The Best Roof Bag Cargo Carriers For 2022

Even SUV owners may run out of room for that fifth or sixth suitcase. Folding rear seats to expand cargo space isn’t always an option with a full load of passengers. Lightweight cargo carriers strap to the top of your vehicle, store bulky items and easily fold away when not in use, unlike hard-shell rooftop cargo carriers. A good cargo bag adds storage options without adding unnecessary weight—many

Best Soft Rooftop Cargo Carrier Overall

Fivklemnz Car Roof Bag Cargo Carrier

Sale

$89.99

(-$10.00) (11%)

Why We Picked It

Made from heavy-duty materials and heat-welded seams, the Fivklemnz soft rooftop cargo carrier is waterproof and keeps belongings dry, even in a deluge. The 15-cubic-foot Fivklemnz roof bag comes with an anti-slip mat and adjustable straps that will keep the carrier in place without scratching the vehicle. From multiple suitcases to a full camp setup including sleeping bags and a tent, the Fivklemnz soft rooftop cargo carrier is a top-seller in the marketplace. This unit weighs less than seven pounds and expands to over a foot in height. It’s 43 inches long and 33 inches wide.

Pros & Cons

Waterproof storage capacity
Oversized cargo compartment
Does not require roof rails; comes with four door hooks for naked roofs

Not subtle: large, bright orange logo
Does not work well with crossbars as it is meant to lay flush against the roof
Seams may not be durable in strong headwinds

Best Roof Bag Design

RoofPax Car Roof Bag And Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Sale

$189.00

(-$25.00) (13%)

Why We Picked It

The RoofPax soft rooftop cargo carrier is larger than most, offering 19 cubic-feet of space. It’s made of durable materials with waterproof double zippers and dual-seam technology. It also includes a water repellent double coating, making it a waterproof cargo hauler. It also offers a lifetime warranty on its buckles and zippers and works with or without roof rails rails. It has a built-in protective mat and comes with 10 elastic Velcro straps. It expands to nearly 20 inches in height when packed to the brim. Its footprint is 47.2 inches long and 35.4 inches wide. A smaller 15 cubic-foot bag also is available that expands to the same height, but offers a smaller foot print (43.3 inches long and 33.5 inches wide).

Pros & Cons

Lifetime warranty on zippers and buckles
Can attach to a naked roof or a vehicle with roof rails
Two sizes available

Expensive
Protective flap barely covers the zipper
Needs an extra mat if laying flush against a glass moonroof

Best Value Roof Bag for Rails, Crossbars or a Rack

Amazon Basics Cargo Carrier

Why We Picked It

The Amazon Basic Cargo Carrier does the job for about $65.00. It offers fade-resistant, waterproof protection to shield whatever fits within its 15 cubic-feet of storage. A flap shields the zipper from the natural elements and helps keep the rain from trickling in through the opening. There are eight straps for some extra security against the buffering of the wind or wear from constant use. This bag requires at least roof rails, but would be better off attached to crossbars or inside a cargo basket. The straps are meant to loop around the vehicle’s side rails or crossbars and adjust individually via buckles. The zipper can be locked, but the bag cannot be secured to the roof.

Pros & Cons

Velcro holds down the zipper flap
4.7-pound lightweight option which is easier to fold
Buckles unsnap for easier access to cargo while attached to the roof

Requires roof rails, crossbars or other rack system like a cargo basket
No pad or other non-slip measures on the bottom of the bag
Like some other Amazon Basics products, availability waxes and wanes

Most Versatile Roof Bag

RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Why We Picked It

For those who like choices (or have more than one vehicle type), the RoofBag offers four different configurations from which to choose. There are two 11 cubic-feet bag options. They both are 40 inches in length and 36.5 inches in width. They both are good for cars with roofs that stretch 48 inches or more in length. One comes with straps and a mat, the other comes with three water-repellent duffle-shaped bags extra security against weather or just more organized packing. The smaller bag also is a good choice for drivers of smaller sedans or smaller hatchbacks, especially with more restrictive roof load limits and to prevent the bag from hanging over the rear window. The larger option has 15 cubic-feet storage capacity and can also be paired with or without the liners. Both bags also have a distinct shape. That’s because the bag is lower in the front for increased aerodynamics. The smaller bag is 10 inches in the front and 17 inches in the back, and the larger bag add 1 additional inch of height at either end. The larger bag is ideal for cars with roofs over 58 inches. Its footprint is 48 inches long and 38 inches wide.

