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10 Best Car Top Carriers 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier - 21 Cubic Feet, 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicles with/Without Racks - Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bag, 2 Extra Straps

The Asinking 21 Cubic Feet Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag is a versatile and spacious option for expanding your vehicle’s storage capacity. Made from heavy-duty 840D PVC fabric, it is built to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling, ensuring durability. The bag’s dimensions of 52 inches in length, 40 inches in width, and 18 inches in height provide ample space to store various items such as luggage, tents, and sleeping bags. It also boasts a remarkable weight capacity for its class, allowing you to carry a significant amount of gear without worry.

One of its standout features is the waterproof design. The carrier includes a waterproof zipper covered by a 6-inch wide velcro flap, and the seams are triple-reinforced to prevent any leakage, even in heavy rain. This makes it an excellent choice for road trips in unpredictable weather. Installation is straightforward, thanks to the included anti-slip mat, 8 adjustable straps, 6 door hooks, and additional luggage straps. This setup ensures that the bag stays securely in place on top of your vehicle, whether it has a roof rack or not. The package also includes a storage bag and a luggage lock for added convenience and security.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the bag is highly functional, it might add some wind resistance and noise due to its size and soft-shell design, potentially affecting your vehicle’s aerodynamics. Additionally, at 4.24 kilograms (9.33 pounds), it is relatively lightweight, but you still need to ensure that your vehicle's roof can support the total weight of the bag and its contents. The Asinking rooftop cargo carrier is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a durable, waterproof, and spacious storage solution for their trips.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
The bag is spacious, easy to install, and incredibly sturdy.
Material
The material is high-quality and water-resistant, so I didn’t worry about my stuff getting wet.
Mounting System
It stayed in place the entire trip – no shifting or leaks, even in the rain.
Aerodynamics
Gas mileage took about a 10-20% hit, but considering the size of the bag, it wasn't horrible.
#2

MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop top Cargo Carrier Bag Waterproof 15 Cubic feet for All Cars with/Without Rack, Includes Anti-Slip Mat, 8 Reinforced Straps, 6 Door Hooks, Luggage Lock

The MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag offers a generous 15 cubic feet of storage space, which is ideal for trips requiring extra luggage capacity. Measuring 44” (L) X 34” (W) X 17” (H), it can comfortably accommodate 4-6 suitcases, making it a great choice for family vacations or camping trips. The bag is made from 100% waterproof 600D PVC tarpaulin, providing robust protection against the elements, ensuring your belongings remain dry and secure in all weather conditions. Its tearproof material and high-frequency voltage technology add to its durability, making it a heavy-duty option for long-term use.

Weighing just 8.6 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle. The included anti-slip mat, reinforced straps, and door hooks simplify the installation process, even for those without a roof rack. This universal compatibility means it can be used on almost any car or SUV, with or without a roof rack. The soft shell design allows it to be folded and stored conveniently when not in use. However, its soft shell nature might not provide as much protection against sharp objects or severe impacts compared to hard shell carriers. Aerodynamics could also be a concern as soft shell carriers typically generate more wind resistance and noise.

On the security front, the combination lock adds an extra layer of security, preventing the zippers from slipping and keeping your belongings safe. While the product promises easy installation and secure transportation, it may require careful packing to prevent items from shifting during transit. This carrier bag strikes a good balance between capacity, convenience, and security, making it a versatile option for various travel needs.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
This carrier bag offers a remarkable amount of space, effortlessly accommodating multiple suitcases, duffel bags, pillows, life vests, and more, with room to spare.
Material
The material is heavy-duty vinyl with a solid waterproof zipper, and even after driving through several rainstorms, everything inside remained completely dry.
Mounting System
Installation is straightforward, taking just 10-15 minutes initially and even less time on subsequent setups, thanks to well-packaged components and clear instructions.
Security Features
The combination lock feature adds an extra layer of security, ensuring the zippers stay in place and the contents remain safe.
#3

Thule 614 Pulse Rack, 14", Black

The Thule 614 Pulse Rack is designed for those looking to expand their vehicle's cargo space, particularly useful for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone needing extra storage for road trips. With a capacity of 14 cubic feet and a load capacity of 110 lbs, it strikes a good balance between ample space for gear and maintaining a manageable weight on your car's rooftop. The external dimensions of 67 x 35 x 16 inches make it spacious yet compact enough to fit most vehicles.

One of the standout features is the FastGrip quick-mount system, which allows for easy assembly and installation in minutes, making it user-friendly for those who may not be experienced with mounting systems. The passenger-side opening is a thoughtful design for convenient loading and unloading. Additionally, the central locking system enhances security, ensuring your belongings are safe while you’re on the go.

