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10 Best Roof Cargo Boxes 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Thule Motion 3 LTitan

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,207
Size and Capacity
Material and Durability
Aerodynamics

Most important from
148 reviews

Size and Capacity
Extremely spacious for loading luggage, making it ideal for family trips.
Material and Durability
This cargo box is incredibly well designed from both an esthetic and functional point of view.
Aerodynamics
Fits perfectly well on the Toyota Highlander, with an aerodynamic design that gives it a unique style.
Mounting System
Installation was a breeze and took less than 10 minutes.
Security Features
The lock and latching mechanism make opening and closing the box a breeze - it feels much smoother than the old Yakima Skybox.

The Thule Motion 3 LTitan is a strong contender in the roof cargo box category, particularly for those needing a spacious and durable solution for transporting gear. With a volume of 450 liters, it offers ample storage for large items, making it ideal for families or outdoor enthusiasts who need extra space for luggage or equipment. The sturdy aluminum build ensures durability while remaining relatively lightweight at about 24 kg, which is beneficial for mounting and handling.

One of the standout features is its aerodynamic design, which not only reduces drag but also helps improve fuel efficiency—a significant plus for longer trips. The PowerClick quick-mount system allows for easy installation, and the integrated torque indicator provides reassurance that it’s securely fitted. Additionally, the SlideLock system enhances security, ensuring the lid locks automatically while providing a clear indication that it’s properly closed.

The Thule Motion 3 LTitan is well-suited for individuals or families looking for a reliable and spacious roof cargo box. Its user-friendly features and solid build make it appealing.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,207
Size and Capacity
Material and Durability
Aerodynamics

Most important from
148 reviews

Size and Capacity
Extremely spacious for loading luggage, making it ideal for family trips.
Material and Durability
This cargo box is incredibly well designed from both an esthetic and functional point of view.
Aerodynamics
Fits perfectly well on the Toyota Highlander, with an aerodynamic design that gives it a unique style.
Mounting System
Installation was a breeze and took less than 10 minutes.
Security Features
The lock and latching mechanism make opening and closing the box a breeze - it feels much smoother than the old Yakima Skybox.
#2

Yakima Car Roof Cargo Carrier, SkyBox NX XXL Rooftop Hard Shell Box with SKS Lock, Black - Heavy-Duty Vehicle Storage Accessories for Travel and Camping

Rating
9.1
Size and Capacity
Material and Durability
Aerodynamics

Most important from
36 reviews

Size and Capacity
Provides massive storage space that frees up room inside the vehicle, accommodating bulky gear like inflatable paddle boards and multiple suitcases with room to spare.
Material and Durability
Easy to install and access, with a sleek and lightweight design that feels structurally solid and well built.
Aerodynamics
The integrated clamps hold securely, and the box sits low on cross rails, resulting in surprisingly quiet rides with minimal wind noise.
Mounting System
Requires two people to mount due to its size and weight, so having a helper and possibly a stepladder is recommended for installation.

The Yakima SkyBox NX XXL is a hard shell roof cargo box designed for families and outdoor enthusiasts needing extra storage on their vehicle roof. It offers a generous 22 cubic feet of space, enough to hold gear for up to five campers or skis as long as 215 cm, making it suitable for large trips or bulky equipment. The dual-sided opening is a handy feature that makes loading and unloading easier from either side of the car. Built from durable plastic with a sleek, textured finish, it looks modern while providing sturdy protection for your belongings. Its security is enhanced by push-button SKS locks, which offer reliable protection against theft.

This model is not water-resistant, so it may not fully protect your gear in heavy rain. The mounting system is a roof mount type, designed to fit most vehicles securely. Although the box is solid and practical, it is relatively heavy when loaded, which could affect fuel efficiency due to added weight and wind resistance.

This cargo box represents a strong choice for those needing a spacious, secure, and stylish storage solution for travel and camping, but it may require some care in wet weather.

Rating
9.1
Size and Capacity
Material and Durability
Aerodynamics

Most important from
36 reviews

Size and Capacity
Provides massive storage space that frees up room inside the vehicle, accommodating bulky gear like inflatable paddle boards and multiple suitcases with room to spare.
Material and Durability
Easy to install and access, with a sleek and lightweight design that feels structurally solid and well built.
Aerodynamics
The integrated clamps hold securely, and the box sits low on cross rails, resulting in surprisingly quiet rides with minimal wind noise.
Mounting System
Requires two people to mount due to its size and weight, so having a helper and possibly a stepladder is recommended for installation.
#3

Yakima SkyBox NX XL 18 Roof Top Cargo Carrier, 18 Cubic Feet, Black – Vehicle Rooftop Hard Shell Travel Storage Box with Dual Sided Opening, SKS Locks and Universal Mounting

Rating
8.8
Size and Capacity
Security Features

Most important from
36 reviews

Size and Capacity
Lots of room for strollers, pack n play, bouncy chair, and suitcases. Very quiet ride, and extremely easy to install and quick access.
Security Features
Very secure locking devices ensure that your belongings are safe and sound during transit.

