Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier Reviews 2018 and Buying guide
The best way to free up some space inside your car is to find the best rooftop cargo carrier. You can store some of your things on the top of your car and save a lot of space. Actually, this is something that every traveler wants.
Not only that rooftop cargo carrier is the most convenient way of saving space, but also, it might be of a lot of help when it comes to the protection of some fragile stuff.
Now, we will discuss everything you need to know about rooftop cargo carriers in general in this review. You can find everything here, from the explanation on how to choose the rooftop cargo carrier and top rooftop cargo carrier reviews. Let’s begin.
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Our Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier Reviews For You:
Now, we are going to discuss everything you need to know about the rooftop cargo carrier models that we stumbled upon. Let’s see.
Best Soft Rooftop Cargo Bags
The main characteristics of the soft shell carriers are: Big space capacity, easy to mount, waterproof design, soft construction.
#1. Keeper Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag
Main specifications, details, and features:
Keeper 07204 Black Premium Waterproof Cargo Bag is definitely one of the best rooftop cargo bags out there. You can actually benefit a lot from this rooftop bag if you plan to go on a travel trip but can’t find enough space for all your things.
Now, with the amazing space of 15 cubic feet, this rooftop bag is proving enough room for all the things you need for a travel trip.
However, this rooftop cargo bag is compatible with only smaller SUVs and standard vehicles. This might be a kind of a problem for some people, but on the other hand, the compatibility of the Keeper 07204 Black Premium Waterproof Cargo Bag with other vehicles is great.
What about protection and durability? Well, this amazing rooftop cargo bag you will be rest assured that all your things will be safe and sound. Simply put, this rooftop cargo bag is specially designed with the newest technology that provides waterproof features and protects the cargo against sun, wind, rain, and road dirt.
Now, possibly the best thing about this rooftop cargo bag is the soft sides which allow you to bring an odd-shaped stuff with you. Namely, the soft side design will not be a problem if you want to pack something that requires a little bit more space.
Furthermore, the easy-to-fold feature allows you to pack and unpack stuff from the rooftop bag easily and without any complications. Also, it is quite easy to mount this rooftop bag on the top of your vehicle.
This will not only save you the troubles of mounting, but also you will be able to save a lot of time and energy as well.
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#2. RoofBag Cross Country 100% Waterproof Soft Car Top Carrier
Main specifications, details, and features:
RoofBag Cross Country 100% Waterproof Soft Car Top Carrier will allow you to plan your next travel trip and bring as many things as you want. Namely, with the big capacity, you will be able to store great number of things and bring them with you.
Now, this roof bag work even on the bare roof which means that you don’t need any support for it. Also, you can mount this roof bag on the side rails, basket, and even on the cross bars without any complications.
Anyhow, it is easy to install this roof bag and to store things in it as well.
Possibly the best thing about this roof bag is its waterproof design which is electrically sealed. Also, the heavy-duty construction is providing much-needed durability and the seatbelt-style straps ensure that the roof bag will stay on top of the car no matter the highway speed.
As for the compatibility, we can say that this roof bag is pretty convenient for any type of car and for smaller SUVs as well.
However, if you choose to get the size 15 instead of size 11, you can also mount this roof bag on the full-size sedans and minivans.
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#3. ROLA 59102 Wallaroo Cargo Bag, Rainproof, Expandable Hitch Tray Carrier
Main specifications, details, and features:
ROLA 59102 Wallaroo Cargo Bag is considered as one of the roof bags with the universal fit that allows you to mount it on any type of vehicle, no matter the size. Namely, the 6-strap design will ensure you the safe and secure attachment on the roof of your vehicle and without any complications.
Now, the expandable storage feature allows this roof bag to expend from 9.5 cubic feet to the amazing 11.5 cubic feet. This means that you can actually store more things in this roof bag.
Also, the design of this roof bag will provide the ability to store oddly-shaped loads. You can store something that needs a little bit more space in this bag without worrying if it might get damaged.
What about the protection? Well, the high-quality rainproof material with sonically welded seams will protect your load even from the worst weather conditions. You will be rest assured that your stuff will e dry, clean and protected during the dive.
Furthermore, we can say that with the collapsible design it is quite easy to store this Rola Wallaroo Cargo bag which will use quite a little space for storage. You can basically put it somewhere aside since it doesn’t require much space for storage.
