Best Vehicle Hard-Shell Carriers in 2022

Last update: December 25, 2022

Are car top carriers safe?

Car top carriers are safe when used properly. They are designed to be secured to the roof of a car and should be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. When used properly, car top carriers can provide safe and reliable storage for gear and equipment.

Are roof bags a good idea?

There are a few pros and cons to using roof bags. On the plus side, they can be a convenient way to store gear and keep it out of the way inside your vehicle. They can also be easily accessed on the go. However, roof bags can be a bit of a pain to put on and take off, and they can be vulnerable to thieves. Overall, it’s a personal decision whether or not a roof bag is right for you.

Are rooftop cargo carriers worth it?

A cargo carrier lets you bring along more stuff when you hit the road. If you have the space on your vehicle’s roof, a cargo carrier is a great option for carrying extra gear. But are they worth the money? Here are some things to consider when deciding if a cargo carrier is right for you: How often will you use it? If you only plan on using a cargo carrier a few times a year, it might not be worth the initial investment. But if you’re an avid traveler or go on road trips often, a cargo carrier

Can I leave a roof box on my car?

A roof box can be a great addition to your car, providing extra storage space for those long journeys. However, you may be wondering if you can leave it on your car when you're not using it. The good news is that you can usually leave a roof box on your car, as long as it is properly secured. You'll want to make sure that the roof box is properly attached to your car and that all the locks are engaged. If you're going to be leaving it on your car for an extended period of time, it's a good idea to cover it


Mockins Protective Car Roof Mat for Any Car Roof Storage Cargo Bags with A Strong Grip and Extra Cushioning The Car Roof Pad Can Be Used On Your Car and SUV Or Truck Review:


I bought this to use underneath my RoofBag on a 1000-mile roundtrip from New York to the Outer Banks. Basically, this is just a larger cut piece of the non-slip material that you can use for cabinets and drawers. It wasn't quite as large as I would have expected, despite the specifications being in the item description.But it worked, shielded our car's roof, and maintained the bag's position on the roof the entire time. I find this to be a little expensive for what it is, but once again, I can't be too upset because it works. If you're looking to buy a roof bag for a journey of any kind, I'd suggest this.



YAKIMA - SkyBox Aerodynamic Rooftop Cargo Space for Cars, Wagons and SUVs Review:


Every year, we take many road trips, sometimes across the country, but most of the time they are between 100 and 300 miles long. When my wife and I were traveling alone, it was simple to throw our luggage in the car and relax. But even though we now have a son, we still enjoy taking road trips. We have a baby and a paid-off 2012 Prius liftback, so we have to play Tetris to get all of our cargo in. The Prius has a lot of space, which is fortunate. However, even with the available room, we still need to use our mad Tetris talents and make use of the front passenger seat in order to carry all of our stuff (wife sits in the back to accompany baby).Get into debt and be willing to pay $500 per month for a car payment for an SUV or minivan that we would use to the fullest extent a total of 8 times a year to accommodate one additional small family member?Not at all.We purchased the Yakima 16 Carbonite at a nearby sporting goods store and rode in it the same day to Joshua Tree National Park because Amazon demands scheduled deliveries be made one week in advance. Our Weber 1200 grill and cart, a mini cooler, groceries, a Manfrotto tripod, our cooking utensils, a DJI Phantom 3 and accessories in its bag, camera gear bag, four bottles of wine, a 12-pack of beer, a baby diaper bag and travel bag, as well as my luggage and my wife's baggage, could all be carried with us. There was space for more items.Even at 80 mph, the SkyBox looks fantastic and does not make any wind noise. Only when we were driving via Highway 62, where there were numerous strong crosswinds and a windmill farm, did we hear any wind noise. The SkyBox's sliding tracks let you move it to any desired location in relation to the front of your car. The Prius hatch -barely- touches the back of the SkyBox in terms of hatch clearance, but we could relocate the box further up front if we wanted.2012 Prius Four (no solar roof) with SkyBox 16 Carbonite placed on BaseLine Towers with 50" Core Bars and 46" Yakima fairing.



Goplus Cargo Box, Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Carrier, Heavy Duty Roof Storage Box, 14 Cubic Feet (Titanium Gray) Review:


I bought this cargo box to give our 2013 Subaru Crosstrek XV some extra space. Since the identical vehicle is shown in the product photographs, it looked like a safe bet. It did not let me down.Comparable Thune cargo boxes cost roughly $200 more than the cargo box. I did the installation myself because it is so lightweight and simple to do. Really, a second person wasn't necessary. This box has not made any road noise, with the exception of things moving around inside that I did not secure (my fault).We are big fans of this cargo box. Like I stated, it was simple to install, and it also has a nice appearance. I strongly advise using this Goplus cargo crate.



Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Box, Large Review:


I looked all over for this item, and while the pricing is the same everywhere, amazon offered free shipping. This item is large and is packaged in a sizable box. Choose Thule; don't settle for a less desirable, less expensive model. It secured our Acadia's roof perfectly. Once the clamps are in place, the task is complete. It has a great lock and key, is waterproof, and contains a ton of stuff. And it appears sophisticated. Due to the fact that our Acadia is getting too small inside with three kids, we bought it for a beach holiday. We endured a two-hour rainy drive to the beach. I felt anxious. However, you wouldn't have realized it was there because all of our belongings were completely dry. It exceeded all of my expectations.If I had to list any drawbacks, I would mention that because it only opens from the passenger side, it can be a little challenging to connect and detach from the car. To secure the clamps on the driver side, you must truly climb up onto the roof. It was quite simple; all I used was a step ladder. Although it can be moved by one person and only weighs around 30 pounds, it is somewhat hefty.Although Thule is more expensive, there are situations when it is worthwhile. You get what you paid for in this case. This is your roof top cargo box if you want complete assurance that your belongings will remain secure when you drive down the highway at 70 mph. One cannot express enough praise for it. We invested a lot of money in it, and we're glad we did. Very pleased and enthusiastically advised.



adakiit Car Roof Bag Top Carrier Cargo Storage Rooftop Luggage Waterproof Soft Box Luggage Outdoor Water Resistant for Car with Racks,Travel Touring,Cars,Vans, Suvs (20 Cubic Feet) Review:


For the price, this was a truly excellent product. Through a downpour as I traveled from Southern California to Northern California, everything kept dry. I thought it was really user-friendly and of excellent quality. I used it on my Subaru Outback and simply threaded the cross arms of my roof rack through the cargo bag's corner handles before fastening it with the included straps. While my spouse was at work, I was able to attach it to my car and load it. The only drawback was that they did not supply a users manual (even though it was rather self-explanatory), but I just went online and looked it up (he questioned the bag, but I did not want to spend $400 for a hardshell).As the bag does rest directly on the top of the car, purchasing the recommended roof cushion to protect my paint was a no-brainer. It was a nice pad. I heartily endorse it.Given that there is actually no security, I only awarded it one star. To unzip, all you need is a knife or your fingers. This is a cargo bag for moving things from A to B. I wouldn't keep anything like this for a long time (We have friends who have a hard shell cargo rack and they use it for their sports seasons). Additionally, your automobile MUST have some form of roof rack. I've got crossbars.I suggest this bag if you're seeking for something reasonably priced and require additional room. Just make sure to strap it down and pack it properly. You want to saturate the area and load it down.Additionally, it has a useful storage bag that it can actually fit back into.*Update: I used the bag for a second 1,200-mile road trip, and it performed flawlessly. I enjoy being this sack. properly holds my baggage.



adakiit Car Roof Bag Top Carrier Cargo Storage Rooftop Luggage Waterproof Soft Box Luggage Outdoor Water Resistant for Car with Racks,Travel Touring,Cars,Vans, Suvs Review:


For the price, this was a truly excellent product. Through a downpour as I traveled from Southern California to Northern California, everything kept dry. I thought it was really user-friendly and of excellent quality. I used it on my Subaru Outback and simply threaded the cross arms of my roof rack through the cargo bag's corner handles before fastening it with the included straps. While my spouse was at work, I was able to attach it to my car and load it. The only drawback was that they did not supply a users manual (even though it was rather self-explanatory), but I just went online and looked it up (he questioned the bag, but I did not want to spend $400 for a hardshell).As the bag does rest directly on the top of the car, purchasing the recommended roof cushion to protect my paint was a no-brainer. It was a nice pad. I heartily endorse it.Given that there is actually no security, I only awarded it one star. To unzip, all you need is a knife or your fingers. This is a cargo bag for moving things from A to B. I wouldn't keep anything like this for a long time (We have friends who have a hard shell cargo rack and they use it for their sports seasons). Additionally, your automobile MUST have some form of roof rack. I've got crossbars.I suggest this bag if you're seeking for something reasonably priced and require additional room. Just make sure to strap it down and pack it properly. You want to saturate the area and load it down.Additionally, it has a useful storage bag that it can actually fit back into.*Update: I used the bag for a second 1,200-mile road trip, and it performed flawlessly. I enjoy being this sack. properly holds my baggage.



