10 Best Cargo For Car Roof No Roof Rack 2026 in the United States

The Yakima SkyBox NX XXL is a hard shell rooftop cargo box designed to expand your vehicle’s storage capacity, offering a spacious 22 cubic feet that can easily hold gear for up to five campers or skis up to 215 cm. This makes it a great match for family trips or outdoor adventures where you need extra room without sacrificing interior space. It attaches to your car’s roof rack using a roof mount system, which is the standard and secure way to install such boxes; however, this means you do need a compatible roof rack on your vehicle. Installation is straightforward for most users, and the box’s aerodynamic shape helps reduce wind drag and noise better than bulkier cargo carriers.

Made from durable materials, it features a sleek, nano-textured finish that should hold up well against scratches and looks modern on the roof. Security is well covered with Yakima’s SKS push-button lock system, giving you peace of mind that your belongings are safe while you travel. One thing to note is that the box is not water resistant, so in heavy rain, some moisture might get inside, which is worth considering if you often travel in wet conditions.

Also, at over 22 cubic feet, it’s on the larger side, which could affect fuel efficiency more than smaller boxes. If you already have a roof rack and want a reliable, easy-to-access cargo solution with good security and modern design, the Yakima SkyBox NX XXL is a strong choice. However, if your primary concern is waterproofing or minimizing impact on fuel consumption, you might want to explore other options.

The JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a hard shell storage solution offering 18 cubic feet of space, which is roomy enough for family trips or bulky items. Made from durable plastic, it is weatherproof, keeping your belongings dry with a tight seal and a four-corner locking system, giving you good security on the road. Its aerodynamic shape helps reduce wind resistance, which can improve fuel efficiency slightly compared to boxier designs.

Installation is straightforward and tool-free, making it easy to mount on compatible crossbar-style roof racks. The carrier opens from the rear, allowing convenient loading and unloading without having to reach over the car’s hood. Weighing 35 pounds, it is light enough for one person to handle but still sturdy. A downside is that it requires a crossbar-type roof rack to attach, so it is not suitable for vehicles without any roof rack system at all.

The product boasts a solid build and a limited lifetime guarantee, but users should verify roof rack compatibility before purchase. Its security features are decent but might not deter all theft attempts since the locking system uses basic latches. This cargo carrier is a practical choice for drivers who already have or plan to install a crossbar roof rack and want a durable, weather-resistant, and easy-to-use storage box for their travels.

The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box is a solid choice for those needing extra storage space without a roof rack. It offers a generous 18 cubic foot capacity, which is ample for most travel needs. The box is constructed from durable, UV-resistant ABS plastic, ensuring it can withstand harsh weather conditions. One of its key strengths is its rear opening design, which allows for easy access away from traffic, enhancing safety during use.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the tool-free mounting hardware, making it accessible even for those not particularly handy. It can fit SportRack rack systems, square bars, round bars, and most factory racks, offering flexibility in mounting options. The included key and lock provide an added layer of security, keeping your belongings safe during transit.

However, it's essential to note that while the cargo box is designed to fit various racks, it may not be suitable for vehicles without any roof rack system at all. Additionally, the weight capacity is capped at 100 pounds, which might limit the types of items you can store. Its aerodynamics are reasonably good, but as with any roof box, there may be some impact on fuel efficiency and driving dynamics. In summary, this cargo box is a robust, easy-to-use solution for expanding your vehicle's storage, provided you have an existing rack system or can install one.