With a capacity close to that of a car trunk (between 250 and 650 L), the roof box is the solution to your luggage problems. It is the ideal accessory to safely transport your ski or fishing equipment or your children's belongings. Hard or soft roof box, for regular or occasional use, for winter or summer, which type of attachment? Read our guide to find out which roof box will best suit your needs.
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Our selection
"Designed to accommodate as much equipment as possible, this box can hold up to 7 skis. It has a sliding locking system, it is really…"
"If you're looking for a practical roof box with plenty of storage space at a low price, the 400-liter HandiHoldall pack is the perfect option…"
"This trunk is a lightweight storage option (only 12 kg), but with a very large capacity (440 L). It will allow you to travel with…"
"If you need a roof box, but storage after use is a problem, the Thule Ranger 90 is the box for you. It's lightweight, fully…"
Designed to accommodate as much equipment as possible, this box can hold up to 7 skis. It has a sliding locking system, it is really the roof box to have for a trip in all serenity.
See the priceThe Thule motion XL is an extra-large hard-sided trunk that is ideal for carrying your sports equipment, as long as it does not exceed 190 cm (the trunk is 196 cm long). But with a capacity of 460 L, it will be just as suitable for carrying your luggage and other bulky items as long as they do not exceed 40 cm (the trunk is 45 cm high). It weighs 19 kg, but is still fairly easy to install. It also has a very secure locking system: it can lock automatically even if you forget to do so. Finally, it is equipped with a very practical handle system to face bad weather (rain or snow). Despite its 196 cm, the design of the Thule motion XL means that it will not block access to your tailgate. The weight limit of this box is 75 kg.
If you're looking for a practical roof box with plenty of storage space at a low price, the 400-liter HandiHoldall pack is the perfect option for you.
See the priceThe HandiHoldall pack from Handiworld is a flexible roof box with a capacity of 400 L and a maximum weight of 50 kg. It offers a very large storage space which is perfect for families with a lot of equipment in tow. It is a waterproof box, easy to install thanks to its kit for installation on metal bars and/or its reinforcement bars (HandiRack) for the box. It is equipped with a nautical type zip opening. This pack includes the 400 L soft box, 1 kit for installation on bars, 2 non-slip pads, and the reinforcement bars that you just have to inflate to support the box efficiently.
This trunk is a lightweight storage option (only 12 kg), but with a very large capacity (440 L). It will allow you to travel with complete peace of mind.
See the priceThe Polaire Voyager hard case is made of a sturdy ABS plastic for a long life. It is large and voluminous enough to hold up to 75 kg of luggage. This trunk is equipped with a centralized 2-point locking system. An additional locking point on the front makes it possible to open it from two sides, which is convenient. It even has an anti-turbulence vent in the back. It's easy to install and will even fit wide roof racks (up to 80×36 mm).
If you need a roof box, but storage after use is a problem, the Thule Ranger 90 is the box for you. It's lightweight, fully collapsible, but with a large capacity.
See the priceIf you don't have a lot of space to store your roof box after use, the Ranger 90 from Thule is a reasonable solution. Made of a waterproof tarp-like material, this soft box attaches quickly with the Easy-Snap quick-mount system. It weighs only 7 kg for a capacity of 280 L, the weight limit is 50 kg. This case will perfectly protect your luggage thanks to water resistant material, welded seams and a sealed zipper. Cargo should be packed in plastic bags in case of extreme weather conditions. A special bag for storing the box when folded is included with the Ranger 90.
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OUR SELECTION |
THULE - Motion XL 460 Litres
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HANDIWORLD - HandiHoldall 400 Litres
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POLAIRE - VOYAGER C440VONA 430 litres
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THULE - Ranger 90 280 Litres
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Designed to accommodate as much equipment as possible, this box can hold up to 7 skis. It has a sliding locking system, it is really the roof box to have for a trip in all serenity.
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If you're looking for a practical roof box with plenty of storage space at a low price, the 400-liter HandiHoldall pack is the perfect option for you.
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This trunk is a lightweight storage option (only 12 kg), but with a very large capacity (440 L). It will allow you to travel with complete peace of mind.
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If you need a roof box, but storage after use is a problem, the Thule Ranger 90 is the box for you. It's lightweight, fully collapsible, but with a large capacity.
