10 Best Rooftop Cargo Carriers 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Thule Motion 3 XL
The Thule Motion 3 XL is a hard-shell rooftop cargo carrier designed to add extra storage space on your vehicle, ideal for road trips or carrying bulky gear. It offers a spacious 16 cubic feet of capacity with dimensions of 88" long, 18" wide, and 39" high, which should fit a wide range of items. Made from lightweight aluminum, it weighs just 8 pounds, making installation and removal easier compared to heavier models. The design includes a wing-shaped profile and a forward-leaning nose that help reduce wind resistance, which can improve fuel efficiency during travel.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,192
Capacity
Dimensions
Weight Capacity
Most important from
189 reviews
#2
Thule Force 3 L US
The Thule Force 3 Size L rooftop cargo carrier offers a spacious 16 cubic feet of storage, making it suitable for families or adventurers who need extra space for gear when traveling in SUVs, trucks, cars, or EVs. Its dimensions (about 77 x 33 x 17 inches) fit well on most vehicles, and the box weighs around 36 pounds, which is manageable for installation. Made from durable plastic, it balances sturdiness with a sleek, aerodynamic design that helps reduce wind noise and drag during drives, improving fuel efficiency compared to bulkier alternatives.
Rating
9.7
Weight Capacity
Material
Mounting System
Most important from
40 reviews
#3
Thule Force 3 XL US
The Thule Force 3 XL rooftop cargo carrier offers an 18 cubic feet capacity, making it spacious enough for families or outdoor enthusiasts who need extra storage on trips. Its large dimensions (about 85 x 34 x 19 inches) suit SUVs, trucks, cars, and even electric vehicles, accommodating bulky items efficiently. Weighing 66 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for its size, which helps with handling during installation or removal.
Rating
9.1
Capacity
Dimensions
Weight Capacity
Most important from
26 reviews
Top 10 Best Rooftop Cargo Carriers 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Thule Motion 3 XL
Thule Motion 3 XL
Capacity: 16 cubic feet
Dimensions: 88"L x 18"W x 39"H
Material: Aluminum
Mounting System: Thule PowerClick quick-mount
Aerodynamics: Wing-shaped profile, forward nose
Security Features: SlideLock system
Chosen by 1192 this week
Thule Force 3 L US
Thule Force 3 L US
Capacity: 16 cubic feet
Dimensions: 76.8 x 33.3 x 16.8 inches
Material: Plastic
Mounting System: Tool-free, user-friendly with click indicator
Aerodynamics: Sleek design reduces wind noise, drag
Security Features: SlideLock auto-locks lid, signals closure
Thule Force 3 XL US
Thule Force 3 XL US
Capacity: 18 cubic feet
Dimensions: 84.8 x 34.1 x 18.5 inches
Material: Plastic
Mounting System: Roof Mount
Aerodynamics: Design reduces drag and wind noise
Security Features: SlideLock auto-locks lid, shows secure
FIVKLEMNZ 30 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock
FIVKLEMNZ 30 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock
Capacity: 30 Cubic Feet
Dimensions: 60 x 43 x 20 inches
Material: 840D PVC
Mounting System: 10 straps, 6 door hooks
Security Features: Included luggage lock
MeeFar Rooftop Cargo Carrier Car Roof Bag 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Car Top Carrier, Fits All Vehicle with/Without Rack,Include Anti-Slip Mat,10 Reinforced Straps,6 Door Hooks,Luggage Lock
MeeFar Rooftop Cargo Carrier Car Roof Bag 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Car Top Carrier, Fits All Vehicle with/Without Rack,Include Anti-Slip Mat,10 Reinforced Straps,6 Door Hooks,Luggage Lock
Capacity: 20 Cubic Feet
Dimensions: 47"L x 35"W x 21"H
Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Mounting System: Roof Mount
Aerodynamics: Soft bag, less aerodynamic
Security Features: 6 hooks, combination lock
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Thule Pulse 2 Aerodynamic roof Mounted Box, Size L, 16 cu ft, Dual-Sided Opening with Locks, Tool-Free Install, for SUVs, Trucks, Cars, EVs
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Thule Pulse 2 Aerodynamic roof Mounted Box, Size M, 14 cu ft, Dual-Sided Opening with Locks, Tool-Free Install, for SUVs, Trucks, Cars, EVs
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Capacity: 14 cubic feet (400 liters)
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Mounting System: Tool-free system with torque indicator
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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
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
Capacity: 22 Cubic Feet
Material: Plastic
Mounting System: Roof Mount
Aerodynamics: Streamlined shape reduces wind noise
Security Features: Integrated SKS locks, push-button operation
#10
Yakima SkyBox NX 18 Roof Top Cargo Carrier, 18 Cubic Feet, Black – Vehicle Rooftop Hard Shell Travel Storage Box with Dual Sided Opening, SKS Locks and Universal Mounting
Yakima SkyBox NX 18 Roof Top Cargo Carrier, 18 Cubic Feet, Black – Vehicle Rooftop Hard Shell Travel Storage Box with Dual Sided Opening, SKS Locks and Universal Mounting
Capacity: 18 Cubic Feet
Dimensions: 84"L x 36"W x 16.5"H
Material: Plastic
Mounting System: Roof Mount
Aerodynamics: Smooth design reduces wind drag
Security Features: Metal handle locks gear and box
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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.