When planning a road trip or family vacation, maximizing vehicle storage is key, and a rooftop cargo box can be a game-changer for extra space. However, choosing the right size is important. A too-small box limits capacity, while a too-large box can affect aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, so balance is crucial.
Rooftop Cargo Box Size Chart
| Rooftop Cargo Box | Dimensions | Capacities | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thule Motion 3 L | 76.9 x 35 x 16.7 in. | 14, 16, 18, 21 cu. ft. | 44 lb |
| Jegs Rooftop Carrier 18 | 57 x 38.5 x 17.8 in. | 10, 18 cu. ft. | 28 lb |
| Inno Wedge 660 | 80 x 33 x 11 in. | 11 cu. ft. | 42 lb |
| Yakima SkyBox 12 Carbonite | 92 x 24 x 16 in. | 12, 16, 18, 21 cu. ft. | 41 lb |
| Yakima SkyBox NX 18 | 84 x 36 x 16.5 in. | 16, 18 cu. ft. | 53 lb |
| Thule Force XT L | 74.8 x 33 x 18 in. | 11, 16, 18, 22 cu. ft. | 41 lb |
| Yakima RocketBox Pro 14 | 74 x 33 x 16 in. | 14 cu. ft. | 40 lb |
| Yakima GrandTour 16 | 79 x 35 x 18 in. | 15, 16, 18 cu. ft. | 52 lb |
| Thule Pulse M | 67 x 35 x 16 in. | 11, 14, 16 cu. ft. | 34 lb |
| Yakima CBX 16 | 83 x 38 x 15 in. | 16, 18 cu. ft. | 57 lb |
| Thule Sidekick | 54 x 25 x 16 in. | 8 cu. ft. | 20 lb |
| Thule Vector Alpine | 91 x 35 x 12.5 in. | 13 cu. ft. | 66 lb |
| Goplus Rooftop Carrier | 62.5 x 30 x 15 in. | 14 cu. ft. | 25 lb |
| Yakima CBX Solar 16 | 83 x 38 x 15 in. | 16 cu. ft. | 60 lb |
| SportRack Vista XL | 63 x 38 x 19 in. | 18 cu. ft. | 28 lb |
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Size
Selecting the right rooftop cargo box involves considering more than just volume; you also need to take into account your vehicle size, box dimensions, and specific travel needs. First, ensure the box is compatible with your vehicle’s roof.
A cargo box too large for your car can create balance issues or limit rear-door access. Additionally, exceeding your vehicle’s roof weight capacity can damage the car or strain fuel efficiency. Next, think about aerodynamics.
A taller or longer cargo box may offer more storage but can increase wind resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption and road noise. On the other hand, a smaller, more streamlined box may be quieter and improve gas mileage but might not fit all your gear.
The type of trips you take matters, too. If you’re heading out for weekend getaways, a medium box might be sufficient, but for longer trips or winter sports, a larger box might be necessary to carry bulky items like skis or tents. Balancing these factors ensures that your rooftop cargo box fits your lifestyle without compromising safety or convenience.
Popular Rooftop Cargo Box Brands and Their Size Offerings
Leading brands like Thule, Yakima, and SportRack offer a variety of cargo box sizes to meet different storage needs. Thule is known for its sleek, aerodynamic designs, with options ranging from compact boxes for smaller vehicles to extra-large boxes for families needing maximum space. While these boxes offer excellent durability and style, they can be pricier than other brands.
Yakima, on the other hand, focuses on versatility. Their product line includes boxes designed for various activities, such as camping or skiing, and they balance size with ease of installation. Though often more affordable than Thule, Yakima boxes may trade off some high-end features for simplicity.
SportRack offers budget-friendly alternatives without compromising on space. Their boxes cater to those seeking function over form, with larger sizes often available at a lower cost. However, SportRack models may lack the aerodynamic refinement of higher-end brands, potentially increasing fuel consumption on longer trips.
When choosing between these brands, consider the tradeoffs between cost, design, and functionality, as the impact on fuel efficiency and overall driving experience can vary based on the size and style of the box. Balancing these factors will help you make the right choice for your vehicle and travel needs.
FAQs
1. What size rooftop cargo box should I choose for a compact car?
For a compact car, a small to medium-sized rooftop cargo box (9-16 cubic feet) is ideal. It provides ample storage without overwhelming the roof or affecting aerodynamics. Make sure the dimensions of the box don’t interfere with rear-door access or exceed the roof’s weight capacity.
2. How does the size of the cargo box impact fuel efficiency?
Larger cargo boxes can increase wind resistance, leading to reduced fuel efficiency. Taller or bulkier designs may create more drag, especially at highway speeds. Choosing a more aerodynamic, lower-profile box can help minimize this impact and maintain better fuel economy.
3. Can I use a large rooftop cargo box on any vehicle?
Not all vehicles can handle large cargo boxes. You need to consider your vehicle’s roof size, weight capacity, and aerodynamics. Overloading the roof can damage your car or make driving less stable. Always check your vehicle’s specifications and balance box size with compatibility for safe travel.