Pros & Cons

Smaller bag a good choice for sedans
Four choices
Can be used with a naked roof, roof rails, crossbars or a roof basket

Users report bag will slide a bit if you do not fill to capacity
Only two straps, a ratchet strap may be required for extra security
Awkward to fill without the liner bags

Best Budget Soft Rooftop Cargo Carrier

San Hima Car Roof Bag Cargo Carrier

Why We Picked It

The San Hima soft rooftop cargo carrier packs a lot of punch for its price. Made from PVC mesh, a material that is both strong and flexible as well as waterproof and flame retardant. It also has good color fastness, so it won’t fade in the sun. Showcasing welded seams and a concealed waterproof zipper with Velcro zipper flaps, the San Hima bag keeps contents dry. It’s carrying capacity is 14.6 cubic-feet and it expands to 17 inches in height when packed. Its footprint is 44 inches long and 34 inches wide. The San Hima also is designed with aerodynamics in mind for reduced drag. It will attach to a naked roof as well as rails, crossbars or a basket. As with other soft cargo carriers, the San Hima soft rooftop cargo carrier folds up for easy storage and fits most cars, SUVs and vans.

Pros & Cons

Velcro reinforced flaps offer extra protection for zipper seams
Adjustable, eight straps
Affordable (about $60)

Prominent logo on the front of the bag in bright orange
Under 15 cubic-feet, which is smaller than most

Bestselling Vehicle Cargo Carriers on Amazon

Sponsored

SaleBestseller No. 1

1,727 Reviews

Mockins Steel Cargo Basket | 60" L X 20" W X 6" H Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier with Cargo Bag and Net | with a Hauling Weight of 500 lbs & a Folding Arm to Preserve Space When Not in Use

Includes a Waterproof Cargo Bag & an extra 2 ratchet straps & cargo net with bonus hitch stabilizer the car trailer hitch carrier is constructed with heavy duty steel and has the capacity to hold up to a hefty 500 Lbs of cargo such as luggage carrier or camping gear and any construction material
The product comes in a box packaging 31.5*9.5*23.5; however, After assembly the tray is 60" | The 60” long x 20” wide x 6” tall cargo basket car rack makes it convenient to haul anything you may need and provides multiple easy access tie down points. Hitch storage rack comes with a simple to clean mesh floor as well and great to us for all occasions such as camping road trips or tailgates
Hitch hauler with 2" rise for improved ground clearance and the fold-able basket folding trailer for when not in use this hitch basket will work great with any vehicle car SUV van or truck that has a 2" receiver. This cargo carrier is not compatible with cars that have a tire on the back as your side swing door will not open.

SaleBestseller No. 2

MaxxHaul 70108 49" x 22.5" Hitch Mount Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails For RV's, Trucks, SUV's, Vans, Cars With 2" Hitch Receiver - 500-lb Load Capacity , Grey

Basket-style cargo carrier is constructed from extruded aluminum material that is durable, sturdy, lightweight and easy to install. Will not rust and is easy to clean and easy to maintain
Features a heavy duty steel under support frame with a 2" x 2" hitch shaft to fit standard Class III and IV hitch receivers.
It comes with reflector lens and red colored corners to provide extra visibility for safety. High side rails help keep cargo in place and provide multiple tie down points

Bestseller No. 3

SECURE & PROTECT YOUR GEAR in this 18 cubic ft. HDPE plastic hard shell car top cargo carrier; high-capacity interior dimensions 57 L x 38 1/2 W x 17 3/4 H inches; aerodynamic design for fuel efficiency
WATERPROOF STORAGE FOR YOUR LUGGAGE with a four corner locking system, front latch, and weather-tight seal for ultimate car rooftop protection and security
EASY & CONVENIENT LOADING AND UNLOADING from either side of the car make for smooth travel and hassle-free storage

Bestseller No. 4

13 Reviews

Silver Spring Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier Utility Basket with Loading Ramp

Hitch-mounted cargo carrier basket for 2" Class III or IV receivers
Built-in loading ramp and tie-down anchor points
Large 500 lb capacity for utility hauling, lawn mower and snow blower transport

