How will you handle it when you want to carry a lot of belongings for a road trip but your car trunk doesn’t have enough space? A rooftop cargo carrier is one of the best solutions.
Car top carriers not only help you take advantage of your car roof but also carry your things safely and conveniently. The market of rooftop cargo carriers is very huge and you might get trouble in choosing the best one.
Don’t worry! I’m here to give you a hand. I have created an article to review the 15 best rooftop cargo carriers recently for you. Keep reading and make your decision more easily!
Car Top Carrier Or Hitch Cargo Carrier?
Rooftop and Hitch-mounted cargo carriers are two most common types of carriers on the market. Here are some features of these items:
- Rooftop carrier: it will sit on the rooftop of your car and usually support a large weight capacity. It is easier to install and remove when not in use. However, this type of carrier is generally not suitable to hold big things like sporting equipments, bikes.
- Hitch cargo carrier: This one will work when you attach it to the tow hitch. It is ideal if you want to hold your bike behind your car. On the other hand, since not every car comes with a hitch so this carrier is not compatible with all vehicles.
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What Are The Best Rooftop Cargo Carriers To Buy?
Nowadays, rooftop cargo carriers have improved and upgraded in the design to match more car types. You can even use these products without a roof rack. For specific purposes and categories, you could choose one of the best rooftop cargo carriers in the following list.
- Best Overall: ToolGuards Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Made of waterproof material to protect your gadget completely; flexible attachment with or without roof rack; comes with a convenient strap system for ease of mounting”
- Best Budget: TMS J-Bar Rack HD Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Has a good price for the value; designed with convenient J shape and two-piece construction for extra safety; supports up to 75 pounds of capacity”
- Best Bag: AmazonBasics Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Equipped with waterproof oversized zipper for extra security; could withstand all weathers with premium material; Long and heavy-duty straps for easier installation”
- Best Heavy-duty: ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Heavy-duty product to hold up to 130 pounds of load; comes with solid construction and durable material; easy to assemble and attach with straightforward design”
- Best Waterproof: RoofPax Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Protects your things by 100% water resistance; Designed with dual seam welding technology for extra waterproofness; unique free six door hooks construction for more stability”
- Best for Ease-of-Install: Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Comes with quick-mounting system making your installation just a snap; dual-side opening construction for more convenience; designed with three size for different needs”
- Best Compact: Thule 682 Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Compact and space-saving design for ease of carry and store; high volume included; comes with two locks to keep your stuff safe”
- Best Hard Shell: Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Made of premium rugged ABS plastic and glossy finish; low-profile design for easier storage; comes with quick-mounting system to attach flawlessly”
- Best for Camping: Keeper 07203-1 Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“A perfect way to serve your camping or regular uses; Support a high load capacity; 100% waterproof material for extra durability”
- Best for Luggage: Keeper 07204 Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Supports to hold big size and odd-shaped items; comes with convenient and foldable design; offers two size to hold different weight capacity”
- Best for Honda Pilot: Rightline Gear Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“ Ideal for Honda Pilot with three matching sizes; foldable design for more versatility and convenience; comes with solid construction and high-quality material
- Best without Roof Rack: RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Equipped with the triple-seal technology for heavy-duty carrying; water-resistant material; strong and durable strap for long-term uses”
- SANHIMA Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“Removable and adjustable straps for effortless detachment and attachment; made of standard PVC material for more durability”
- MIDABAO 20 Cubic Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“20 cubic feet capacity offers plenty of room; equipped with a great strap system including two long straps and six shorter straps”
- Smashier Rooftop Cargo Carrier
“ Uses military-grade nylon, water-resistant material and dual seam technology to protect your things safely; reflective strips for added security; heavy-duty strap system for stable and easy attachment”
Best Rooftop Cargo Carriers Comparison Chart 2021
An overlook is important to determine which product matches your requirement. The comparison table below might be beneficial when it gives you some significant features of 15 best rooftop cargo carriers in my article.
Top 15 Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier Reviews In 2021
After having an overview of these 15 best rooftop cargo carriers, you might need more details to know what is the most suitable pick. Below is an in-depth review that will offer you more information and features of these products.
