Ever packed your car so full that the kids have to sit with their knees touching their chins? We’ve all been there! That moment when you realize your road trip adventure is going to be a very cramped one is never fun. As much as we love our gear, our vehicles have limits. That’s where the magic of a rooftop cargo carrier comes in, turning your packed sedan into a spacious adventure machine.
Choosing the right carrier, however, can feel like navigating a maze. Do you need a hard shell or a soft bag? How much weight can your roof actually hold? These questions can quickly turn excitement into headache. Finding the perfect carrier means balancing space, security, and your budget without ruining your car’s sleek look.
Don’t worry! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the key features, compare the top styles, and give you the insider knowledge you need to select the best rooftop cargo carrier for your next journey. Get ready to unlock serious storage space and travel comfortably!
Top Rooftop Cargo Carriers Recommendations
- 【840D CHAMPION QUALITY MATERIAL】 Made with heavy-duty 840D abrasion-resistant PVC fabric, this ultra-durable car roof cargo carrier stands up to any rough treatment or harsh weather. Better still, the triple-reinforced welded seams make it hard to tear or rip for years to come.
- 【MORE THAN WATERPROOF】 Featuring waterproof zipper wrapped with 6 inches widened velcro zipper flaps, our vehicle cargo carriers will exceed your expectations with the waterproof effet. The reinforced seams will make it possible "zero leakage" even in downpours.
- 【EASY INSTALLATION】 Our roof rack cargo carrier comes with an anti-slip mat and 8 thickened adjustable straps that will keep the cargo bag in place. The smooth zipper, adjustable straps, door hooks and robust buckles allows you to effortlessly secure it to any car.
- 【SECURE FIT & LARGE CAPACITY】 Our 21 cubic feet rooftop cargo bag is compatible with vehicles with our without roof rack, the large capacity can keep the shape nicely, even when holding many luggage cases, blanket, tents, sleeping bags and more.
- 【PACKAGE LIST】You will receive 1x roof top carrier bag, 1x storage bag, 1x anti-slip mat, 6x padded door hooks, 2x extra luggage straps, 1x luggage lock.
- 【Most Safe Design】: For security reasons, we use 8 reinforced adjustable straps to keep the cargo carrier in place. In addition, equipped with free anti-slip mat to keep the cargo bag stay in place even in high speed road or bump road, no slip, no scratch to your car.
- 【Large Storage Space】: FIVKLEMNZ roof bag (46*34*17 inch) was designed to solve the problem of limited storage space in the car. 15 cubic feet rooftop cargo carrier allows you to hold 4-6 suitcases, travel luggage cases, tents, sleeping bags, and more. Free up inside vehicle space for more comfortable on the way.
- 【Easy to Install】：FIVKLEMNZ rooftop cargo carrier fits for any car, truck, or SUV. If there is not roof side rails on your car, it can be quickly and easily installed to roof rack in minutes with 6 door hooks.
- 【Durable Material】: Made from 700D PVC, the FIVKLEMNZ roof bag features a double-layered waterproof cover design. All seams are constructed using heat-sealed welding and stitching techniques to ensure a completely seamless and waterproof structure. However, under extreme weather conditions or in cases of improper use leading to tears, 100% waterproof and rainproof functionality cannot be guaranteed. Please follow the user manual and use the product correctly.
- 【Note】: This is a soft rooftop cargo carrier, not hard. The front and back straps should not be attached to the side bars during installation to prevent tearing over time.
- 【Most Safe Design】: For security reasons, we use 10 reinforced adjustable straps to keep the cargo carrier in place. In addition, equipped with free anti-slip mat to keep the cargo bag stay in place even in high speed road or bump road, no slip, no scratch to your car.Also a security lock to prevent theft of your luggage.
- 【Large Storage Space】: FIVKLEMNZ roof bag (52 x 40 x 18 inches) was designed to solve the problem of limited storage space in the car. 21 cubic feet rooftop cargo bag allows you to hold 6-8 suitcases, travel luggage cases, tents, sleeping bags, and more. Free up inside vehicle space for more comfortable on the way.
