A cartop carrier is an essential accessory for anyone looking to maximize their vehicle’s storage space. Whether you’re going on a road trip, camping adventure, or simply need extra storage for your luggage, the best cartop carriers provide the ideal solution. Designed to be mounted on the roof of your vehicle, cartop carriers offer a spacious and secure way to transport your belongings, leaving more room inside the car for passengers and other essentials.

The best cartop carriers are made from durable, weather-resistant materials that protect your gear from the elements. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, including soft-sided, hard-shell, and rooftop bags, allowing you to choose the right option based on your needs. Soft-sided carriers are lightweight and flexible, perfect for those who need to store larger or oddly shaped items. Hard-shell carriers, on the other hand, offer extra protection and are ideal for more delicate or valuable gear.

The best cartop carriers are also designed for easy installation. Most models feature universal mounting systems that are compatible with most roof racks, making them simple to attach and remove. With features like zippered openings, buckles, and secure straps, these carriers ensure that your belongings stay safe and secure during travel. Many top-rated models are also designed with aerodynamic shapes to reduce wind resistance, ensuring a smooth and fuel-efficient ride.

Whether you’re heading out on a family vacation or need additional storage for outdoor gear, the best cartop carriers are the perfect solution to help you transport your items safely and conveniently. With the right cartop carrier, you can travel with ease, knowing that your gear is secure and easily accessible.

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Reviews

Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Carrier: Spacious 15 Cubic Feet Storage

Enjoy a hassle-free travel experience with our brand-new waterproof rooftop cargo carrier! This compact, spacious 15 cubic feet storage solution features a patented waterproof structure, ensuring safe transportation of your belongings, no matter the weather. With its heavy-duty fabrics and advanced fusion welding techniques, this rooftop carrier is designed to withstand even the toughest road trips. Its quick and easy installation process, along with a foldable design for effortless storage, makes this the perfect addition to your car.

Auto Dynasty Hard Shell Roof Top Mount Car Storage, 55L x 34.5W x 14H Inches, 110 Pounds Capacity

Elevate your vehicle’s storage capacity with the Auto Dynasty Hard Shell Roof Top Mount Car Storage Travel Luggage Box Cargo Carrier. This sleek design fits cross bars up to 13 inches wide and is perfect for securely transporting bulky items, thanks to its ABS plastic mounting brackets. With an impressive 12.7 cubic feet of space and a capacity of up to 110 pounds, this stylish cargo box is the ultimate solution for your storage needs.

Universal Rooftop Carrier Storage with Secure Lock and Waterproof Design

The Visrack Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier Large is a spacious 14 cubic feet storage solution, perfect for road trips and outdoor adventures. Constructed with robust ABS and PMMA materials, this waterproof carrier ensures your valuables are well protected from the elements. The dual side opening feature makes loading and unloading a breeze, and the double secure lock keeps your gear safe. Plus, installation is tool-free and hassle-free, making this a versatile addition to your vehicle.

BougeRV Soft Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag: Water-Resistant and Versatile Aero Car Top Luggage Carrier for Adventures

Safely store your gear and essentials in this BougeRV Soft Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag. Made with water-resistant 900D PVC material, it’s perfect for adventure, with dimensions designed to fit a range of vehicles. Equipped with six reinforced straps, a luggage lock, and a storage bag, this thoughtful design balances style and practicality, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Kimevan Soft Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Carrier: Versatile and Durable Storage Solution for Cars and SUVs

The Kimevan Soft Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Carrier is an upgraded version designed for all cars, with/without racks. It features a waterproof structure and webbing to keep your contents dry and safe, even during harsh weather. With superior strength and extreme durability, this roof bag offers robust performance and safety combined. The simple installation process makes it convenient to set up, while its foldable design ensures easy storage and minimal space occupation. The spacious 21 cubic feet capacity accommodates a wide range of items, making it a versatile and reliable storage solution for both cars and SUVs.

Large Rooftop Cargo Carrier with Double Locks – Waterproof 14 ft Cargo Box for SUV Rooftops

Say hello to a spacious rooftop storage solution designed for easy access and secure loading. The sturdy hard shell carrier can easily accommodate bulky items, thanks to its convenient side opening feature. Crafted from durable ABS and PMMA materials, this cargo box promises to provide long-lasting use and superior protection from the elements. With a weight capacity of up to 130 lbs and compatibility with most crossbars, this rooftop storage is perfect for your next adventure.