Bestseller No. 5

425 Reviews

TITIMO 60"x21"x6" Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier - Luggage Basket Rack Fits 2" Receiver - Rear Cargo Rack for SUV, Truck, Car(Includes Cargo Net, Ratchet Straps, Waterproof Cover) - 550LB Capacity

【Durable Build】– This TITIMO trailer hitch cargo carrier is constructed from heavy duty tubular steel to promote high strength and a lightweight mesh design. It is also finished with an E-coat and carbide black powder coat for long-lasting corrosion resistance with capacity up to 550 lbs
【Enhanced Security】 – Featured 6-inch high walls around the cargo basket and mesh bottom keep your items secure during traveling. Attaching reflectors on the frame promoting a safe ride with this hitch cargo rack. Item Dimension: 60"L x 21" W x 6"H
【Folding Design】– This hitch cargo carrier is equipped with a folding shank, the folding feature allows the cargo carrier to be folded up when not in use, even if your vehicle has a spare tire. Works great with any vehicle car SUV van or truck that has a 2" receiver

Bestseller No. 6

Billiton Premium Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag ,100% Waterproof Car Roof Bag 15 Cubic Ft, Cargo Bag Carrier for Top of Vehicle with Rack or Without,Heavy-Duty & Waterproof Military-Grade Fabric

THE 1ST ANTI-THEFT & WATERPROOF ROOFTOP CARGO CARRIER BAG: It will revolutionize your road trips. Our car roof bag is a foldable,waterproof and anti-theft car top carrier that allows you to easily carry,store and keep your gear safe. A clever combination lock included that allows you to safely store your gear directly on your car roof with peace at mind that everything will be safe when the car is parked by itself.Ultra-durable,seat-belt straps with heavy-duty buckles that secure it to your car
OUR CAR TOP CARRIER IS 100% WATERPROOF GUARANTEED: Cruise through rain, wind, sun, or grit with total confidence! Our rooftop cargo bag is made of rugged kayak fabric. A material that is 40% stronger than other materials. It meets the standards of a kayak, highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, sunlight, wind and rain. With a stitch free - Heat-sealed seam construction - fully sealed zippers - make the cargo bag rooftop completely waterproof
UPGRADED AERODYNAMIC DESIGN: Here's the problem: 95% of roof rack cargo carrier on the market are notoriously poor in terms of aerodynamics due to their boxy shape, which creates significant amounts of drag on the road. The Billiton Rooftop Cargo Bag is the solution to your problems. It features a premium aerodynamic design to ensure stability and safety, and its shape helps reduce fuel consumption and wind noise

Bestseller No. 7

SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box

18 cubic foot (510 L) internal cargo capacity
Made from durable UV-resistant ABS material
Rear opening for easy access away from traffic

Bestseller No. 8

KING BIRD Upgraded 60" x 24" x 6" Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Fits to 2'' Receiver,550LBS Capacity Cargo Basket with Trailer Hitch Lock,Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps

【GREAT DURABILITY】 - Upgraded cargo rack is made of heavy-duty HD FULL TUBULAR and CARBIDE BLACK POWDER COAT. Greatly enhanced rust resistance and durability, can HAUL UP TO 550 LBS of cargo, gear, or equipment
【UPGRADED SHANK 】- This cargo hitch carrier is equipped with a folding, angled shank. When use, the angled shank provides additional ground clearance. And ALLOWS FOLDING when not in use
【MORE VISIBILITY AT NIGHT】- Two large reflectors on the rear side provide higher night visibility, and there are also 3 reflectors at the BOTTOM OF THE FOLD FRAME, The reflectors add visibility to the cargo carrier and your vehicle in different situations

Bestseller No. 9

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

【840D CHAMPION QUALITY MATERIAL】 Made with heavy-duty 840D abrasion-resistant PVC fabric, this ultra-durable car roof cargo carrier stands up to any rough treatment or harsh weather. Better still, the triple-reinforced welded seams make it hard to tear or rip for years to come.
【MORE THAN WATERPROOF】 Featuring waterproof zipper wrapped with 6 inches widened velcro zipper flaps, our vehicle cargo carriers will exceed your expectations with the waterproof effet. The reinforced seams will make it possible "zero leakage" even in downpours.
【EASY INSTALLATION】 Our roof rack cargo carrier comes with an anti-slip mat and 8 thickened adjustable straps that will keep the cargo bag in place. The smooth zipper, adjustable straps, door hooks and robust buckles allows you to effortlessly secure it to any car.

