Ever packed your car so full that you can barely see out the back window? We’ve all been there! Whether you’re heading out for a family camping trip, a weekend ski adventure, or just need extra space for your gear, sometimes your car just isn’t big enough.
That’s where car top carriers come in. But with so many styles, sizes, and brands out there, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle. You want something that’s easy to use, keeps your stuff safe and dry, and fits your car just right. It can be confusing to know where to start.
Don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down the world of car top carriers, making it simple to understand what to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing a carrier that will make your next trip stress-free and give you the extra room you need.
Our Top 5 Car Top Carriers Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Car Top Carriers Detailed Reviews
1. 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
Rating: 8.9/10
Heading out on an adventure? The FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier is your new best friend for hauling extra gear. This waterproof roof bag is designed to fit any vehicle, whether it has a roof rack or not. It’s packed with features to keep your luggage safe and secure.
What We Like:
- It has a super safe design. Ten strong straps hold it tight. The included anti-slip mat stops it from sliding. A luggage lock keeps your stuff safe from thieves.
- You get tons of storage space! It’s 21 cubic feet, so it can hold 6-8 suitcases. This means more room inside your car for everyone.
- It’s easy to put on. It fits cars, trucks, and SUVs. Even if you don’t have a roof rack, you can use the six door hooks to attach it quickly.
- The bag is made from tough, waterproof material. It has a double-layered waterproof cover. The seams are sealed to keep water out.
- It comes with helpful extras like an anti-slip mat, strong straps, door hooks, and a luggage lock.
- FIVKLEMNZ offers different sizes. They suggest a 15 cubic foot bag for small cars, 21 cubic feet for SUVs, and 30 cubic feet for larger SUVs.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a soft carrier, not a hard one.
- You need to be careful when attaching the front and back straps. Don’t attach them to the side bars. This can cause tears or leaks over time.
- While it’s waterproof, it might not stay 100% dry in really bad weather or if it gets damaged.
This roof bag offers a great way to expand your car’s storage. Just be sure to follow the instructions for the best results.
2. Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet
Rating: 9.2/10
Hit the road with confidence and extra space using the Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier. This 21 cubic feet, 100% waterproof heavy-duty roof bag is designed for all vehicles, whether they have roof racks or not. It’s built tough to handle your adventures.
What We Like:
- Super strong 840D PVC fabric resists tears and tough weather.
- Triple-reinforced seams mean it won’t rip easily.
- It’s more than just waterproof; the special zipper and wide velcro flaps keep water out, even in heavy rain.
- Installation is a breeze with the anti-slip mat and 8 adjustable straps.
- It fits securely on any car with smooth zippers, adjustable straps, door hooks, and strong buckles.
- The 21 cubic feet capacity holds a lot, like luggage, blankets, and tents, and keeps its shape.
- Comes with everything you need: the carrier, storage bag, anti-slip mat, 6 padded door hooks, 2 extra straps, and a luggage lock.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for attaching the door hooks could be clearer for some users.
- While durable, the material might be a bit stiff in very cold temperatures.
This cargo carrier is a fantastic solution for expanding your vehicle’s storage. It offers peace of mind with its durability and weather resistance.
3. 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
Rating: 9.1/10
Heading out on an adventure? The JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier is your ultimate travel companion for extra storage. This large, hard-shell carrier gives you a whopping 18 cubic feet of space to pack all your gear securely. Its tough, weatherproof design protects your belongings from the elements, and the sleek, aero-inspired shape helps save on gas. Made right here in the USA, it’s built to last and comes with a limited lifetime guarantee for your peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Huge 18 cubic feet of storage space for all your gear.
- Heavy-duty HDPE plastic is strong and weatherproof.
- Four-corner locking system and front latch keep your items safe.
- Opens from either side, making loading and unloading super easy.
- No tools needed for quick and simple installation on most roof racks.
- Aerodynamic design helps improve fuel efficiency on your trips.
- Proudly made in the USA with a limited lifetime guarantee.
- Can hold up to 3 golf bags comfortably, or even 5 if stacked.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires your vehicle to have roof luggage rails and crossbars.
- The base is pre-drilled for 24-inch crossbar spacing; re-drilling might be needed for some vehicles.
- You need to be mindful of clearance for rear hatchbacks and roof antennas.
- Weight capacity is limited to 110 lbs for the box and your roof rack’s rating (at least 150 lbs).
This JEGS cargo carrier offers a fantastic solution for anyone needing more space on their travels. It’s a durable, user-friendly option that keeps your gear protected and secure.
4. SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
Rating: 8.9/10
Hit the road with extra gear thanks to the SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box. This black cargo box gives you a huge 18 cubic feet of storage space, perfect for camping trips, sports equipment, or family vacations. It’s made from strong, UV-resistant ABS plastic, so it can handle the sun and the miles. The clever rear-opening design means you can easily load and unload your things without worrying about traffic. Plus, setting it up is a breeze with its tool-free mounting system. Keep your belongings safe and secure with the included lock that secures both your gear inside the box and the box to your car’s roof rack.
What We Like:
- Massive 18 cubic foot (510 L) storage capacity swallows up lots of gear.
- Durable, UV-resistant ABS material stands up to the elements.
- Rear opening is super convenient and safer when parked on the roadside.
- Tool-free mounting makes installation and removal quick and easy.
- Includes a lock for security, protecting your items and the box itself.
- Fits a wide variety of roof rack systems, including SportRack, square bars, round bars, and most factory racks.
What Could Be Improved:
- Maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds (45 kg) might be a limit for very heavy items.
- The dimensions are quite large, so check clearance for garages or parking structures.
