Conquer your next adventure with our guide to the 8 best car roof carriers of 2024! We've rigorously tested and reviewed top models, considering capacity, ease of installation, security, and weather resistance. Find the perfect roof box to maximize space for your next road trip. Discover the ideal cargo carrier to suit your vehicle and budget, making packing a breeze.
Planning an unforgettable road trip in 2024? One of the biggest challenges is often packing everything you need while keeping the car comfortable for everyone. That’s where a car roof carrier comes in handy. They provide much-needed extra storage space, allowing you to bring along everything from camping gear and luggage to skis and snowboards. But with so many options available, finding the perfect one can feel overwhelming. Fear not! We've rigorously tested and reviewed the top contenders to bring you the 8 best car roof carriers for every road trip scenario in 2024.
Why Choose a Car Roof Carrier?
Before diving into our top picks, let's quickly recap why a car roof carrier is a worthwhile investment. The benefits are numerous:
Increased Cargo Space: The most obvious advantage! Free up legroom and prevent your passengers from feeling cramped.
Versatility: Carry a wide range of items, from bulky luggage to sporting equipment.
Improved Organization: Keep your car interior tidy and organized, making it easier to find what you need.
Protection from the Elements: Most car roof carriers are waterproof and weatherproof, protecting your belongings from rain, snow, and dust.
Our Top 8 Car Roof Carriers of 2024
We've evaluated these car roof carriers based on several factors, including storage capacity, ease of installation, durability, weather resistance, security, and overall value. Here are our top 8 picks, complete with detailed reviews:
Comparison Chart
Here's a quick overview of our top picks, allowing you to easily compare their key features:
Product Name |
Storage Capacity |
Dimensions |
Material |
Weight Capacity |
Key Features |
Pros |
Cons |
Price Range |
|---|
Thule Motion XT XL |
18 cubic feet |
84 x 35.5 x 17.5 inches |
ABS Plastic |
165 lbs |
Dual-Side Opening, SlideLock System, PowerClick Quick-Mount |
Easy installation, durable, secure locking mechanism, aerodynamic design. |
Higher price point. |
$$$ |
Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite |
16 cubic feet |
81 x 36 x 15 inches |
ABS Plastic |
165 lbs |
Dual-Side Opening, SKS Lock Included, SuperLatch Security |
Easy to open and close, durable construction, stylish design. |
Can be bulky to store when not in use. |
$$$ |
SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box |
18 cubic feet |
63 x 39 x 19 inches |
Polyethylene |
100 lbs |
Rear Opening, U-Bolt Mounting, Weather Resistant |
Affordable price, decent storage capacity. |
Less aerodynamic than premium models, lower weight capacity. |
$$ |
Thule Pulse Alpine |
11 cubic feet |
90 x 25 x 12.5 inches |
ABS Plastic |
75 lbs |
Low Profile Design, Easy-Grip Mounting, Aerodynamic |
Ideal for skis and snowboards, low profile minimizes wind resistance. |
Lower storage capacity for general cargo. |
$$$ |
CargoLoc Rooftop Cargo Carrier |
15 cubic feet |
Varies |
Waterproof Fabric with PVC Coating |
Varies (Check Manufacturer) |
Soft-Sided, Folds for Storage, Universal Fit |
Highly affordable, easy to store. |
Less secure than hard-shell carriers, may require additional straps. |
$ |
ARKSEN Universal Car Roof Rack Cargo Carrier |
15 Cubic feet |
38" x 38" x 18" |
600D Oxford Cloth + PVC |
Check manufacturer's specifications, usually around 100 lbs |
Waterproof Fabric, Eight Built-In Straps, Door Hook Straps |
Easy to Install, Good waterproof capabilities. |
Soft sided so may sag under load. |
$ |
JEGS Performance Products Rooftop Cargo Carrier |
18 Cubic feet |
57" x 39" x 15" |
ABS Plastic |
150 lbs |
Dual-Side Opening, Quick-Release Hardware, Aerodynamic Design |
Great combination of storage, easy install and good price. |
May need a bit of adjustment to fit some roof racks perfectly. |
$$ |
INNO Wedge 660 |
13 Cubic feet |
72.8" x 33.5" x 13.4" |
ABS Plastic |
110 lbs |
Premium Japanese design and reliability. |
Great for smaller cars, very durable. |
Price Point |
$$$ |
Detailed Reviews of Each Car Roof Carrier
Now, let’s delve deeper into each of our top picks:
Thule Motion XT XL: As our top choice, the Thule Motion XT XL offers an exceptional balance of storage space, ease of use, and durability. Its dual-side opening makes loading and unloading a breeze, while the SlideLock system ensures secure closure. The PowerClick quick-mount system simplifies installation, allowing you to attach and detach the carrier in minutes. It is a great car roof carrier.
Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite: The Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite is another excellent option known for its stylish design and robust construction. Its SuperLatch security system provides peace of mind, and the dual-side opening adds convenience. The included SKS (Same Key System) lock allows you to use a single key for all your Yakima accessories. Choosing the right size car roof carrier is important to ensure its fit.
SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box: For budget-conscious travelers, the SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box provides a solid combination of storage space and affordability. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of premium models, it gets the job done effectively. Its weather-resistant construction protects your belongings from the elements. Remember to secure your luggage in the car roof carrier
Thule Pulse Alpine: If you’re primarily transporting skis or snowboards, the Thule Pulse Alpine is an ideal choice. Its low-profile design minimizes wind resistance, and its ample length accommodates even the longest skis. The Easy-Grip mounting system makes installation quick and easy. It is a great way to get your skis to the mountains and back. The car roof carrier is also great for surfboards.
CargoLoc Rooftop Cargo Carrier: A soft-sided option, the CargoLoc Rooftop Cargo Carrier is perfect for those seeking a compact and easily storable solution. Its waterproof fabric and PVC coating protect your belongings from the elements. While it requires additional straps for secure attachment, it offers excellent value for its price. This is a great option for those seeking a car roof carrier that can fold when not in use.
ARKSEN Universal Car Roof Rack Cargo Carrier: Similar to the CargoLoc, the ARKSEN provides an inexpensive weatherproof way to increase storage. Easy to install and can be stored when not in use.
JEGS Performance Products Rooftop Cargo Carrier: The JEGS is a great hard case car roof carrier that offers great bang for your buck. Large storage capacity and easy to install.
INNO Wedge 660: This car roof carrier is great for smaller cars with its lower profile and sleek design. Very durable and reliable.
Tips for Using a Car Roof Carrier
To ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip, keep these tips in mind when using a car roof carrier:
Distribute Weight Evenly: Place heavier items in the center of the carrier to maintain balance.
Secure Items Properly: Use straps or bungee cords to prevent items from shifting during transit.
Check Weight Limits: Never exceed the weight capacity of your car roof carrier or your vehicle’s roof rack.
Drive Safely: Be mindful of the added height and wind resistance, and adjust your driving accordingly.
Inspect Regularly: Check the carrier and mounting hardware periodically to ensure everything is secure.
Conclusion
A car roof carrier can be a game-changer for your next road trip, providing the extra storage space you need to travel comfortably and bring along all your essential gear. With our top 8 picks, you're sure to find the perfect carrier to suit your needs and budget. Happy travels!
