How to Choose the Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Vacations. Ski trips. Road trips. Sporting events. There are a ton of reasons we sometimes need more space in our vehicles (as the driver of a coupe, I experience this on a painfully regular basis).

There are a lot of great options for expanding your storage space, including rooftop cargo boxes, cargo baskets, and cargo bags. But which is the best choice for you? Don't worry — we'll help you out and break down the major differences between these handy cargo solutions below.

How to Choose the Best Rooftop Carrier

The best roof cargo solution for you depends on your gear, your roof type, and personal preference.

Generally, cargo boxes and baskets cost more than cargo bags and mount on roof racks. Cargo boxes provide the most secure storage so are a great choice if you have valuable gear (like your favorite set of golf clubs) that you want to protect. Cargo baskets are great for long or bulky gear that won't fit in a box or bag. Cargo bags are great for gear that isn't particularly fragile (it won't have that hard box shell protecting it) but that you want to keep safe from the elements. They're also the most versatile when it comes to mounting options; roof bags can be mounted to vehicles with bare roofs, roof racks, or cargo baskets.

Cargo Box

Lockable for superior security
Hard shell is weatherproof
Mounts to roof rack

Cargo Basket

Can easily haul long or bulky gear
Mounts to roof rack
Can add a cargo net or roof bag

Cargo Bag

Mount to roof racks, roof baskets, or naked roofs
Come in waterproof and water-resistant options
Most cost-effective option

Roof Cargo Boxes

Cargo boxes are the total package. They offer security, storage capacity and weather protection. Most cargo boxes include locks to keep your gear secure during bathroom breaks or over-night rest stops. The hard shell design deflects the elements and debris that can go flying over your roof. Although they aren't waterproof, they are weatherproof. Everything will stay dry for the most part, but if you are carrying electronics, paper, or something that absolutely cannot get wet, it would be a good idea to pack it in sealed plastic bags. Hard rain or dust in a windy climate can leave a small surprise in any exterior carrier.

Skis, snowboards, suitcases, and sleeping bags are a few examples of gear you may want to carry in a cargo box. These rooftop catchalls can hold anything from golf bags to golf balls and they come in a variety of sizes. Many cargo boxes allow for dual-side access or passenger-side access for safe loading and unloading on the side of the road. The adjustable mounting clamps on cargo boxes also allow you to position the box toward the front of the vehicle, leaving enough room in the rear for your hatch to open fully.

Roof Cargo Baskets

If you need extra space, but you aren't ready for the expense of a cargo box or you just don't like the look, a cargo basket or cargo tray might be the way to go. Cargo baskets don't offer the same level of protection as a cargo box, but they will get your items from point A to point B. Their open design won't limit the height of your cargo, so they are great for coolers, suitcases, and spare tires. They can also give you a rugged look that is popular in the off-road and 4-wheeling communities.

Roof Cargo Bags

If you don't have a roof rack and don't want one, or if you want a low-cost way to transport your gear, cargo bags are a great option. They are extremely lightweight and foldable for easy storage in the garage or basement when you aren't traveling. What's more, many are waterproof or water resistant for gear you want to keep dry.

Illustration showing Roof Rack Crossbar, Foot, and Fit Kit Components

How to Install a Roof Rack (Hint: It Depends on Your Roof)

How to Attach a Cargo Carrier to a Roof Rack

Which Roof Rack Fits Your Vehicle?

Questions and Comments about this Article

Jules G. 6/1/2021

I recently bought a Thule weekender online. It has all the parts but no instructions on how to install. I have a 2017 Subaru outback. Will it work on the rooftop bars that is on this subaru? Do I need a different fit kit? Do you have any PDFs with instructions for this? Thanks,

Reply from Jon G. 6/1/2021

I don't have instructions or a PDF but we do have an answer page that has a visual of how the mounting hardware sits on the crossbar. I'm linking this for you to check out.

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