Sign in Pro
Best Cargo Boxes
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Capacity
When taking time out to look for the best cargo box for your outdoor activities, one factor you need to consider is the type of items you plan to pack in your cargo box. For instance, if you are planning to back both skis and boards, you need to look for a longer and leaner type of cargo box which is typically also a more expensive type. So you need to initially determine whether or not you need the cargo box for skis and boards, or just plan to opt for a cargo box that will work for more simple trips. If you don’t need to worry about skis and boards, you can purchase a more affordable, smaller cargo box.
Next, you need to determine whether or not you need a cargo box that’s a hard option or a soft roof bag. Again, much of this will depend on how often you use the cargo box and what you plan to use it for. If you go with a soft roof bag, you’ll save quite a bit of money but won’t get the durability of the hard-sided cargo boxes. Roof bags are also easier to store, so they are great for people traveling long distances that might need to pack the bag at some point. If you aren’t planning to use your cargo box daily and only need it for trips, then the more affordable rooftop bag option might be for you. However, if you’re going to use your cargo box every day, then a hard-sided cargo box is probably the better choice for you.
Ease of Use
Another factor you need to think about when purchasing the best cargo box for your outdoor activities is how often you plan on using your cargo box. If you’re the type of person that wants to mount your cargo box and simply leave it on your car for long periods of time, then worrying about how fast and easily you can mount your cargo box might not really be a factor for you. If you do wish to strap your box on your car and leave it there, just remember that most cargo boxes aren’t designed to be driven with anything in them. So, unless you really need your cargo box for long-term storage on your vehicle, you’ll want to take it off between uses.
If you aren’t using the cargo box for the long-term and need to remove it and then put it back on later, you’ll probably want to consider some of the faster-mounting cargo boxes. How often you both mount and use the box is going to heavily determine whether or not you want an easy-to-mount cargo box. Those of you opting for long-term use should look more at how well the box opens and closes to fit your needs rather than how easy the box is to mount. If you’re installing the cargo box and then leaving it on your car, you’ll want an easy-opening feature for faster access to your items.
Size
When it comes to cargo box volume, again the type of cargo box you select will vary depending on what you decide to use it for. Many longer and leaner boxes are made with similar sizes, so the storage capacity of this type of cargo box doesn’t vary quite as much.
Most of the longer and leaner cargo boxes come in two size styles, so which size you pick will depend on the size and amount of the skis and board you plan to pack. Most times, what the manufacturer suggests on ski and board sizes are fairly accurate when selecting a cargo box. Shorter, stumpy cargo boxes vary much more in size selection than longer and leaner cargo boxes. Many of the shorter, stumpy cargo boxes on the market come with a variety of size choices themselves, so when you are selecting this type of cargo box, go for the size options you feel you really need.
Compatibility
Another option you’ll need to consider when searching for the best cargo box is the size and type of the vehicle you drive. Depending on what vehicle you use, you’ll find that some cargo boxes will work better than others for you.
For instance, some of the cargo boxes on our list are designed to fit smaller cars, while still others are made to fit SUVs and vans. So, you’re going to want to make sure you look at the manufacturer’s suggestions for what kind of vehicle their cargo boxes will fit. If you purchase a cargo box that doesn’t fit your vehicle well, like a smaller box on a larger car, you might find that the cargo box is difficult for you to access simply because it isn’t made for your type of vehicle. Also, depending on your vehicle’s cargo bars, you’ll also find that different sized cargo boxes will fit different types of cargo bars better.
Top Ten Cargo Boxes
1. Thule Motion XT XL
The Thule Motion XT XL Cargo Box brings you a great design that’s space-saving and aerodynamic. The Thule Motion Cargo Box is both easy to mount and built to last so that your outdoor gear will stay safe as you drive to your next adventure.
Read moreCapacity
The Thule Motion XT XL Cargo Box was made to be an effective usage of space. The cargo box is aerodynamic and easy to mount since it utilizes the wide PowerClick quick-mount system, enabling you to save time mounting your cargo box before each trip.
Ease of use
The Thule Motion XT XL Cargo Box comes with an integrated torque indicator which clicks when the cargo box is mounted correctly. The torque indicator helps to ensure that you’ve mounted the cargo box correctly, providing both safety and ease of mind.
Another great feature this cargo box offers is the SlideLock system with separate opening and locking options. This SlideLock system will lock the lid in place and also indicates that the box is closed, so you know your items will remain safe.
Size
This cargo box is 22 cubic feet which are a great size and will allow you to store quite a bit of gear on your next road trip.
Compatability
The Thule Motion XT XL Cargo Box also comes with grip-friendly outer handles and lid lifters, making this cargo box very easy to open from any side of your vehicle. Also, this cargo box gives you full trunk access since it sits towards the front of the vehicle’s roof.
2. Thule Force
The Thule Force Cargo Box is a high-performing option with an average price. With this box, you’ll get a design that’s both strong and aerodynamic, so that the cargo box actually cuts through the air more efficiently.
