Best Roof Boxes For Cars for Road Trips and Gear

#1 · Best Overall

1. Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG

• Dimensions: 84"L x 36"W x 16.5"H
• Weight: 53 lb
• Material Type: Plastic

Best for: Large ski-trip cargo capacity.

Why it ranks #1: Its 18-cubic-foot capacity, dual-sided access, included SKS locks and stated fit for skis or snowboards up to 195 cm make it broadly useful.

The Yakima SkyBox NX 18 combines 18 cubic feet of storage with space for skis and snowboards up to 195 centimeters, making it a strong match for winter trips. Dual-sided access and a full-metal opening handle add convenience while locking the box and its contents.

Its 18-cubic-foot interior is stated to fit gear for up to four campers, and accommodates skis and snowboards up to 195 centimeters. The dual-sided opening gives access from either side of the vehicle, which can simplify loading in crowded parking areas. A full-metal opening handle locks both the gear inside and the box to the vehicle. The flattened, unobstructed floor is specified as usable interior space, and SKS locks are included.

Skip it if you carry skis or snowboards longer than 195 centimeters; the INNO WEDGE660 lists capacity for skis and boards without a length limit.

Choose this for larger road trips or winter-sports hauling when 18 cubic feet, two-sided access, and the metal locking handle fit your priorities. The stated 195-centimeter equipment limit is the key boundary for long skis or boards.

Listed on Amazon as: Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG Rooftop Cargo Carrier, 18 Cu Ft, SKS Lock, Black

#2 · Best Rear Opening

2. SportRack Vista XL

• Dimensions: 62.5 x 39 x 19 in
• Material Type: Plastic

Best for: Rear-access family gear hauler.

Why it ranks #2: It offers 18 cubic feet, rear access away from traffic, tool-free mounting and stated compatibility with SportRack, square, round and most factory racks.

Rear opening keeps loading and unloading on the curbside or rear of the vehicle, away from passing traffic. The SportRack Vista XL pairs that access with 18 cubic feet of capacity, giving road-trippers substantial room for luggage and gear without relying on the cabin.

Its 18-cubic-foot interior offers space for trip gear, while the rear-opening lid provides access from behind rather than either side. Tool-free mounting hardware makes installation and removal simpler, and the box fits SportRack systems, square and round bars, and most factory racks, subject to the fit guide. UV-resistant ABS construction is specified for durability in sun exposure. A key and lock secure both the contents and the box to the rack; crossbar spacing is listed as 23 5/8 to an incomplete maximum.

Skip it if you need a complete published maximum crossbar spacing; the Vista XL listing ends that range after 23 5/8 inches.

Choose this for road trips when rear access and a roomy 18-cubic-foot compartment matter. Its tool-free hardware and broad listed rack compatibility help with setup, but check the supplied fit guide and account for the incomplete crossbar-spacing range.

Listed on Amazon as: SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box,Black

#3 · Weather-Sealed Pick

3. JEGS 18 cu. ft. Carrier

• Dimensions: 57"L x 39"W x 19.5"H
• Weight: 35.5 lb
• Material Type: Plastic

Best for: Rear-loading weatherproof capacity.

Why it ranks #3: This 18-cubic-foot hard shell has a weather-tight seal, four-corner locking system and rear loading, with a listed 110-pound capacity.

An 18-cubic-foot HDPE hard shell and rear loading make the JEGS carrier a practical match for drivers who want substantial luggage space accessible from behind the car. Its weather-tight seal and four-corner locking system with front latch add specific protection and security features.

The 18-cubic-foot interior measures 57 by 39 by 19.5 inches, giving buyers a defined space for luggage outside the cabin. Rear loading supports access from the back of the car, while the weather-tight seal is intended to protect stored gear. Four-corner locks and a front latch add multiple closure points. The 35.5-pound box has an aerodynamic design that the listing associates with fuel efficiency; its stated load limit is 110 pounds.

Skip it if you need more than 110 pounds of listed load capacity; the Maxsa Innovations 14-cubic-foot carrier lists a 165-pound limit.

This suits drivers carrying luggage who value rear access, weather-tight storage, and a stated 110-pound load limit. Check that the interior dimensions and capacity meet your cargo needs before choosing this hard-shell option.

Listed on Amazon as: 18 cu. ft. Rooftop Cargo Carrier, Weatherproof Hard Shell, 110 lb.

#4

4. Thule Force 3 XL

• Dimensions: 89"L x 18"W x 40"H
• Weight: 65 lb
• Material Type: Plastic

Best for: Quick-mount two-side access.

Why it ranks #4: It provides access from both vehicle sides and a mounting system that signals secure attachment; its listed dimensions are 89 by 18 by 40 inches.

A mounting system that signals secure attachment with a simple click makes the Thule Force 3 XL appealing to drivers who want a clear installation cue. Opening from both sides also lets occupants reach cargo from either side of the vehicle, easing loading in varied parking situations.