MICTUNING Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag - Waterproof Car Top Carrier Luggage Storage Bag for Truck SUV Van (15 cu. ft.) Review:


This bag is really simple to use. On a 2015 Toyota Sienna, I mounted it. I purchased cross bars to use with this bag because the van lacked roof rails. Even though I afterwards discovered they weren't necessary. Without them, it would have operated without a hitch. (However, I'll later better include them. In a moment, I'll explain).The bag endured 90 miles of monarch butterflies that eventually covered the front of the van and the front of the bag, 80 mph freeway speeds in California, heavy rain, a 50 mph crosswind through the mountains, and the bag. Rain was repulsed and immediately slid off. The bag's contents were all dry. The bag was watertight thanks to the sturdy zipper and the flap that folds over the zipper and Velcros down. In addition, the bag was simple to remove after being removed and empty. It only needed a light scrub.Instead of using the supplied straps, I opted to use ratchet straps to fasten the bag to the van. The straps would have been okay because I gave them instructions. I chose to use the ratchet straps instead because they are simpler to use and I had them. The bag never shifted, slid, or moved in any way. It remained exactly where I needed it to.QUIET: The bag itself was largely silent. I was astonished that the lack of a whistle, wind noise, and a sleek enough profile did not influence the stability of the van. Even though I didn't fill it all the way, it was easily 14 "over the van's roof. The wind surge around the bag would lift its edge and then drop it, and we would occasionally notice this when a large semi-truck drove by or when a strong crosswind hit us. When this happened, we would hear a "thud" on the roof. It initially caught me off surprise, so I stopped to examine the bag, but everything was fine. Then there would be a long period of silence before we heard it again. Off and on throughout the journey, we would hear our 'thud,' which informed us that the bag was still in place, but it never changed or moved.Without a doubt, I would repurchase the bag and give it my unqualified endorsement.Regarding the crossbars I purchased, I will cut a piece of 3/8" steel to the inside diameter of the bag "use plywood to line the bag. The bag will therefore be able to rest on top of the crossbars thanks to that plywood, better dispersing the weight. If not, the bag straddles the crossbars, which is acceptable but the crossbars don't actually serve any use.



JEGS 90098 Rooftop Cargo Carrier | 18 cu. ft | Waterproof | Made in USA Review:


As my family and I relocated from Seattle, Washington to Charlotte, North Carolina for a vacation, I mounted this bad boy on my 2011 Dodge Durango. A rooftop cargo box was absolutely necessary because my wife, two children, two huge dogs, and two cats took up every square inch of interior passenger and cargo space. It was immediately delivered the day before we left after I placed my order later than I had intended.Although it is small and light, it seemed somewhat flimsy, which worried me, but I didn't have time to test it out because we were leaving the next day. I had to drill new mounting holes for the rail because the existing ones didn't fit my rails. It attached really well once I drilled the new holes. It appeared to be much more substantial and solid once it was attached and secured firmly. It's a major thing! I could fit so much stuff inside of it! It contained a deflated inflatable bed, a bed air pump, two full-size luggage, a carry-on suitcase, a bag of cat food, a sizable blue IKEA bag filled with my wife's shoes, and a few other items that I can't recall right now. We had no choice but to exceed the manufacturer's weight requirements, of that I am certain. It didn't matter because I followed the instructions and made sure the weight was well distributed between the rails, and this device handled the load like a champ!We traveled the nation by car and took in the sights. This includes a visit in South Dakota to view Rushmore and the Crazy Horse memorial. In that part of the country, there are lots of curves with top speeds of 55 mph or more and some considerable elevation changes. In those fast-moving corners, I was a little worried that the box could slip or shift on the rails, but it never even moved an inch.I drove at 90 mph for a few hours over a large stretch of South Dakotan wide, level roadway. Can the box handle these speeds, my wife questioned? Ask me when we arrive in Sioux Falls, I said. We had to set aside time since I wasn't sure. The response was an unequivocal YES!On our final stop before Charlotte, we encountered what felt like hurricane-force winds and sideways rain as we got close to Nashville, Tennessee. Since neither the box nor the mounting holes were waterproof, I reasoned that there was no chance our belongings would be dry. When we opened it the following day and discovered everything to be completely dry, I was blown away.But with this box, not everything was flawless. The biggest disadvantage, in my opinion, is how difficult it is to put items in and take them out of it. This is so that the hold open bars won't get in the way since it opens from the rear. In the end, while I held the luggage open with a broomstick, my wife had to climb up onto the top of my Durango to retrieve the clothing we needed. We took sure to prepare ahead of time and limit how frequently we had to do it.Overall, this item is unbeatable for the price. It is enormous, strong when closed, remarkably water resistant, and quite simple to mount and demount. I would give it six stars and purchase it once again if they could manage to keep the pricing and performance at this level while converting it to a passenger-side opening box. The thing handled it like a champ, stayed put, and kept our belongings dry even though I overloaded it foolishly, drove foolishly, and pushed through heavy rain. I'd suggest this box to everyone. Purchase it, abide by the directions, and drive safely, and your belongings will be secure. You won't be sorry.



