9 cargo carriers for your next camping trips

9 Rooftop Cargo Carriers For Camping and Outdoor

Last Updated on December 24, 2023

Are you looking for a cargo carrier for your next camping vacation? We mainly introduce nine cargo carriers to you for camping events and other outdoor adventures in this article. If you’re planning a camping vacation or any other outdoor adventure and need a reliable cargo carrier to transport all your gear, look no further.

These carriers have been carefully selected to provide ample storage space while ensuring ease of use and durability during your journeys. From summer to winter, you can use a cargo carrier through the years for different outdoor activities. Whether you’re a camping enthusiast or simply enjoy outdoor activities, these cargo carriers will make your trips more convenient and stress-free. From spacious roof-mounted carriers to hitch-mounted options, there is something for everyone. So, kickstart your adventure and explore the features of these exceptional cargo carriers that are tailored to meet your requirements and make your next camping vacation a memorable one.

Many people select cargo boxes to fit their vehicles or the crossbars on top of their cars. However, there is another aspect that you may need to double-think before you decide to buy a cargo box. What is the purpose of having a car roof box? If you have clear thoughts about why you need a roof box, you can skip this part. However, if you are still confused about why you need one, we may help you a little bit. 

camping equipment inside a cargo carrier
You might need to bring a lot of items on the way to your camping trip, so you can try to use a cargo carrier (best camping tents).

Many people purchase cargo boxes for road trips, fishing, hunting, golfing, and seasonal sports, and, in this article, we focus on what types of cargo boxes are better for camping or outdoor adventure.

In general, for camping purposes, you have to choose a cargo carrier that has sufficient interior space and waterproof-feature to meet your camping needs.

On our list of nine cargo boxes, you will find that these cargo carriers have the features and capacity to make your next camping time much more enjoyable and relaxing. These cargo carriers are also good options for outdoor adventures and traveling, and seasonal sports activities.



A list of universal roof racks for all vehicles: you must install a roof rack system (crossbars) on top of your car for using a cargo box.

Other car rooftop or rear cargo carriers for bikes, kayaks, luggage, and more. (cargo carriers have various designs for holding specific gear, do you know how many types of cargo carriers are on the market?)

Related Topics:

packing luggage and equipment for camping holidays

Quick-Pick list of 9 Cargo Carriers for Camping & Outdoor Adventure

thule motion xt cargo box - a view after installation
  • Product: Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
  • Capacity: 16 cu ft
  • Size: L: 90″ W: 35″ H: 15″
  • Opening: Both sides
  • The Most Secure cargo box on the market

side view of the THule pulse car rooftop carrier
  • Product: Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Box
  • Capacity: 16 cu ft
  • Size: L:89″ W:26″ H: 13″
  • Opening: Passenger Side
  • The thin design makes it super aerodynamic to reduce wind dragging

front view of the Yakima RocketBox pro compact cartop roof carrier
  • Product: YAKIMA – RocketBox Pro
  • Capacity: 14 cu ft
  • Size: L: 74″ W: 33″ H: 16″
  • Opening: Both sides
  • We love its spacious interior space and its sturdy construction.

side look of the Thule Hyper XL cargo box
  • Product: Thule Hyper XL Rooftop Cargo Box
  • Capacity: 17 cu ft
  • Size: L: 76″ W: 33″ H: 16″
  • Opening: Both Sides
  • We like its coating and its ample storage room.

side look of the Yakima Showcase CARGO CARRIER
  • Product: YAKIMA Showcase Cargo Box
  • Capacity: 9 cu ft
  • Size: L:47″ W: 27″ H: 17″
  • Opening: Passenger Side
  • Take more with you and explore more on the roads.

