Does your car feel cramped when you pack for a big trip? Do you wish you had more space for all your gear? Many adventurers face this problem. Finding the perfect rooftop cargo carrier can feel like solving a tough puzzle. You worry about weight limits, weatherproofing, and if it will actually fit your car.
Choosing the wrong carrier means wasted money and frustrating road trips. You need a carrier that is strong, secure, and easy to use. It must protect your belongings from rain and wind. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore what “rated” truly means for these carriers.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly what features matter most. You will feel confident picking a carrier that suits your needs and budget. Get ready to unlock extra storage space and travel stress-free. Let’s dive into finding the best rated rooftop cargo carrier for your next adventure!
Top Rated Rooftop Cargo Carriers Recommendations
Bestseller No. 1
Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicle with/Without Racks - Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bags, 2 Extra Straps, Luggage Lock
- 【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.
Bestseller No. 2
Asinking Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag - 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty Car Roof Luggage Carrier 21 Cubic Feet, Fits All Vehicles with/Without Roof Rack - Easy Install & Triply Reinforced for Secure Use
- 【𝙁𝙍𝙐𝙎𝙏𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙀𝘿 𝙒𝙄𝙏𝙃 𝙒𝘼𝙏𝙀𝙍 𝙇𝙀𝘼𝙆𝙎 𝙊𝙉 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙍𝙊𝘼𝘿】Based on 10 years of exploration and 1,000+ quality improvements across 15+ series of car roof bag, we could proudly promise our Asinking roof rack cargo carrier bag is 100% rip-proof and waterproof. Made from 900D abrasion-resistant PVC and featuring triply reinforced heat-welded seams and strong zipper, it makes your luggage from downpours and scratches, ensuring durability in harsh conditions.
- 【𝙊𝙐𝙍 𝙐𝙋𝙂𝙍𝘼𝘿𝙀𝘿 𝙁𝙀𝘼𝙏𝙐𝙍𝙀𝙎 𝙏𝙊 𝙀𝙉𝙎𝙐𝙍𝙀 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙎𝙀𝘾𝙐𝙍𝙄𝙏𝙔】Always feel stressed with cargo bag when drive at high speed? Please assured, the Asinking car roof cargo carrier is completely upgraded with heavy duty straps and large buckles, to keep the car top carrier never moving even you drive at 70-80mph. Plus, the non-slip rubber mat will help a lot. The bonus combination lock would safeguard your luggage while parking overnight.
- 【𝘾𝘼𝙍 𝙈𝙊𝘿𝙀𝙇𝙎 𝙁𝙄𝙏𝙏𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙍𝙀𝘾𝙊𝙈𝙈𝙀𝙉𝘿𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉】Measuring 52"L x 40"W x 18"H when full, this large capacity Asinking car storage roof bag could fit with any cars with roof (longer>58", wider>42"). Features a flexible install system with metal loop straps, no matter what kinds of roof rack, our roof top cargo carriers could easily fit with your car with a quick installation. Also, the included door hooks could help if no racks, side rails not raised, cross bars closely fixed.
- 【𝘾𝘼𝙍 𝙁𝙄𝙉𝙄𝙎𝙃 𝙋𝙍𝙊𝙏𝙀𝘾𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉】Worried about car paint scratches on long trips? Asinking roof cargo carrier has a thick rubber mat to make your car's roof and padded door hooks to safeguard the car frame. Travel where you want to go, knowing your car is fully cared.
- 【𝙇𝘼𝙍𝙂𝙀 𝘾𝘼𝙋𝘼𝘾𝙄𝙏𝙔 𝙁𝙊𝙍 𝘾𝙍𝙊𝙎𝙎 𝘾𝙄𝙏𝙔 𝙏𝙍𝙄𝙋】With 21 cubic feet jumbo volume, this Asinking car topper luggage carrier waterproof could hold meanwhile 4x sleep bags, 4x suitcases, 2x double tents, and still lots of room for some road trip essentials. Pefect for family road trip or cross city adventures. If you are car dwellers, this rooftop cargo bag would be a life saver.
Bestseller No. 3
FIVKLEMNZ 21 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
- 【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!!!
Bestseller No. 4
JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier for Car Storage - Large Roof Rack Style Carrier - Heavy Duty Weatherproof Storage - Made in USA - 18 Cubic Ft - 110 Lb Capacity - Aero Hard Shell
- Secure & protect your gear in this 18 cubic ft. HDPE plastic hard shell vehicle cargo carrier; high-capacity interior dimensions 57 L x 38 1/2 W x 17 3/4 H inches; aerodynamic design for fuel efficiency
- Weatherproof storage for your luggage with a four corner locking system, front latch, and weather-tight seal for ultimate car rooftop protection and security
- Easy & convenient loading and unloading from either side of the car make for smooth travel and hassle-free storage
- No tools required, easy assembly and installation on Vehicles with Roof Luggage Rails and Crossbars.All mounting hardware and simple instructions are included to get you safely on the road quickly. The base is pre-drilled for 24in crossbar spacing - if your vehicles crossbars are NOT adjustable the plastic base can be re-drilled to match your vehicle (20in to 30in bar spacing)
- Made in USA, limited lifetime guarantee. The JEGS car top carrier’s high-quality construction and performance give you peace of mind
Bestseller No. 5
Sailnovo Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier 21 Cubic Feet, Waterproof 1000D PVC Car Roof Bag with Anti-Slip Mat, Combination Lock, Storage Bag, Door Hooks & Tie-Down Strap fit Vehicle with/Without Luggage Rack
- 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''W*39.37''D*16.9''H, carrying 20 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!
