Check the volume in liters (L) to understand how much it can hold.
- Opening Mechanism: Most roof boxes open from the side. Some open from the back. A dual-sided opening is super convenient. It lets you load and unload from either side of the car. This is a lifesaver when you’re parked on a busy street.
- Locking System: Security is important. Look for a roof box with a strong locking system. This keeps your belongings safe from theft. Many have a key lock that secures the lid.
- Aerodynamics: A well-designed roof box cuts through the wind. This means less noise and better fuel efficiency. It will make your drive more comfortable.
- Mounting System: How easy is it to attach the roof box to your car’s roof racks? Look for a system that is simple to use and secure. Some use clamps, others use U-bolts.
Important Materials
The material of your roof box affects its durability and weight.
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): This is a tough plastic. It’s strong and can handle bumps and scrapes. Many good roof boxes use ABS.
- Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA): This is similar to ABS but offers better protection from the sun. It resists fading and cracking from UV rays.
- Fiberglass: Some high-end roof boxes use fiberglass. It is very strong and lightweight. However, it can be more expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a roof box better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built roof box feels solid. The lid should close smoothly. The hinges and latches should feel strong. Poorly made boxes can feel flimsy.
- Weather Resistance: You want your roof box to keep your gear dry. Good seals around the lid are crucial. They prevent rain and snow from getting in.
- Weight: A lighter roof box is easier to lift and install. However, it shouldn’t be so light that it feels weak.
- UV Protection: As mentioned, ASA is better than ABS for sun resistance. A roof box that fades or becomes brittle in the sun won’t last as long.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer believes in their product. A longer warranty is usually a sign of better quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a roof box is generally straightforward. Once you get the hang of installing it on your roof racks, it becomes quite simple.
- Family Road Trips: Pack extra clothes, toys, and beach gear. This frees up space inside the car for passengers to stretch out.
- Camping and Outdoor Adventures: Store tents, sleeping bags, coolers, and hiking equipment. You can bring more of what you need for a comfortable trip.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Skis and snowboards can be bulky. A roof box keeps them out of the car. It also protects them from the elements.
- Moving or Hauling Large Items: If you need to transport something that doesn’t quite fit inside your car, a roof box can sometimes be a solution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size roof box I need?
A: Measure the space on your roof racks and consider how much gear you typically bring. Check the volume of the roof box in liters. Larger families or those going on longer trips will need bigger boxes.
Q: Can I put a roof box on any car?
A: You need roof racks already installed on your car to attach a roof box. Most cars can have roof racks fitted. Check your car’s manual or a car accessory store.
Q: Are roof boxes difficult to install?
A: Installation varies. Most systems are designed for easy DIY fitting. It usually involves securing the box to your existing roof racks with clamps or straps. It’s often easier with two people.
Q: Will a roof box make my car use more gas?
A: Yes, a roof box will increase drag, which means your car will use a bit more fuel. However, a well-designed, aerodynamic box will have less impact than a poorly shaped one.
Q: Are roof boxes waterproof?
A: Most good quality roof boxes are designed to be water-resistant. They have seals to keep rain and snow out. However, they are not completely submersible.
Q: How much weight can a roof box hold?
A: The weight capacity varies by model. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications. Also, be aware of your car’s roof load limit, which includes the weight of the roof box itself and its contents.
Q: Can I leave a roof box on my car all the time?
A: While you can, it’s generally recommended to remove it when not in use. It can affect fuel economy and can be noisy. It also adds weight to your car.
Q: What is the difference between a roof box and a roof bag?
A: A roof box is a hard shell, usually made of plastic. A roof bag is a soft, fabric bag. Roof boxes offer more security and weather protection. Roof bags are often cheaper and easier to store when not in use.
Q: How do I clean my roof box?
A: You can usually clean your roof box with mild soap and water. A soft cloth or sponge works well. Rinse it thoroughly and let it air dry.
Q: Is a roof box worth the cost?
A: For many people, yes! The extra storage space can make travel much more comfortable and allow you to bring more of what you need for your adventures.
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.
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