10 Best Roof Boxes 2026 in the United States

The Yakima SkyBox NX Extra-Large Cargo Carrier Box offers a spacious 18 cubic feet of storage, making it ideal for families or groups needing to haul gear for up to four campers. Its dimensions, 84 inches long, 36 inches wide, and 16.5 inches high, support the carriage of snowboards and skis up to 76.77 inches, which makes it suitable for winter sports enthusiasts. Weighing 53 pounds, it's relatively lightweight for its size, which can be a plus for ease of installation and mounting.

The cargo box is crafted from plastic, meaning it could be less durable than metal alternatives, but this keeps the weight manageable and contributes to its stylish appearance with an NX nano texture finish. The dual-sided opening is particularly convenient, allowing access from either side of the vehicle, and the optimized hatch clearance ensures it fits snugly without obstructing your rear hatch.

Security is a strong point, with integrated SKS locks and interior tie-down points to keep your belongings safe and secure during transit. However, it's essential to note that the case is not water-resistant, which might be a disadvantage for those planning to travel in rainy conditions. The mounting system is versatile as it fits all Yakima StreamLine crossbars and other factory or aerodynamic crossbars, providing flexibility if you already have a compatible setup. Its aerodynamic design should help in reducing drag and noise while driving, although detailed performance in this area isn't specified.

The Yakima SkyBox NX is a solid choice if you need plenty of extra storage space for trips, offering 16 cubic feet of capacity—enough to carry gear for up to three people, including bulky items like skis or snowboards. Its size (about 75.5 inches long, 35 inches wide, and 16 inches high) is fairly large, so it fits well on most vehicles with roof racks but make sure your vehicle can accommodate these dimensions. At 46 pounds, it’s moderately heavy for a cargo box, but that weight reflects its durable hard plastic build, which is water-resistant to keep your belongings dry.

One standout feature is the dual-sided opening, allowing you to easily access your gear from either side of the car—a real convenience in tight parking spots. The mounting system includes a torque-limiting knob to help secure the box safely and is compatible with many types of roof crossbars, from factory-installed to aerodynamic bars, making it versatile for various vehicles. The design includes a full metal handle for easy opening and locking, adding to the security of your belongings.

The NX nano-textured finish not only looks sleek but likely helps with aerodynamics to reduce wind noise and drag, although as a large box, some increase in wind resistance is inevitable. If you want a reliable, spacious, and user-friendly roof box that balances security and convenience, the Yakima SkyBox NX meets these needs. Just be mindful of its size and weight when loading and consider if your vehicle's roof and crossbars can support it comfortably.

The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box offers an 18 cubic foot (510 liters) internal cargo capacity, making it suitable for family trips or transporting bulky items. Its dimensions are 63 x 38 x 19 inches (160 x 96.5 x 48 cm), providing ample space while maintaining a sleek profile. The box is made from durable UV-resistant ABS plastic, ensuring longevity and resistance to weather elements. Weighing only 28 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle during installation and removal.

The rear opening design allows for easy access away from traffic, enhancing safety during use. The tool-free mounting hardware simplifies the installation process, and the box is compatible with various rack systems including SportRack, square bars, round bars, and most factory racks. For security, it includes a key and lock system to safeguard the contents and secure the box to your vehicle's rack.

The aerodynamic design could be improved to reduce wind resistance and noise during travel. With a maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds (45 kg), it's important not to overload it. This cargo box is an excellent choice for those needing extra storage space with easy installation and good security features, though its aerodynamics could be better optimized.