Rhino Rack Ski Carrier Review:


These fishing rod carriers by Rhino Rack are ideal for transporting your rod and reel sets securely. With the provided hollow Allen wrench, it attaches quickly to the crossbars of an existing roof rack and locks for security. Simply don't overtighten; according to some reviewers, doing so shattered the plastic mounting tabs and made the units fragile. Instead, follow the instructions. Follow the install instructions; Rhino Rack creates them for a purpose! Mine has hauled rods/reels all across the New England region, from the ocean to the mountains, with ZERO difficulties!I frequently carry 5ct x 6'-7' spinning/conventional rod/reel setups or 3ct x 11' surf rods with Penn Battle II 8000 reels. When the reel handles on my 2008 Jeep Commander with OEM roof racks are in the up position, not even the largest reels hit the roof. Could low profile roof rack crossbars not be the same?The rods cannot be removed unless you break something, and they don't even slide or move when the reel and a guide are placed between the carriers, making them much more tight.



STDY 20 Cubic Feet Rooftop Cargo Top Carrier Bag,Travel Cargo Bag Box Storage Luggage by Waterproof 1200-Denier Polyester Material-with Easy to Install Straps-Soft Shell Luggage Rack Bag (20 cubic) Review:


I've been looking for some sort of luggage carrier to mount on the roof of my vehicle because I'm going to Arizona in a few months. I came into this while browsing. I decided to give it a shot, what the heck. If this didn't work out, I was worried that I would lose $60. I then put this cargo bag on the roof of my van after filling it with various items from around my house (the bag wasnt full). It performed beautifully during my 30-minute commute from my house to work. I had to drive up and down a significant hill while maintaining security. The bag didn't tear or come undone. There is no way this bag can't make it to Arizona and back, in my opinion. If you're going on a trip and driving, I definitely advise getting this bag. The bag is quite roomy and convenient for putting your items inside.


Can you attach a cargo carrier to a car?

Yes, you can attach a cargo carrier to a car. There are a few things you need to do to make sure it is done correctly and safely. First, you need to find the right spot on the car to attach the carrier. Second, you need to make sure the carrier is securely attached to the car. Third, you need to make sure the cargo is securely fastened in the carrier.

Can you Offroad with a rooftop tent?

Yes, you can offroad with a rooftop tent! There are many benefits to having a rooftop tent, including the ability to camp anywhere, anytime. With a rooftop tent, you don't have to worry about finding a level spot to set up your tent or dealing with rocks and roots underneath you. Plus, you'll be up off the ground and away from any critters that might be looking for a meal.

Can you put a car top carrier without roof rack?

A car top carrier without a roof rack can be done, but is not recommended. It is not as secure without the roof rack, and can cause damage to your car. It is also more likely to come loose and fly off while driving.

Can you put suitcases in roof box?

Yes, you can put suitcases in a roof box. They are designed to be able to hold a lot of weight, so they can easily hold the weight of a few suitcases. Just make sure that the suitcases are securely fastened in the box so that they don't fall out while you're driving.

Can you put two roof boxes on a car?

If you have two roof boxes, you can put them on a car. You will need to put one on the roof and the other on the trunk. Make sure that the roof box is securely attached to the car.

Can you use a RoofBag without roof bars?

Yes, you can use a RoofBag without roof bars, but it is not recommended. RoofBag carriers are designed to be used with roof bars, and without them, the carrier may not be secure or fit properly. Additionally, without roof bars, you will not be able to use some of the features of the RoofBag, such as the straps that help keep the bag in place. If you do not have roof bars and still want to use a RoofBag, be sure to carefully follow the instructions for proper installation and use.