Comparison: Best Roof Rack Box (Updated | Jan 2nd)
Ever hit the road for a family trip only to realize your trunk is overflowing? A reliable roof rack box is the perfect solution, but choosing the right one can feel overwhelming with so many options. Don’t worry—we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. In this comparison, we’ll break down the best roof rack boxes of the year, focusing on durability, space, and ease of use. Let’s find the perfect match for your next adventure, so you can travel stress-free.
- Best for best overall: 69 Inch Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier
- Best for best value soft carrier: Sailnovo Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag
- Best for extra wide steel basket: ARKSEN 84 x 50 x 6 Inch Universal Extra Wide 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo with Extension Car Top Luggage Holder Carrier Basket for SUV
- Best for made in usa quality: JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier for Car Storage – Large Roof Rack Style Carrier – Heavy Duty Weatherproof Storage – Made in USA – 18 Cubic Ft – 110 Lb Capacity – Aero Hard Shell
- Best for compact side-opening box: DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8293-BK Universal Heavy Duty Roof Storage Box Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Case w/Keys
- Best for fully waterproof design: VENTURE 4TH Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet Waterproof Roof Bag with 10 Heavy-Duty Compression & Tie-Down Straps
- Best for complete storage kit: WEIZE 54″ x 34″ Heavy Duty Roof Rack
- Best for premium compact choice: INNO 320 Rooftop Cargo Box – 9 CuFt (Matte Black)
- Best for lockable crossbars: Wonderdriver Heavy Duty 260lbs Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Jeep Grand Cherokee 2011-2021 (with Grooved Side Rails)
- Best for all-weather soft shell: iBirdie Roof Rack Cargo Carrier 32.1 Cubic Feet
Product Comparison: Best Roof Rack Box
69 Inch Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier, 17 Cubic Ft. Hard Shell Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Security Keys, 165 Lbs Capacity Waterproof Rooftop Storage Box, Dual Side Opening
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Double-side opening design
- Aerodynamic and quiet
- Durable weatherproof material
- Secure anti-theft locking
- High weight capacity
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky when not in use
- Heavier than soft bags
Sailnovo Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag, 20 Cubic feet Waterproof Roof Cargo Carrier fit car with/Without Luggage Rack – Vehicle Soft Shell Roof Cargo Box with Tie-Down Strap, Safety Hook
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large storage capacity
- Folds for compact storage
- Easy to install
- Tear-resistant waterproof material
- Fits most vehicle types
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not for sliding doors
- Less rigid than hard boxes
ARKSEN 84 x 50 x 6 Inch Universal Extra Wide 150LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo with Extension Car Top Luggage Holder Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck, & Car Steel Construction
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Massive storage capacity
- Heavy-duty steel build
- Weather-resistant coating
- Easy installation process
- Extra-wide design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Open basket design
- Requires cargo cover
- Heavy to lift
JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier for Car Storage – Large Roof Rack Style Carrier – Heavy Duty Weatherproof Storage – Made in USA – 18 Cubic Ft – 110 Lb Capacity – Aero Hard Shell
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Weatherproof hard shell
- Aerodynamic design
- Dual-side access
- Easy installation
- Made in USA
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited cargo space
- Plastic base durability
- Crossbar spacing constraints
DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8293-BK Universal Heavy Duty Roof Storage Box Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Case w/Keys,12.7 cu. ft. / 360L
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Spacious 12.7 cu ft capacity
- Durable ABS construction
- Easy no-tool installation
- Side-opening design
- Includes security lock
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires crossbars only
- Heavy at 40 lbs
- Limited color options
VENTURE 4TH Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet Waterproof Roof Bag with 10 Heavy-Duty Compression & Tie-Down Straps, Anti-Slip Mat & Door Hooks – Fits Cars with or Without Roof Rack
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Massive 21 cu ft capacity
