How to Determine Roof Capacity of a Vehicle for Roof Top Cargo Bag

Updated 04/27/2016 | Published 04/24/2016

Question:

I have a 2015 Subaru Forester with just the side rails on the roof, not the cross bars. I am taking a road trip and need extra space. How do I find out the weight limit for my Subaru and according to that, how do I know which size roof carrier to purchase? should I purchase the cross bars? Any help would be appreciated. All my keyword searches keep referring me to your website. I am looking at the soft carrier, RL100S30. Will I get a response at my email address or on your website? I would prefer my email address and if you feel my questions will help someone else, you can put it on your website. Thank you in advance for your help.

asked by: Jane T

Expert Reply:

You would need to check the owners manual for your 2015 Forester or with Subaru to determine the roof capacity. I was able to determine that it is 150 lbs as that is listed on page 8-14 of your manual.

The Rightline Cargo Bag part # RL100S30 is a very large bag that measures 48" x 40" x 19" which would carry up to 18 cubic feet of cargo. You would want to measure the dimensions of your roof to see if this would be a fit or not.

I also recommend a protective pad, # RL100650, to protect the roof when using the bag.

expert reply by: Jameson C