DUAL SIDE OPENING yakima Skybox aerodynamic car roof box
  • Product: YAKIMA SkyBox Aerodynamic Cargo Box
  • Capacity: 21 cu ft
  • Size: L: 90″ W: 36″ H: 12″
  • Opening: Both Sides
  • Bring more and take more friends on a road trip

side view of the Thule Sidekick roof box
  • Product: Thule Sidekick Cargo Box
  • Capacity: 8 cu ft.
  • Size: 54 x 25 x 16 inches
  • Opening: Passenger Side
  • The smallest cargo box on the market
  • Does not occupy the entire roof rack

A list of cargo baskets for all SUVs, Sedans, Vans, Trucks: Most people use cargo baskets as roof racks to hold multiple cargo carriers on top like a cargo box + a bike carrier, or a kayak carrier

Details About 9 Cargo Carriers for Camping Trips

Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Whatever how many cargo carriers you have checked online or in your local stores, Thule’s cargo boxes are well-designed and good-looking for most types of customers’ needs. It is the first and the best recommendation for you.

Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier size numbers are displaying on this photo.

Its aerodynamic shape helps you to reduce the wind noise on roads. Although it is carrying weights on the top of your vehicle, it will not cost you extra gas expenses because of the aerodynamic designs.

Thule Motion XT Car Rooftop Cargo Boxes Buyer Guide

On the other hand, its easy installation is very friendly to everyone, and you can assemble it without a tool or assistance from others. You won’t need to worry about when you want to use it or when you want to take it off your car, for you can easily carry it up or down with only one hand because of its lightweight which is only 55 pounds.

When you drive your car into the woods, you can have a chance to park the car under the branches of a tree. Consequently, one side is hardly open because of the upper tree branches, but you can use the other side to open the cargo box for using it. The dual-side opening is another highlighted benefit of this roof box.

You don’t need to struggle in choosing a perfect spot for your camping when a roof box is in use, and you can do it randomly. You will always have a chance to pack your item when you drive your vehicle with it. 

Thule Motion XT is our top choice for a roof box due to its premium design, easy installation system, and large storage space. It comes in different sizes (Large, XL, and XXL) and has a low-profile ski-specific design. The dual-opening lid is convenient for transporting almost everything. The box is sturdy and easy to lift, and it locks securely. The PowerClick mounting system allows for quick and secure positioning on the roof. While there may be cheaper and bigger options available, Thule Motion XT is versatile and user-friendly for any load or vehicle.


Yakima Showcase Rooftop Cargo Box

Yakima produces it for you to enjoy your camping trip. It is not only attractive but also waterproof and sturdy. You won’t worry about the damage to your belongings after a long way journey.

Yakima Showcase Rooftop Cargo Box side look

When you drive your car in a forest or along with a river, you can focus on driving without worrying about your items getting wet or damaged. When you reach your camping spot, you will find that your belongings are safe and dry. Its advanced lock system also protects your items on the way to your camping spots; consequently, you can enjoy the views on the roads or have fun communicating with your families or friends.

It fits most vehicles, and you can assemble it onto small or large cars. You do not worry about the compatibility between your car’s roof rack and the Yakima Showcase roof box because of its universal fitting mounting system. The waterproof, durable, and sturdy Yakima cargo carrier has an aerodynamic design to help you reduce wind noise when it is in motion.

However, you should pay attention to thick branches in the woods because everything has a limitation; furthermore, thick and short tree branches can damage the glossy printing of your cargo box. If unexpected incidents happen, you can follow a repair guide to DIY the fix with a little investment in tools.


Thule Hyper XL Rooftop Cargo Box

The third cargo box option that we recommend to you is this Thule Hyper XL roof box because of its features.

Thule Hyper XL Rooftop Cargo Box assembles on top of a SUV.

It has an aerodynamic design to reduce wind noise and has no impact on your gas mileage. Consequently, you will not cost extra gas on your road journeys. 

However, it is expensive. If you are rich, you can consider having it for your family. It is waterproof, sturdy, and durable; it is also easy to operate for people of different age groups. The simple installation makes it super popular with much positive customer feedback.

