The Best Soft Roof Racks For 2024
By, Sarah CombsUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: RoofPax Car Roof Bag & Rooftop Cargo Carrier
The RoofPax is a car roof bag and rooftop cargo carrier that provides a safer and better solution for safely storing your car top luggage when traveling. Our set includes the 19 cft. rooftop cargo carrier, 6 patented door hook straps/clips, a TSA approved lock, and a sturdy storage bag, offering you a better and safer solution for safely storing your car top luggage when traveling. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier Made in USA
For your convenience and protection, this roof cargo carrier is the most secure design with its strong straps: 1.5" wide, 3,000 lbs strong with Velcro strap retainer. RoofBag's exclusive pass-through straps are safe: tested for 18 years. They don't interfere with side curtains: they enter at corner of door frame. The roof cargo carrier is made from high quality materials to be safe and reliable in any highway speed. Read Review
3. Best Safety: FIVKLEMNZ 15 Cubic Car Roof Bag Cargo Carrier
FIVKLEMNZ roof bags are designed to solve the problem of limited storage space in your car. FIVKLEMNZ 15 cubic feet rooftop cargo carrier allows you to hold 4-6 suitcases, travel luggage case, tents, sleeping bags and more. Free up inside vehicle space for more comfortable on the way. FIVKLEMNZ rooftop cargo carrier fits for any car, truck, or SUV. If there is not roof side rails on your car, it can be Read Review
4. Best Easy Setup: Roof Cargo Bag 15 or 20 Cubic for Cars
Roof Cargo Bag 15 or 20 Cubic for Cars is a 100% Waterproof and Military-Grade Durability. Our heavy duty cartop cargo carrier is made from high quality material designed to withstand all climates and weather conditions without breaking, moving, or leaking. With our built-in waterproof features, our vehicle roof storage system has been designed with top quality bags that are perfect for storing your sports gear. Read Review
Roof racks are one of the most common ways for a car to be used. Whether you have a small compact car or an SUV, you can easily fit almost anything onto your roof. But, this comes with a cost.
A cost that only reasonable people can handle. Those who don’t mind the cost are those who own a soft roof rack. Soft roof racks carry just as much weight as hard roof racks. They just take up a lot less space in your garage and driveway than heavy-duty hard roofs do. This makes them ideal for people who live in smaller homes or apartments and have limited storage space in their garages.
Our experts have determined the models that would be the greatest fit for your requirements, specifically RoofPax Car Roof Bag & Rooftop Cargo Carrier, after doing extensive study and analysis over a considerable time. Consider RoofBag Rooftop Cargo Carrier Made in USA as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions on this list are definitely worth considering, and we've put up a useful shopping guide to help you decide!
Our Top Picks
Lightweight: You can still be easily carried despite its size and weight. Versatile: The bag can even be used as a tent if you're feeling fancy on a camping trip Affordable Price: It is an affordable option for your recreational needs.
Getting Wet from Rain: There is no shelter from rain
- ✅ SAFETY COMES FIRST: RoofPax is the ONLY brand that produces its Car Roof Carriers for maximum safety with the Patented 4+2 extra free door hook straps (included), instead of using straps that go inside the car. Tying down any car top luggage involving straps going through the inside of the car is HIGHLY dangerous as they interfere with air bags in case of emergency and are illegal to use in some states. RoofPax is the safest and most secure Car Roof Cargo Bag on the market today.
- ✅ WORKS WITH or WITHOUT a ROOF RACK: Use the RoofPax spacious 19 cubic feet car roof top luggage carrier with any sized car or SUV. It can be quickly and easily installed in minutes using either; raised side rails/crossbars/roof rack/basket and if none of them is installed - you can always use the included 6 door hook straps which attach under the door's rubber seal gasket.
- ✅ EVERYTHING YOU NEED IS INCLUDED: Our set includes the 19 cft. rooftop cargo carrier, 6 patented door hook straps/clips, a TSA approved lock, and a sturdy storage bag, offering you a better and safer solution for safely storing your car top luggage when traveling.
Easy to Install: Installing a roof bag is a breeze. Lightweight: The roof Bag is lightweight and can support up to 150 lbs of cargo. Easy to Use: The roof rack can be attached quickly and easily to the roof of any car. No tools required.
No Roof Rack Compatibility: This bag cannot be used with a car's existing roof rack system.
