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10 Best Roof Top Cargo Bags
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Roof Top Cargo Carriers
Buying Guide for the Best Roof Top Cargo Bags
Choosing a roof-top cargo bag can make travel a lot easier, giving you additional storage without the bulk or expense of a rigid cargo box. When shopping for a roof-top cargo bag, it's important to think about your vehicle type, what you typically transport, how far and often you travel, and how much effort you want to put into attaching and removing the bag. A good fit means the bag won’t harm your car, keeps your items protected, and is easy for you to handle.CapacityCapacity refers to the maximum volume the bag can hold, usually measured in cubic feet or liters. This is important because you want to make sure all your gear fits without overstuffing the bag, which could damage it or make driving unsafe. Small bags are typically under 10 cubic feet, best for a couple of backpacks or a few small suitcases, and more suited to lone travelers or couples with light luggage. Medium bags sit around 10–15 cubic feet and fit a family’s weekend gear nicely. Large bags, over 15 cubic feet, can accommodate more people or longer trips. Choose a size based on how much you regularly need to carry, keeping in mind the roof space your car or SUV offers.
Material and WaterproofingThe construction material of the cargo bag determines how well it stands up to weather, road debris, and repeated use. Most bags are made of heavy-duty fabrics such as PVC or coated nylon—some are fully waterproof, while others are just water-resistant. If you’ll often drive in rainy or snowy conditions, look specifically for waterproof seams and zippers. For occasional summer trips, water-resistant options may be enough. Consider how much you care about keeping your belongings bone dry versus just protected from light splashes.
Attachment SystemHow the cargo bag straps onto your vehicle is critical for safety and ease of use. Some bags are designed for roof racks, using straps or hook systems that loop around crossbars. Others can be mounted without a rack, using door hooks or clips. The attachment mechanism is key to ensuring the bag stays put at highway speeds and doesn’t damage your car’s paint or trim. If your car has a factory or aftermarket roof rack, you have more versatile options. If you don’t, look for bags made for bare roofs and check that the attachment system is compatible with your vehicle’s door frames. Think about how often you’ll install and remove the bag—easy, tool-free designs may suit frequent users.
AerodynamicsAerodynamics refers to how easily the bag cuts through the air while driving, which affects wind noise and fuel efficiency. Some roof-top cargo bags are shaped to be more streamlined, while others are boxier and can cause more drag. If you often travel long distances or at highway speeds, a more aerodynamic, low-profile bag will help keep your drive quieter and gas mileage higher. For short trips or city driving, aerodynamics are less crucial.
SecuritySecurity features such as lockable zippers or reinforced materials help protect your belongings not only from weather but from theft. Some bags come with built-in locks, while others provide loops you can secure with your own locks. If you plan to leave your bag on the car unattended, such as during a road trip with stops, built-in security is more critical. For quick trips between trusted locations, simple zipper closures may suffice.
Ease of StorageWhen not in use, a roof-top cargo bag should be easy to store. Some bags fold up into compact cases, while others may remain bulky. Make sure you have enough space in your home or garage for the bag when it’s off your car, especially if storage is limited where you live. For those with small living spaces, a bag that packs down flat is an advantage.