Ever packed your car for a trip and wished you had just a little more space? You know that feeling – stuffing suitcases into every nook and cranny, leaving no room for snacks or that favorite pillow. It’s a common problem for anyone who loves adventure but hates leaving things behind.
Choosing a soft rooftop cargo carrier can feel like a big decision. There are so many brands, sizes, and features to think about! You want something that’s strong, keeps your gear dry, and is easy to put on your car. But figuring out which one is best can be confusing and time-consuming.
Don’t worry! This blog post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great soft rooftop cargo carrier. You’ll learn about the key things to look for, like how much it can hold and how waterproof it is. By the end, you’ll feel confident picking the perfect carrier for your next adventure.
Our Top 5 Soft Rooftop Cargo Carrier Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Soft Rooftop Cargo Carrier Detailed Reviews
1. FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock
Rating: 8.9/10
Hit the road with confidence and extra space thanks to the FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier. This waterproof roof bag is designed to expand your vehicle’s carrying capacity, making it ideal for family trips, camping adventures, or moving large items. It fits any car, truck, or SUV, with or without a roof rack.
What We Like:
- Most Secure Design: Ten reinforced straps and an anti-slip mat keep the bag firmly in place, even on bumpy roads. A luggage lock adds extra security for your belongings.
- Massive Storage: With 21 cubic feet of space, this bag can hold 6-8 suitcases, sleeping bags, tents, and more, freeing up valuable interior room in your car.
- Simple Installation: You can easily attach it to a roof rack or use the six included door hooks for cars without racks. It sets up in minutes.
- Tough and Waterproof: Made from durable 700D PVC with a double-layered waterproof cover and heat-sealed seams, it’s built to withstand the elements.
What Could Be Improved:
- Soft Carrier: Remember, this is a soft carrier, not a hard case.
- Installation Caution: Proper installation is key. Avoid attaching front and back straps to side bars to prevent damage and leaks.
- Extreme Weather Note: While waterproof, performance in extreme weather or with improper use might vary. Always follow the user manual.
The FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a fantastic solution for anyone needing more storage on their travels. It offers a secure, spacious, and easy-to-use way to bring all your gear along for the ride.
2. Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet
Rating: 8.6/10
Hit the road with confidence with the Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier, a massive 21 cubic feet of storage that’s ready for any adventure. This heavy-duty bag is built tough and designed to keep your gear safe and dry, no matter the weather.
What We Like:
- Super Strong Material: It’s made from tough 840D PVC fabric. This means it can handle rough trips and won’t rip easily. The strong seams add even more durability.
- Truly Waterproof: This bag is more than just water-resistant. It has a waterproof zipper with a big velcro cover. Even in heavy rain, your stuff stays completely dry.
- Easy to Put On: You get an anti-slip mat to help keep it in place. It also comes with adjustable straps and door hooks. Attaching it to your car is a breeze, even if you don’t have roof racks.
- Fits Lots of Stuff: With 21 cubic feet of space, it holds a lot. Pack your suitcases, sleeping bags, tents, and more. It keeps its shape well, even when full.
- Everything You Need: The package includes the carrier bag, a storage bag, the anti-slip mat, 6 padded door hooks, 2 extra straps, and even a luggage lock.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 840D material, while durable, might feel a bit stiff to some users.
- While the velcro zipper cover is effective, a fully waterproof zipper might offer an extra layer of security for extremely sensitive items.
This rooftop cargo carrier is a fantastic solution for anyone needing extra space on their travels. It’s built to last and keeps your belongings protected.
3. MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop top Cargo Carrier Bag Waterproof 15 Cubic feet for All Cars with/Without Rack
Rating: 8.8/10
Heading out on an adventure? The MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag is your new best friend for road trips! This spacious bag offers a whopping 15 cubic feet of storage, perfect for packing everything from suitcases to camping gear. It’s designed to fit any car, whether you have a roof rack or not, making it super versatile for any vehicle.
What We Like:
- 100% Waterproof & Tearproof: Made from tough 600D PVC tarpaulin, this bag keeps your belongings dry and protected from the elements.
- Easy to Use: It comes with everything you need for a quick setup – an anti-slip mat, a luggage lock, and secure door hooks. You can install it in minutes!
- Universal Fit: This bag works with all types of cars and SUVs, with or without a roof rack.
- Extra Security: The included combination lock keeps your zippers secure and adds an extra layer of protection for your luggage.
- Huge Storage Space: At 44” L x 34” W x 17” H, it can hold 4-6 suitcases, tents, sleeping bags, and more.
- Space-Saving Design: When not in use, it folds down into a compact storage bag.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for most cars, some users might find that securing it perfectly without a roof rack requires careful attention to the straps.
The MeeFar XBEEK roof bag is a fantastic way to maximize your car’s carrying capacity. It’s a durable, waterproof, and secure solution for all your travel needs.
4. Sailnovo Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag
Rating: 9.0/10
Hit the road with extra gear using the Sailnovo Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag! This spacious 20 cubic feet bag is designed to hold tons of your travel essentials, from suitcases and tents to sleeping bags. It’s a fantastic way to free up space inside your car for a more comfortable journey. Plus, when you’re not using it, the soft shell design lets you fold it up neatly for easy storage.
What We Like:
- MASSIVE SPACE: It offers a huge 20 cubic feet of storage, perfect for fitting 5-7 suitcases or all your camping gear.