Best Overall: ToolGuards Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Comes with a two – year warranty
- Made of high-quality and 100% waterproof material
- Large capacity to hold heavy stuff
- Easy to install
- Inexpensive
Cons
- It’s quite narrow
ToolGuards rooftop cargo carrier is one of the most durable and versatile products on the market thanks to its high-quality materials and flexible design.You can use it with or without racks effortlessly.
If your car is equipped with the rack, there are four roof rack straps for ease of installation.In case your vehicle doesn’t have a roof rack, you still can use this car top carrier with four durable door hook straps.
The most impressive point about these straps is that they could be connected to your car body directly without installing inside so it’s more convenient and safe.
In addition, this best rooftop cargo carrier bag comes with a well-made construction and premium material. It is made of fabric-guarded and coated tarpaulin high-protecting your belongings from water, wind, and dust.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 14.41 x 12.13 x 5.35 inches |
| Weight | 9.38 pounds |
| Sizes | 15 Cubic Feet; 20 Cubic Feet |
| Material | Tarpaulin & Fabric – guarded |
| Brand | ToolGuards |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best Budget: TMS J-Bar Rack HD Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Come at an affordable price
- Easy to install with J-Bar design and on/off hardware
- High mounted for easy load and unload
- Vacuum sealed for better durability
- Offer great kayak protection
Cons
- It cannot fold
This TMS J-Bar Rack HD Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the best option if you are looking for easy-to-install and affordable car top carriers when it is designed simply.
With the J shape and two parts including a platform to connect your car and a holding arm to carry stuff, you can use this product in an easy way without instruction.
Furthermore, it is made of high-quality steel which is a strong and durable material. This best rooftop cargo carrier 2021 could hold a surprising range of weight, at 75 pounds. With the high mounted design, it is able to fit any type of car with a crossbar.
The only thing I don’t like about this item is that it cannot be folded. Thus, it might relate to drag in long-term uses.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 17.5 x 12.5 x 6.5 inches |
| Weight | 8 pounds |
| Sizes | 75 pounds |
| Material | Steel |
| Brand | TMS |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best Bag: AmazonBasics Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- 1-year limited warranty included
- Waterproof material for long-term usage
- Can be folded to save space
- Offer large weight capacity
- Unique zip closure keeps your stuff safe and dry
- Heavy-duty zipper for extra security
Cons
- Cannot use without roof rack
The most attractive feature about this AmazonBasics Rooftop Cargo Carrier is its oversized zipper closure which is equipped with waterproof flaps and strong seams. As such, your stuff will be protected even in harsh weather.
Along with that is the high-quality, durable, and water-resistant material that could protect your items from water, wind, and dust optimally. Thus, this rooftop cargo bag is ideal for all-weather.
You can connect this item to your car effortlessly. With strong 8-inch straps included, this item will attach your roof rack in seconds. However, if your car doesn’t come with a roof rack, this AmazonBasics Rooftop Cargo Carrier is not suitable.
Additionally, this best rooftop cargo box is foldable. Thanks to that, you could store it or carry it in a compact size easily when not in use.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 43.5 x 16.84 x 33.5 inches |
| Weight | 6.2 pounds |
| Sizes | 15 cubic feet |
| Material | Not available |
| Brand | AmazonBasics |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best Heavy-duty: ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Easy to install
- Durable and rust-free construction
- Made of heavy duty steel material
- Match almost OEM racks and all shapes of roof racks
- Affordable price tag
Cons
- Related to wind noise
This ROLA 59504 V-Tex basket could be considered as one of the best rooftop carrier baskets thanks to its firm construction and high-quality material.
Firstly, this product comes with a two-piece structure that could carry a huge amount of belongings without worrying to be cracked or broken. This strong, heavy-duty rooftop basket could hold a maximum weight at 130 pounds. Such an impressive number!
Secondly, with a simple design, you could install and assemble this item on your car effortlessly. Just put your stuff on this basket and use strong straps included to keep them safely on your car roof.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 48 x 37.5 x 5 inches |
| Weight | 54.6 pounds |
| Sizes | 130 pounds |
| Material | Steel |
| Brand | Rola |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
SANHIMA Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction
- Uses a durable materials
- High volume to carry a lot of stuff
- Flexible and removable straps
- Anti-slip mat keeps this carrier in place
- Can be attached with or without roof rack effortlessly
Cons
- It needs more durable straps
- No security features included
One of the best features of this SANHIMA Rooftop Cargo Carrier is its strap system which is adjustable and removable. Thanks to three installation modes, this carrier could fit your car completely. Based on your car roof space, you can adjust the straps effortlessly.
