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 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.