This cargo box offers a fantastic amount of space and user-friendly features for any adventure. It’s a smart way to carry more without sacrificing passenger comfort.
5. Heavy Duty Rooftop Cargo Carrier ABS Lockable Car Roof Rack Cargo Carrier
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to expand your vehicle’s storage without sacrificing passenger comfort? The Heavy Duty Rooftop Cargo Carrier ABS Lockable Car Roof Rack Cargo Carrier is your solution. This spacious, black cargo box easily mounts to your car’s roof rack, giving you an extra 110 lbs of capacity for all your gear. It’s designed to protect your belongings from rain, dirt, and even freezing temperatures, making it perfect for any adventure.
What We Like:
- It fits most vehicles with cross bars and installs without needing any tools.
- The strong ABS plastic protects your items from bad weather.
- It has a secure lock to keep your luggage safe.
- Opening and closing it is simple and easy.
- The large size (53″ x 34″ x 15″) offers plenty of extra storage space.
- It can handle up to 110 lbs of weight.
What Could Be Improved:
- This carrier only works with vehicles that already have cross bars on the roof.
- The textured surface, while non-slip, might be a bit harder to clean if it gets very dirty.
This cargo carrier offers a practical and secure way to carry more on your next trip. It’s a smart addition for anyone needing more space on the go.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Car Top Carrier
Ready to pack more for your adventures? A car top carrier is your new best friend. It gives you extra space for luggage, camping gear, or sports equipment. This guide helps you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a car top carrier, check these important things:
- Capacity: How much stuff can it hold? Carriers come in different sizes. Think about your usual trips. Do you need space for a weekend getaway or a long family vacation? Look at the cubic feet (cu ft) measurement. A bigger number means more space.
- Attachment System: How does it attach to your car? Most carriers use straps. Some connect to roof racks. Others attach directly to your car’s door frame. Make sure the system is easy to use and secure. A strong attachment keeps your gear safe.
- Weather Resistance: Will it protect your belongings from rain or snow? Look for carriers made from waterproof or water-resistant materials. Good zippers and sealed seams are also important.
- Ease of Installation: Can you put it on and take it off easily? Some carriers are quick to install. Others take more time. If you plan to use it often, choose one that’s simple to set up.
- Security: Does it have locks or a way to secure it? This keeps your items safe from theft. Some carriers have built-in locks. Others let you add your own.
Important Materials
The material of your carrier affects its durability and how well it protects your gear.
- Nylon: This is a strong and lightweight material. It often has a waterproof coating.
- Polyester: Similar to nylon, polyester is tough and resists wear. It’s also good at repelling water.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): This is a very strong and waterproof plastic. It’s often used for the main body of soft-shell carriers.
- ABS Plastic: This is used for hard-shell carriers. It’s very durable and offers excellent protection from impacts and weather.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality means a carrier that lasts long and works well.
- Strong Stitching: Look for neat, reinforced stitching. This shows the carrier is built to last. Poor stitching can lead to tears.
- Durable Zippers: Heavy-duty zippers with protective flaps are best. They keep water out and prevent snagging. Cheap zippers can break easily.
- Reinforced Straps: Straps should be wide and strong. They need to hold the carrier securely on your car. Flimsy straps can stretch or break.
- UV Protection: Some materials can break down in the sun. Carriers with UV protection last longer.
- Build Quality: A well-made carrier feels sturdy. It doesn’t have loose parts or cheap-looking finishes.
User Experience and Use Cases
Car top carriers are great for many situations.
- Family Road Trips: Pack extra suitcases, strollers, or sports equipment. Everyone has more legroom inside the car.
- Camping and Outdoor Adventures: Bring tents, sleeping bags, coolers, and hiking gear. You can fit more without cramming.
- Moving or Hauling Large Items: Need to transport something awkward? A carrier can help.
- Beach Vacations: Pack beach chairs, umbrellas, and toys. Keep sandy items out of your car.
Soft-shell carriers are usually lighter and easier to store. They are good for occasional use. Hard-shell carriers offer more protection and are great for frequent travelers or those carrying fragile items. Some carriers are designed to be aerodynamic. This helps reduce wind noise and improve fuel efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions about Car Top Carriers
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for?
A: Look for good capacity, a secure attachment system, weather resistance, easy installation, and security features like locks.
Q: What are the most important materials used in car top carriers?
A: Common materials include strong and water-resistant nylon and polyester. Hard-shell carriers often use durable ABS plastic.
Q: What makes a car top carrier high quality?
A: High quality comes from strong stitching, durable zippers, reinforced straps, and good overall build. UV protection also helps it last longer.
Q: What are some common use cases for car top carriers?
A: They are great for family trips, camping, moving, and beach vacations. They give you extra space for luggage and gear.
Q: Are soft-shell or hard-shell carriers better?
A: Soft-shell carriers are lighter and easier to store, good for less frequent use. Hard-shell carriers offer more protection and are better for frequent travel or fragile items.
Q: How do I attach a car top carrier?
A: Most carriers use straps that either attach to roof racks or go over the car’s door frames. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Will a car top carrier affect my car’s gas mileage?
A: Yes, adding anything to the roof can increase wind resistance and slightly reduce gas mileage. Aerodynamic designs help minimize this.
Q: Can I use a car top carrier in the rain?
A: Yes, most carriers are designed to be water-resistant or waterproof to protect your belongings from the weather.
Q: How much weight can a car top carrier hold?
A: The weight limit varies by carrier and your car’s roof load capacity. Always check the product details and your car’s manual.
Q: How do I store a car top carrier when I’m not using it?
A: Soft-shell carriers can often be folded or rolled up. Hard-shell carriers need more space, like a garage or shed.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.