10 Best Roof Racks 2025 in the United States

The Thule 613 Pulse Cargo Box Alpine is a solid choice if you need extra storage space on your roof, offering 11 cubic feet to carry gear like skis, snowboards, or camping equipment. It supports up to 110 lbs, which suits most typical loads without causing strain on your vehicle. Installation is straightforward thanks to the FastGrip quick-mount system, allowing you to set it up in just minutes without special tools. The box opens from the passenger side, making loading and unloading easier depending on your parking situation.

Its rugged plastic build is water-resistant and durable, protecting your belongings in various weather conditions. Additionally, the central locking system with Thule Comfort Key adds a good layer of security, ensuring the box stays locked during travel. While the box is designed to fit universally on most roof racks, its relatively tall height off the crossbar (11.3 inches) might slightly impact your vehicle’s aerodynamics and fuel efficiency compared to lower-profile options.

The size also means it’s not the best fit if you’re looking for maximum cargo volume or need to transport very bulky items. For those needing a reliable, easy-to-use cargo box with decent capacity and solid security, this model provides a dependable option that balances convenience with protection.

The Thule Force 3 XL is a hard-shell roof-mounted cargo box designed to fit a wide range of vehicles including SUVs, trucks, cars, and electric vehicles, making it highly compatible. It offers a substantial 18 cubic feet of storage space, which is ideal for active families or outdoor enthusiasts needing extra cargo capacity without compromising interior comfort. Weighing 66 pounds, it is sturdy yet manageable for loading and unloading. The aerodynamic design helps reduce wind resistance and noise during travel, which is a nice bonus for longer trips.

Installation is straightforward and tool-free, with a mounting system that clicks to confirm secure attachment, making it user-friendly even for those who don’t often install roof racks. Accessing your gear is convenient thanks to dual-sided openings, so you can reach inside the box from either side of the vehicle. Security-wise, the SlideLock system automatically locks the lid and indicates when it is properly closed, ensuring your belongings stay safe and protected. The box is water resistant, so it offers good protection against rain and snow, though it is not fully waterproof, so very heavy or prolonged exposure to water might be a concern.

The materials and design reflect durability for everyday use, tested for safety and endurance. Some users might find the box a bit heavy to handle alone, and since it’s universal fit, it’s good to double-check your vehicle’s roof rack compatibility before purchase. With a solid 4.3-star rating, it represents a reliable choice for anyone needing extra, secure cargo space that’s easy to use and aerodynamic.

The MeeFar Roof Rack Carrier Basket stands out as a solid choice for those needing additional cargo space for their vehicle. It's built from durable tubular steel with a rust-free coating, ensuring a strong yet lightweight design. With a load capacity of 200 pounds, it provides ample space for transporting gear, luggage, or recreational equipment. The dimensions of 51” x 36” x 5” make it suitable for a variety of vehicles, provided they have the necessary cross bars for mounting.

One of its key strengths is the aerodynamic wind shield that helps protect your cargo from wind damage while also enhancing the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Additionally, it comes with useful accessories, including a waterproof rooftop bag with a generous 15 cubic feet of storage, along with a cargo net and ratchet straps to secure items during transport.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Installation requires cross bars that are not included, which might be an extra cost for some users. While the assembly is straightforward with the universal U-bolt system, the need for cross bars limits compatibility with certain vehicles. Some users have also noted that while it performs well, extreme wind may still result in noticeable noise during travel. On the security front, while it does not have built-in locking mechanisms, the included cargo net and straps do provide some level of security for your belongings.