While the Thule 614 Pulse Rack offers many advantages, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The product is made from plastic, which, while providing durability, may not be as resilient as other materials like fiberglass in extreme conditions. Also, with a height clearance of 16 inches off the crossbar, it might slightly affect your vehicle's aerodynamics, potentially leading to increased wind resistance and fuel consumption.

Lastly, though the carrier is designed to fit 3-5 snowboards, users may find that it has limitations if they need to transport larger items or multiple bags—it's essential to consider what you plan to carry. Despite these drawbacks, the Thule 614 Pulse Rack remains a popular choice for its capacity, security features, and ease of use, making it a solid investment for those needing extra roof storage.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
Perfect size for camping gear and completely weatherproof, even in torrential downpours.
Material
Sturdier and less flimsy compared to cheaper brands, making it a reliable choice.
Mounting System
Easy installation, even for one person, and no noticeable wind noise during travel.
Aerodynamics
Easy installation, even for one person, and no noticeable wind noise during travel.
Security Features
Well-sealed against both rain and dust, ensuring contents remain dry and clean.

Buying Guide for the Best Car Top Carriers

Choosing the right car-top carrier can make your travels more convenient and enjoyable by providing extra storage space for your gear. When selecting a car-top carrier, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and fits your vehicle properly. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your requirements.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of storage space available in the car-top carrier, usually measured in cubic feet. This spec is important because it determines how much gear you can carry. Car-top carriers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 10 to 20 cubic feet. If you need to carry a lot of items, such as for a family vacation, a larger capacity carrier would be ideal. For shorter trips or fewer items, a smaller capacity carrier may suffice. Consider the volume of items you plan to transport and choose a carrier that can accommodate them comfortably.
DimensionsDimensions refer to the length, width, and height of the car-top carrier. This spec is crucial because it affects how well the carrier fits on your vehicle and how it impacts your vehicle's aerodynamics. Car-top carriers come in various shapes and sizes, so it's important to measure your vehicle's roof space and compare it with the carrier's dimensions. If you have a smaller car, a more compact carrier may be necessary, while larger vehicles can accommodate bigger carriers. Ensure the dimensions are suitable for your vehicle and won't obstruct your view or interfere with roof-mounted accessories.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity indicates the maximum weight the car-top carrier can safely hold. This spec is important to prevent overloading the carrier and potentially damaging your vehicle's roof or the carrier itself. Car-top carriers typically have weight capacities ranging from 100 to 200 pounds. To choose the right weight capacity, consider the combined weight of the items you plan to carry. Make sure the carrier's weight capacity aligns with your needs and doesn't exceed your vehicle's roof load limit, which can be found in your vehicle's manual.
MaterialThe material of the car-top carrier affects its durability, weather resistance, and overall performance. Common materials include hard-shell plastic, soft-shell fabric, and hybrid designs. Hard-shell carriers are more durable and offer better protection against the elements, making them ideal for long trips and harsh weather conditions. Soft-shell carriers are lighter and more flexible, making them easier to store when not in use. Hybrid carriers combine features of both hard and soft-shell designs. Choose a material that suits your travel needs and the typical weather conditions you expect to encounter.
Mounting SystemThe mounting system refers to how the car-top carrier attaches to your vehicle's roof. This spec is important for ensuring a secure and stable installation. Common mounting systems include roof racks, crossbars, and factory-installed rails. Some carriers come with universal mounting systems that fit most vehicles, while others require specific types of roof racks or crossbars. To choose the right mounting system, check your vehicle's roof setup and ensure compatibility with the carrier. A secure mounting system will provide peace of mind and prevent the carrier from shifting or detaching during travel.
AerodynamicsAerodynamics refers to how the car-top carrier affects your vehicle's airflow and fuel efficiency. This spec is important because a more aerodynamic carrier can reduce wind resistance and minimize the impact on your vehicle's fuel consumption. Car-top carriers with sleek, low-profile designs are generally more aerodynamic and create less drag. If you frequently drive long distances or are concerned about fuel efficiency, opt for a carrier with good aerodynamic properties. This will help you save on fuel costs and provide a smoother driving experience.
Security FeaturesSecurity features refer to the mechanisms that protect your belongings from theft and ensure the carrier remains securely closed. This spec is important for safeguarding your items during travel. Common security features include lockable latches, reinforced zippers, and integrated locks. When choosing a car-top carrier, consider the level of security you need based on the value and importance of the items you plan to carry. A carrier with robust security features will provide added peace of mind, especially if you need to leave your vehicle unattended for extended periods.

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