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Stylish and practical design (does not block tailgates)
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Easy to install trunk
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Very large capacity
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Very light, and easy to store (just roll it up like a cigarette)
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Opens on both sides
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Very large capacity, ideal for family vacations
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Easy to install
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Very good capacity (280 L, dimensions: 110 x 80 x 40 cm)
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Very secure locking system
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Excellent water resistance
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Excellent locking system
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EasySnap system for easy installation
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Easy to install
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Not waterproof
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Opens from both sides
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Very good water resistance
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Weighs 19 kg, so you may need help installing it
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Trunk opens only on one side
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Trunk hinge seems a bit flimsy ( comes off easily, but it goes back on easily too)
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Load limit is only 50 kg (the lowest for this brand)
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Most roof boxes are available in small, medium, large and extra large (XL and XXL) sizes. Small, medium and large boxes generally work best for luggage and other conventional sized items. The difference between the sizes of roof boxes is measured in terms of volume, in liters. The size of these boxes generally varies between 200 and 600 L. Obviously, the more volume a roof box has available, the more stuff you can store in it. However, larger boxes are also heavier and create more wind resistance for your car.
Each roof box has a specific weight limit designated by the manufacturer. Most cargo boxes can accommodate between 40 and 50 kg. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to make sure the model you choose has the capacity you'll need. Never exceed the stated weight limit.
The best roof boxes allow you to easily pack and unpack your items. For easier access, consider a trunk that opens from both sides. If you're concerned about your gas mileage, look for a trunk with a sloping front. An aerodynamic, streamlined shape can help reduce wind resistance.
Even if a cargo box is the right size for your needs, it won't do you any good if it's incompatible with your car. Some cargo boxes are better suited to certain types of vehicles than others. For example, a small box is difficult to access on top of a large vehicle, while a large box may block the tailgate of a small vehicle. Also, some trunks may not be compatible with all luggage carriers. Check the manufacturer's recommendations to see if the box you choose will work with your car.
Certain
roof boxes can affect your car's gas mileage because they add weight to the vehicle and increase wind resistance. Consider checking this detail.
If you travel frequently and need a roof box for travel, you probably won't be too concerned about ease of installation, as you'll be leaving it on the car for extended periods. In such a scenario, your main concern should be how easy it is to open and close the box. Look for a box that offers a one-handed opening and stays open once you unlock it. However, if you only need to use your box a few times a year, you will definitely want one that is easy to install and remove. In this case, soft safes are best suited, as they are lightweight and easy to assemble.
First of all you will need a roof rack (roof rack or bars), because that is where you will have to attach and lock your roof box. If your car doesn't already have one, you can easily buy one in stores. Next, check the mounting system. Here are two of the most common roof box mounting systems on the market today:
Roof boxes are handy, but when you're not using them, they can quickly become cumbersome. The ideal place to store them would be in your garage, on a shelf above the car, or perhaps in a shed. But you can also use a hoist (ceiling lift system) or storage straps.
And if you don't have a garage, roof boxes are pretty weatherproof. This means that in the worst case, you can store it in the least exposed corner of your garden, just cover it with a thick tarp.
When looking at the types of car roof boxes, you can narrow the options down to two selections: soft-sided box or hard-sided box.
This type of roof box looks like large, thick duffel bags with extra straps to secure it to your vehicle. In reality they are real trunks made of a thin, flexible, but strong polymer plastic. Like vinyl chloride (PVC) or other vinyl alternatives. Using materials like these helps to waterproof the bag and they are very inexpensive to purchase. In addition, they weigh less than hard-shell luggage racks, which is perfect for a smaller vehicle. Unfortunately, they don't offer as much protection, especially if you leave items in the carrier overnight. You run the risk of being stolen if you don't purchase a locking mechanism.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Who is it for?
This type of trunk will work for you if you have a small car or if you only want to carry very little luggage or modestly sized items.
These
are the best choices for roof boxes. Hard-shell trunks are stronger, they usually come with a lock: your stuff will be safer in such a trunk. This type of box can hold your sports equipment (skis, kayak paddles, etc.) as well as your suitcases or other bulky items.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Who is it for?
Hard-shell trunks are best suited for carrying specific equipment such as skis, certain types of fishing rods, etc. This type of box will also work best if you are used to carrying a lot of luggage.