Highlighted Features:
Best Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag
#4. SHIELD JACKET Waterproof Roof Top Cargo Luggage Travel Bag
Main specifications, details, and features:
Whether you are planning to go on a cross-country trip or just to do some off-road driving, this bag will come as a handy and reliable companion in any way.
Namely, this SHIELD JACKET Waterproof Roof Top Cargo Luggage Travel Bag is highly compatible with cars, vans, and even with the smaller SUVs. This means that you don’t have to worry about the stability since this bag will fit perfectly on any roof top.
One of the best things about this cargo bag is its waterproof design that protects the stuff from rain and other weather conditions. Anyhow, the welded seams will seal out the water and your stuff will be clean, dry, and protected, we guarantee it.
Is it easy to use? Well, of course it is. Thanks to the amazing 8 built-in tie straps, you will be able to attach this roof bag in just a few minutes. However, you need to do this carefully and to tighten every strap.
Never the less, the trusted quality of the double-wall vinyl construction and two compression straps provide outstanding durability and even better strength.
Simply speaking, it is designed to last and to protect the stuff.
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#5. Reese Explore 63604 Rainproof Cargo Tray Bag
Main specifications, details, and features:
Have you been searching for a reliable and trust-worthy roof bag? Well, you have found it. Namely, this amazing Reese Explore cargo tray bag is definitely the leader when it comes to the protection and overall construction. With the amazing storage capacity of 15 cubic feet, you won’t need to leave any of the stuff behind.
The overall size of 59 x 18.5 x 24 inches makes this cargo tray bag pretty convenient and compatible with any of the vehicle. People mostly use it with cars, smaller SUVs, and minivans, but you can mount it easily even on the sedans.
Never the less, the rainproof construction will protect your stuff from rain and other weather conditions. Your stuff will be kept clean, dry, and protected all the way.
Anyhow, the 6 tie-down points that you need to tighten correctly will definitely provide stability and much-needed security.
Also, you will be able to fold this cargo bag easily and without any complications which are quite handy if you travel a lot and use the help of cargo tray bags.
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#6. Rightline Gear 100S10 Sport 1 Car Top Carrier
Main specifications, details, and features:
Among the big and wide choice of the rooftop cargo bags one exact rooftop bag stands out. This bag is the Rightline Gear sport top carrier, of course.
Now, what exactly makes this cargo bag better than the others?
Well, the aerodynamical design is providing a lot to the overall stability and durability. Also, the completely waterproof dual seam technology ensures you that your stuff will be clean and dry.
Anyway, the ZipRight system that has the zipper located under the protective zipper flap will definitely allow you easy packing and unpacking for sure. However, this cargo top bag does have a little bit less space capacity of 12 cubic feet.
Furthermore, the cargo rooftop bag package includes four attachment straps, four car clips, and a sewn-in set up guide.
With all these stuff included, you will definitely benefit a lot if you decide to go on a travel trip with your family or friends.
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#7. Induxpert Rooftop Cargo Bag
Main specifications, details, and features:
One of the things that best describes Induxpert Rooftop Cargo bag is its increase storage space that allows you to bring a few extra things with you on your travel.
Simply put, you will have a plenty of room inside your vehicle when you store everything in this cargo bag.
Now, the outstanding waterproof construction will protect your belongings against rain and other harmful conditions. This bag has a double-flap and an amazing number of eight straps that will secure your cargo on any vehicle.
Furthermore, you will definitely get the maximum security of your stuff even on the high speeds. Another great thing is that this cargo bag is so easy to attach and pack.
Namely, there are usual straps and extra-long straps that will allow you to tighten the cargo to the roof perfectly.
Did we mention the space capacity? This outstanding cargo bag is packing a massive 18.5 cubic feet capacity which ensures that you bring all the stuff you need with you.
Also, it is highly recommended to pair your cargo bag with a non-slip roof mat since you will get extra protection that way.
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#8. Sailnovo 20 Cubic Feet Car Roof Top Carrier
Main specifications, details, and features:
Sailnovo 20 Cubic Feet Car Roof Top Carrier is definitely one of the best cargo carriers when it comes to the overall protection and capacity.
Namely, the waterproof design is ensuring that your stuff will be clean and dry after a drive on a rainy day because this carrier is crafted from rubber laminated nylon.
What about the security? This robust cargo bag has a six extra strong straps and two long straps that will ensure that everything is in its place when you drive. Basically, you don’t have to worry about the stability of the bag even if you drive on the high speeds.
