Does your car feel smaller than ever when you pack for a trip? You load up the trunk, cram the back seat, and still, that essential gear sits outside. We’ve all been there—the juggling act of fitting everything inside your vehicle. That’s where car roof storage steps in, promising extra space when you need it most.
But choosing the perfect roof solution is tricky. Should you pick a simple cargo basket or a sleek, hard-shell box? There are so many types, and picking the wrong one can mean wasted money or, worse, gear that gets ruined by the weather. The wrong choice can cause annoying wind noise or even damage your car’s roof.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best options available, from easy-to-install racks to weatherproof carriers. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which type of roof storage fits your lifestyle and budget.
Let’s explore how to unlock that often-forgotten space above your car and make your next adventure stress-free.
Top Car Roof Storage 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 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 840D 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!!!
- 【Large Capacity & Universal Fit】 Fit Designed for cars, SUVs, and vans. Installs securely with or without roof rack, cross bars, side rails, or basket systems—ideal for road trips and family travel
- 【840D Waterproof Protection】 Made from thick 840D PVC fabric with a waterproof zipper and extended rain curtain to keep luggage dry in rain, snow, and road splash
- 【Secure & Stable】 Includes anti-slip mat, 6 door hooks, solid buckles, and 4 extra straps to keep the cargo bag firmly in place,even on long drives and rough roa
- 【Easy Carry & Night Visibility】 Ergonomic carry handles for easy loading and reflective strips improve visibility during nighttime driving
- 【Added Security with Combination Lock】 Includes a combination lock to help deter theft and provide extra peace of mind during stops or overnight parking
- [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.
- 【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 840D 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.
- 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.
- [High Quality] Rooftop cargo carrier is made of PVC tarpaulin, which is super waterproof and can provide protection even in extreme conditions. The roof bag has double reinforced strap seams to prevent tearing from the seams.
- [Safe and Reliable] For safety reasons, we use 8 reinforced adjustable straps to fix the cargo carrier in place. In addition, it is equipped with free anti-skid pads to keep the cargo bag in place even on highways or bumpy roads, without sliding off and scratching your car. Equipped with an extra password lock, it not only prevents the zipper from slipping off, but also increases the security of your luggage.
- [Easy to Install] Roof rack cargo carrier easy to use. If your car does not have roof side rails, it can be quickly and easily installed on the roof rack using 6 door hooks in just a few minutes. Made of soft shell material, it can be folded into the storage bag to save space when not in use.
- [Widely Applicable] Soft-shell carriers is suitable for any car, truck or SUV with or without a roof rack, perfect for off-road travel, long-distance travel, camping, moving, and is a must-have for adventurers.
- [Package Content] You will receive 1 car roof luggage bag, 8 reinforcement straps, 1 anti-skid mat, 4 door hooks, 1 luggage lock, 1 storage bag. The luggage bag measures 44'' X 34'' X 17'', and the 15 cubic feet capacity can solve the problem of limited storage space in the car. Free up space in the car and make the journey more comfortable.
- 【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.
- 【Size Choose】- For SUVs, we suggest the 21 cubic model, while the 15 cubic meter version works best for compact vehicles.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Car Roof Storage Solutions
Are you running out of space in your car? Do you need extra room for camping gear, sports equipment, or luggage for a long trip? Car roof storage is your answer! This guide helps you pick the best option for your vehicle and needs.
Key Features to Look For
Capacity and Size
First, check how much stuff you need to carry. Roof storage comes in different sizes, measured in cubic feet. A small family might need 10-15 cubic feet. A larger group or someone moving might need 20 cubic feet or more.
Mounting System
How easily can you attach the storage to your car’s roof? Look for secure, easy-to-use mounting systems. Some systems clamp directly onto your existing roof rack bars. Others might require you to install crossbars first. Good mounting means better safety.
Security and Locking
You do not want your belongings stolen. Always choose a carrier that has strong locks. These locks should keep the lid closed tightly during high speeds and protect your gear from thieves.