Along with that is a direct and manual instruction so you just need to follow steps included to install this rooftop cargo carrier.
It is made of premium PVC materials that are waterproof and very durable. With a black waterproof barrier, this item could withstand heavy rain perfectly. Also, according to the SANHIMA manufacturer, this material is 2 or 3 times more durable than other typical products.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 44 x 33 x 17 inches |
| Weight | 7.5 pounds |
| Sizes | 15 cubic feet |
| Material | PVC coated mesh; 500D*500D PVC fabric |
| Brand | SANHIMA |
Best Waterproof: RoofPax Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Long lasting and 100% waterproof
- Six door hooks included
- Military materials
- Could work without roof racks
- Extra large with 19 cubic feet size
- Protective mat included
Cons
- A little bit expensive
- The zipper is not highly-waterproof
This RoofPax Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the only one in the market that comes with excellent security features. This item offers you six free door hooks for added safety when you travel. Thanks to that, you will never have to worry about any accidents when installing this item on your car roof.
Another impressive thing about this best rooftop cargo carrier without a roof rack is its waterproofness. If other products can just avoid 80-90% of rainwater, this one will protect your belongings with 100% water-resistant ability due to the dual seam welding technology and military materials.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 47.2 x 35.4 x 19.8 inches |
| Weight | 11.5 pounds |
| Sizes | 15 cubic feet; 19 cubic feet |
| Material | Systhetic fabrics |
| Brand | RoofPax |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best for Ease-of-Install: Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Sleek and stylish design
- Come with three sizes for different purposes
- Very large load capacity
- Easy to use with quick mounted system and dual side opening design
- Low-profile construction for space-saving
- More convenient with dual-side opening
Cons
- It’s quite difficult to open the cover
This best rooftop cargo carrier for Toyota Highlander is designed for ease of use. With simple construction and convenient design, you can install it on your car roof quickly and effortlessly.
This Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier comes with a quick-mounting system to add safety for your journey. You could just close this carrier when all your stuff is engaged. Also, the dual-side opening design will help you open and close your carrier conveniently.
This waterproof rooftop cargo carrier is made with the space efficiency kept in mind. Depending on your purposes, there are three varied sizes including 16 cubic feet, 18 cubic feet, and 22 cubic feet for you to choose. XXL size is extra large and it can hold a lot of gear.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 84.5 x 36 x 17 inches |
| Weight | 46 pounds |
| Sizes | 16 cubic feet; 18 cubic feet; 22 cubic feet |
| Material | Not available |
| Brand | Thule |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best for Subaru Outback: Thule 682 Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Come with a compact design
- Easy to load and upload
- Two locks included for more safety
- Durable construction with high-quality material and hard shell shape
- Equipped with adjustable basket to fit your car perfectly
- Passenger-side opening for easy and quick using
Cons
- Expensive
- Small volume
This Thule 682 Rooftop Cargo Carrier will be an ideal option if you want a compact product. With a space-saving design, this car roof box can fit most private cars or cars with small roof space.
Also, this item can attach most types of rack systems, factory racks, and round bars. Even though this box is just 8 cubic feet in size, it could hold a large load capacity, about 110 pounds.
This hard shell roof top cargo carrier has two locks to enhance the security and keep your contents in place.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 54 x 25 x 15.5 inches |
| Weight | 16 pounds |
| Sizes | 8 cubic feet |
| Material | Polyurethane |
| Brand | Thule |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best Hard Shell: Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Extra security with central look
- Come in three size
- Sleek design with glossy finish
- Easy to use with single side opening system
- High mounted for more safety and stability
- Central lock adds more security on your trip
- Ideal to hold sport equipments
Cons
- Expensive
- It might be water-leaked
This Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Carrier comes with a glossy design with the matte black finish. With high-quality rugged ABS plastic material and a good finish, this car roof carrier is durable and waterproof. As such, it’s definitely the best hard shell option for you.
In addition, this product comes with a low-profile design which can avoid accidents when traveling. Also, this construction is very ideal for garage storage. When it is not in use, you can store this cargo carrier effortlessly even though its size is really large.
