10 Best Hard Shell Rooftop Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Thule Motion 3 LTitan is a robust and well-designed rooftop cargo carrier suitable for those needing extra space on road trips or vacations. Its sizable capacity of 450 liters offers ample room for luggage, making it convenient for families or avid travelers. The carrier's wing-shaped profile and dynamic, forward-leaning nose help reduce drag, potentially improving fuel efficiency compared to more traditionally shaped carriers.

Crafted from durable aluminum, it promises longevity and resistance to weather conditions, though it is only water-resistant, not fully waterproof, which could be a consideration in heavy rain scenarios. Mounting the unit is user-friendly thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system, which includes a torque indicator for secure attachment. Security is enhanced with the SlideLock system that ensures the lid is securely closed and locked.

Accessing the carrier is straightforward with a sturdy lid design and a wide handle, allowing for one-handed operation. However, the package weight of over 24 kilograms and the large dimensions might make installation a bit challenging for some users. The additional accessories like an interior box light and protective liner are nice touches but come separately, adding to the cost. This product is a solid choice for anyone looking to expand their vehicle's storage capacity securely and efficiently, particularly for long trips or when carrying bulky items.

The JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier offers ample storage with its 18 cubic feet capacity, making it suitable for carrying multiple items such as golf bags. The carrier can support up to 110 lbs, which is adequate for most travel needs. Its aerodynamic design helps in maintaining fuel efficiency, a notable advantage for long trips. Constructed from HDPE plastic, the carrier is both durable and weatherproof, ensuring protection against the elements with its weather-tight seal.

The four-corner locking system and front latch add an extra layer of security for your belongings. One of the standout features is the ease of access, as you can load and unload from either side of the vehicle, which simplifies the process. The installation process is straightforward, requiring no tools, and includes all necessary mounting hardware.

Additionally, the base is pre-drilled but can be adjusted if your vehicle's crossbars are different, offering flexibility. Made in the USA, the carrier comes with a limited lifetime guarantee, underscoring its quality. At 35 pounds, the carrier itself is relatively heavy, which might make it slightly cumbersome to handle during installation. While the product is well-designed for general use, its universal fit might not be perfect for all vehicle types, and some users may need to re-drill the base for a precise fit.

The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box is a reliable choice for those in need of extra storage space on their vehicles. With an impressive 18 cubic foot (510 liters) internal cargo capacity, it can hold a significant amount of luggage, making it ideal for family trips or outdoor adventures.

The box is constructed from durable UV-resistant ABS material, which promises longevity and protection against the elements, ensuring your items stay safe in various weather conditions. Additionally, the rear opening feature allows for convenient access away from traffic, enhancing safety during loading and unloading. At 28 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which makes installation and removal less cumbersome.

The tool-free mounting hardware further simplifies the setup process, fitting a variety of rack systems including SportRack, square bars, round bars, and most factory racks. This versatility can be particularly appealing to users who may switch vehicles or have different rack systems. Security-wise, the included key and lock system is a significant plus, as it secures both the contents within the box and the box itself to the rack, providing peace of mind. However, a notable limitation is the maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds (45 kilograms), which might be restrictive for users intending to carry heavier items. The aerodynamics are not explicitly detailed, but given its size, there may be some impact on fuel efficiency.