Yakima SkyBox 21

Yakima SkyBox 21

Best for large loads
21 cubic ft. load capacity means room for everything
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Thule MotionXT

Best overall
Everything you need and nothing you don't
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Thule Hyper XL

Best looking

Sleek, stylish and beautiful

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SportRack Vista XL

Best value for money

Quality at a reasonable price

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Thule Sidekick

Best for small cars

Double your car's luggage space

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Roof Box Buyers Guide

I was recently introduced to the absolute convenience of rooftop cargo carriers. They are amazing if you are short on cargo space. Whether you are going on a family roadtrip or need some extra space for transporting bulky sporting equipment, there is a cargo box for you. Like most things though, there's rarely a one size fits all product. To make it a bit easier we compiled a roof box buyers guide with product suggestions in various categories.

We know that everyone is different and needs something slightly different. That's why we've made a recommendation in each of the following categories:

Yakima SkyBox 21 - Best cargo box for large loads

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Yakima introduced the first SkyBox 12 years ago and has been refining it ever since. The SkyBox 21 (denoting its 21 cu. ft. storage) is one of the largest rooftop cargo boxes we've reviewed. Nothing touches it when comes to sheer loading space packaged in a neat, high-quality design. This is why we chose it as the best cargo box for large loads.

Overview

Having too much gear is a common problem for most adventure lovers. Whether you're going camping, to the slopes or just getting to grips with the vast amount of baby gear you have to haul around as a new parent, the Yakimma SkyBox 21 will swallow it all. 

What we like

It comes fully assembled out of the box. To install, simply open the lid, release the clamps and loosen the thumb wheels. You can now position the cargo box on your roof rack cross bars and slide it so the clamps engage the load bars. The last step is to tighten the thumb wheels and engage the clamps. Super easy!

What we don't like

Users have reported some quality issues. Whether it's a big enough problem to not buy this massive cargo box is another question.

What we like

  • Loads of space
  • Dual-sided opening
  • Fits all bar types
  • No assembly required
  • Tool-free installation

What we don't like

  • Users have reported some quality issues with the lid
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Thule Sidekick - Best cargo box for small cars

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The combination of roof cargo boxes and small cars is a no-brainer. You can double your loading space in minutes using the right solution. We’ve chosen the Thule SideKick as the best cargo box for small cars.

Overview

The SideKick is a small cargo box from Swedish manufacturer Thule. With a load capacity of 8 cu. ft. and 75lb. it’s not the biggest cargo solution, but it’s perfect if you don’t have a lot of space to start with.

What we like

The Thule sidekick is about the same size as your average soft sided cargo bag. Unlike with a cargo bag though you don’t have to worry about your stuff getting wet since it’s completely weatherproof. It’s also a whole lot more secure with its hard shell and two locking cores.

What we don't like

Because of Thule’s reputation for building solid, well designed products some small issues can be annoying. It is important to remember though that the Sidekick is Thule’s entry level rooftop cargo box. With this in mind we realize we cannot expect the same features as on some of the more premium roof boxes.

What we like

  • Compact and light
  • Weatherproof
  • Fits all bar types
  • Build quality

What we don't like

  • Stuff can snag on mounting knobs
  • No 'quick install' hardware
  • Not compatible with Thule’s ‘One Key’ system
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SportRack Vista XL - Best value cargo box

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If you are purely looking for maximum storage space at the best price, then look no further than the SportRack Vista XL.

Overview

The Vista XL will not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you are looking for a durable cargo box at an excellent price point, you can’t ask for more. Some of the features won’t be to everyone’s taste, but it greatly depends on your intended use of the cargo box.

What we like

Unlike most of the other cargo boxes we’ve reviewed, the SportRack Vista opens from the rear. The biggest benefit of this is that you’ll be safely away from traffic while loading or unloading.

What we don't like

A general drawback of using U-brackets to mount anything to your roof rack is that it’s easy to scratch the cross bar.

What we like

  • Price
  • Durable construction

What we don't like

  • ‘Quick mounting’ hardware is actually very basic
  • Not the most stylish storage box on the market
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Thule Motion XT - Best overall cargo box

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This roof mounted cargo box beats the competition in all areas. The features have been well thought through and with a range of sizes to choose from there is suitable for everyones needs.

Overview

The bottom line is that this is a big box that can carry loads of gear. It is also very easy to use. It's weatherproof, easy to install and comes in a range of sizes. You cannot ask for more.

What we like

The SlideLock is the best closing/locking mechanism we've seen on a roof mounted cargo box. When you close the lid, the loud click confirms that it is closed securely. It's easy to install and in most cases can be done by a single person.

What we don't like

Compared to cargo box from other manufacturers, this is quite an option. But rest assured that you get alot for your extra bucks. This really is a case of you get what you pay for. An excellent cargo box.

What we like

  • SlideLock locking mechanism
  • Secure
  • Durable

What we don't like

  • A bit on the pricey side
  • Chuncky looks might not be to everybody's taste
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Thule Hyper XL

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We mentioned recently how 56Nord is developing roof top cargo carriers that's been fitted to supercars. Unfortunately they are only protoypes. But not to worry. Thule has something that's not just stylish but also has the benefit of a comprehensive range of accessories to extend it's usability.