- 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, Truck, station wagons, hatchbacks, hardtop crossovers.
- 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.
Bestseller No. 6
VENTURE 4TH Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet Waterproof Roof Bag with 10 Heavy-Duty Compression & Tie-Down Straps, Anti-Slip Mat & Door Hooks – Fits Cars with or Without Roof Rack
- LARGE 21 CU FT ROOFTOP CARGO CARRIER – FULLY WATERPROOF DESIGN: This car roof bag offers a spacious 21 cubic feet capacity, fitting up to 10 carry-on bags, tents, or camping gear. Made from heavy-duty 600D PVC with heat-sealed seams, waterproof SBS zippers, and a wide protective flap, it keeps belongings completely dry on every journey.
- EXCLUSIVE 6 COMPRESSION STRAP SYSTEM – HEAVY-DUTY PERFORMANCE: Our unique 6-strap compression system pulls the side flaps tight, sealing water out even in heavy rain. When packed correctly, this roof rack cargo carrier stays more secure and weather-resistant than typical designs—built for long road trips, vacations, and outdoor adventures.
- SAFER TRAVEL WITH 4 TOP-MOUNTED TIE-DOWN STRAPS & REINFORCED SECURITY: For superior stability, our car top carrier includes 4 tie-down straps anchored only at the top—avoiding weak points at sharp angles. Heavy-duty buckles, cam straps, rust-resistant hooks, and reinforced stitching keep your roof cargo secure at highway speeds.
- UNIVERSAL FIT FOR CARS, SUVS, TRUCKS & VANS: Easily installs on vehicles with or without roof racks, side rails, or crossbars. Includes door hooks, color-coded tie-down and compression straps, and a non-slip roof mat for secure mounting. Works with sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, trucks, and crossovers.
- COMPLETE CAR ROOF STORAGE SET – EVERYTHING INCLUDED: Comes with all essentials: protective roof mat, extra straps, combination padlock, instruction manual, and storage bag. This complete car roof storage kit offers secure, hassle-free packing for every trip.
Bestseller No. 7
iBirdie Roof Rack Cargo Carrier 15.3 Cubic Feet, Soft-Shell Rooftop Cargo Box, Waterproof Heavy Duty 1200D for Car with/Without Roof Rack, Includes Anti-Slip Mat, Door Hooks, 46x34x17 inches
- All-Weather Durability: Crafted from premium 1200D oxford and PVC, this waterproof rooftop cargo carrier protects against rain, snow, and dust; Built to last, it keeps your car top carrier dependable and your belongings safe on every trip
- Universal Fit for Vehicle: With extra door hooks, easily fits all vehicle types, including SUVs, sedans, and trucks; It works with or without roof racks, making it a versatile car top carrier or roof rack storage solution for any car roof system
- Generous Storage Space: Based on 46 inches long, 34 inches wide, 17 inches high, with 15.3 cubic feet of storage, this roof top cargo carrier is perfect for family vacations, cross-country trips and camping activity
- Quick Installation: The iBirdie car top carrier is easy to install with heavy-duty straps and anti-slip mats to protect your vehicle's paint; It folds compactly for storage when not in use, making it the perfect cargo bag for top of car trips
- Safe Use: Reinforced buckles and secure straps keep the cargo bag firmly in place, while the included anti-slip mat ensures stability; Everything you need for a safe, steady drive is provided
Bestseller No. 8
Sailnovo Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag 21 Cubic, 1000D PVC Waterproof Vehicle Soft-Shell Carrier for Cars with/Without Roof Rack, Car Roof Storage Includes Anti-Slip Mat,10 Reinforced Straps, 6 Door Hooks
- 1000D PVC Waterproof & Tear-Proof Shield: Featuring sealed seams + extended waterproof zipper flaps, this soft shell cargo carrier outperforms in heavy rain. Military-grade PVC coating prevents leaks and withstands abrasions, keeping camping gear/stored luggage bone-dry.
- Aerodynamic Fuel-Saving Design: Streamlined rooftop cargo carrier reduces wind drag by 30% vs conventional boxes, eliminating whistling noise while boosting fuel efficiency. Optimized slope prevents rain accumulation on the top of the bag.
- Massive Storage Capacity: Boasting an impressive 21 cubic feet, Sailnovo rooftop cargo carrier easily accommodates luggage for 6-8 people such as suitcases, tents, sleeping bags and more. Perfectly suited for family outings, relocation, road trip, and car camping, etc. Say Goodbye to Crowded Car Interiors!