As for the capacity and storage, we can safely say that this cargo bag is packing 20 cubic feet of free space that will allow you to store everything you want.
However, this cargo bag is a little bit harder to mount since it has a few extra straps that need to be tightened.
Furthermore, some people consider this cargo bag as the perfect companion for road trips. You can basically pack all the essentials and a lot of extra things with you. Also, the compatibility with the vehicles is definitely on the highest level here.
Namely, this cargo bag is compatible with almost any type of car, van, SUV, and sedan.
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Best Hard Shell Roof Top Cargo Carrier
Now, something a little bit different and possibly better for some people. Characteristics of hard shell carriers: Sturdy construction, durable and high-quality materials, dual-sided access, aerodynamic design, smaller space capacity.
#9. Thule Force Cargo Box
Main specifications, details, and features:
If you are looking for a cargo box that will fulfill all of your needs, then you have found one. With the Thule Force cargo box, you kiss your worries goodbye and start planning a perfect travel trip with your family and friends.
Simply speaking, this amazing cargo box is designed with a diamond-textured aero skin lid that provides splendid protection. Because of the shape, this cargo box cuts through the air easily which explains the aerodynamic shape.
What about the mounting, it must be hard? Actually, it is quite the opposite. The tool-free quick-grip system of mounting will ensure that you can attach the box in less than five minutes for sure.
Also, you don’t have to worry about using any tool for the job since it is quite easy to mount this box.
As for the protection, it is safe to say that your stuff will be in the right place because of the oversized secure lock that ensures that the box is sealed perfectly.
Anyhow, when it comes to the packing and unpacking, you can actually do it from both sides which make this cargo box pretty convenient for families and bigger road trip travels.
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#10. Yakima Skybox Carbonite Cargo Box
Main specifications, details, and features:
Yakima Skybox Carbonite Cargo Box is possibly the best cargo box for travels when it comes to the convenience and compatibility. With the overall weight of 41 lbs, you can actually easily move and mount this amazing cargo box on the top of your vehicle.
The dual-sided opening that this cargo box has allows you to pack your things after you mount it on the vehicle. Also, you can safely unpack your things without any complications on both sides.
As for the security, this cargo box is equipped with the secure SKS lock cores that ensure maximum protection of your stuff. Namely, you don’t have to worry about it opening even on the highest speeds.
Never the less, when it comes to the space capacity, this cargo box is providing 12 cubic feet of storage which is quite a lot considering it is a hard sell cargo box.
Most of the people think that with the 12 cubic feet capacity you can pack everything you need for a travel trip, all the essentials and a few extra things as well.
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#11. SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
Main specifications, details, and features:
SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box is definitely one of the best cargo box when it comes to the overall construction and convenience of the design. Simply put, you will be able to free up so much space inside your vehicle with this cargo box on top of your car.
Now, the round-square design that is mostly aerodynamic and elliptical will ensure that this cargo box cuts through the air perfectly even on the high speeds.
Also, the ABS construction will provide much-needed durability and UV-resistance. That way, your stuff will not only be kept clean and dry, but also, the sun and other harmful weather conditions will not hurt your belongings.
Never the less, with the quick release hardware mounting system, you will be able to mount this cargo box in just a few minutes.
Simply speaking, there will be no complications or troubles when it comes to the mounting.
Furthermore, this outstanding cargo box has the high-quality lock that ensures the security of your stuff within the cargo box.
However, you need to check whether this cargo box will be compatible with your vehicle, that’s not even a hard thing to do since you will be provided with the fit guide that comes included.
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#12. StowAway Max Cargo Carrier
Main specifications, details, and features:
This one is a little bit different from the others. Namely, StowAway Max Cargo Carrier is a super heavy-duty box that is mounted on the swingaway frame and not on the roof of the vehicle.
This might come as pretty convenient and handy feature for some people. However, having the amazing 16 cubic feet of storage will definitely allow you to pack everything you need.
Now, this cargo carrier provides easy ground loading and unloading. Therefore, you won’t need to climb on your vehicle just to unpack your stuff.
As we mentioned before, the box is easily mounted on the swingaway frame which will provide easy access for anyone.
Some of the things that make this cargo carrier a perfect fit for any family are the things that come included in the package. Namely, the max box, swingaway frame, taillights, license plate holder, and of course, the hitch tightener, all come included for extra convenience and better experience on the travel trip.
