A Full Breakdown of Roof Cargo Baskets According to Experts

Do you also not like when you have to keep less amount of luggage in a large size Roof Bag? Does that wind noise caused due to the roof bag also irritate you? Are you also tired of replacing roof bags every two years because of tearing or zipper issues? Well, here’s a permanent solution to all these problems for yours. It’s ROOF CARGO BASKETS. Yes, these are small, portable, and easy to install.

best roof cargo baskets for car
Rooftop Cargo Baskets for your Car

Talking about roof cargo baskets, there is a wide range of products available. It depends on how you plan to use them. Do you need a roof rack that will fit all your bikes? Or maybe a simple basket that you can use to carry groceries?

If you’re looking for the best roof cargo baskets for your needs, we’ve done the research for you. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 cargo rooftop baskets as per amazon rankings. You can choose one based on their size, weight capacity, and style, and you’ll be able to enjoy carrying more than just groceries.

What is a cargo basket?

Cargo baskets are typically used to transport goods and materials from one location to another. They have a hinged lid and a handle for carrying purposes, and they can be easily lifted by a crane or forklift truck.

A cargo basket for car top is a small device that clips onto your car’s roof. This device allows you to place your luggage in a secure spot, so you don’t have to worry about it when you park or drive. Made of steel, aluminum and they are featured with a set of wheels to allow you to move them around with ease.

List of Top 10 Cargo Baskets available on Amazon

Here is a list of some well-known best roof cargo baskets that are affordable and are well-liked by users.

Best Roof Baskets: Reviewed in Details

Rooftop Cargo Baskets are the ideal solutions for outdoor storage. They’re portable and can be moved from one location to another, and they’re designed to be sturdy, weatherproof, and easy to use.

  • They’re available in a wide variety of designs and sizes, and they come with high-quality materials that will last for years. With versatility, one can use them in a lot of different ways.
  • With best roof cargo baskets, You can easily keep your lawn equipment organized. Even you can use it to store your car gears, firewood, traveling stuff, and other items.

1. Reese 1391300 Explore Rooftop Cargo Basket

DETAILS:

  • Brand: Reese
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Cars, trucks, SUVs, vans and other large vehicles using U-bolts
  • Material: Steel
  • Item weight: 23 pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 18 × 37.25 × 9.38 inches
  • Item Price: $107.51

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF Reese 1391300 Explore Rooftop Cargo Basket

REESE 1391300 Explore Rooftop Cargo Basket, Easy Assembly 125 Lb. Capacity, Black

KEY FEATURES

  • LARGE CAPACITY: It frees up space in your vehicle by holding upto 125 lbs. of equipments and luggage of yours.
  • LONG LASTING CONSTRUCTION: This roof cargo baskets made from strong, high-quality, heavy-duty steel with a durable black powder coating that helps it in protecting against the weather that causes rust and scratches.
  • SLEEK AND AERODYNAMIC: Angled front windshield resists drag and makes the basket more aerodynamic.
  • ADJUSTABLE FIT: Easy to assemble and adjustable mounting to most round, square, aero and factory installed crossbars on a spread of vehicles makes it worth buying.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation.
✔ No complaint of rusting.

What could be better? 💔

❌ Issues with screws.

2. MaxxHaul 70115 Steel Roof Rack.

DETAILS:

  • Brand: MaxxHaul
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Cars, trucks, SUVs, vans and other large vehicles using U-bolts 
  • Material: Steel
  • Item weight: 25 pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 46″ x 36″ x 4.5″ inches
  • Item Price: $104.08

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF MaxxHaul 70115 Steel Roof Rack

MaxxHaul 70115 46' x 36' x 4-1/2' Roof Rack Rooftop Cargo Carrier Steel Basket, Car Top Luggage Holder for SUV and Pick Up Trucks - 150 lb. Capacity

KEY FEATURES

  • EASY INSTALLATION: Easy to assemble and install. The given roof cargo baskets package includes all the hardwares required for quick assembly.
  • UNIVERSAL FIT: Suitable for every vehicle with cross bars.
  • HIGHLY ADAPTABLE: Attaches to most of the cross bars with easy to use U-bolts for simple installation.
  • SCRATCH RESISTANT: Includes rubber caps to cover the U-bolts and protect the cargo from scratches.
  • RUST RESISTANT: Rust resistant finish to resist corrosion so that you can take it out in any weather conditions.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation
✔ Sturdy construction.

What could be better? 💔

❌ May catch rust.