SaleBestseller No. 10

MAXXHAUL 70275 Aluminum Cargo Carrier | With 60" Folding Ramp | 53.5" x 29"

Cargo Carrier dimensions – 53.5" L x 29.75" W x 8" H | Inside dimensions – 46.5” L x 28” W x 7” H | Product weight – 72 lbs. | Max carry weight – 500 lbs. | Receiver size – 2” x 2” (Fits Class III & IV receivers)
Closer rungs to roll small wheeled equipment
Extra-wide 49" x 29" carrier bed accomodates most mobility devices

Methodology

Forbes Wheels surveyed more than 20 rooftop cargo bags with their accessories and examined user feedback. Durability prevailed as the most common user desire in a soft-top carrier bag vehicle compatibility a close second. As a result, our choices reflect the bags with higher user satisfaction and longer lasting, functional finishes.

We evaluated the straps, material and the bag’s general ability to resist wear from weather conditions like rain, snow, wind or extreme heat. After establishing credible durability, we matched each bag’s features to categories like “biggest bag” or “best value” while keeping in mind price, performance and the bag’s construction – like how the straps attach to the vehicle. We chose bags that will work for a variety of users since elements like the vehicle type or cargo play a deciding factor

Are rooftop cargo bags safe?

They’re safe if they’re not overloaded, if they’re packed with soft-side luggage and snuggly strapped to the car. A loosely secured cargo bag may slide or let the wind get under the bag. Check the owner’s manual or online for the maximum dynamic (when moving) maximum roof load (the static weight may be higher). It might be 50-150 pounds for a car, 200-plus pounds for a larger SUV. Also check the max carrying weight of the cargo bag itself.

How do you pack a roof soft car top carrier?

1. Place the bag on the roof and start packing before strapping the bag on. Since a cargo bag carrier is more flexible than its box cousins, the straps typically adjust to the size and shape of the load. 2. Distribute the weight appropriately. Heavier things go in the center with lighter items towards the edges. Consider also what you will use first or if there is any cargo you want easy access to. 3. Pack as compactly as possible. To avoid shifting, don’t leave any gaps for cargo to move when under way. 4. Consider taking extra steps for waterproofing. Try using plastic or garbage bags if there are items you want to remain unaffected by the weather. 5. Preserve the shape of the bag while packing. Typically this will result in better aerodynamics if the bag is angled in the front to cut through wind resistance.

Can you use a car top carrier without a roof rack?

You can attach the bag without a roof rack with a few accessories. Ratchet straps and loops are both popular options. Loops can be added to the edges of your car roof by a metal hook at the end, which attaches to a vehicle's door frame. Open your car door, pull down the rubber weatherstrip, attach the hook, and close the door. When all the doors are shut, the loops hold firmly in place and the cargo bag straps can be attached to a car without a roof rack.

Which is better, soft or hard rooftop carrier?

A soft-side rooftop carrier stretches to fit slightly-too-big bags. Various models hold 13 to 21 cubic feet; 15 is typical and some are expandable. By tightening the straps, the fabric bag can shrink for smaller loads. They don't need roof rails or cross-bars. Instead of taking up a portion of the garage, soft carriers fold up and can be tucked away in a closet. They're vulnerable to holes made by cargo with sharp edges. They cost $50 to $200. Hard-shell rooftop carriers are more protective, typically need roof rails and/or crossbars to secure, have about the same carry capacity but some space will be lost unless you only load soft-side luggage. Some double as ski or snowboard carriers. They take up space in the garage. They cost $200 to $1,000 and look sleek; soft-side bags (see photo above) often look lumpy.

How much is 15 to 19 feet of cargo capacity?

Most bags here hold 15 to 19 cubic feet. A Toyota Camry or Honda Civic trunk holds 15 cubic feet, so a rooftop bag doubles hauling capacity. The space behind the second row of a Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V crossover holds about 38 cubic feet, so the rooftop bag improves capacity by 50%. A big Ford Explorer with all three rows occupied only has 18 cubic feet of cargo capacity, so a rooftop bag doubles the storage of a vehicle almost 200 inches long.

Are rooftop cargo bags legal?

The bags themselves are legal. The driver could be cited if the bag came loose or flew off, creating a hazard to other cars or obstructing the roadway.