Read moreCapacity
The Thule Force Cargo Box is also designed with an oversized secure lock, to keep the box closed so you can ensure that your gear is always safe. With the Thule design, you’ll also get dual-side openings for loading or unloading from either side of the vehicle.
Ease of use
It offers a suburb mounting system that’s both fast and easy to use. Since you can connect the cargo box to your rack in less than five minutes, this cargo box is great for those impatient outdoors enthusiasts that can’t wait to hit the road.
Size
The Thule Force Cargo Box is designed to fit many factory racks as well as Thule rack systems. So, it’s a versatile cargo box and can be used with most rack systems, and it’s got a nice, sleek appearance as well.
Compatibility
The Thule Force Cargo Box comes with a diamond-textured aero skin lid, which makes the shape of the lid aerodynamic for easier, safer travel. Thule’s cargo box also comes with a tool-free quick-grip mounting system, which makes it easy for you to set your cargo box on your rack in five minutes or less.
3. SportRack Vista XL
The SportRack Vista XL cargo box is meant to fit SportRack Roof Systems and many other factory racks, making it an easy fit at an affordable price. It’s made to be both strong and UV-resistant, so your outdoor gear will be protected on your ride over to your next adventure.
Read moreCapacity
This cargo box is 18 cubic feet and is a good size to allow you to store your gear without issue. If you are looking for some extra room for your gear and want to free up your trunk, this is a cargo box to take a look at.
Ease of use
At an affordable price, the SportRack Vista XL works well as a basic box with basic functionality. However, as a cargo box that sells for less, it’s certainly still an effective one.
Size
With the SportRack VistaXL, your items will still stay safely locked away from the weather and any other chaos while you travel. Your gear can travel easily from one place to the next while still staying organized and out of harm’s way.
Compatibility
The SportRack VistaXL is designed with strong ABC construction, making the cargo box UV-resistant. It also has a rear opening feature, so you can open it while facing away from traffic.
The quick release hardware mounting system on the SportRack Vista XL makes it much easier to get the cargo box on and off your vehicle. Plus, the SportRack’s cargo box also locks so that your items stay safe in the box, and won’t’ fall out while you are driving on the streets.
4. RoofBag
This cargo box from RoofBag is a great cargo box that fits any car and allows you to store your gear and luggage on top of your car without taking up room inside your car. What makes this cargo box one to take a look at is the fact that it can fit on almost every car, even if you do not have a roof rack!
Read moreCapacity
This cargo box will fit any car and is 11 cubic ft which is a great size and will be able to fit your gear without issue.
Ease of use
To use this cargo box you simply need to connect the cargo box to your vehicle using the straps which wrap around the roof of the interior of your car and then tighten them. Then fill the cargo box with gear and close box. The wrap cargo straps around the top of the cargo box and tighten to secure. This is very easy to use and the fact that it fits any car makes installation easy and pain-free.
Size
This cargo box is 11 cubic feet, which is a great size to store your gear. It is not to heavy for your car and will fit without issue.
Compatibility
Again as stated earlier this cargo box is compatible with every car, even if you do not have a roof rack. If you are having issues finding a cargo box that will fit your car, take a closer look at this one.
5. Yakima Showcase Rooftop
The Yakima Showcase Rooftop Cargo Box offers you a high-quality cargo box with a sleek appearance and easy-to-use features. Yakima’s Showcase Cargo Box is both strong and made to fit a wide variety of vehicles and racks.
Read moreCapacity
This cargo box is 15 cubic feet which is a great cargo box for SUV and larger vechiles.
Ease of use
The design of the Yakima Showcase Rooftop Cargo Box offers an internal lid stiffener, which makes this cargo box both durable and easy to open and close. Yakima’s Showcase Cargo Box also has dual-sided opening options, so that you can access your items from both sides of your vehicle easily and safely.
Size
The hardware in the Yakima Showcase Cargo Box is forward-facing and has a tapered tail end so clearance on all vehicles is easier with this cargo box. This cargo box is also made to fit many smaller vehicles easily.
Compatibility
Yakima’s Showcase Rooftop Cargo Box is a nice-looking option for a cargo box since it’s got a high-gloss automotive quality finish. The Yakima Showcase Rooftop Cargo Box was designed with appearance in mind and should look great on just about any vehicle.
6. Thule Pulse
Depending on what outdoor activities you like to indulge, the Thule Pulse Cargo Box might be the option for your activities. The Thule Pulse Cargo Box is actually an excellent choice for skiers or anybody using any type of board for conducting outdoor activities.
Read moreCapacity
If you need something that can hold around six pairs of skis or three boards for your outdoor activities, you’ll enjoy using the Thule Pulse Cargo Box. Not only can you easily pack this kind of gear, but the Thule Pulse Cargo Box is well-designed to protect your items from the weather.
Ease of use
Built to be long-lasting, the Thule Pulse Cargo Box is made with durable ABS material that provides you with a strong bag that can protect your gear easily during your trip. The Thule Pulse Cargo Box also comes with Easy-Grip mounting capabilities, making it easy to assemble and mount to your rack.