You may ask why it is so expensive. Its high-quality materials and its advanced features represent its value. During the procedures of installation, when you operate the audible mounting hardware to clamp the roof rack, you hear a TIK sound that notifies you of the correct installation. Otherwise, you hear nothing at all.


Yakima Skybox Carbonite Cargo Box

It is another option from Yakima. It is also a large one that has enough interior space for your camping equipment. It has 12 cubic feet of interior space for carrying items such as camping equipment, skis, snowboards, and more. Its length is 180cm which allows you to load 4 to 5 carry-on bags in it. Consequently, you can bring everything you need for your next camping time without worrying about insufficient space.

view of the Yakima Skybox Aerodynamic cargo box after installation

You can focus on driving without considering too much about the safety and damage to your belongings; the durable, waterproof, and sturdy cargo box is fully protecting your items on the way to your camping spots.

Yakima SkyBox Car Rooftop Cargo Carriers Buying Guide

The Yakima skybox cargo box does not require assembling, and it is pretty easy to install on most roof racks. You can do the installation alone without a tool.

When you use it for camping purposes, you will find that your items are dry and secure from extreme weather conditions and other unpredictable accidents. When you drive in the woods, short and long tree branches cannot break the cargo box; furthermore, its aerodynamic design will push the tree branches to the sides to avoid further damage to your belongings.


Thule 682 SideKick Cargo Box

Thule 682 SideKick Cargo Box on top of a suv car
A large interior space helps you to carry enough belongings on your camping trips.

Thule 682 sidekick roof box is another option for your camping trips. It is smaller than other options in this article, but it also has a large interior space for your camping needs. A 110 pounds weight limit allows carrying what you need for camping without worry.

Thule SideKick Car Rooftop Cargo Boxes Information Guide


Its construction is made from high-tech ABS materials to ensure that your belongings are securely protected from extreme weather conditions.
However, every coin has two sides. It opens from the passenger side. You have to pay attention to where to park for using it, and the cargo carrier won’t open from the driver’s side.
The lock system adds additional security to your content all the time without a chance of being broken by thieves.


Keeper 07203-1 Waterproof Roof Top Cargo Bag

Keeper 07203-1 Waterproof Roof Top Cargo Bag top look on a suv car
The easy mounting system is the highlighted benefit of the Keeper waterproof cargo bag.

Although Keeper 07203-1 cargo bag is soft, it can do the same job as the hard-shell cargo boxes do. It can protect your luggage or equipment on your camping trip without a problem.

An ample 15 cubic feet of inner space allows you to carry everything you need for camping days.
Keeper 07203-1 is waterproof, so your items will be dry at the destination. Using it is equalized to using a hard-shell cargo box; you will also get many benefits from it.

The easy mounting hardware allows you to use or remove the soft cargo bag at any time within minutes. It fits on most rack systems, so you won’t have a problem with assembling it even if you don’t have a pair of roof bars.
It allows you to carry irregular-shaped items such as a BBQ stove, camping lights, and other camping equipment. Consequently, you can easily stow everything you need for your camping time without a problem. When you do not need it, you can fold it up for storage. You even can put it in a backpack.

There is another thing to mention which is the price of it. It has a lower price than all the options in this article. If you do not have enough space at home to store a hard-shell cargo box, it is a perfect option for you. If you do not want to invest too much money in a cargo carrier, it is the right choice for you.


Thule Pulse Cargo Box

Have you ever thought that you can spend time enjoying camping or skiing in the holidays? If you choose the right cargo box, you can enjoy the fun of camping and experience a skillful skiing season at the same time. If your cargo box has enough interior space, you can store all the gears and equipment in it. Also, You will have an unforgettable skiing season and several memorable camping nights.

Thule Pulse Cargo Box top look on a suv car
You can adjust the position of the Thule Pulse roof box forward or backward.

It is the best hard-shell cargo carrier for winter seasonal activities such as skiing and camping. Its height and length are sufficient for carrying three snowboards or six pairs of skis.