3. HYPERAX Steel Cargo Roof Rack Kayak Carrier Iridium.

DETAILS:

  • Brand: HYPERAX
  • Color: Black, Grey
  • Vehicle Service Type: Cars, trucks, SUVs, vans and other large vehicles using U-bolts
  • Material: Carbon Steel
  • Item weight: 45 pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 50 × 37.5 × 6.5 inches
  • Item Price: $329.95

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF HYPERAX Steel Cargo Roof Rack Kayak Carrier Iridium

HYPERAX Iridium M Universal Steel Cargo Roof Rack Basket Kayak Carrier- 50 x 37.5 x 6.5” 200lb Max Load - Heavy Duty Car Top Luggage Holder Carrier Basket for SUV,Truck,Cars (Medium)

KEY FEATURES

  • HEAVY-DUTY BOX GIRDER CONSTRUCTION: made up of high lastingness steel , the rugged rack can delay to 200lb distributed weight.
  • EXTRA PROTECTION: The surface has skilled a special anti-resistant E coating treatment and powder coating process, protecting the rack from natural elements and scratches. it’s also immune to rock and stone chips.
  • COMPATIBLE WITH MOST CROSS BARS: The carrier frame are often fitted on round bars, rectangular bars, aero bars, and wing bars (up to three .5” in breadth and 1.75” in thickness).
  • EXTRA SECURITY WITH LOCKS: The luggage rack carrier comes with 2 individual key locks to be securely held in situ . Comes with 2 keys to make sure extra security.
  • METAL WIND FAIRING INCLUDED: The metal wind fairing effectively reduces drag for improved fuel consumption and enhanced aerodynamics by directing the airflow upwards.
  • HIGHLY SECURE WITH CARGO NET: The ultra-strong webbing keeps small or bulky items from falling or traveling and keeps your safe and secure while travelling.
  • VERY FLEXIBLE IN HOLDING LUGGAGE: It’s designed to stay luggage, camping gears, golf carrying bag, and other equipment securely in situ with its 14 reinforced hooks.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Hyperax roof cargo baskets are easy installation.
✔ Comes with a detailed User Manual.

What could be better? 💔

❌ Less protected from things like dust, moisture

4. Reese Explore 1040900 Steel Rooftop Basket.

DETAILS

  • Brand: Reese
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Suitable for every type
  • Material: Steel
  • Item weight: 23 pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 44 x 33 x 4.25 inches
  • Item Price: $142.89

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF Reese Explore 1040900 Steel Rooftop Basket

Reese Explore 1040900 Steel Rooftop Basket, Black

KEY DETAILS

  • EASY ASSEMBLY: It is very easy to install and assemble. It just takes a few minutes to get, set and go with your new bike cargo baskets.
  • HEAVY DUTY CONSTRUCTION: It has a heavy duty and durable steel construction with a rust resistant finish.
  • WIND RESISTANT: It has a specially designed sleek aerodynamic design with angular wind shield that resists drag.
  • UNIVERSAL FIT: Constructed with adjustable brackets, it fits most of the factory products like cars, SUVs, etc. with crossbars.
  • HIGH LOAD CAPACITY: It measures 44 inches x 33 inches x 4.25 inches and weighs 23 pounds. It can carry weight upto 125 pounds.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation.
✔ Durability.

What could be better? 💔

❌ Not so famous brand

5. Tyger Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack.

DETAILS:

  • Brand: Tyger
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Passenger Cars, SUVs
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Item weight: 30 pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 47.25 × 36.6 × 5.9 inches
  • Item Price: $249.00

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF Tyger Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack

Tyger Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack | L47.25 x W36.6 x H5.9 | Roof Top Luggage Carrier | with Wind Fairing

KEY FEATURES

  • DESIGN WORTH WATCHING: Stylish design makes your vehicle stand out on the road!
  • EXTREMELY FLEXIBLE: Mounts to any existing vehicle roof rail cross bars to release space in your vehicle by providing extra storage capacity up to 150 lbs.
  • STRONG CONSTRUCTION: Heavy duty 1 inch steel frame tube with black E-Coating for rust resistance. Tyger roof cargo baskets are great for securing gear with cargo nets.
  • EASY TO ASSEMBLE: Simple two-piece assembly. All mounting hardware included.
  • THREE-YEAR WARRANTY: TYGER 3 years no-hassle quality warranty against factory defect. Must be removed before auto car-wash.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation and assembling.
✔ Material Quality.

What could be better? 💔

❌ Issues with rust.