The click-indicating mounting system gives a direct signal when the box is securely attached, helping make installation status easier to judge. Dual-side access lets you load or retrieve belongings from the more convenient side instead of circling the vehicle. Thule says the box is tested for road safety and durability in its Test Center, and positions the Force 3 XL for daily use and active lifestyles. The supplied dimensions are 89 by 18 by 40 inches; capacity is not stated in the provided listing.

Skip it if you need a stated cubic-foot capacity before choosing; the Yakima SkyBox NX 18 lists 18 cubic feet.

This fits drivers who prioritize a clear mounting cue and two-sided access for everyday or active-travel loading. Since the supplied information gives dimensions but no capacity, it is a less direct choice when volume is your deciding measure.

Listed on Amazon as: Thule Force 3 XL US

#5

5. Maxsa 17 cu. ft. Box

• Dimensions: 55.12"L x 35.04"W x 16.14"H
• Weight: 35.3 lb

Best for: Lockable 17-cubic-foot storage.

Why it ranks #5: The listing states 17 cubic feet and a 165-pound capacity, with a locking system and two keys; its dimensions are 55.12 by 35.04 by 16.14 inches.

A stated 17 cubic feet of hard-shell storage gives the Maxsa Innovations carrier room for bulky trip loads, while its locking system comes with two keys. At 55.12 inches long, it offers a compact listed footprint for travelers balancing roof cargo space with vehicle dimensions.

The 17-cubic-foot capacity is aimed at carrying gear outside the passenger cabin, and the 55.12-by-35.04-by-16.14-inch dimensions give buyers a concrete footprint to consider for roof storage. A locking system and two keys provide a way to secure the contents during stops. The listing also says robust straps are included, and that all necessary components and clear instructions support installation. At 35.3 pounds, the carrier's stated weight is relevant when lifting it onto the roof.

Skip it if you require a stated ABS or weatherproof shell; the Maxsa Innovations 14-cubic-foot carrier lists ABS construction.

Consider it for travelers seeking 17 cubic feet and a keyed locking system for road-trip gear. Its listed dimensions and weight help assess handling, but buyers who require a specified shell material should consider that limitation.

Listed on Amazon as: Rooftop Cargo Carrier Box, 17Cu ft Hard Shell 165Lbs Capacity

#6 · Low-Profile Design

6. INNO WEDGE660

• Dimensions: 80"L x 33"W x 11"H
• Weight: 42 lb
• Material Type: Polypropylene (PP)

Best for: Low-profile winter-sports hauler.

Why it ranks #6: Its 11-cubic-foot capacity and 11-inch height make it a lower-profile option, with dual-side access and stated room for up to four snowboards.

At just 11 inches tall, the INNO WEDGE660 combines a low-profile shell with space for up to four snowboards or six to eight pairs of skis. Its dual-side opening lets winter-sports travelers load from whichever side of the parked vehicle is easier to reach.

The 80-by-33-by-11-inch dimensions create a long, low profile for carrying snowboards or skis, while the 11-cubic-foot capacity adds room for other travel gear. Dual-side opening reduces the need to walk around the vehicle when loading in a tight parking spot. Tool-free installation is listed, and compatibility includes aero and square bars. The polypropylene shell uses an SPM injection process described as producing uniform thickness and up to 50% greater strength than conventional vacuum forming.

Skip it if you need a published fit for round bars; the INNO Roof Box 320 lists round-bar compatibility.

Pick this for winter trips where ski or snowboard capacity, low height, and access from either side are priorities. Its listed compatibility covers aero and square bars, so the mounting options are a key boundary.

Listed on Amazon as: INNO WEDGE660 White 11 cu ft, Roof Rack, Roof Box, Cargo Box, hard shell, Low profile, Cargo Box, Dual‐Side Opening with Locks, Made in Japan, Compatible with Aero & Square Bars, Tool Free install

#7

7. Maxsa 14 cu. ft. Box

• Dimensions: 62.2"L x 31.5"W x 13.4"H
• Weight: 44.8 lb

Best for: Lower-profile 165-pound carrier.

Why it ranks #7: It lists a 165-pound load limit and ABS construction, with dimensions of 62.2 by 31.5 by 13.4 inches; the capacity is described as 12/14 cubic feet.

A 165-pound load limit paired with a 62.2-by-31.5-by-13.4-inch shell gives this Maxsa Innovations carrier a useful combination of stated capacity and relatively low listed height. Its ABS construction is described as protecting belongings against harsh weather on road trips, camping outings, and everyday travel.

The listing states 12/14 cubic feet of storage and a load limit of up to 165 pounds, so buyers should check which volume applies to their exact setup. At 13.4 inches high, the stated dimensions help assess roof clearance, while the 62.2-inch length and 31.5-inch width define its footprint. ABS construction is described as offering weather protection. Security lockers are included, though the supplied features do not detail the locking mechanism or installation method.