Size
This is a thinner cargo box as it is only 11 cubic feet. Great car if you are transporting ski, snowboards or gear of that nature.
Compatibility
With the Thule Pulse Cargo Box, you also get the Secure Lock feature, to ensure your box stays locked and protects your gear. This cargo box also comes with a single-side opening system so you can safely load and unload items on the passenger side.
7. Yakima Skybox Carbonite
The Yakima Skybox Carbonite Cargo Box is a more affordable option for those of you who need a cargo box that’s roomy enough to fit gear for the entire family. Yakima’s Skybox offers you a larger option for hauling gear, and the Skybox is both durable and versatile enough to protect whatever gear you pack into it.
Read moreCapacity
If you need to haul a large amount of gear and watch your budget when purchasing a cargo box, then the Yakima Skybox should provide you with what you need. This Yakima cargo box is made to fit gear for up to five campers, meaning you can easily pack your things for your entire family.
Ease of use
The Yakima Skybox Carbonite Cargo box can fit any Yakima round or factor round or square bars. It’s versatile and easy-to-mount, making it both an effective and reliable system.
Size
The design of the Yakima Skybox Carbonite Cargo box offers a few sizes—either 12, 18, 16, or 21 cubic feet depending on how much room you want. It can handle hauling snowboards and skis as well, making it a reliable option to fit a large amount of gear.
Compatibility
Plus, the Yakima Skybox Carbonite Cargo box comes with an integrated SKS lock system, which ensures your gear stays inside the cargo box. With this peace of mind and protection, you’ll be able to easily make it to your outdoor adventures knowing your gear is safe.
8. Yakima RocketBox Pro 12
If you’ve got a smaller car and want to pack your outdoor gear into a strong cargo box, then you might want to consider the Yakima RocketBox Pro 12. It’s both affordable and provides you with plenty of extra room when you travel in a smaller, compact car.
Read moreCapacity
This cargo box is 12 cubic feet which makes it perfect for hatchbacks. You will be able to store a good amount of gear in this cargo box without issue, so you can rest easy on your next road trip.
Ease of use
The Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 is made with quick-dial mounting hardware, so it’s easy to mount and fits all Yakima and factory round, square, or aerodynamic bars. You’ll also get a dual-sided opening with this cargo box, making it easy for you to access your items from either side of the car.
Size
The Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 comes with an aerodynamic design, which helps to reduce drag as you drive. The Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 is also designed to sit more towards the front of the car, making clearance and trunk access both much easier on smaller cars.
Compatability
While the Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 is made for smaller cars, it also hauls a decent amount of gear for up to two people. It’s also made to be both affordable and strong and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Plus, you’ll get an SKS lock system to ensure your gear safely stays in place while you travel. You’ll get some peace of mind with this cargo bag since you’ll know your items will remain organized as you move.
9. Rightline Gear Sports 3 Carrier
Depending on how much you travel, you might want a more affordable box to meet your goals. If you don’t travel too often but still need a durable cargo box, then the Rightline Gear Sports 3 Carrier just might be the option for you.
Read moreCapacity
This cargo box is 18 cubic feet which make it quite a big cargo box. It will work great if you need a lot of extra room and have an SUV.
Ease of use
The aerodynamic make of the Rightline Gear Sports 3 makes it an effective option, and one of the other nice features about it is that you can use it without a roof rack on your car. It’s made from polyester re-enforced PVC mesh, making it weatherproof and tough.
Size
The Rightline Gear Sports 3 Carrier is made to easily fit most minivans and SUVs, providing a cheaper option for those of you looking for a good cargo box with basic features.
Compatibility
Made to be waterproof, the Rightline Gear Sports 3 Carrier’s dual seem technology makes it a box that can easily withstand the elements and keep all of your gear safe. It’s also UV resistant, so you’ll know that your items are protected whenever you gravel with the box.
10. Keeper Waterproof Rooftop
While this is more of a bag style cargo option than a box, the Keeper Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Box is an affordable option for those of you who need something that both costs less and is durable. One benefit of this softbox model is that it’s easier to fit gear that might be oddly shaped, and still protect it effectively while traveling.
Read moreCapacity
The Keeper Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag is waterproof, meaning you’ll be able to protect the gear you stash into it effectively from the elements. You also get up to fifteen cubic feet of space with which to pack your items, meaning you can fit quite a bit into this bag.
Ease of use
This cargo box is quite easy to use as you simply need to fill it with your gear and secure it to your roof rack. You need a roof rack to use this cargo box.
Size
The Keeper Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag is designed to boost your vehicle’s cargo space and is also made to fit all roof racks while providing additional attachment capabilities. You also get a bag with soft sides so it’s easy to shape the bag to fit almost any item.
Compatibility
The Keeper Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag also folds down so it becomes compact and easy to store. While you’re giving up some of the protection of a hard box with this choice, you’re also gaining the ability to pack almost any item.
Sources