Since this is a cargo carrier that doesn’t go on the top of your vehicle, the compatibility is not a problem here.
Simply, every possible vehicle will be able to mount this cargo carrier on them and provide full-on experience.
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#13. UnderCover SC201P SwingCase Truck Storage Box
Main specifications, details, and features:
UnderCover SC201P SwingCase Truck Storage Box is possibly the best truck storage box made to be equipped only on trucks. Simply, this cargo box is compatible with all tonneau covers for FORD F-150 which makes it pretty convenient if you have one of those.
Now, the moisture seal will keep all the content in this cargo box clean and dry. You don’t have to worry about the rain or any other harmful weather condition ever again.
Anyhow, you will be able to install this cargo box without any troubles. With the easy installation features, your effort will be put down to the minimum level.
However, you can only mount this cargo box on a FORD F-150 model only.
As for the security, you will be rest assured that your belongings will be safe and sound in the cargo carrier because of the lockable lid.
This lockable lid provides maximum security and ensures that your stuff will be in the right place.
Highlighted Features:
#14. Shadow 13cft Gloss Black
Main specifications, details, and features:
Shadow 13cft Gloss Black cargo carrier will definitely provide much-needed space capacity and overall convenience use for anyone who chooses to buy it.
Anyhow, the stiffer base and aerodynamically design provide better stability on higher speeds. Also, easy one-hand opening and closing is something that describes this cargo carrier as well.
Now, the whole mounting process is not a hard thing to do with this cargo carrier. Namely, there are great mechanisms that ensure you to mount this cargo carrier without any troubles.
Also, this cargo carrier is compatible with most of the vehicles and it has an Inno Racks Lifetime warranty as well.
Never the less, the dual-sided opening is providing you to choose from which side you want to unpack or pack your stuff.
This is quite handy for families with lots of things to pack. Also, the space capacity is 12 cubic feet.
Highlighted Features:
#15. JEGS Performance Products Roof Top Cargo Carrier
Main specifications, details, and features:
JEGS Performance Products 90098 Roof Top Cargo Carrier comes from a line of the highest quality cargo carriers on the market. With everything in store, this cargo carrier will definitely provide lots of benefits for anyone. Now, let’s see what exactly does this beauty is packing.
First of all, the round-square design provides this cargo carrier to fit perfectly onto any car or vehicle in general.
Next, the aerodynamic bar design that goes up to 4 inches wide will make sure that this cargo carrier moves perfectly through the air when you hit that gas pedal on the highway.
Second, the amazing 18 cubic feet of storage will provide enough space for the whole family to pack in. Therefore, you will get a lot of free space in your car.
However, you can only mount this cargo carrier on a roof rack.
Next, the overall construction quality is at the highest possible level. Namely, you will be rest assured that everything you put in this cargo carrier will stay in its place and it will be protected.
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Rooftop Cargo Carrier Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right One?
If you wonder what is the best car top carrier in today’s world then you are on the right page. Simply speaking, there are lots of important things that one rooftop cargo carrier needs to have in order to be a reliable asset for your travel trip.
Now, let us see exactly what things you need to take into consideration when it comes to the best cargo carriers.
What Type Of Storage Do You Want to Carry?
The first and possibly the most important thing that you need to ask yourself before buying a rooftop cargo carrier is ‘’what am I going to fit in there?’’.
Namely, there is lots of different stuff that you can fit in the carrier, and because of that, it is important to know what you want.
However, here are some of the explanations that might be out of help.
1. Looking for An Extra Storage Only
Most of the people actually don’t exactly know which things they will put into the carrier. In that case, if you just want a little bit of extra storage, it is recommendable to get a smaller model that will suit your needs.
However, smaller models might be a little bit short and stumpy, but they will do the job perfectly.
2. Skis and Winter Equipment
As we all know, skis are the least convenient item to transport when it comes to the winter equipment. Since there aren’t lots of cars with the length capacity for the skis, a good old rooftop cargo carrier comes in perfectly. Therefore, you will probably want to get some long and lean models that will suit your needs.
3. Soft Shell or Hard Shell?
Depending on your needs, you can also choose whether to get a hard-sided or the soft roof bags. What are the main differences? Well, soft roof bags are definitely more convenient when it comes to the folding and storing, but they offer less protection and they aren’t that durable.