- Reliably Secure: The car top carrier comes with an anti-slip mat and 10 reinforced straps that buckles lock tightly the car roof bag securely to the roof tightly at highway speeds on bumpy roads, preventing scratches and shifting noise, and providing worry-free cargo protection.
- Universal Fit & Convenient: The rooftop cargo carrier is designed to fit most vehicles with/without roof racks ( except sliding door vehicles). Installs this soft shell cargo carrier in minutes using enhanced hooks without roof racks and folds into compact storage bag when not in use.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Rated Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Taking a road trip? Need extra space for your gear? A rooftop cargo carrier is your best friend. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide helps you find a top-rated carrier that fits your needs and your car.
1. Key Features to Look For
A great carrier does more than just hold stuff. Look closely at these important features:
Capacity and Size
- Volume (Cubic Feet): Carriers range from small (around 10 cu. ft.) to huge (over 20 cu. ft.). Think about how much you pack. A family of four needs more space than a couple on a weekend trip.
- Dimensions: Measure your car’s roof first! Make sure the carrier fits without blocking your trunk or sticking out too far.
Security and Access
- Locking System: Good carriers have strong, built-in locks. You want to keep your belongings safe from theft.
- Opening Mechanism: Many premium carriers open from one side or both sides (dual-side opening). Dual-side opening makes loading and unloading much easier, no matter which side of the car you stand on.
Aerodynamics
- Look for a sleek, curved design. This shape cuts through the wind better. A more aerodynamic box means less wind noise and better gas mileage.
2. Important Materials That Matter
The material determines how tough and weatherproof your carrier is.
- ABS Plastic (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): This is very common. It is strong, light, and resists impacts well. High-quality ABS plastic holds up against sun damage and cold weather.
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): Sometimes used, this material is very durable and resists cracking.
- Hardware: Check the mounting brackets. They should be made of strong metal (like aluminum or steel) so they do not rust or bend under heavy loads.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all carriers are made equal. Small details separate the great ones from the mediocre ones.
Quality Boosters:
- UV Resistance: The sun breaks down plastic over time. Carriers treated to resist UV rays last much longer and keep their color.
- Weather Sealing: Look for rubber gaskets or strong seals around the lid. These stop rain and moisture from getting inside.
- Easy Mounting System: The best carriers use tool-free mounting clamps. You attach them quickly and securely to your existing roof racks.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Latches: If the latches feel weak or cheaply made, they might break or pop open on the highway.
- Excessive Noise: Carriers that vibrate or whistle loudly at highway speeds usually have poor aerodynamic design or weak mounting hardware.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the carrier. This affects which features you need most.
Common Use Cases:
- Family Vacations: You need high capacity (18+ cu. ft.) for luggage, strollers, and camping gear. Dual-side opening is highly recommended for easy family access.
- Ski/Snowboard Trips: You might need a long, narrow box specifically designed to hold skis securely inside. These usually have special internal straps.
- Everyday Overflow: If you just need a bit more space for groceries or sports equipment, a smaller, lower-profile box works best. It stays on the car less often.
A good user experience means the carrier installs easily and stays quiet. Read reviews to see if other users complain about installation headaches or highway noise. A quiet, secure carrier makes the entire trip more enjoyable.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rooftop Cargo Carriers
Q: How much weight can a rooftop carrier usually hold?
A: Most carriers hold between 100 to 165 pounds. Always check the carrier’s limit AND your car manufacturer’s roof weight limit. Your car’s limit is usually the one you must follow.
Q: Will a rooftop carrier hurt my gas mileage?
A: Yes, it will reduce it slightly. Added weight and increased wind resistance mean you will use more fuel. Aerodynamic designs help reduce this loss.
Q: Do I need roof racks to install a carrier?
A: Yes, almost all carriers require crossbars (the bars that go across the width of your roof) to attach to. Some carriers come with their own mounting hardware, but you need the base rack system first.
Q: Are rooftop carriers waterproof?
A: Good ones are highly weather-resistant, keeping contents dry in heavy rain. However, they are not usually 100% submersible like a boat hull. Strong seals are key.
Q: Can I wash my car with the carrier attached?
A: Usually, yes, especially at automatic car washes. However, hand washing is safer. Make sure the mounting clamps are tight before washing.
Q: What is the difference between a hard shell and a soft shell carrier?
A: Hard shell carriers (plastic) offer better protection against impact and weather. Soft shell carriers (fabric) are cheaper and store away easily when empty, but offer less security.
Q: How noisy are these carriers on the highway?
A: Noise levels vary greatly. Well-designed, aerodynamic boxes produce little noise. Cheap or poorly mounted boxes can create loud whistling or buffeting sounds.
Q: How do I secure items inside the carrier?
A: Most quality carriers include internal tie-down straps. You must use these straps to secure your luggage so items do not shift around while driving.
Q: Are there any height restrictions for parking garages?
A: Yes. A carrier adds several inches to your vehicle’s height. Always measure your total height and check garage clearance signs before entering.
Q: How long does it take to install a typical carrier?
A: If you have existing crossbars, a simple installation might take 20 to 30 minutes. Complex initial setups might take an hour.