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10 Best Rooftop Cargo Carriers 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Thule Motion 3 LTitan

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,201
Capacity
Mounting System
Aerodynamics

Most important from
150 reviews

Capacity
Plenty of space for two full-sized suitcases, one carry-on, and additional miscellaneous items.
Mounting System
Installation is a breeze, taking less than 10 minutes to complete.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamic design not only looks great but also contributes to its unique style.
Security Features
The lock and latching mechanism make opening and closing the box smooth and easy.

The Thule Motion 3 LTitan is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable rooftop cargo carrier, particularly for those who value aerodynamics and ease of use. Its wing-shaped profile and forward-leaning nose design not only help reduce drag but also contribute to better fuel efficiency, making it a smart option for long road trips or everyday use. With a capacity of 450 liters, it offers ample space for luggage, gear, or outdoor equipment, accommodating a variety of needs for families or adventure enthusiasts. The sturdy lid design, featuring a wide handle, allows for convenient one-handed opening and closing, enhancing accessibility.

Mounting the carrier is simple thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system, which includes an integrated torque indicator to ensure a secure fit. This feature makes it user-friendly, especially for those who may not have much experience with rooftop carriers. Additionally, the SlideLock system adds an extra layer of security, automatically locking the lid and indicating when it's securely closed.

The Thule Motion 3 LTitan stands out in the rooftop cargo carrier market, especially for those prioritizing ease of use and aerodynamics. With its ample storage capacity and convenient features, it's well-suited for family vacations or outdoor activities, though potential users should consider its weight and material durability when making a decision.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,201
Capacity
Mounting System
Aerodynamics

Most important from
150 reviews

Capacity
Plenty of space for two full-sized suitcases, one carry-on, and additional miscellaneous items.
Mounting System
Installation is a breeze, taking less than 10 minutes to complete.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamic design not only looks great but also contributes to its unique style.
Security Features
The lock and latching mechanism make opening and closing the box smooth and easy.
#2

Thule Force 3 XXL US

Rating
10.0
Mounting System
Security Features
Aerodynamics

Most important from
57 reviews

Mounting System
The mounting system is incredibly easy to use with a great range, making installation smooth and hassle-free.
Security Features
Dual-sided opening significantly enhances accessibility, especially when traditional single-side access is inconvenient.
Aerodynamics
The aerodynamic design helps reduce wind drag and noise during travel, improving the overall driving experience.

The Thule Force 3 XXL is a spacious rooftop cargo box offering 21 cubic feet of storage, making it ideal for families or active individuals needing extra room for gear, luggage, or sports equipment. Its large size (about 91 x 35 x 18 inches) fits well on most cars, SUVs, trucks, and even electric vehicles, which means it’s quite versatile. Weighing 53.5 pounds, it’s moderately heavy but manageable for installation and removal. The durable plastic material combined with a weather-resistant design ensures your belongings stay protected from rain or dust during travel.

One of the standout features is its aerodynamic shape, which helps reduce wind drag and noise, improving fuel efficiency compared to boxier carriers. The mounting system is user-friendly, with a tool-free install and a clear click indicator, so you know when it’s securely attached to your roof rack—a great convenience. Security is well thought out with the SlideLock system, which locks the lid automatically and shows when it’s properly closed, giving peace of mind against theft. Accessibility is enhanced by dual-sided opening, allowing you to reach your cargo easily from either side of the vehicle.

While water resistant, it may not be fully waterproof in heavy rain or deep water exposure. Also, its larger dimensions require consideration of your vehicle’s roof size and height clearance to avoid issues in low garages or parking areas. If you need a reliable, easy-to-use, and secure rooftop box with considerable space for road trips or outdoor activities, this model presents a solid choice.

Rating
10.0
Mounting System
Security Features
Aerodynamics

Most important from
57 reviews

Mounting System
The mounting system is incredibly easy to use with a great range, making installation smooth and hassle-free.
Security Features
Dual-sided opening significantly enhances accessibility, especially when traditional single-side access is inconvenient.
Aerodynamics
The aerodynamic design helps reduce wind drag and noise during travel, improving the overall driving experience.
#3

Yakima Car Roof Cargo Carrier, SkyBox NX XXL Rooftop Hard Shell Box with SKS Lock, Black - Heavy-Duty Vehicle Storage Accessories for Travel and Camping

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Dimensions
Material

Most important from
37 reviews

Capacity
The spacious interior easily accommodates bulky gear like inflatable paddle boards and multiple suitcases, freeing up ample room inside the vehicle.
Dimensions
Installation is best done with two people due to the carrier’s length and bulk, and having a helper or stepladder is recommended for ease.
Material
Premium build quality and hardware durability justify the higher price point compared to off-brand alternatives, with the benefit of available replacement parts.
Mounting System
Integrated clamps provide secure mounting that holds firmly even on large SUVs, ensuring confidence during travel.
Aerodynamics
The low profile on cross rails helps minimize wind noise and drag, delivering a surprisingly quiet ride despite its size.

