10 Best Rooftop Cargo Boxes 2026 in the United States

The Yakima SkyBox NX XL is a hard shell rooftop cargo box offering a spacious 18 cubic feet of storage, which can comfortably fit gear for up to four campers or long items like skis and snowboards up to 195 cm. It weighs 53 pounds, which is moderate and should be manageable for most users when installing it on the roof. The box is made of durable plastic with a sleek, nano-textured finish designed to resist scratches and wear, though it is not water resistant, so protection from heavy rain or water exposure could be a concern.

One of its standout features is the dual-sided access, allowing you to load and unload from either side of the vehicle, making it very convenient especially in tight parking spaces. The full metal handle and SKS lock provide solid security for your belongings and help lock the box to the vehicle, giving peace of mind during travel. The mounting system is roof-mounted, typical for this type of product.

Aerodynamically, while the product brief does not detail wind resistance, the low-profile design and smooth surface suggest it aims to reduce drag, potentially minimizing impact on fuel economy. The flattened interior floor maximizes usable space inside, so you won’t lose room to awkward shapes or supports. The box is best suited for dry conditions or with additional waterproofing measures. The Yakima SkyBox NX XL is a great choice if you need large, secure, and easily accessible rooftop storage for camping or winter gear, though the weight and lack of water resistance should be considered when planning your trips.

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 Force 3 (Size M) rooftop cargo box offers a solid balance of practicality and quality for anyone looking to expand their vehicle’s storage space. With 14 cubic feet of capacity, it’s a good fit for small families or individuals needing extra room for gear on trips. The box weighs about 32.6 pounds, which is manageable when installing or removing it. Made from durable plastic, it’s designed to withstand daily use and various weather conditions, though it’s water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, so some care around heavy rain is advisable.

Aerodynamics play an important role in minimizing wind noise and drag while driving, and this model features a sleek shape that helps keep the ride quieter and more fuel-efficient compared to boxier designs. The mounting system is user-friendly with a tool-free install and a clear click indicator, making it easy to attach securely even if you’re not handy with tools. Accessibility is enhanced by the dual-sided opening, letting you load or unload cargo from either side of your car, which is very convenient in tight parking spaces.

Security is handled well with the SlideLock system, which automatically locks the lid and shows when it’s securely closed, giving peace of mind when you leave your vehicle. The box fits most SUVs, trucks, cars, and even electric vehicles, making it versatile for different drivers. Since it’s water-resistant but not fully waterproof, heavy rain or deep snow might require extra caution to keep your items dry. While the 14 cubic feet size suits many, those needing lots of space might find it limiting compared to larger options. This makes the Thule Force 3 a reliable, easy-to-use rooftop cargo box that meets the needs of active users looking for moderate extra storage with good security and convenient access.