- 【Easy to Install】：FIVKLEMNZ rooftop cargo carrier fits for any car, truck, or SUV. If there is not roof side rails on your car, it can be quickly and easily installed to roof rack in minutes with 6 door hooks.
- 【Durable Material】: Made from 700D PVC, the FIVKLEMNZ roof bag features a double-layered waterproof cover design. All seams are constructed using heat-sealed welding and stitching techniques to ensure a completely seamless and waterproof structure. However, under extreme weather conditions or in cases of improper use leading to tears, 100% waterproof and rainproof functionality cannot be guaranteed. Please follow the user manual and use the product correctly.
- 【Important Notes】: This is a soft rooftop cargo carrier, not hard. The front and back straps should not beattached to the side bars during installation to prevent tearing over time. This may cause leaks or holes!!!
- 18 cubic foot (510 L) internal cargo capacity
- Made from durable UV-resistant ABS material
- Rear opening for easy access away from traffic
- Tool-free mounting hardware for easy installation and removal
- Includes key and lock to secure contents in the box, and the box to your rack
- Compatibility issues:Not suitable door hook installation requires exposed metal frame (not glued seals). For crossbars, ensure at least 51 inch spacing. Avoid very small cars where the car roof luggage carrier may overhang.
- LARGE CARRYING CAPACITY: This premium Sailnovo Rooftop Cargo Bag 20 cubic feet of storage car bag capacity and can hold 5-7 suitcases, camping tents, sleeping bags, and more. Made of soft shell material, roof rack cargo carrier can be folded into a storage bag to save space when not in use! Note: Our roof bag is not suitable for vehicles with sliding doors.
- MORE SAFETY: Besides load capacity, stability is arguably the most essential factor in a vehicle's top carrier. Our car roof cargo carriers are designed with 6 built-in reinforced straps, extra 6 door hooks, and 2 long luggage straps. For safety reasons, the more straps and clips for securing the bag to the roof, the better!
- TEAR-RESISTANT & WATERPROOF: Features three layers of 1000D Oxford cloth waterproof material, Sailnovo rooftop cargo carrier bag is twice as strong as other brands' 500D fabrics. We found that different brands could easily tear through the seams, so our roof rack cargo carrier doubled up our seams and widened the waterproof zipper flaps!
- EASY TO INSTALL: We provide 6 heavy-duty tie-down straps and 6 safety hooks that can be easily attached to the vehicle's Luggage rack in minutes; fits most roofs with crossbars/side rails/baskets or bare tops without racks; fits most size vehicles such as cars, SUV's, pickups, station wagons, hatchbacks, hardtop crossovers.
- 【Military-Grade Waterproof Protection】Engineered with 1000D PVC-coated fabric and waterproof zipper flaps on 3 open sides , Sailnovo rooftop cargo carrier creates an impenetrable barrier against torrential rain and heavy snow. Critical upgrades - double-stitched seams + extended zipper flaps - ensure your camping gear stays 100% dry even in extreme weather.
- 【Massive 20 Cubic FT Storage】This car top carrier delivers 20 cubic feet / 580L capacity - equivalent to 6-8 suitcases + 4 tents + sleeping bags. Eliminate "car space anxiety" on family trips while keeping cabin clutter-free, meeting primary need for extra storage space.(47''x35''x21'')
- 【Universal Fit & Secure Install】This car roof cargo carrier fits most sized cars and can be quickly and easily installed in minutes using either raised side rails, roof racks, or baskets. And the roof bag offers 6 door hooks for cars with or without a roof rack. Compared with other roof top cargo carriers fixed with straps, the door hook will be more secure and prevent rainwater from seeping into the car.
