10 Best Roof Cargo Boxes 2026 in the United States

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.

The Yakima SkyBox General Travel Vehicle Rooftop Cargo Carrier Box offers a spacious 16 cubic feet of cargo space, making it suitable for carrying gear for up to 3 campers, including snowboards and skis. The size (75.5 x 35 x 16 inches) and weight (46 pounds) are manageable for many vehicles, including cars, wagons, and SUVs. Its NX nano-textured lid and base give it a sleek appearance and help in reducing drag, aiding in aerodynamics.

The dual-sided opening is a convenient feature, allowing access from either side of the vehicle, and the full metal opening handle adds to ease of use. The removable torque-limiting knob ensures a secure installation, providing peace of mind while traveling. Additionally, the cargo box is compatible with a range of crossbars, enhancing its versatility. However, being made of plastic, some users might have concerns about its long-term durability compared to metal options.

Additionally, while it’s water-resistant, it might not be entirely waterproof, which could be a drawback in heavy rain conditions. The security features, such as the mechanical latch, are basic and might not offer the highest level of theft protection.

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.