Thule Canyon XT Roof Basket for SUVs

The Thule Canyon XT cargo basket enhances the versatility of your SUV with its sturdy, tubular steel construction, offering ample storage space for all your gear. This low-profile, wedge-shaped rack is easy to load and unload and also comes with a wind fairing for better airflow over your cargo. Its T-track mounting makes it compatible with Thule rack systems and most factory racks. However, note that accessories and crossbars are sold separately. This functional accessory is worth the investment, as it offers a reliable solution to your storage needs and adds style to your vehicle.

Thule Force XT XXL Cargo Carrier for Adventure-Ready Vehicles

Introducing the Thule Force XT – XXL Cargo Box, an essential addition to your vehicle for those seeking ample storage. This stylish and practical solution provides maximum space, perfect for housing up to 12 pairs of skis or six to eight snowboards, all within a robust and lightweight build. Convenient features such as the dual-side opening provide easy access to all areas from either side of your vehicle, while the full trunk access ensures minimal contact risk. And with its aerodynamically designed shape and sturdy construction, there’s no worry about fuel consumption or wind resistance. Experience hassle-free travels with the Thule Force XT – XXL Cargo Box.

Extendable Car Roof Rack with Net and Straps

Gear up for your outdoor adventures with the Mockins Roof Rack Rooftop Cargo Carrier. Capable of holding up to 260 lbs. , this extendable basket offers the convenience of easily adjusting the length to fit your vehicle and cargo needs. Designed with an aerodynamic shape, it helps reduce wind resistance and fuel consumption, making it a must-have for your travels. The set includes a rustproof basket, bungee cargo net, and water-resistant ratchet straps, ensuring safe and secure transport for all your items. Simply attach the carrier to your vehicle’s crossbars, and you’re ready to hit the road.

VEVOR Roof Rack Cargo Basket for SUV, Truck, and Cars

Unlock endless storage possibilities with the VEVOR Roof Rack Cargo Basket, designed for SUVs, trucks, and cars. Its spacious 46″ x 36″ x 4.5″ frame holds up to a whopping 200 lbs. , making it the perfect companion for your next adventure. Easily installed and boasting top-notch sturdiness, this cargo carrier is a game-changer for those looking to free up space in their vehicles.

Thule Pulse M Medium Cargo Box for Rooftop Storage

The Thule Pulse M Cargo Box provides 14 cubic feet of additional storage space, perfect for holding camping gear or luggage. With its rugged and durable design, your belongings will be well-protected during transit. The FastGrip quick-mount system ensures a secure installation, taking only minutes to assemble. The passenger-side opening makes loading and unloading a breeze, and the central locking system ensures maximum safety.

Cabela’s TrailGear 10 Cu. Ft. Roof Cargo Carrier for SUVs – Durable Design with Easy Installation

Cabela’s TrailGear Roof Cargo Carriers boast a generous amount of storage space, rated at 110 pounds of load capacity, catering to individuals in need of enhanced cargo accommodation during their travels. Produced using a high-density polyethylene fabric, the material can withstand any season, with a built-in UV stabilizer to prevent cracking and fading. This sturdy choice is optimal for usage in all weather settings. Patent-pending integrated hinges facilitate seamless loading from both sides, while the 4-corner integrated locking system and front latch ensure the security of your gear. The aerodynamic design offers reduced wind noise, leading to enhanced fuel economy. The no-tool assembly and installation procedure make integrating this cargo carrier onto your vehicle’s cross rails a breeze, though they are not included in the purchase. Manufactured in the United States, this cargo carrier is crafted for convenience and adaptability, making your journeys more efficient.

Rainproof Car Top Carrier – 10 Cu Ft – Weather-Resistant Storage for Camping & Travel

CargoSmart’s soft sided rooftop carrier offers a rainproof solution to your storage needs during camping trips or vacation travel. Available in 10 or 15 cubic feet, this carrier mounts easily to your vehicle’s roof, providing ample space for luggage and gear. With an average rating of 3.6, customers cite the carrier’s ease of installation, sturdy construction, and durability as key selling points.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide for cartop carriers. A cartop carrier, or rooftop carrier, is an essential accessory for those who wish to transport larger, bulkier items that cannot fit inside their vehicle. In this guide, we’ll discuss the important features to consider when purchasing a cartop carrier, as well as provide general advice to help you make the best decision for your needs.

Carry Capacity

The first thing to consider when choosing a cartop carrier is its carry capacity. This is the weight it can safely support when transporting items. Make sure to choose a carrier with a capacity that matches the weight of the items you plan to transport. Overloading your carrier can lead to damage to both the carrier and your vehicle, or even personal injury.