- 【Security & Quiet】This Rooftop Cargo Carrier equips 8 reinforced straps + anti-slip mat to keep the cargo bag stay in place even in high speed road or bump road, no slip, no scratch to your car and prevent noise. Addresses worries on strap failure by ensuring cargo stays stable at highway speeds.
- 【Lightweight & 10-Sec Folding】Made of soft-shell foldable material , this cargo carrier bag compacts into included 15"x11"x5" storage bag within seconds. Save precious garage space vs rigid boxes - ideal for frequent travelers needing quick storage.
- 21 Cubic Feet - Designed to solve the problem of limited storage space in your car. That's why capacity is critical! The overall dimensions of the rooftop cargo carrier bag are 51.9''L*39.37''W*16.9''H, carrying 21 cubic feet. Larger capacity than most brands. Easily carry around 6 people's luggage.
- Resistant Waterproof Material - Made from military grade waterproof material, 1000D PVC tarpaulin, Waterproof and durable car top carrier. Protects against wind and dust, rain and snow, and protects property from damage! Note：Avoid sharp objects to prevent punctures and leaks.
- Universal Compatibility - Easy to operate and install in a short time. Equipped with 6 door hooks, Anti-slip mat, and Combination Lock, the Sailnovo car roof cargo carrier can fit most roofs with crossbars/side rails/baskets or bare tops without racks; fit most size vehicles such as Sedan, SUV, station wagons, hatchbacks, hardtop crossovers(longer>58", wider>42").NOT suitable for most vans without roof rack systems and vehicles with sunroofs.
- Secure Design - 10 reinforced adjustable straps, 6 door hooks, 1 slip mat, help your luggage stay in place even on bumpy highways. With the storage bag, when not in use, the roof bag can be placed in the trunk of the car - extremely space-saving.
- WHAT YOU GET- roof cargo carrier bag, roof bag storage bag, combination lock, anti-slip mat, safety hooks, safety hooks storage bag, user manual.
- [840D CHAMPION QUALITY MATERIAL] Made with heavy-duty 840D abrasion-resistant PVC fabric, this ultra-durable car roof cargo carrier stands up to any rough treatment or harsh weather. Better still, the triple-reinforced welded seams make it hard to tear or rip for years to come.
- [MORE THAN WATERPROOF] Featuring waterproof zipper wrapped with 6 inches widened velcro zipper flaps, our vehicle cargo carriers will exceed your expectations with the waterproof effet. The reinforced seams will make it possible "zero leakage" even in downpours.
- [EASY INSTALLATION] Our roof rack cargo carrier comes with an anti-slip mat and 8 thickened adjustable straps that will keep the cargo bag in place. The smooth zipper, adjustable straps, door hooks and robust buckles allows you to effortlessly secure it to any car.
- [SECURE FIT & LARGE CAPACITY] Our 15 cubic feet rooftop cargo bag is compatible with vehicles with our without roof rack, the large capacity can keep the shape nicely, even when holding many luggage cases, blanket, tents, sleeping bags and more.
- [PACKAGE LIST] You will receive 1x roof top carrier bag, 1x storage bag, 1x anti-slip mat, 6x door hooks, 2x extra luggage straps, 1x luggage lock.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Need more space for your road trip gear? A rooftop cargo carrier is a great solution! This guide helps you pick the right one for your car and adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these important features first. They make a big difference in how well the carrier works for you.
Capacity and Size
- Volume (Cubic Feet): This tells you how much stuff fits inside. Small trips need less space (around 10 cubic feet). Big family vacations need much more (15-20+ cubic feet).
- External Dimensions: Measure your roof! Make sure the carrier fits without hanging over your windshield too much or blocking your rear hatch.
Security and Access
- Locking System: Always choose a carrier with strong, built-in locks. You do not want someone stealing your luggage!
- Opening Mechanism: Look for dual-sided opening. This lets you access your gear easily from either side of the car.
Aerodynamics
A good carrier has a smooth, curved shape. This shape helps cut through the wind. Less wind resistance means your car uses less gas.