An attractive point about this Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the quick-mounting system. Thanks to that, you can close and open this carrier easily. Along with that is the central locking and key system that keeps your belongings safe.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 76 x 33 x 16.5 inches |
| Weight | 47 pounds |
| Sizes | 11 cubic feet; 14 cubic feet; 16 cubic feet |
| Material | Rugged ABS plastic |
| Brand | Thule |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
MIDABAO 20 Cubic Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Very large capacity
- Could work with or without roof racks
- Malleable material for ease of storage
- 8 heavy-duty straps in total for added safety
Cons
- It might be leaked
This MIDABAO 20 Cubic Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the best way to go if you prefer extra-large capacity for your trips when it is 20 cubic feet in size, larger than many other products on the market.
What sets this item apart from other competitors is its security features. It comes with two long straps and six short straps for ease of installation. While other rooftop cargo carriers just have four straps in total, this one has eight. Thus, your cargo bag will be stable on your car roof.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 51 x 40 x 17 inches |
| Weight | 9.53 pounds |
| Sizes | 20 cubic feet |
| Material | Waterproof – PVC Materials |
| Brand | MIDABAO |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Smashier Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Night reflective details for extra security at night
- Large capacity
- Strong and durable material
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not suitable for car without roof rack
This Smashier Rooftop Cargo Carrier is made of very high-quality, military-grade nylon. Also, It is extra durable and 100% waterproof thanks to the dual seam welding technology. Along with that is a unique zipper design that could avoid every leaking and keep your gear dry.
Moreover, this item is equipped with reflective strips that most other rooftop cargo carriers on the market don’t have. This detail not only makes it outstanding but also adds more safety when you travel in the dark.
This best rooftop cargo carrier is made with the safety kept in mind. It is equipped with six heavy-duty straps for safer and more durable attachment. Thanks to that, you will never have to worry about accidents when you are on the road.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 44.5 x 34.3 x 17.7 inches |
| Weight | 8.78 pounds |
| Sizes | 16 cubic feet |
| Material | Military Grade Nylon |
| Brand | Smashier |
Best for Camping: Keeper 07203-1 Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Easy to install
- Highly protected
- Come in two different sizes
- Foldable
- Soft-sided design is convenient and versatile
Cons
- Could not be used without roof rack
This Keeper 07203-1 Rooftop Cargo Carrier is an ideal option for camping or regular uses due to its large volume and durable material. It comes in two sizes including 11 cubic feet and 15 cubic feet. Depending on your needs, choose the right size and you will have a lot of space.
Another point that you would like about this best rooftop cargo carrier is its premium material. It is made of high-grade rubber laminated nylon which is nearly 100% waterproof. Thanks to that, it could keep the moisture out of your belongings even in heavy rain.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 44 x 34 x 17 inches |
| Weight | 5.25 pounds |
| Sizes | 11 cubic feet; 15 cubic feet |
| Material | Rubber laminated nylon |
| Brand | Keeper |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best for Luggage: KEEPER 07204 Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Affordable price
- Suitable for most standard cars
- Foldable for ease of carrying and storage
- It works quietly
Cons
- Not strong materials
What makes this Keeper 07204 Rooftop Cargo Carrier stand out of other products on the market is its ability to carry any type of luggage. You want to carry big size or odd-shaped stuff but no cargo carrier can do that? Don’t worry, this best rooftop cargo carrier will help you.
In addition, this item is very convenient to use when it’s foldable and you can store it anywhere you want without space-consuming. Thanks to that, you can carry it easily on your trip. Also, with two sizes of capacity including 11 cubic feet and 15 cubic feet, it’s suitable for both short trips and long trips.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 44 x 34 x 17 inches |
| Weight | 6 pounds |
| Sizes | 11 cubic feet; 15 cubic feet |
| Material | Not available |
| Brand | Keeper |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best for Honda Pilot: Rightline Gear Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- 100% waterproof
- One-year warranty included
- Compatible to cars without roof racks
- Compact design for ease of storage
- Installing is just a snap
- Come with a wide variety of sizes to choose from
Cons
- Not very durable
- The zipper is quite hard to use
This best rooftop cargo carrier for Honda Pilot comes with three different sizes that could match many carrying purposes. For example, if you are looking for some carrier for your slight-trip, 10 cubic feet size is available for you. In case you prefer more storing space, there are 15 cubic feet size and 18 cubic feet size included.
