10 Best Roof Top Cargo Carriers 2026 in the United States

The Thule 614 Pulse Rack is a solid option for anyone needing extra space for their outdoor gear or luggage. With a spacious capacity of 14 cubic feet, it can easily hold up to 110 lbs, making it suitable for family trips or weekend getaways. Its rugged design protects your belongings from the elements, which is a huge plus for adventurous users. The FastGrip quick-mount system is user-friendly, allowing you to set it up in minutes, and the passenger-side opening simplifies loading and unloading, especially in tight spaces.

Security is well addressed with its central locking system, ensuring that your items are safe when you’re away from your vehicle. The Thule Comfort Key adds an extra layer of convenience by only allowing removal when all locks are secure, which is a thoughtful feature for peace of mind.

However, there are a few considerations. While the external dimensions fit a variety of vehicles, the size may not be suitable for smaller cars, and its weight of 34 lbs can add to the load of your vehicle. Additionally, while it is designed to fit up to 5 snowboards, this is limited to those with a maximum length of 155 cm, which might not accommodate larger boards or other sports equipment without careful planning. Lastly, being made of plastic, some might question its durability compared to metal alternatives, though its rugged design does help in this regard. The Thule 614 Pulse Rack is best for outdoor enthusiasts or families looking for a dependable, spacious cargo solution, provided they check compatibility with their vehicle and gear sizes.

The Yakima SkyBox NX XXL is a spacious rooftop cargo carrier with 22 cubic feet of storage, making it a great choice for families or groups needing to carry bulky gear like camping equipment or skis up to 215 cm long. Its dual-sided opening is a convenient feature, allowing easy access from either side of your vehicle, which can be especially helpful in tight parking spots.

Made from durable plastic with a hard shell design, the carrier offers a sleek look and a flat interior floor for better packing. It mounts securely to your roof rack, but it is not water resistant, so it might not fully protect your gear in heavy rain. The integrated SKS locks provide good security to keep your belongings safe during travel.

This carrier suits outdoor enthusiasts and families who need reliable, spacious, and secure rooftop storage for road trips, though those expecting full weather protection might want to consider additional waterproof covers or alternatives.

The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box offers a substantial 18 cubic foot (510 liters) internal cargo capacity, making it a strong contender for those needing extra storage space for road trips or camping. Its dimensions (63 x 38 x 19 inches) provide ample room to accommodate various items while keeping them secure and protected. The cargo box is made from durable UV-resistant ABS material, ensuring longevity and resistance to the elements.

Weighing 28 pounds, it is relatively light and easy to handle during installation and removal. The tool-free mounting hardware adds to the convenience, making setup quick and straightforward, even for those not mechanically inclined. This product fits a variety of rack systems, including SportRack, square bars, round bars, and most factory racks, which enhances its versatility. A notable feature is the rear opening, designed for easy access away from traffic, which can be a significant safety benefit.

The max weight capacity of 100 pounds (45 kg) should be adequate for most users, but it's worth noting this limit to avoid overloading. The inclusion of a key and lock system ensures the security of your contents, adding an extra layer of protection. Although the aerodynamics may not be as streamlined as some other models, potentially affecting fuel efficiency slightly, the SportRack Vista XL is a solid choice for those who need a reliable, spacious, and secure cargo box for various travel needs.