Important Materials and Durability
The material determines how long your carrier lasts and how well it protects your things.
Plastic Shells
Most modern carriers use hard plastic, usually ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene). These plastics are tough. They resist dents and scratches well. Quality plastic shells resist cracking, even in very cold weather.
Fabric Carriers (Soft Shells)
These are less common now. They fold up when not in use, saving garage space. However, they offer less protection against heavy rain or theft compared to hard shells.
Mounting Hardware
Check the clamps and brackets that attach the carrier to your roof rack. Strong steel or heavy-duty aluminum hardware lasts longer and holds the carrier securely, even at highway speeds.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. It’s about design and construction.
What Makes a Carrier High Quality?
- Weatherproofing: Excellent seals around the lid keep water out completely. A truly high-quality carrier keeps everything dry during a storm.
- Easy Mounting System: Some carriers install in minutes using simple knobs. Others require many tools and take a long time. Easy installation improves the overall experience.
- UV Resistance: Good plastic resists fading and becoming brittle when left in the sun for years.
What Lowers the Quality?
- Thin Walls: If the plastic shell feels flimsy when you tap it, it will break easily.
- Weak Latches: Cheap latches might pop open on the highway. This is very dangerous. Always test the latches before buying.
- Excessive Noise: Poorly designed carriers often whistle or roar loudly when you drive fast.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the carrier most often.
Road Trips and Vacations
This is the most common use. You pack suitcases, camping chairs, and maybe a cooler. For long trips, look for carriers that are easy to open quickly for bathroom breaks or quick stops.
Sports Equipment
Do you carry skis or snowboards? Some carriers have special internal mounts designed just for long gear. This keeps your skis safe and separate from your clothes.
Daily Driving Consideration
Remember: When the carrier is empty, it adds height to your vehicle. Always check the height clearance at parking garages, drive-thrus, and automatic car washes before you enter. If you only use it twice a year, consider a smaller, easier-to-remove model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rooftop Cargo Carriers
Q: Do I need a roof rack already installed?
A: Yes, most hard-shell carriers attach directly to your existing crossbars (the bars that go across the width of your roof). If you do not have crossbars, you must buy those first.
Q: Will a cargo carrier hurt my gas mileage?
A: Yes, it will lower your gas mileage slightly. A large, boxy carrier creates more wind drag. Driving slower helps reduce this effect.
Q: Are soft-shell carriers waterproof?
A: They are usually water-resistant, meaning they handle light rain fine. However, during a heavy downpour or long drive in the rain, water can sometimes seep through the seams.
Q: How much weight can a carrier safely hold?
A: This depends on two things: the carrier’s weight limit and your car’s roof weight limit. Always follow the lower limit of the two. Most carriers hold between 100 and 165 pounds.
Q: Is it hard to install these carriers?
A: Modern designs are much easier. Many can be installed by one person in under 30 minutes using hand-tightened knobs. Older models might need wrenches and more time.
Q: Can I still open my trunk or hatch with the carrier installed?
A: Usually, yes, as long as you bought the correct size carrier for your vehicle. A carrier that is too long might block the hatch from opening fully.
Q: How do I clean the outside of the carrier?
A: Use mild soap and water. A soft cloth or sponge works best. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as they can damage the plastic finish or seals.
Q: Should I pack heavy items inside the carrier?
A: No. For safety, you should pack the heaviest items (like toolboxes or large boots) inside the car. Keep lighter items, like sleeping bags or clothes, up top. This keeps your car’s center of gravity low.
Q: What is “wind noise” and how do I stop it?
A: Wind noise is the whistling or humming sound you hear when driving fast. It happens when air flows over the carrier’s shape. Smooth, aerodynamic shapes create less noise. Check that all mounting straps are tight.
Q: Are used cargo carriers a good idea?
A: They can save money, but you must check three things: First, make sure all the original keys and locks work. Second, check for cracks in the plastic shell. Third, confirm the mounting hardware is complete and not rusty.