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 XXL is a hard shell rooftop cargo carrier designed for ample storage, making it great for families or groups needing to transport bulky gear like camping equipment or skis up to 215 cm long. With 22 cubic feet of space, it offers generous capacity. The dual-sided access is a handy feature, allowing you to load and unload from both sides of your vehicle, which can save time and effort. Security is well covered with integrated SKS locks and a push-button system to keep your belongings safe during travel.

The box’s build feels durable and sleek, thanks to its flattened floor and smooth nano-texture finish, which also helps maintain a clean look. However, this model is not water resistant, so it may not protect your cargo fully in heavy rain or wet conditions. The mounting system is a universal roof mount, making it compatible with most vehicles, which adds flexibility. While aerodynamics are improved by its streamlined shape, the carrier still adds some wind resistance, potentially affecting fuel economy slightly.

This carrier is well suited for travelers who need a large, secure, and easy-to-use storage box on their roof, especially for dry weather trips. If rain protection is a priority, exploring other options may be advisable.

The Thule 614 Pulse Rack is a functional rooftop cargo box that offers 14 cubic feet of additional packing space, which is quite generous for family trips or outdoor adventures. Its rugged and durable plastic construction ensures that your contents are well-protected from the elements. The dimensions of 67 x 35 x 16 inches provide ample space, making it versatile enough to fit 3-5 snowboards up to 155 cm in length. However, be aware that its height off the crossbar is 16 inches, which may impact vehicle clearance in tight spaces or low garages.

Weighing 34 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight given its capacity and sturdiness, though it does add some weight to your vehicle's roof load. The FastGrip quick-mount system is a standout feature, allowing for easy and secure installation in minutes. The passenger-side opening is convenient for loading and unloading. Security is robust with a central locking system and Thule Comfort Key, ensuring that the key can only be removed when all locking points are securely closed. This feature gives peace of mind that your belongings are safe.

Aerodynamics might be a concern due to its size and shape, potentially causing some drag and affecting fuel efficiency. Its black color and sleek design, however, do provide a modern appearance. If you frequently need extra storage and value security and ease of use, the Thule 614 Pulse Rack is a solid choice. It’s best suited for those who need a reliable and spacious cargo carrier for vacations, sports gear, or any bulky items that need to be transported securely.