- EXTRA SECURE: Comes with 4 built-in reinforced straps, 4 door hooks, and 2 long luggage straps to keep everything firmly in place.
- TOUGH AND WATER-RESISTANT: Made from three layers of strong 1000D Oxford cloth, it’s built to last and keep your belongings dry.
- FITS MOST CARS: Easily attaches to cars with or without roof racks, fitting various vehicle types like SUVs, pickups, and station wagons.
- EASY TO SET UP: Installation is a breeze with the included straps and hooks – you’ll be ready to go in minutes.
- GREAT VALUE: Offers many features of a hard roof box at a more affordable price.
What Could Be Improved:
- NOT FOR SLIDING DOORS: This bag is not compatible with vehicles that have sliding doors.
- WATERPROOFING LIMITATIONS: While water-resistant, it’s not completely waterproof in extreme weather, so consider an extra dry bag for sensitive items.
- ZIPPER CARE NEEDED: Make sure the zipper is fully closed and the waterproof flap is secured to prevent leaks.
The Sailnovo Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a practical and affordable solution for anyone needing more cargo space on their adventures. It’s a smart choice for expanding your vehicle’s capacity and making your trips more enjoyable.
5. Rooftop Cargo Carrier Vehicle Soft-Shell Carriers
Rating: 8.5/10
The Workkool Rooftop Cargo Carrier is your ultimate travel companion. This heavy-duty, waterproof car roof bag offers a massive 19.4 cubic feet of storage, perfect for vacations, camping trips, or moving large items. It’s designed to fit any car, truck, or SUV, with or without a roof rack, making it incredibly versatile.
What We Like:
- Built with tough, military-grade 900D PVC fabric, it can handle any weather.
- The safety straps are extra thick and wide, ensuring a secure and worry-free ride.
- It holds a lot! You can fit 6-8 suitcases, plenty of space for your gear.
- Installation is a breeze, even without a roof rack, thanks to the included hooks and straps.
- It fits all vehicle types, from small cars to big SUVs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The repeated mention of “Upgraded Mass Storage” in the features is redundant.
This cargo carrier is a fantastic way to expand your vehicle’s storage. It’s a practical and reliable solution for anyone needing extra space on their adventures.
Your Guide to the Best Soft Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for?
A: When you’re shopping for a soft rooftop cargo carrier, keep an eye out for a few important things. First, think about the size. You need enough space for your gear, but it shouldn’t be too big for your car’s roof. Look for carriers with strong zippers. These keep your stuff safe and dry. Also, check how it attaches to your car. Good straps are super important for keeping the carrier in place. Waterproof material is a big plus! It protects your belongings from rain and snow. Finally, consider how easy it is to pack and unpack. Some carriers have wide openings that make loading simple.
Important Materials
Soft rooftop cargo carriers are usually made from tough, weather-resistant fabrics. Many use PVC-coated polyester. This material is strong and won’t let water through. Some might use nylon, which is also durable. The straps are often made of strong nylon webbing. The buckles and clasps are usually made of sturdy plastic or metal. These materials help the carrier last a long time and protect your things.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a carrier really good? Strong stitching is a big one. It means the seams won’t rip. High-quality zippers that glide smoothly are also important. A carrier with UV protection will last longer in the sun. On the other hand, thin, flimsy fabric can tear easily. Cheap zippers might break or get stuck. Poorly made straps can loosen, which is dangerous. If the material isn’t waterproof, your stuff might get wet.
User Experience and Use Cases
People use these carriers for all sorts of trips! They’re great for family vacations where you need extra space for suitcases, camping gear, or sports equipment. Campers love them for carrying tents, sleeping bags, and coolers. Skiers and snowboarders use them for their bulky winter gear. They are easy to put on and take off. Most people find them simple to load. It feels good to have more room in your car for passengers. It makes long drives much more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I attach a soft rooftop cargo carrier to my car?
A: Most carriers have straps that go over your car’s roof and buckle underneath. Some attach to roof racks if your car has them. Always make sure the straps are tight and secure before you drive.
Q: Are soft rooftop cargo carriers waterproof?
A: Many are, thanks to materials like PVC-coated polyester. However, it’s always a good idea to put your items in plastic bags inside the carrier, just in case of heavy rain.
Q: How much weight can a soft rooftop cargo carrier hold?
A: This varies by brand and model. Check the product’s specifications. Most can hold between 100 and 200 pounds.
Q: Can I use a soft rooftop cargo carrier without a roof rack?
A: Yes, most are designed to be used on cars without roof racks. They attach directly to your car’s roof and door frames.
Q: How do I clean a soft rooftop cargo carrier?
A: Usually, you can clean them with mild soap and water. Let them air dry completely before storing them.
Q: Will a soft rooftop cargo carrier damage my car’s paint?
A: If installed correctly and the material is good quality, it should not damage your paint. Some carriers come with protective mats to place under the straps.
Q: Are they noisy when driving?
A: Some carriers can create a bit of wind noise, especially at higher speeds. Proper packing and securing can help reduce this.
Q: How much do they typically cost?
A: Prices can range from $100 to $300, depending on the size, features, and brand.
Q: Can I leave a soft rooftop cargo carrier on my car all the time?
A: It’s best to remove them when not in use. Prolonged exposure to the elements can reduce their lifespan.
Q: What should I do if a strap comes loose while driving?
A: Pull over safely as soon as possible and re-secure the straps. Driving with loose straps is dangerous.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.