10 Best Rooftop Cargo Boxes 2025 in the United States

The Thule Motion 3 XXL rooftop cargo box is an excellent choice for those needing a large, durable storage solution for road trips or outdoor gear. It offers a roomy 21 cubic feet of space, capable of carrying up to 165 pounds, which makes it suitable for bulky items like camping equipment or luggage. The aluminum construction provides strength and a premium feel, although it is not fully water resistant, so it is best suited for dry or light weather conditions.

Its aerodynamic, wing-shaped design helps reduce wind drag, potentially improving fuel efficiency compared to boxier models. Mounting the box is hassle-free thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system, which signals when the box is securely attached, offering a tool-free setup that is convenient for occasional users. The lid opens and closes smoothly with one hand, aided by a wide handle, simplifying loading and unloading. Security is enhanced with the SlideLock system that locks the lid tightly and clearly indicates when it’s secured, providing peace of mind when leaving your vehicle unattended.

Additional features such as optional interior lighting and protective liners enhance usability but may increase the overall cost. The cargo box is relatively heavy (about 35 kg), which may make installation challenging for one person. While it does not offer full water resistance, it is solidly built and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. This rooftop carrier is ideal for travelers and families seeking a spacious, secure, and sleek storage solution with easy mounting and access; however, those frequently driving in heavy rain or requiring complete waterproofing might prefer other options.

The Thule Motion 3 XL rooftop cargo box is a strong contender for those looking for extra storage space while traveling. Its wing-shaped profile and forward-leaning nose design help reduce drag, which can contribute to better fuel efficiency—an important factor for long road trips. With a sturdy build made from aluminum, this cargo box offers durability and a weight capacity suitable for a range of items. The easy-to-use PowerClick quick-mount system with an integrated torque indicator makes installation simple and secure, a definite plus for users who might find rooftop mounting challenging.

Accessibility is well thought out, as the box features a wide handle that allows you to open and close it easily with one hand. It also has a SlideLock system that not only secures the lid but also indicates when it’s properly closed, giving peace of mind about safety.

A notable downside is that this box is not water-resistant, which could be a concern for those traveling in wet conditions or looking to store items that need protection from rain. Additionally, while the cargo box is spacious, its weight of 23 kilograms might be heavy for some users to lift onto their vehicles.

The Thule 613 Pulse Cargo Box Alpine is a solid choice for those needing extra storage space on road trips or ski outings. With an impressive capacity of 11 cubic feet, it can accommodate 4-6 skis or 3-4 snowboards, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. Its rugged construction ensures that your belongings remain protected from the elements, and the hard-shell design offers excellent durability.

One of the standout features is the FastGrip quick-mount system, which allows for easy assembly in just a few minutes. This means less hassle when preparing for your adventure. The passenger-side opening enhances convenience, making it easier to load and unload your gear without having to reach across the vehicle.

Security is also prioritized with a central locking system, ensuring that your items are safe while parked. The Comfort Key is designed to be removable only when all locks are securely closed, giving you peace of mind. While the cargo box is lightweight at 30 pounds, some may find it challenging to lift or install without assistance. Additionally, its height off the crossbar at 11.3 inches may impact your vehicle’s aerodynamics slightly, potentially affecting fuel efficiency, though it is designed with aerodynamics in mind. Another aspect to keep in mind is that while the box is water-resistant, extreme weather conditions may still pose a risk to your contents. Finally, being a hard-shell box, it limits flexibility in terms of odd-shaped items compared to soft cargo bags.