This is an additional car boot. Its main role is to protect your equipment from all kinds of weather, including moisture. A roof box is well secured, you can always place your stuff in it even if you leave your vehicle. Indeed, it offers many advantages beyond the very profitable aspect of having one. Its use covers your belongings from shocks that may occur during the trip.
Moreover, it is versatile, as you can use it as a tool storage box to put in your garage when it is not on top of your car. However, a roof box does have some drawbacks. Its height can be a real concern when you drive past an underground parking garage. Also, the height of the garage where the car will be parked will still not be compatible with the height of the box. Moreover, its size remains problematic, because you will not be able to place all your luggage inside. This forces you to opt for a trailer.
The trailer is an additional vehicle without engine, very practical for transporting several pieces of luggage at the same time. It is available in semi-enclosed or fully enclosed models. The choice depends largely on the weight of the items to be transported and the length of road to be crossed. Driving with an open trailer makes it easier to carry large items. While the closed type greatly reduces the risk of theft and burglary during the trip.
Its most significant advantage is that it provides a better solution for carrying heavy items up to three tons or more. This brings us to its real disadvantage, as the heavier it is, the more difficult it is to maneuver. Also, its load distribution is not as good. This will cause instability. In short, a trailer offers a less pleasant driving experience.
You need to determine your expectations first, before choosing between a roof box and a trailer. Using a trailer doubles the space available for your luggage and belongings. However, a roof box is much safer and less bulky because of its size.
Extra storage
There has probably been a time when you have run out of storage space in your car. This is a very common problem for those who drive small cars, especially when taking the whole family on a long road trip. If it is impossible to increase the trunk space of your car, you can gain additional storage space by installing a roof box. The storage container essentially acts as a second trunk that sits on top of your vehicle. When you install a roof box, you'll never have to worry about storing all your stuff in the back of the car again.
Improved interior comfort
Sitting in a car for a long time can be uncomfortable, and the experience is even worse if you have to sit next to a bunch of loose luggage. It's hard to have a fun trip if everyone is uncomfortable during the ride. Fortunately, a car roof box can easily solve this problem. Items that used to have to be placed in the backseat can now be placed in the storage container on the roof. This frees up a lot of extra space and improves the interior comfort for everyone inside the car.
Protection from the weather
All high-end roof boxes are made from strong plastic or fiberglass materials. This ensures that they can withstand extreme weather conditions without being damaged, so you never have to worry about your items being destroyed due to exposure to rain or snow. Since you can't control the weather, this is a huge advantage of roof boxes over other car loading solutions such as roof racks.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics play an important role in the overall fuel efficiency of your vehicle. If there is wind resistance, the engine must use more power to maintain the desired speed, which means you use more gas. Roof boxes are specially created with a sleek design to improve the aerodynamics of your car, allowing air to flow easily over the car's roof box while you're on the road.
Improved security
Leaving your luggage in the back seat instantly makes your car a target for criminals. If they think there is a good chance of finding something valuable in your bags, they will do whatever it takes to break into your car. Not only does this result in your stuff being stolen, but it also damages your car. When you use a roof box, no one will know you are traveling with valuables, making it more likely that potential thieves will move to another car instead.
Never exceed the weight limit specified by the manufacturer
If you overload your trunk, you could damage it and the roof of your car. It could even cause an accident.
Distribute the weight evenly
In
general, it's best to pack only lighter items in your roof box. You can still load heavier items into it, but if you do, store them first to ensure even weight distribution.
Get your stuff organized
Avoid
throwing loose items into your roof box. Remember to pack small and sharp items. That way you won't lose them or hurt yourself when unloading.
Check visibility after installation of the trunk
Sit
behind the wheel and make sure the trunk doesn't affect your side and rear visibility
.
Remember to bring spare supplies for your trunk
It'
s a good idea to bring extra trunk supplies. A spare strap, for example, so if the one already installed breaks while driving, you can easily replace it.
The best roof box depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide to find out more.
Your car should have a roof rack or bars to support the trunk. Think about installing them before you buy your trunk.
The weight a roof box can hold will depend on the model, so be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications to determine how much you can load into it. Most boxes can hold up to about 50kg.
You'll find it much easier to load or unload your trunk, especially larger models, if it opens from both sides. Your belongings will be more easily accessible.
Generally, roof boxes have a high water resistance but may not be waterproof. If this feature is important to you, be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications.
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