6. Rage Powersports Elevate Outdoor RB-7206 Slim Low-Profile Car Roof Rack

DETAILS:

  • Brand: Rage Powersports
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Passenger car 
  • Material: Steel
  • Item weight: 15 pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 39 x 36 x 2.75 inches
  • Item Price: $159.99

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF Rage Powersports Elevate Outdoor RB-7206 Slim Low-Profile Car Roof Rack

Apex RB-7206 Slim Low-Profile Car Roof Rack Camping Cargo Basket

KEY DETAILS

  • EASY ASSEMBLY: It is very easy to install and assemble. It just takes a few minutes to get, set and go with your new roof basket.
  • RUST RESISTANT: One of the best cargo baskets are constructed with powder coated steel frame, this bike cargo baskets are resistant to rust.
  • DIMENSIONS AND LOADING CAPACITY: This roof basket measures 39″ L x 36″ W x 2.75″ H and weighs 15 pounds. It is very light weight and can carry load upto 150 pounds.
  • UNIVERSAL FIT: Normally vehicle cargo baskets fits most of the cars, SUVs and trucks with cross bars. It fits best to the cross bars measuring 3.25″ to 3.75″ W and 0.75″ to 1.625″ H.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation.
✔ Light-weight.

What could be better? 💔

❌ Doesn’t come with screws.

7. Rhino Rack Roof Mount Cargo Basket

DETAILS:

  • Brand: Rhino
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Trucks, SUVs
  • Material: Aluminium
  • Item weight: 44 pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 46 × 27 × 8 inches
  • Item Price: $358.25

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF Rhino Rack Roof Mount Cargo Basket

Rhino-Rack Roof Cargo Basket with Mounting Bracket for Roof Racks, Easy Use & Fitment, Heavy Duty, 2 Thru Axle Bike Carriers; for All Vehicles; 4WD, Pick Up Trucks, SUV's, Wagon's, Sedan's; Locking

KEY FEATURES

  • UNIVERSAL MOUNTING: Rhino-Rack Large Pro Cargo Basket, Universal Mounting to most Roof Racks with easy installation. Suitable for all vehicles.
  • EASY ASSEMBLY: This best cargo baskets are easy to put in & assemble with 2 piece construction
  • DIMENSIONS: External dimensions of Rhino-Rack Large Pro Cargo Basket 1, 480mm (58 inch) x 1, 090mm (43 inch) x 150mm (6 inch). So, just the right size for your vehicle.
  • HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Heavy duty, high-quality, aluminum construction with a durable black powder coating helps protect against the weather and resists rust and scratches.
  • SLEEK AND AERODYNAMIC: Includes aerodynamic wind deflector release.
  • LOAD RATING: Frres up space by loading luggage upto165lbs (75kg).

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation.
✔ No complaint of rusting.

What could be better? 💔

❌ Issues with screws.

8. YAKIMA – LoadWarrior, Roof Cargo Baskets

DETAILS:

  • Brand: YAKIMA
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Passenger car
  • Material: Alloy steel
  • Item weight: 11 Kgs
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 40 x 39 x 6.5 inches
  • Item Price: $369

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF YAKIMA - Load Warrior, Rooftop Cargo Basket

Yakima LoadWarrior Medium Sized Heavy Duty Steel Cargo Basket Roof Rack with Universal Mounting Hardware for All Yakima StreamLine Crossbars, Black

KEY FEATURES

  • EASY INSTALLATION: It is very easy and quick to install. It takes just a few minutes in its assembly.
  • STURDY DESIGN: It has weather-resistant heavy-duty steel constructed gear basket with a custom wind fairing included for extra noise reduction.
  • COMPATIBLE: Accommodates most Yakima gear mounts for all your outdoor activities. It can fits Yakima round, square, factory and aerodynamic crossbars.
  • SPACE FOR YOUR GEAR: This cargo baskets for roof racks are ideal for loads both tall and wide. It can accommodate a variety of gear from sports equipment to furniture.
  • ASSURED GUARANTEE: Any damages to the basket are covered by the company’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation.
✔ Great design.

What could be better? 💔

❌ Might miss some hardware.

9. Apex Steel Roof Cargo Baskets with Wind Fairing

DETAILS:

  • Brand: APEX LEGENDS
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Passenger cars
  • Material: Steel
  • Item weight: 34.9 Pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 48.5 x 38.2 x 5.5 inches
  • Item Price: $159.99

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF Apex Steel Roof Cargo Basket with Wind Fairing.