The Yakima SkyBox NX Extra-Large Cargo Carrier Box offers a spacious solution for transporting gear with 18 cubic feet of capacity, making it ideal for families or group trips. Its dual-sided opening is convenient, allowing access from either side of your vehicle, which makes loading and unloading easier. The removable torque limiting knob ensures a secure installation, while integrated tie down points help keep your belongings in place during transit. Additionally, the included SKS locks provide an extra layer of security, ensuring that your gear is safe from theft.

The stylish NX nano texture on both the lid and base gives it a sleek, modern look, enhancing your vehicle's aesthetic as well. The box fits all Yakima StreamLine crossbars and most factory or aerodynamic crossbars, adding to its versatility. The box also offers optimized hatch clearance, ensuring it fits snugly without obstructing access to the car's trunk. However, the product is made of plastic, which might not be as durable as some metal counterparts. It is also not water-resistant, which could be an issue in wet weather conditions. Weighing 53 pounds, it may be slightly heavy for some users to manage alone.

Rating
8.8
Size and Capacity
Security Features

Most important from
36 reviews

Size and Capacity
Lots of room for strollers, pack n play, bouncy chair, and suitcases. Very quiet ride, and extremely easy to install and quick access.
Security Features
Very secure locking devices ensure that your belongings are safe and sound during transit.

Buying Guide for the Best Roof Cargo Boxes

Choosing the right roof cargo box can make your travels more convenient and enjoyable by providing extra storage space for your vehicle. When selecting a roof cargo box, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs. These specifications will help you determine the best fit for your vehicle and the type of items you plan to carry.
Size and CapacitySize and capacity refer to the dimensions and volume of the roof cargo box. This spec is important because it determines how much you can store inside the box. Roof cargo boxes come in various sizes, typically measured in cubic feet. Small boxes (10-12 cubic feet) are suitable for carrying a few items like camping gear or small luggage. Medium boxes (13-16 cubic feet) can hold more items, such as multiple suitcases or sports equipment. Large boxes (17-22 cubic feet) are ideal for families or long trips, accommodating larger and bulkier items. To pick the right size, consider the amount and type of items you need to transport and ensure the box fits your vehicle's roof without overhanging.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity indicates the maximum weight the roof cargo box can safely carry. This spec is crucial to avoid overloading the box and potentially damaging your vehicle or causing safety issues. Weight capacities typically range from 75 to 165 pounds. To navigate this spec, check your vehicle's roof load limit and the box's weight capacity. Choose a box that can handle the combined weight of your items without exceeding these limits. If you plan to carry heavy items, opt for a box with a higher weight capacity.
Material and DurabilityMaterial and durability refer to the construction and sturdiness of the roof cargo box. This spec is important for ensuring the box can withstand various weather conditions and protect your belongings. Roof cargo boxes are usually made from materials like ABS plastic, fiberglass, or aluminum. ABS plastic is lightweight and durable, making it a popular choice. Fiberglass is strong and resistant to impact but can be heavier. Aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant but may be more expensive. To pick the right material, consider the typical weather conditions you'll encounter and the level of protection you need for your items.
AerodynamicsAerodynamics refers to the design of the roof cargo box and how it affects your vehicle's fuel efficiency and noise levels. This spec is important because a more aerodynamic box can reduce wind resistance, leading to better fuel economy and a quieter ride. Roof cargo boxes with a sleek, tapered design are more aerodynamic. To navigate this spec, look for boxes with a streamlined shape and low profile. If you frequently drive long distances or at high speeds, an aerodynamic box can help save on fuel costs and provide a more comfortable driving experience.
Mounting SystemThe mounting system refers to how the roof cargo box attaches to your vehicle's roof rack. This spec is important for ensuring the box is securely fastened and easy to install or remove. Common mounting systems include U-bolts, clamps, and quick-release mechanisms. U-bolts and clamps are secure but may take longer to install. Quick-release mechanisms are faster and more convenient but can be more expensive. To pick the right mounting system, consider how often you'll need to install or remove the box and your comfort level with the installation process. If you plan to frequently switch the box between vehicles or remove it when not in use, a quick-release system may be more suitable.
Security FeaturesSecurity features refer to the locks and mechanisms that keep your belongings safe inside the roof cargo box. This spec is important to prevent theft and ensure your items are secure during travel. Most roof cargo boxes come with built-in locks, but the quality and number of locks can vary. Some boxes have central locking systems that secure the entire box with one key, while others have multiple locks for added security. To pick the right security features, consider the value of the items you'll be storing and the level of security you need. If you plan to leave the box unattended for extended periods, opt for a box with robust locking mechanisms.

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