Thule Pulse Cargo Boxes Specs Guide

Its easy installation allows you to assemble it without a tool in minutes, so you do not worry about its usage when you do camping alone.

The Thule Pulse cargo box is the best option for both smaller sedans and large SUVs. When planning a camping vacation, one of the essential considerations is how to transport all the necessary gear and equipment. The Thule Pulse rooftop cargo box proves to be a fantastic solution to this problem. We like it. With its sleek and aerodynamic design, it easily attaches to the roof of any vehicle and offers ample storage space for camping essentials. It is affordable. Featuring a secure locking system, this cargo box ensures the safety of all your belongings during the journey. We use it on our Toyota. Moreover, its durable construction guarantees protection against various weather conditions, keeping your camping gear dry and intact. The Thule Pulse rooftop cargo box offers convenience and peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your camping vacation to the fullest without worrying about space constraints or the security of your belongings.


Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 Cargo Box

side look of Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 Cargo Box
Yakima builds this cargo box with advanced waterproof materials.

Yakima RocketBox Pro is perfect for smaller sedans. You can drive your small vehicle with it to enjoy an exciting camping vacation with your families or friends without worrying about insufficient space for hauling stuff.

A 12 cubic feet of the interior room allows you to store your camping equipment, clothing, gear, and other camping accessories for maximizing the convenience of your outdoor life. If you drive a smaller sedan, it is the best option for your vehicle and your camping needs.

Yakima RocketBox Car Rooftop Cargo Boxes Buyer Guide

The advanced lock system ensures that your luggage will be safe on the way, and you won’t worry about the loss and damage of your belongings because of the sturdy, waterproof, and durable materials of the roof box.

Its dual-sided opening allows you to load or unload it at any time. When you park under a tree, a tree branch stands on the driver-side; then, you can open the passenger side for packing. 

Its aerodynamic shape not only reduces wind noise but also has no impact on your gas mileage. As a result, you do not need to worry about the extra gas costs when you use it for your camping vacation.


Thule Sonic Cargo Box

Thule Sonic Cargo Box side look on a suv car
The beautiful aerodynamic design of the Thule Sonic cargo carrier is attractive on street.

The Thule Sonic cargo box is another option for your camping trips. It fits on most rack systems, so you won’t worry about if the Thule Sonic car roof box is suitable for your car or not. We find the biggest cargo boxes for people who need a large loading room on top of their car roof.

A 22 cubic feet of inner space ensures that you can bring everything you need for your camping days without leaving anything at home. The large interior space makes the cargo carrier so popular on the market.

It also opens from both sides to make its use of it convenient and enjoyable. When you park on the highway for loading or unloading, you can use the passenger side to reach your items; then, you can reduce the risks from the coming traffic. When you pack it at home, you can use both sides to organize all your gear and luggage in a balance.

Its aerodynamic design, high-tech materials, lid-holder, and advanced lock system add safety, convenience, and other benefits to your outdoor life.


You can pack all your camping gear or equipment in the roof box and free up the cabin for people. You can use cargo boxes for not only camping seasons but also for hiking, hunting, fishing, golfing, and other outdoor relevant activities.
Enjoy your camping time
a rooftop tent that you can mount on the roof racks

You can mount a rooftop tent on the roof racks.

Conclusion

We have first listed nine cargo boxes for your next camping trips then we introduced them with their details. All of them can haul your camping needs, but they have differences in their features, sizes, and materials. Consequently, you have to understand your needs, and you need to know what you are going to do with a roof box. There are many cargo boxes on the market, so if you need extra information about how you choose a roof box, you can read our articles about buying cargo boxes for different cars

ground tent on camping ground

Hitch cargo boxes are also considerable for carrying things during the time of your camping holidays, so we build a list of the best hitch cargo carriers with their pros and flaws for campers. We also have a list of low-profile roof boxes for your consideration.

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