48.5' Roof Luggage Cargo Storage Rack with Wind Fairing

KEY DETAILS

  • EASY INSTALLATION: It is very easy to assemble and install. It takes just a few minutes to install this.
  • STURDY CONSTRUCTION: Constructed from heavy duty 1″D steel frame with a black powder coated finish, Mentioned Roof Cargo Baskets are very sturdy and durable. It also has black wind fairing reduces noise and wind resistance.
  • ADD-ON TO YOUR SPACE: Adds a vehicle roof storage area for carrying extra gear and plenty of tie-down points for securing cargo.
  • ADAPTABLE FIT: Cargo baskets for roof racks are mounts to existing cross-bars with (4) 3.5″W x 2″H U-Bolts.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation.
✔ Durable.

What could be better? 💔

❌ Paint quality.

10. Leader Accessories Roof Rack Cargo Basket

DETAILS:

  • Brand: Leader Accessories
  • Color: Black
  • Vehicle Service Type: Minivan, Van, SUV, Truck
  • Material: Alloy steel
  • Item weight: 36.8 pounds
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 64 x 39 x 6 inches
  • Item Price: $199.63

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF Leader Accessories Roof Rack Cargo Basket

Leader Accessories Roof Rack Cargo Basket with 150LB Capacity Car Top Luggage Carrier 64'x 39'x 4' Fit for SUV Truck Cars

KEY DETAILS

  • EXTRA LARGE SIZE: Overall Dimension for leader roof cargo baskets looks like w/ Extension: 64″(L) x 39″(W) x 6′(H). This is a perfect car top luggage holder for hauling extra cargo bags, camping equipment, luggage, and more.
  • 150LBS CAPACITY: Frees up space in your vehicle with a roof rack cargo basket that safely and securely holds up to 150 lbs of cargo, gear and equipment.
  • ADJUSTABLE FIT: It utilizes your vehicle’s cross bars, easily mounting off rack with four universal U-bolts, accommodating square cross bars less than 4.6″ wide x 1.375″ thick or round bars less than 1.375″ in diameter. Please make sure your cross bar’s distance is greater than 29.7 inch, if you want use the roof rack extension part.
  • WIND FAIRING: Steel wind fairing is included to reduce wind resistance and noise. Strong, high-quality, heavy-duty steel construction with a durable black powder coating helps protect Rooftop Cargo Basket against the elements and resists rust and scratches.

What We liked? ❤

✔ Easy installation.
✔ Sturdy construction.

What could be better? 💔

❌ This roof cargo baskets by a leader might catch rust.

What is the exact weight limit that these roof baskets can carry?

The exact weight limit depends on the strength of your car roof and roof bars, please be advised to contact your car dealer before installing. The total weight limit of these bike cargo baskets is approximately 150 pounds, which is a good amount for most cars or vehicles.

Do these Roof Baskets come with an extension?

No, they do not come with extensions. However, you can buy them separately.

Where should I position my roof basket?

The positioning of your roof cargo baskets all depends on your roof’s pitch, whether it has a ridgeline or the position of your chimney. For a standard roof, a good location would be in the center of your roof.

Your vehicle cargo baskets should be positioned on the roof bars so that the weight is distributed evenly between the two bars.

How to pack a rooftop cargo basket?

You need a large, secure container that you can put on your roof so that it can hold heavy items like furniture and appliances. The best type of rooftop container is cargo boxes. These have sturdy walls and come in different sizes, and they can be folded or rolled to make them easy to move around.

How to secure cargo basket from thieves?

It’s important to cover your cargo basket with a waterproof sheet so that it remains protected from thieves. You can also use an alarm system to alert authorities if your cargo gets stolen.

What to put in cargo basket off road?

A cargo basket with a mesh lining can be used to keep traveling items safe while keeping them safe from moisture. The mesh also helps prevent dust and other things from entering your luggage and keeps it safe from being damaged. It’s also very useful for transporting small equipment, or for carrying things off-road.

Ending My Reviews on Rooftop Cargo Baskets

Roof baskets are easy to install and assemble. They are really helpful when going on a short trip. However, some points should always be kept in mind while buying them:

  1. Always check for the size that you need and that the company is providing.
  2. They sometimes require oiling or greasing during moist weather conditions to avoid rusting.

Just keep these cargo baskets for roof racks points in your mind and you won’t regret buying one. So have a fun and safe journey with a roof cargo baskets that you find best-suited for you:)

Mercedes Lilienthal
Mercedes Lilienthal

I create award-winning content involving vehicular adventure travel, the automotive industry and the women within it. My husband and I own three right-hand-drive turbo-diesel 4x4 Mitsubishis: a Delica Space Gear and two Gen 2 Pajeros. We also own a subcompact daily driver. My freelance work includes writing, photography and PR/marketing services.

Best Roof Box Guide
Logo