Overview

Thule describes the Hyper XL as an exclusive, sleek, and convenient roof box. I have to agree, it sure looks good. The two-toned design featuring a large raised "X" makes it look absolutely fantastic. Its sleek looks belies the ample 17 cu ft storage capacity it offers. The Hyper XL should not be confused with the very similar Thule Excellence XL that is marketed outside North America.

What we like

The Hyper XL comes ready to install. No assembly is necessary. It ships with four 'AcuTight' mounting clamps, two tie down straps, a LED light and a set of keys. If you have other Thule gear you can exchange the lock cylinders allowing the use of a single key on multiple locks.

What we don't like

If the possibility of the key breaking off in the lock is a big enough concern to keep looking, then have a look at the Thule Motion XT cargo box. It features Thule's SlideLock mechanism that provides seperate locking and opening functions combined with most of the benefits of the Hyper XL.

What we like

  • Very easy to install
  • Decent load capacity
  • Makes any car look good

What we don't like

  • A bit on the pricey side
  • It's possible to break the key off in the core when releasing the lid
  • Glossy finish can scratch easily
  • Expensive
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Buyer's Guide

When your gear takes up more space in you car than people, it might be time to consider a rooftop cargo box. These versatile cargo solutions consist of a hard-shelled box that is fixed to your existing roof racks. Other than adding up to 22 cu. ft. of cargo space they are also great for keeping wet gear out of the car or conversely. keeping luggage dry.

When choosing a carrier box, there are some key features to look out for. Some are nice to have, but others you simply cannot do without.

Dual Sided opening

Many of the higher end models come with a lid that can be opened from either side. Some cleverly designed hinges has made this possible. It's especially helpful when carrying additional gear on your roof rack that restricts access from one side or the other. Finding stuff in a larger box is also way easier when you're able to open the lid from either side.

Quick install mounting hardware

Mounting clamps that allows the cargo box to be easily installed and removed is great when you don't want it on your roof permanently. Being able to easily install and remove it will make you use it more. Some models come with old school U brackets that requires basic tools to fasten them to the roof rack cross bars. Their installation time is therefore a lot longer. This is fine for when the box is going to be on your car for a while, but not if you want a box that's quick to install.

Safety

Safety is a two-part consideration: The security of your gear inside the roof box, but also the safety for you and your fellow road users. Most of the cargo boxes we review are lockable. Thule and Yakima both have a 'one key fits everything' system which means one key will open all your roof rack accessories (provided they are from the same manufacturer). Yakima system is called SKS (Same Key System) and Thule's is the 'One Key Lock System'. Original, we know.  

When buying a cargo box, the safety of you and fellow road users are very important. Manufacturers go to great lengths to ensure their products are designed to be safe. Thule in particular takes great pride in their various testing routines, ensuring their products meet the most stringent safety standards. Check out this video to see the Thule Test Center™ in action.

FAQs

Do I need a roof rack?

Yes. The rooftop cargo boxes listed here all need a well fitted roof rack to be mounted on. The mounting systems are universal though and all boxes will fit most common roof rack cross bars. Check out our Roof Rack Buyers Guide to see which rack is most suited to your car.

How much gear can I load?

This will depend on three things:

  • Your fitted roof rack's carry capacity
  • Your vehicle's roof type and how the cross bars are fitted to it
  • The size of the rooftop carrier you get. The largest roof box we have reviewed is the Yakima SkyBox 21
Will a cargo box affect my fuel consumption?

Yes, you will see an increase in your fuel consumption. The good news is that it's not much. It's only when driving at highway speeds that fuel economy starts to suffer. You can expect a 6-10% drop in fuel economy

How should I store my roof box?

If your roof box will not be a permanent fixture to your car, manufacturers recommend storing it horizontaly instead of in an upright position. If storage space is an issue you might want to consider a hoist system. The Thule MultiLift is a perfect way to store your roof box. It allows it to be stored suspended from your garage roof. The box is raised and lowered onto your car by way of an easy to use pully system.

Cargo box hatch clearance guide

We have created this simple reference chart containing clearance information of the most popular roof boxes on the market.
Read the guide

Other options

If a cargo box doesn't quite fit your needs, other options to consider are cargo baskets or soft-sided cargo bags.

Cargo baskets

A cargo basket is an open-air container where all contents must be secured in place or covered by a cargo net. Perfect if you have to move oversized items that won't fit into a cargo box. A cargo basket is a cheaper option, but security and weather proofing are some obvious drawbacks. Then ofcourse there is the bug issue. It gets nasty up there, especially during a long trip.

Soft-sided cargo bags

Soft-sided cargo bags are strapped directly to your vehicles roof or secured to existing roof racks.You can stuff quite a bit into a cargo bag and when you are not using it, it folds up nice and small for easy storage. Unfortunately cargo bags are not as secure as hard shell cargo boxes as they cannot be locked. Also, if keeping the contents dry is important, a roof box might be the better option.

So which cargo box should I buy?

Like most things, there is no short answer. It all depends on your personal needs. We have reviewed many cargo carriers and have selected five options that should cover most needs. Here they are:
Yakima SkyBox 21

Yakima SkyBox 21

Best for large loads
21 cubic ft. load capacity means room for everything
Check Price

Thule MotionXT

Best overall
Everything you need and nothing you don't
Check Price

Thule Hyper XL

Best looking

Sleek, stylish and beautiful

Check Price

SportRack Vista XL

Best value for money

Quality at a reasonable price

Check Price

Thule Sidekick

Best for small cars

Double your car's luggage space

Check Price

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