Whether you’re going on a trip or hauling emergency equipment, extra storage space in your car is becoming more and more essential. Because, let’s face it, throwing things on the back seat or asking your passengers to hold on to them is not ideal.
That’s where rooftop cargo boxes come in handy. They’re convenient, large, and out of the way. They’re the best solution to have your things stored securely without them rattling at every stop sign.
That’s being said, here’s our guide to the top 5 largest roof cargo boxes.
1. Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box XX-Large
The Thule Force XT size XX-Large is the largest roof cargo box on the market, boasting a whopping 22 cubic feet and up to 165 lb of storage space.
Its other features include an easy no-tool installation that clicks on proper mounting and dual-side opening for easy access.
This model can hold skiing equipment and snowboards up to 84.6 inches in length. And if you’re concerned about security, the Thule Force XT comes with an included sturdy locking system.
When it comes to trunk access, the Thule offers maximum opening capacity since it’s shifted toward the front of the vehicle.
One downside of the Thule Force XT is the weight, as the XX-Large size weighs 52lbs, which will affect the carrying capacity depending on the maximum loading capacity of your car’s roof.
Pros:
- Largest option out there
- One-click mounting
- Dual side opening
Cons:
- Expensive
- Very heavy
2. SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
SportRack offers a great deal if you’re on a budget. At 18 cubic feet of storage volume, the Vista XL can hold up to 100 lbs of cargo.
Another advantage the SportRack Vista has is that it’s much lighter than other cargo boxes we’ve tested as it’s only 25 lbs. This helps save on the loading weight of your car.
The SportRack Vista is easy to install, dustproof, and waterproof. The rear opening is ideal if you’re on the road and avoiding traffic, though some would prefer a side-opening cargo box for easier access.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
- Large volume
Cons:
- Not the best weight capacity
- Rear-side opening is more difficult to access for some
3. DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8295-BK XXL Cargo Carrier
The Extra Long XXL rooftop cargo carrier from DNA Motoring offers a smooth, aerodynamic design that saves up on fuel as it reduces drag.
Crafted from ABS plastic with a glossy or textured finish, the DNA Motoring cargo box can withstand harsh weather conditions without compromising your luggage. It’s quite voluminous at 17 cubic feet and can hold up to 110 lbs of cargo.
The DNA Motoring Extra Long XXL Cargo Carrier comes pre-assembled and ready to mount, with its own lock and keys. The opening is also accessible from both the driver’s and passenger’s sides.
However, the weight of this DNA Motoring cargo box is more than 56 lbs, and the extra-long aspect of the box can cause compatibility issues with some cars.
Pros:
- Aerodynamic design saves on fuel
- Comes pre-assembled
- Dual-sided opening
Cons:
- Heavy build with a lower weight capacity
- Could be too long for some cars
4. Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Just like its sister product mentioned above, the Thule Motion XT cargo box is perfect for doing all the heavy lifting, quite literally. With an 18 cubic feet and 165 lbs storage capacity, it’s our second-largest contender on this list.
Made from the same sturdy material as the Thule Force XT, this sleek design comes in an additional titanium glossy color option alongside the black.
And with the same dual side opening and the no-tools-necessary mounting, it’s just as good as the Force, but in a smaller package.
The Thule Motion XT in size XL weighs 46 lbs, which is slightly less than the Thule Force XT, but is still a bit hefty. However, it also comes in a smaller 16 cubic feet option if you don’t require the full length of 78 inches.
Pros:
- Great storage capacity
- Multiple color options
- Dual-sided opening
Cons:
- Heavy
- Expensive
5. Goplus Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Car Box
If you feel like the products we already mentioned are a bit too large for your needs, here’s a great option: the GoPlus cargo box. At 14 cubic feet, it’s smaller than the others, but it can carry up to 165 lbs of cargo in its 25 lbs frame with ease!
The GoPlus cargo box is made of sturdy, weatherproof ABS material and comes with a double secure lock, as you can only remove the key after you’ve closed and locked the box cover.
Unfortunately, there seems to be a small problem with some roof bars not being the correct space apart for this box to attach, so make sure to check whether your car is compatible with the model or not.
Pros:
- Great storage capacity
- Lightweight
- Double secure locking
Cons:
- Compatibility issues
- Smaller than the other options
How Do I Take Care of My Rooftop Cargo Box?
Roof cargo boxes are an excellent way to maximize your car’s luggage-carrying capacity, but you should make sure to follow the few tips below to make the most of your cargo box:
- Never go through the carwash with your cargo box. It might be damaged in the process.
- Clean your box with dish soap and water, no need for harsh chemicals as they can damage the ABS plastic the box is made from.
- If your box fades or changes colors, you can use a color restorer like Polytrol, or Car Guys Plastic Restorer to keep it in shape.
- Make sure your cargo box is securely attached to your roof bars and that there’s no rattling or shaking when the car moves. If you’re not certain it’s latched on, use cargo anchors to secure it in place.
- Pack solid items near the lock of the cargo box and softer items that can get squished towards the middle. This way you can avoid them getting stuck in the locking mechanism and preventing it from opening.
Final Thoughts
There you have it; the five largest roof cargo boxes on the market. If you’re in the market for the largest of the large, the Thule Force XT is your go-to.
If you’re looking for something a bit smaller but can still handle a lot of cargo, consider the Thule Motion XT or the Goplus Cargo Car Box.