10 Best Car Top Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Thule Force 3 XL is a hard-shell roof-mounted cargo box offering a spacious 18 cubic feet of storage, making it suitable for SUVs, trucks, cars, and electric vehicles. Its large dimensions (about 85 x 34 x 18.5 inches) provide ample room for luggage, camping gear, or sports equipment. Weighing 66 pounds and made from durable plastic, it promises good resistance to daily wear and weather, keeping your belongings dry and protected. The aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and drag, which can improve fuel efficiency compared to less streamlined boxes.

Installation is user-friendly thanks to a tool-free mounting system that clicks into place and confirms secure attachment, making it easy to fit or remove even for beginners. One standout feature is the dual-sided opening, giving you convenient access from either side of your vehicle, which is especially handy in tight parking spots. Security is thoughtfully addressed with Thule's SlideLock system that both locks the lid and shows clearly when the box is securely closed.

The product's weight might be a bit heavy for some users to handle during installation, and while it is water-resistant, it does not claim full waterproofing, so very heavy rain might be a concern. With a relatively high price point, you may want to consider if these features match your budget and needs. The Thule Force 3 XL is a reliable and convenient choice for active users needing a weatherproof, secure, and easy-to-use car-top carrier with generous space.

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.

The MeeFar Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a soft-shell car roof bag offering a spacious 20 cubic feet of storage, which is enough to hold 4-6 suitcases or camping gear. It measures approximately 47 by 35 by 21 inches, fitting most cars and SUVs whether or not they have roof racks, thanks to its versatile mounting system with 10 reinforced straps and 6 door hooks. Made from heavy-duty, 100% waterproof PVC material, the carrier protects your belongings well against rain and tears, making it reliable for outdoor trips. The included anti-slip mat helps keep the bag stable on your car roof, enhancing safety during travel.

Security-wise, it comes with a combination lock to deter theft, which is a useful feature often missing in similar soft carriers. Weighing around 4.9 kilograms (about 11 pounds), it is relatively light and easy to handle when empty. However, being a soft bag, it may not be as aerodynamic as hard-shell carriers, potentially causing more wind resistance and noise on highways. Also, while its waterproof material is robust, soft bags generally offer less impact protection than rigid carriers.

This MeeFar carrier is an excellent option for those needing flexible, waterproof storage without a roof rack, prioritizing capacity and security over maximum aerodynamic efficiency.