Size and Dimensions

When selecting a cartop carrier, consider the size and dimensions of both the carrier and your vehicle. Ensure that the carrier you choose is compatible with your roof height and width. Measure the roof of your vehicle to determine the largest size of carrier you can accommodate. Additionally, consider the overall size of the carrier to ensure it fits your storage needs.

Material and Durability

The material and durability of a cartop carrier should also be a factor in your decision-making process. Cartop carriers made of high-quality materials, such as aluminum or steel, are more durable and long-lasting compared to those made of lower-quality materials. It’s essential to choose a carrier with UV protection, as sunlight exposure can cause the carrier to become brittle and weaken over time. Look for carriers with waterproof or weather-resistant features to protect your items from damage due to exposure to the elements.

Ease of Installation and Removal

Finally, consider the ease of installation and removal when choosing a cartop carrier. Some carriers are designed to be easy to mount and dismount without the need for additional tools, while others may require tools or assistance. Look for carriers with convenient, lockable mounting systems that make it easy to secure your carrier to your vehicle and protect against theft.

FAQ

What is a cartop carrier?

A cartop carrier, also known as a rooftop carrier, is a device that attaches to the top of a vehicle to provide extra storage space for luggage, gear, and other items during transportation. These carriers are designed to fit different types of vehicles, including sedans, wagons, hatchbacks, and SUVs.

Cartop carriers vary in size, shape, and capacity, allowing customers to choose the best option for their needs. They are generally easy to install and remove, making them a convenient choice for those who only need extra storage occasionally. Cartop carriers can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, or a combination of both.

How do cartop carriers work?

Cartop carriers typically use mounting systems or brackets that attach to the roof rails of a vehicle. Some models require specific types of roof rails, while others can be adapted to fit most vehicles. Once attached, the carrier sits on top of the vehicle, providing additional storage space that can be accessed through doors or windows.

The design of cartop carriers allows for items to be placed inside the carrier from any side. This can be particularly useful when the carrier is attached to a vehicle with a hatchback or doors that open in a specific direction. Most cartop carriers are lockable, providing an added level of security for valuable items.

What materials are cartop carriers made of?

Cartop carriers can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and a combination of both. Plastic carriers are lightweight and often designed to be aerodynamic to reduce wind resistance. This makes them a popular choice for fuel efficiency-conscious consumers. Metal carriers, on the other hand, are typically sturdier and more durable, making them a good choice for long-term use and those who need to transport heavier items.

Material choices may also impact the ease of installation and removal for a cartop carrier. Some manufacturers offer carriers with quick-release mechanisms for easy detachment, while others may require the use of tools to remove the carrier from the vehicle. It’s essential to consider these factors when choosing the right cartop carrier for your needs.

How do I choose the right size cartop carrier for my vehicle?

When choosing the right size cartop carrier for your vehicle, consider the size of your luggage or gear, the space you need to accommodate it, and the dimensions of your roof. Measure the area on your roof where you plan to install the carrier, taking into account any obstructions like roof rails or crossbars. Compare these measurements to the dimensions of the carrier you are considering to ensure a proper fit.

Manufacturers often provide detailed information about the compatibility of their carriers with various types of vehicles. This information may include the length, width, height, and weight capacities of their products. Make sure to consult this information before making a purchase, and if you have any doubts, reach out to the manufacturer or a customer service representative for assistance.

What are some common accessories for cartop carriers?

There are several accessories available for cartop carriers that can enhance their functionality and convenience. Some common accessories include: locking mechanisms to secure the carrier to the vehicle and protect its contents; covers to shield luggage from the elements; and extension pieces to increase the size of the carrier if needed.

Additionally, some manufacturers offer specialized carriers designed for specific purposes, such as cargo carriers for carrying bikes, ski racks, or gear carriers with built-in tie-down points for securing larger items. Research the available options to ensure you find the perfect accessory for your needs.

Are cartop carriers easy to install and use?

Most cartop carriers are designed to be easy to install and use, even for those who are not particularly mechanically inclined. Manufacturers often provide detailed instructions and illustrations to guide users through the installation process. Many carriers come with pre-drilled mounting points or use quick-release mechanisms for easy attachment and removal.

Once installed, using a cartop carrier is generally straightforward. Luggage and equipment can be loaded and unloaded from the carrier through doors or windows. It’s essential to ensure that the carrier is properly secured to the vehicle before driving to prevent damage or potential hazards caused by the carrier coming loose during transportation.

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