Ease of Access
Consider how you load and unload. Some boxes open only from the back. Others open from the side, which can be much easier, especially if you are tall or using a shorter car.
Important Materials That Matter
The material determines how strong and weather-resistant your storage unit is. Quality materials last longer and protect your items better.
- ABS Plastic (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): This is the most common material for hard-shell boxes. It is tough, lightweight, and resists impacts well. High-quality ABS plastic resists UV rays, so it won’t become brittle in the sun.
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): This plastic is very durable and often used for soft-sided bags or cargo bags. It folds up when not in use, saving garage space.
- Aluminum: Sometimes used for heavy-duty truck or utility racks. Aluminum is very strong but usually heavier and more expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Aerodynamics (Improving Quality)
A good roof carrier has a sleek, low profile. Aerodynamic shapes cut through the wind better. This reduces wind noise (whistling) and helps keep your gas mileage from dropping too much. Poorly shaped boxes create drag.
Weatherproofing (Improving Quality)
Your gear must stay dry. Look for carriers with strong seals around the lid. Water should not leak in, even during a heavy rainstorm. Hinges and latches should also be weather-resistant.
Weight Limit (Reducing Quality Risk)
Every car has a maximum weight limit for its roof. Exceeding this limit is dangerous and can damage your roof structure. Always check your car’s manual and the carrier’s weight rating. Overloading reduces safety significantly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about when and how you will use the storage. This helps you choose between a hard box and a soft bag.
Hard Shell Boxes (Best for Valuables and Long Trips)
These are perfect for luggage, skis, or electronics. They offer the best protection against theft and weather. They are generally best for road trips where you need guaranteed dryness.
Soft Cargo Bags (Best for Bulk and Flexibility)
Soft bags are great for bulky, less fragile items like camping chairs or sleeping bags. They are usually cheaper and store easily when empty. However, they offer less security and might let some moisture through during very long downpours.
Installation Time
If you only use storage occasionally, easy installation is key. Some systems take five minutes to attach. Others require tools and take much longer. Check user reviews for real installation times.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car Roof Storage
Q: Do I need a roof rack before buying a carrier?
A: Yes, most roof carriers require a set of crossbars (the bars that go across the width of your roof) to attach to. Some specialized carriers attach directly to factory side rails, but crossbars are standard.
Q: Will a roof carrier hurt my gas mileage?
A: Yes, any added weight or bulky item on the roof will increase wind resistance. Aerodynamic boxes cause a smaller drop in gas mileage than square, bulky ones.
Q: Are hard shell boxes waterproof?
A: High-quality hard shells are designed to be highly water-resistant, often fully waterproof, due to strong seals. Always check the manufacturer’s rating.
Q: Can I use roof storage in winter?
A: Absolutely. Many people use them for skis and snowboards. Ensure the plastic is rated for cold temperatures so it doesn’t crack.
Q: How do I know if the carrier fits my car?
A: You must measure the distance between your existing crossbars and check the carrier’s mounting bracket span. Manufacturers usually provide a list of compatible vehicles.
Q: What is the difference between a cargo box and a cargo basket?
A: A cargo box is fully enclosed, offering protection from weather and theft. A cargo basket is an open tray; it holds gear but requires you to use separate waterproof bags or netting.
Q: Are soft bags safe to leave on the highway?
A: Yes, if they are properly secured and rated for highway speeds. However, they should never be overloaded, as straps can loosen under high wind pressure.
Q: How much weight can my roof hold?
A: This varies widely. Most standard sedans can handle 100 to 150 pounds. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the exact dynamic load limit.
Q: What are Thule and Yakima?
A: Thule and Yakima are two of the most popular and trusted brands known for high-quality, durable roof storage systems and racks.
Q: Can I wash a plastic roof box?
A: Yes. You can wash them with mild soap and water. Avoid high-pressure washing directly on the seals, as this can force water past the weather stripping.