If you’ve ever packed for a camping trip, family vacation, ski weekend, or overland adventure, you’ve probably wished for just a little more storage space. A roof cargo box is one of the easiest and most effective ways to increase your vehicle’s carrying capacity while keeping your gear secure, organized, and protected from the weather.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?
This guide covers everything you should know before purchasing a roof cargo box, helping you find the perfect solution for your next adventure.
Why Buy a Roof Cargo Box?
A roof cargo box provides secure, weather-resistant storage without sacrificing passenger comfort or interior cargo space. Instead of piling luggage around passengers or filling the back of your SUV to the roof, you can move bulky items overhead and enjoy a more comfortable drive.
Roof cargo boxes are ideal for carrying:
- Camping equipment
- Sleeping bags and tents
- Luggage
- Ski and snowboard gear
- Fishing equipment
- Hunting gear
- Sports equipment
- Beach gear
- Extra supplies for long road trips
Whether you’re travelling across Canada or heading out for a weekend adventure, a roof cargo box helps you bring more without needing a trailer.
Hard Shell vs. Soft Cargo Bags
One of the first decisions you’ll make is choosing between a hard shell cargo box and a soft roof cargo bag.
Hard shell cargo boxes offer significant advantages:
- Better weather protection
- Improved security with locking systems
- Greater durability
- Better aerodynamics
- Reduced wind noise
- Longer lifespan
- Easier loading and unloading
For anyone who regularly camps, travels, or enjoys outdoor adventures, a hard shell roof box is generally the better long-term investment.
Choosing the Right Size
Roof cargo boxes come in a variety of sizes. The best choice depends on how you travel and what you need to carry.
A smaller cargo box is ideal for weekend getaways or couples, while larger models are better suited for families, overlanders, and extended road trips.
Think about what you’ll be transporting most often. Long items such as skis, snowboards, fishing rods, and camping chairs require a longer cargo box than suitcases or duffel bags.
Make Sure It Fits Your Vehicle
Before purchasing, verify that your vehicle has compatible roof cross bars.
Most roof cargo boxes mount directly to factory or aftermarket cross bars using quick-mount systems that make installation fast and secure.
It’s also important to check:
- Roof weight capacity
- Cross bar spacing
- Rear hatch clearance
- Vehicle height after installation
Most SUVs, crossovers, wagons, and many cars can easily accommodate a roof cargo box.
Look for Dual Side Opening
A dual-side opening cargo box allows you to access your gear from either side of the vehicle.
This makes loading and unloading much easier, especially in tight parking spaces or busy campgrounds, while improving safety by allowing roadside access from the passenger side when needed.
Weather Protection Matters
A quality roof cargo box should keep your gear protected from rain, snow, dust, and road debris.
Look for features such as:
- Full perimeter weather seals
- Heavy-duty ABS construction
- UV-resistant materials
- Reinforced hinges
- Quality locking mechanisms
These features ensure your equipment stays dry and protected no matter where your adventures take you.
Security Features
When travelling, your equipment is valuable.
A premium cargo box should include:
- Multiple locking points
- Secure key locking system
- Reinforced lid construction
- Strong mounting hardware
These features help protect your gear whether you’re parked overnight at a hotel or spending the weekend at a trailhead.
Aerodynamics and Fuel Economy
Modern roof cargo boxes are designed with aerodynamics in mind.
A streamlined design helps reduce wind resistance compared to carrying loose gear or using a roof basket with exposed equipment.
While any rooftop accessory may have some effect on fuel economy, today’s aerodynamic cargo boxes help minimize drag while reducing wind noise during highway driving.
Installation Should Be Simple
Many modern cargo boxes feature quick-mount systems that allow installation in just minutes without specialized tools.
Look for mounting hardware that:
- Fits most cross bars
- Installs quickly
- Provides a secure connection
- Maximizes interior storage space
The easier the installation process, the more likely you’ll use your cargo box whenever you need additional storage.
Pair Your Roof Cargo Box with a Roof Top Tent
One of the biggest advantages of modern overlanding equipment is versatility.
Several of our premium roof top tents feature integrated cross bars on top of the tent, allowing you to mount a roof cargo box directly above the tent. This lets you carry additional luggage, camping gear, recovery equipment, or lightweight adventure gear while keeping your sleeping area completely separate.
It’s an excellent solution for families, long-distance travellers, and overlanders who need every bit of storage space available without sacrificing comfort or organization.
If you’re planning to build the ultimate adventure vehicle, combining a roof top tent with a compatible roof cargo box creates one of the most versatile travel setups available.
Is a Roof Cargo Box Worth It?
For most outdoor enthusiasts, absolutely.
Whether you enjoy camping, overlanding, skiing, fishing, hunting, or simply taking family road trips, a roof cargo box adds valuable storage while keeping your vehicle organized and your gear protected.
With modern locking systems, weather-resistant construction, aerodynamic designs, and quick installation, today’s roof cargo boxes are one of the best upgrades you can make for your adventure vehicle.
Find the Right Roof Cargo Box at Roof Top Tents
At Roof Top Tents, we offer premium hard shell roof cargo boxes built for Canadian adventures. Designed for durability, security, and ease of use, they’re the perfect addition to your SUV, truck, crossover, or adventure vehicle.
If you’re looking to maximize storage even further, be sure to explore our selection of compatible roof top tents with integrated cross bars, allowing you to mount a cargo box above your tent for the ultimate overlanding and camping setup.
No matter where the road takes you, we’re here to help you carry more and explore farther.