Skip it if you need an unambiguous capacity figure; the JEGS 18 cu. ft. carrier states a single volume.

This is worth considering for travelers prioritizing the stated 165-pound load limit and a shell height of 13.4 inches. The capacity appears as 12/14 cubic feet in the listing, so that ambiguity matters if cargo volume drives your choice.

Listed on Amazon as: 14 Cubic Feet Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier, 165LBS Hard Shell Top Mount

#8

8. munirater 14 cu. ft. Box

• Dimensions: 62.2"L x 31.1"W x 15"H
• Weight: 17400 g
• Material Type: Plastic

Best for: White dual-side luggage box.

Why it ranks #8: Its 14-cubic-foot listing, dual-side opening and two lock keys offer useful features; stated compatibility covers round, square and most aerodynamic bars up to 3 inches wide.

Dual-side opening lets this white munirater box provide access from either side of the car, while its listed 14-cubic-foot volume adds rooftop room for luggage. Two lock keys are included, and compatibility is listed for round, square, and most aerodynamic bars up to three inches wide.

The 14-cubic-foot volume provides additional room for luggage outside the cabin, and opening from both sides offers flexibility when the vehicle is parked close to an obstacle on one side. The product details list compatibility with round, square, and most aerodynamic bars, with crossbars up to three inches wide. Two lock keys are included. The listing gives dimensions of 62.2 by 31.1 by 15 inches, useful for checking the box's footprint against available roof space.

Skip it if you need a named weatherproof or UV-stabilized shell; the D SOLUTIONS 11-cubic-foot box specifies both.

Choose this for luggage runs when two-sided access, 14 cubic feet, and listed compatibility across several bar types suit your setup. Its stated three-inch crossbar width limit and 62.2-inch length are important fit boundaries.

Listed on Amazon as: munirater 14 Cubic Feet Rooftop Box Cargo Luggage Carrier 2 Locks White

#9

9. INNO Roof Box 320

• Dimensions: 71.25"L x 32"W x 10.5"H
• Material Type: Blend

Best for: Compact low-profile bar compatibility.

Why it ranks #9: This compact 9-cubic-foot carrier opens from either side and lists compatibility with aero, square, round and most factory crossbars.

The INNO Roof Box 320 is only 10.5 inches high and holds nine cubic feet, making it a compact low-profile option for everyday hauling. Dual-side opening and compatibility with aero, square, round, and most factory crossbars make access and rack choice more flexible.

Nine cubic feet of storage gives this box room for travel and outdoor gear, while its 71.25-by-32-by-10.5-inch dimensions define a low profile and long footprint. The dual-side opening lets you load from whichever side is accessible. Its universal mounting system is listed for aero, square, round, and most factory crossbars, broadening rack compatibility. The product description also notes a front-slide feature intended to reduce hatch-contact risk, and locks and keys are included.

Skip it if you need 18 cubic feet for a larger load; the Yakima SkyBox NX 18 provides that stated capacity.

This suits drivers who want a low-profile box for everyday gear and value access from either side with broad crossbar compatibility. Its nine-cubic-foot capacity sets a clear limit for larger family or bulky loads.

Listed on Amazon as: INNO ROOF Box 320 Matte Black 9cu ft, Cargo Box, Roof Rack, Roof Box, Hard Shell, Low Profile, Cargo Box, Dual‐Side Opening with Locks, Made in Japan, Compatible with Aero & Square Bars

#10

10. D SOLUTIONS 11 cu. ft. Box

• Dimensions: 53"L x 34"W x 15"H
• Weight: 50.3 lb
• Material Type: ABS Plastic

Best for: Compact weather-ready luggage carrier.

Why it ranks #10: It lists 11 cubic feet, weatherproof ABS construction and tool-free installation, but its stated crossbar fit is limited to bars up to 13 inches wide.

A weatherproof ABS hard shell gives this 11-cubic-foot D SOLUTIONS carrier protection claims against rain, sunlight, snow, and minor impacts. Its 53-by-34-by-15-inch profile offers a defined storage footprint for travelers seeking extra luggage room while keeping passenger space available inside the vehicle.

The 11-cubic-foot interior adds cargo capacity without requiring luggage to occupy passenger seating. Tool-free assembly and quick installation are intended to simplify setup, while the stated universal fit is limited to crossbars up to 13 inches wide, making bar width an important compatibility check. UV-stabilized, weatherproof ABS is specified to protect gear from weather and minor impacts. At 50.3 pounds, the box itself is a consideration when lifting it onto the roof.

Skip it if you need more than 11 cubic feet; the SportRack Vista XL offers 18 cubic feet for larger loads.

This suits travelers who want a hard-shell enclosure for luggage and value tool-free setup. Its 11-cubic-foot capacity is the boundary to weigh against your load, and the stated crossbar width limit is 13 inches.

Listed on Amazon as: Hard Shell Rooftop Cargo Carrier, 11Cubic Ft Waterproof Travel Luggage Box