10 Best Roof Cargo Boxes 2025 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 Thule Motion 3 Rooftop Box is a large, hard-shell cargo carrier with a spacious 14-cubic-foot capacity, making it suitable for families or anyone needing extra storage on road trips. Its wing-shaped design and forward-leaning nose help reduce wind drag, which can improve fuel efficiency compared to bulkier boxes. Made from sturdy aluminum, it promises durability, though it is not water-resistant, so care is needed in heavy rain. Weighing 23.5 kg, it’s relatively easy to handle given its size.

The PowerClick quick-mount system simplifies installation by giving a clear click when properly secured, making it user-friendly and ensuring safety on the road. Security is enhanced by the SlideLock system, which automatically locks the lid and visually confirms when it’s closed, giving peace of mind that belongings are safe. A wide handle makes opening and closing smooth with one hand, adding to convenience. Optional accessories like interior lighting and protective liners add value but come separately.

The box fits universally on most roof racks, though its large size means you should check your vehicle’s roof space before buying. It represents a reliable, aerodynamic cargo box with good security and ease of use, especially suited for longer trips or when carrying bulky gear. Just keep in mind the lack of water resistance if you often face wet weather.

The Thule Force 3 XL is a spacious roof cargo box offering 18 cubic feet of storage, making it a great choice for families or active users needing extra room on their SUV, truck, car, or even electric vehicle. Weighing 66 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight for its size, which helps with easier handling during installation. Made from durable plastic, it’s designed to withstand daily use and various weather conditions, although it's water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, so heavy rain might still be a consideration.

One standout feature is its aerodynamic shape, which helps reduce wind noise and drag, potentially improving fuel efficiency compared to bulkier boxes. The mounting system is user-friendly and tool-free, with a clear click indicator to confirm the box is securely attached — this makes setup fast and reassuring. Dual-sided opening is a big convenience plus, allowing access to your gear from either side of the vehicle without having to unload everything.

Security is well thought out with the SlideLock system, which automatically locks the lid and visually confirms when it’s securely closed, giving peace of mind when leaving your belongings unattended. The Thule Force 3 XL is well-suited for anyone looking for a reliable, easy-to-use, and spacious hard-shell roof box with smart security and practical accessibility. It balances durability and convenience effectively, though those frequently driving in very wet climates might want to consider its water resistance level.