Buying Guide for the Best Roof Bags
Choosing the right roof bag for your vehicle can make road trips, camping adventures, or family vacations much easier by providing extra storage space. However, not all roof bags are created equal. To pick the best roof bag for your needs, it's important to consider your vehicle type, how often you travel, what you plan to carry, and whether your car has a roof rack or not. Think about ease of installation, weather protection, and how much luggage you typically want to store. A little planning ahead goes a long way in finding the most suitable and durable option.Capacity (Volume)Capacity refers to how much cargo the roof bag can hold, usually measured in liters or cubic feet. This is important because it determines the amount of gear you can transport. Roof bags generally range from around 10 cubic feet (for light trips or smaller cars) up to 20 cubic feet (for larger loads or families). If you only need extra space for a few bags or accessories, a smaller size will suffice. For big family trips or bulky gear, a larger capacity bag is a better choice. Consider your typical use—if you usually travel solo or as a couple, you may not need the largest option.
Material and Weather ResistanceThe material of a roof bag affects its durability and ability to protect contents from the elements. Common materials include PVC, nylon, and other waterproof fabrics. Weather resistance is crucial, especially if you'll be traveling in areas with unpredictable rain or snow. Look for reinforced seams, waterproof coatings, and strong zippers. If you often drive in wet or dusty conditions, prioritize high-quality, waterproof materials and additional weatherproof features. For shorter, fair-weather trips, less robust materials might be adequate, but for peace of mind, weather protection is always a good feature.
Attachment MethodHow the roof bag attaches to your vehicle impacts both safety and convenience. Some bags are designed for vehicles with roof racks while others can be secured to cars without racks using door hooks or straps. It's essential to check what your vehicle is compatible with. If your car has a roof rack, you’ll have more options and often, more secure attachment. No-rack bags are convenient for universal fit but may require more setup. Make your choice based on your car—if you don’t have a roof rack and don’t want to install one, make sure to look for no-rack compatible options.
Ease of Installation and UseHow easy it is to set up and remove the roof bag can affect your travel experience, especially if you’re a frequent user. Some roof bags include simple strap systems or quick-attach mechanisms, while others can be more complex. If you plan to use the bag often or will frequently put it on and take it off the car, look for bags with clear instructions and user-friendly systems. If you plan to install it once for a long trip and leave it on, installation difficulty may be less important.
Security FeaturesSecurity features such as lockable zippers, reinforced straps, and anti-theft measures help protect your belongings when you leave your vehicle unattended. If you'll be leaving your car parked in public places or overnight, you may want a bag with locking options or the ability to secure it to your roof rack. For strictly short, attended trips, basic security may be sufficient, but for anything involving valuable items or extended stops, prioritize enhanced security features.
Aerodynamics and NoiseThe shape and design of the roof bag affect how it interacts with wind while driving, which in turn impacts fuel efficiency and noise levels. More aerodynamic roof bags produce less drag and are quieter on the road. If you’re planning long highway journeys or are sensitive to wind noise and efficiency, look for low-profile, streamlined designs. For occasional use on short trips at lower speeds, aerodynamics will be less of a concern.
Storage When Not in UseWhen the roof bag isn’t on your car, you’ll need to store it somewhere. Some bags fold down very compactly, making them easy to stash in a closet or garage. If you have limited storage space at home, a flexible, easily foldable roof bag is ideal. If storage space isn’t a concern, this spec may be less important.