Also, it is foldable. You can fold it in seconds to store in your car trunk or garage when it’s not in use.
Furthermore, this heavy duty folding cargo is designed with a solid construction. It is made of high-quality PVC Semi-Coated Mesh XT which is very durable. This material is UV protected and highly waterproof so your belongings will never get wet.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 5.31 x 11.18 x 12.6 inches |
| Weight | 5.7 pounds |
| Sizes | 10 cubic feet; 15 cubic feet; 18 cubic feet |
| Material | PVC Semi-Coated Mesh |
| Brand | Rightline Gear |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
Best without Roof Rack: RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Pros
- Very easy to install
- Two – year warranty included
- Made in USA
- Triple – Seal technology for extra security
- Can work with bare roof
- Heavy – duty material
Cons
- A little bit expensive
The most impressive feature of this RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the triple-seal technology which makes this one very strong and safe to use. Also, with heavy-duty construction, this product could withstand harsh weather conditions and avoid nearly 100% rainwater.
Moreover, this car top carrier without a roof rack comes with two ultra-strong straps that are easy to use and you can install them in seconds. Based on your car features, you can attach this item with or without roof racks effortlessly.
Product specs:
| Item Dimensions | 48 x 38 x 18 inches |
| Weight | 8 pounds |
| Sizes | 15 cubic feet |
| Material | Heavy-duty polyester |
| Brand | RoofBag |
To learn more about this rooftop cargo carrier, please watch this review video:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier In 2021
Type of rooftop cargo carrier
The first factor that you should consider before purchasing a rooftop cargo carrier is its type. There are three main types of car roof carriers that you could choose including car roof bags, car roof boxes, and car roof baskets. Each type has its own advantages and matches varied needs.
The cargo bag is the most affordable option for you. It is usually made of nylon or fabric that is waterproof and heavy-duty. However, in harsh weather or heavy rain, it might still leak.
The rooftop cargo box is the most modern pick since it is made of high-quality material and has a sleek design. This one is generally heavier and bulkier but it’s highly water-resistant and more durable.
Finally, the basket is the way to go if you want to carry a lot of gear or some cargo bags for an instant.
With or without roof rack
When you want to buy a rooftop cargo carrier, you have to depend on your car features. Generally, car roof carriers will be designed for two main types of cars, with and without roof racks.
If your car comes with a roof rack, it’s much easier to select a cargo carrier since all types of carriers on the market could work with a roof rack.
In case your vehicle doesn’t have a roof rack, there are still many products that come with door hook straps for you to install effortlessly.
Capacity
The next factor that you should keep in mind when buying a new cargo carrier is its capacity. On the market, car roof carriers might come in varied sizes that are determined by cubic feet units.
Generally, 15-16 cubic feet is the most popular size when it’s large enough to fit most types of vehicles and to hold a wide range of stuff.
However, if you are looking for smaller or bigger carriers, there are many manufacturers releasing 10-11 cubic feet carriers or 18-20 cubic feet carriers.
FAQs
What is the best rooftop cargo carrier?
My pick is ToolGuards Rooftop Cargo Carrier due to its high-quality material, solid construction, versatility, and durability.
How do I choose a rooftop cargo carrier?
Generally, there are some factors that you should know before choosing a rooftop cargo carrier including the size you need, type of cargo carrier, size and capacity, material, security.
Can you rent car top carriers?
Yes, you can. There are many websites and offline shops where you could rent a rooftop cargo carrier. You could rent it for a long or short time depending on your needs.
What is the biggest roof box available?
It is Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier in XXL size which is 22 cubic feet.
Does uhaul rent rooftop carriers?
No, U-Haul does not rent rooftop carriers.
My Top Pick
I personally choose the Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Carrier as the best option for my trip. I believe that I get what I pay. Thus, even though this one comes with a high price tag, it is an excellent hard shell carrier with all needed features. I can put a lot of stuff in this carrier and drive with peace in mind.
Do you think a hard shell carrier or bag carrier is better for your rooftop? What is your favorite brand of rooftop cargo carrier? Have you chosen the best product for your own yet? Please tell me what’s on your mind via the comment section. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. I’m pleased to answer you. Thanks for reading!