On the other hand, hard-sided rooftop carriers have higher durability, but they are a bit more heavy and bulky. Also, soft roof bags are actually more cost-effective options here since they cost less than hard-sided rooftop carriers.
However, you should be satisfying your needs and therefore, choose whether will you buy soft roof bags or hard-sided rooftop carriers.
How Often Will You Use Rooftop Cargo Carrier?
If you use don’t exactly know how often will you use your rooftop cargo carrier, take this things into consideration and decide which one to get.
Mounting of the rooftop cargo carrier
Possibly the hardest thing about rooftop cargo carriers is that you need to mount them on top of your car. Now, think about how often you will use your rooftop cargo carrier before mounting one on top of your car.
Why is this important? Well, there are models that are easily mounted, and there are those that aren’t. In that light, you should get the most suitable option for you.
Rooftop cargo carriers are not designed to be driven empty
You definitely don’t want to drive with an empty rooftop cargo carrier, especially at high speeds. They might break lose since there aren’t any weight that makes them stable on the roof of your car.
Opening and closing
Some of the rooftop cargo carriers are pretty easy to open and close. Now, if you don’t want to mount them every now and then, we suggest you to get the one that is easily opened and closed.
This way, you won’t need to deal with the complications of mounting, but on the other hand, you can easily access the cargo storage anytime.
Compatibility With Your Vehicle
Some rooftop cargo carriers will definitely be a better fit than others. That is only because of the size and length of your vehicle. Now, before you choose the rooftop cargo carrier for yourself, make sure to do these things first:
1. Check the size of your vehicle
With the right information about your vehicle size and length, you can choose the most suitable rooftop cargo carrier for sure. Just measure it correctly and you are good to go.
2. Pay attention to the size of the carrier
It is also important to know the size of the rooftop cargo carrier that you want to get. And by comparing the size of the vehicle and the size of the carrier, you will find out which one to get.
Pros and Cons of Rooftop Cargo Carriers
In order to know exactly what are the benefits and what are the downsides of the rooftop cargo carriers, we will discuss pros and cons. Let’s see.
Pros
Cons
Quick Tips
Now, these tips will probably help you out with the rooftop cargo carriers when it comes to the overall use.
Cargo Carrier Accessories
You need to know some of the main accessories of the rooftop cargo carriers since they can help you a lot in some occasions.
Now, some people use alternative ways of help like blankets or rugs, but that is not the best guarantee that your roof will be protected. But, with a good roof mat, you will definitely get the maximum protection for your car’s roof.
Now, this doesn’t mean that rooftop cargo carrier is not secure enough without extra straps this simply implies that you can do some extra tightening if you want to.
This will definitely allow you to go at higher speeds if you want to since you just secured your rooftop cargo carrier perfectly.
This actually helps a lot when you have a bug number of things to unpack or pack. Also, if you put something a bit more fragile in the cargo carrier, you need a little bit of help when you want to unpack in and that’s where step stool comes pretty handy.
Just imagine when you are mounting a cargo carrier on the top of your car and you can’t find the right place for some piece. To prevent that, you simply open up an installation guide and follow the instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I be so sure that my cargo bag will be 100% waterproof?
Well, in order to know that without testing it is to look for the materials. Most of the cargo bags are made from some waterproof materials like nylon or polyester. Also, if you still have some doubts, you can always pack your clots in vacuum bags before putting it in the cargo bag. This will help you anyway.
2. Will I be able to drive at high speeds with a cargo carrier on top of the roof?
Of course you will be able. The only thing you need to watch out for is the stability of the rooftop cargo carrier. Simply, tighten every strap and secure the carrier before you go on the drive.
3. Is volume that important?
Since there are lots of cargo carriers with different space capacity, this is only up to you. If you have a big amount of stuff, you need to find a cargo carrier with at least 15 cubic feet of space. On the other hand, if you don’t need to pack so much, a good 12 cubic feet will do just fine.
Final Verdict
In the light of everything we said, we can only add that every one of these cargo carriers is definitely worth the money. They each hold a massive value for the cash and they provide so much benefit for everyone who buys them.
Also, we discussed pretty much everything you need to know before you get the top rooftop cargo carrier out there.
Now, it is only up to you to decide which one will you bring home and mount on your vehicle. Choose wisely and carefully for the one that will satisfy your needs and be the most suitable pick.
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