The Yakima SkyBox NX XXL is a hard-shell rooftop cargo carrier designed for family trips and outdoor activities, offering a spacious 22 cubic feet of storage. It can accommodate large items like skis up to 215 cm, making it a solid choice for those needing to transport bulky gear. The dual-sided opening allows easy access from either side of your vehicle, which can save time and hassle during loading and unloading.

Constructed from durable plastic with a sleek finish, this box is built to withstand regular travel wear. Its roof mount system is straightforward. The product is not water resistant, so it might not fully protect your gear in heavy rain or wet conditions. Security is strong thanks to integrated SKS locks with push-button operation, providing confidence that your belongings will stay safe.

The streamlined shape of the cargo box helps reduce wind noise and drag compared to bulkier models. This cargo box is best suited for travelers and campers who need a roomy, secure, and easy-to-use roof storage solution but should be cautious if expecting strong weatherproofing.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Dimensions
Material

Most important from
37 reviews

Capacity
The spacious interior easily accommodates bulky gear like inflatable paddle boards and multiple suitcases, freeing up ample room inside the vehicle.
Dimensions
Installation is best done with two people due to the carrier’s length and bulk, and having a helper or stepladder is recommended for ease.
Material
Premium build quality and hardware durability justify the higher price point compared to off-brand alternatives, with the benefit of available replacement parts.
Mounting System
Integrated clamps provide secure mounting that holds firmly even on large SUVs, ensuring confidence during travel.
Aerodynamics
The low profile on cross rails helps minimize wind noise and drag, delivering a surprisingly quiet ride despite its size.

Buying Guide for the Best Rooftop Cargo Carriers

Choosing the right rooftop cargo carrier can make your travels more convenient and enjoyable by providing extra storage space for your gear. When selecting a rooftop cargo carrier, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and fits your vehicle properly. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of storage space the cargo carrier provides, usually measured in cubic feet. This spec is important because it determines how much gear you can carry. If you often travel with a lot of luggage or bulky items, you'll need a larger capacity. For occasional use or smaller loads, a smaller capacity may suffice. Consider the typical amount of gear you plan to transport and choose a carrier that can comfortably accommodate it.
DimensionsDimensions refer to the length, width, and height of the cargo carrier. This spec is crucial because it affects how well the carrier fits on your vehicle and how much it can hold. Larger dimensions provide more storage space but may also create more wind resistance and affect your vehicle's handling. Measure your vehicle's roof and ensure the carrier's dimensions are compatible. Also, consider the type of items you'll be carrying; longer items like skis may require a longer carrier.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity indicates the maximum weight the cargo carrier can safely hold. This is important to ensure you don't overload the carrier, which could damage it or your vehicle. Check your vehicle's roof load limit and choose a carrier with a weight capacity that matches or is slightly below this limit. Think about the weight of the items you typically transport and ensure the carrier can handle it.
MaterialThe material of the cargo carrier affects its durability, weight, and weather resistance. Common materials include hard-shell plastic and soft-shell fabric. Hard-shell carriers are more durable and weather-resistant but heavier and more expensive. Soft-shell carriers are lighter and more affordable but may not offer the same level of protection. Consider the climate and conditions you'll be traveling in and choose a material that suits your needs.
Mounting SystemThe mounting system refers to how the cargo carrier attaches to your vehicle's roof. This is important for ensuring a secure fit and ease of installation. Some carriers require roof racks, while others can be mounted directly to the roof. Check your vehicle's roof type and existing equipment, and choose a carrier with a compatible mounting system. If you prefer easy installation and removal, look for carriers with user-friendly mounting systems.
AerodynamicsAerodynamics refers to how the cargo carrier's shape affects air resistance and fuel efficiency. This is important because a more aerodynamic design can reduce wind noise and improve fuel economy. Carriers with sleek, low-profile designs are generally more aerodynamic. If you plan to use the carrier frequently or for long trips, consider an aerodynamic model to minimize the impact on your vehicle's performance.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include locks and other mechanisms that protect your belongings from theft. This spec is important for ensuring the safety of your gear, especially if you leave your vehicle unattended. Look for carriers with built-in locks or the ability to add your own. If security is a high priority for you, choose a carrier with robust locking mechanisms and consider additional security measures like cable locks.

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