10 Best Car Top Cargo Carriers 2026 in the United States

The Thule Motion 3 XXL rooftop cargo box is a spacious and well-designed carrier ideal for families or anyone needing extra storage space on top of their vehicle. It offers a generous 21 cubic feet capacity and can hold up to 165 pounds, which suits most gear from luggage to sports equipment. Measuring about 96 by 39 by 20 inches, it’s quite large, so make sure your vehicle can accommodate its size. The box is made from durable aluminum, providing a strong and lightweight shell that helps protect your items. Its aerodynamic, wing-shaped design with a forward-leaning nose reduces wind drag, which can help improve fuel efficiency compared to bulkier carriers.

Mounting is straightforward thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system, which signals when it’s securely attached, making installation faster and tool-free. Opening and closing the lid is easy with one hand, aided by a sturdy lid and wide handle, which adds convenience when loading or unloading. The SlideLock system enhances security by automatically locking the lid and showing when it’s properly closed, giving peace of mind that your belongings are safe. However, the box isn’t water resistant, so it’s best used in dry conditions or with waterproof bags inside. At 35 kilograms (about 77 pounds), it’s relatively heavy for installation, so some users may need assistance mounting it.

The box comes in a neutral titan color and offers optional accessories like interior lighting and protective liners, which are sold separately. This rooftop box represents a strong choice for anyone wanting a large, secure, and aerodynamic cargo carrier, especially if easy mounting and reliable locking are priorities.

The Yakima SkyBox NX XL 18 is a spacious hard-shell rooftop cargo carrier offering 18 cubic feet of storage, which is great for families or groups, fitting gear for about four campers or long items like skis and snowboards up to 195 cm. Its dimensions (84" long, 36" wide, and 16.5" tall) provide a good balance between capacity and roof space usage. Weighing 53 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight for a hard shell but still sturdy enough for road trips. The carrier is made from durable plastic with a sleek nano-texture finish, giving it a modern look and some scratch resistance.

It mounts universally on most roof racks, making installation straightforward, and features dual-sided openings for easier loading and unloading from either side of the vehicle. Security is enhanced with full metal handles and SKS locks that secure both the carrier lid and attachment to the roof rack, giving peace of mind during travel. However, it is not water resistant, so some caution is needed in heavy rain or snow to protect your belongings.

The aerodynamic shape helps reduce wind noise and drag, although some sound may still be noticeable at highway speeds. This product suits those looking for a reliable, easy-access, and secure rooftop carrier for outdoor or family trips, especially if you carry bulkier equipment. If you need a waterproof option or extremely lightweight materials, you might want to explore alternatives.

The Thule Force 3 - Size L Sport rooftop cargo box is an excellent option for those needing extra storage space for trips or active lifestyles. With an 11 cubic feet capacity, it provides ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or camping gear. Its dimensions (approximately 75 x 25 x 17 inches) offer a narrow design that helps reduce wind resistance when driving, enhancing fuel efficiency compared to larger boxes. Weighing around 30.7 pounds, it is reasonably light for its size, making installation and removal straightforward.

Durability is a strong point, as the box is made from tough plastic designed to endure daily use and harsh weather, and it is fully waterproof to keep belongings dry. The mounting system is user-friendly and secure, featuring a quick-attach mechanism with a clear click indicator to confirm the box is safely locked onto the vehicle’s roof rack. A notable feature is the dual-sided opening, allowing access to cargo from either side of the car, which is especially convenient in tight parking spots or busy areas.

Security is enhanced with the SlideLock system that automatically locks the lid and provides a visual indication when securely closed, helping to prevent theft or accidental opening during travel. This cargo box is compatible with SUVs, trucks, cars, and electric vehicles, making it highly versatile. It suits users seeking a reliable, aerodynamic, and secure rooftop carrier that balances size and convenience without excessive bulk. For carrying very large or heavy items, checking the vehicle’s roof rack weight capacity and considering a bigger or specialized carrier is advisable.