- Fully waterproof design
- Universal fit for vehicles
- Includes all necessary accessories
- Six-strap compression system
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires careful packing
- No hard-shell protection
- Can be noisy at high speeds
WEIZE 54″ x 34″ Heavy Duty Roof Rack, Rooftop Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag, Tie Down Strap, Net, Rack Extension and Car Top Luggage Holder for SUV, 200lb Capacity, Steel Construction
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Adjustable size options
- Durable tubular steel construction
- Includes cargo bag and net
- 200 lbs weight capacity
- Fairing reduces drag noise
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires rustproofing maintenance
- Assembly can be time-consuming
INNO 320 Rooftop Cargo Box – 9 CuFt (Matte Black)
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Dual side opening
- Memory Mount System
- Compact yet spacious
- Sleek matte finish
- Minimizes hatch contact
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited cargo capacity
- Higher price point
Wonderdriver Heavy Duty 260lbs Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Jeep Grand Cherokee 2011-2021 (with Grooved Side Rails), All-Metal Aluminum Crossbars Rooftop Cargo Bag Kayak Luggage
✓ Reasons to Buy
- High weight capacity
- Easy to install
- Low wind noise
- Durable aluminum build
- Secure locking mechanism
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not for all trims
- May require tools
iBirdie Roof Rack Cargo Carrier 32.1 Cubic Feet, XXL Soft-Shell Rooftop Cargo Box, Waterproof Heavy Duty 1200D for Car with/Without Roof Rack, Includes Anti-Slip Mat, Door Hooks, 60x37x25 inches
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Massive storage capacity
- Waterproof material
- Universal vehicle fit
- Quick and easy installation
- Folds for storage
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not as secure as hard-shell
- May affect fuel economy
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for in a roof rack box?
Start by considering the cargo capacity you need, measured in cubic feet, and ensure it fits your vehicle’s roof dimensions. Check the box’s weight limit and ensure your roof rack system can support it. Also, prioritize aerodynamic designs to minimize wind noise and improve fuel efficiency.
How do hard-shell and soft-shell roof boxes compare?
Hard-shell boxes are more durable, secure, and weather-resistant, making them ideal for long trips or extreme conditions. Soft-shell options are lighter, easier to store, and often more affordable, but they offer less protection. Choose based on your balance of convenience and security needs.
Which features are most important for a roof rack box?
Look for dual-side opening for easy access from either side of the vehicle, especially if you’re parked in tight spaces. A secure locking mechanism is crucial to protect your belongings, and quick-release mounts simplify installation and removal. Additional features like integrated lighting or interior organizers can enhance usability.
How do I determine the best value for a roof rack box?
Value depends on the box’s durability, warranty, and how well it meets your specific needs. Compare prices against features like aerodynamics, material quality, and ease of use. Read customer reviews to gauge real-world performance and longevity.
Are roof boxes universal, or do I need a specific one for my car?
Most roof boxes are universal and fit a wide range of vehicles, but you must check your roof rack’s crossbar dimensions and weight capacity. Some brands offer compatibility guides to ensure a proper fit. Always measure your vehicle’s roof length and width before purchasing.
How do roof boxes from top brands like Thule and Yakima compare?
Thule is known for premium build quality, innovative features, and sleek designs, often at a higher price point. Yakima offers similar durability with a focus on ruggedness and value, making it a popular alternative. Both brands excel in security and aerodynamics, so choose based on budget and aesthetic preference.
What are the pros and cons of low-profile roof boxes?
Low-profile boxes reduce wind resistance and noise while improving vehicle handling, but they offer less cargo space. They’re ideal for smaller vehicles or short trips where aerodynamics matter more. If you need to haul bulky gear, a taller box may be more practical.
How do I maintain a roof rack box for long-term use?
Clean the box regularly with mild soap and water to prevent dirt buildup, and lubricate the locks and hinges annually. Store it in a cool, dry place when not in use to avoid UV damage or warping. Inspect for cracks or wear before each trip to ensure safety.