- MOST SECURE DESIGN: Your roof cargo is safe with our roof cargo carrier offering the strongest seat-belt style straps. They are 1.5” wide and made of nylon for unsurpassed strength, and are not stitched to the roof top car cargo carrier for additional safety. Our straps secure your car carrier at any highway speed. The included protective and non-slip mat keeps the roof bag waterproof carrier in place and prevents scratching the roof of your car, SUV, van or truck
- TRULY WATERPROOF: RoofBag car carrier keeps your rooftop cargo dry, offering the benefits of a rigid luggage carrier for car rooftop and the efficiency and economy of a cargo bag for top of car. Our roof bag waterproof carrier is made from a single piece of waterproof material to ensure total waterproofness. It also includes waterproof zippers, waterproof flaps, water-repellent straps, and no exposed stitching to optimally protect your car topper against water penetration
- QUIET, FUEL EFFICIENT, EASY TO INSTALL: RoofBag car carriers rooftop are designed lower at the front and higher at the rear for best fuel economy and a quiet ride. Additionally, this cargo roof bag … doesn’t flap in the wind because it is built from heavier fabric than any other vehicle soft-shell carriers Fill the roof carrier to capacity to fully benefit from its aerodynamic design. RoofBag cartop carrier waterproof is extremely easy to install. Easy to follow instructions are included.
Covers all of your needs: This is a great option for hauling things around. Easy to use: The straps make it easy to load and unload cargo Perfect fit: you can be sure that it'll last for a long time.
This low-quality roof rack also has a low level of quality assurance
- 【Large Storage Space】: FIVKLEMNZ roof bag (44*34*17 inch) was designed to solve the problem of limited storage space in the car. 15 cubic feet rooftop cargo carrier allows you to hold 4-6 suitcases, travel luggage case, tents, sleeping bags and more. Free up inside vehicle space for more comfortable on the way.
- 【Most Safe Design】: For security reasons, we use 8 reinforced adjustable straps to keep the cargo carrier in place. In addition, equipped with free anti-slip mat to keep the cargo bag stay in place even in high speed road or bump road, no slip, no scratch to your car.
- 【Easy to Install】：FIVKLEMNZ rooftop cargo carrier fits for any car, truck, or SUV. If there is not roof side rails on your car, it can be quickly and easily installed to roof rack in minutes with 4 door hooks.
Easily installed: This car carrier is very easy to install on the roof racks of cars. Lightweight: It can hold a lot of weight because of its design Long life span: This car carrier has a long-life span since it is made from high-quality materials
Won't fit cars with a larger roof.
- TOP QUALITY BAG | Our lockable zips have been developed and improved over the years to ensure your luggage arrives just as you packed it – dry, safe, and secure. The softshell car roof box also features double-layer welded components as well as freeze-resistant clips & straps, for a roof bag that will last.
- 100% WATERPROOF & MILITARY-GRADE DURABILITY | Made from durable military-grade tarpaulin, our heavy-duty cartop cargo carrier is designed to withstand all climates and weather conditions without breaking, moving, or leaking. Our vehicle roof storage system is designed with 100% waterproof features and zippers.
- NO ROOF RACK, NO PROBLEM | we’ve got you covered because every Tool Guards car roof bag comes with straps for every type of installation and set up. We include both sets of straps for installation on cars with roof racks and those which have no overhead roof racks.
- Large Carrying Capacity : This premium roof rack cargo carrier 51” (L) X 39” (W) X 17” (H) with 20 cubic foot storage capacity can hold 5-7 suitcases, travel boxes, camping tents, sleeping bags and more. Made of soft shell material, it can be folded into the storage bag to save space while not in use!
- What You Get: 1x roof top carrier bag, 8x extra luggage straps, 1x storage bag, 1x user manual. Sailnovo cargo carrier is waterproof and fade-resistant for protection against dust, sun, wind, and rain; You don't have to spend as much money as when you buy a roof box, but you have a bag with all the functions of a car roof box!
- For better trip experience, please use straps to fasten the roof bag to prevent noise caused by excess straps tapping car while driving;
- Waterproof - PVC Materials - The torrential downpour will test merely water resistant materials to their limit and likely result in damp or soaked contents. But our car top carrier is coated with PVC to aid in waterproofing ( inside and out ),NOT ONLY WATER RESISTANT like other brand.
- Easy Mounting & Storage Design - Design with 6 short tie straps & 2 long straps, make it easy to attaches in only a matter of minutes. Our Carrier is purely malleable, more simple to store than the carrier with stiff inner-lining ( storage bag included ).
- 6 Tough Straps - More Security- Alongside carrying capacity, stability is arguably the most important factor in a car top carrier. We Provide 6pc wide straps & 2pc 3M straps. To some extent, the more straps used to fasten the carrier to the roof the better.
- Keeps cargo protected from water, dirt, wind damage and more
- Fits into CURT roof rack cargo carrier #18115 with extension #18117
- Zip closure with hook-and-loop flap keeps inside completely dry
- 【REINFORCED STRAP SEAM】We notice that the straps of other cargo bags can easily rip from the seam, so we doubly reinforced the strap seam. And all seams of this cargo bag are heat welded and stitched to ensure they are watertight.
- 【OVERSIZED 21 CUBIC FEET】Massive 21 cubic feet (L52" x W39.5" x H17.5") of space can easily hold all luggage of a family of 5-6. Most other roof cargo carriers are small and there is not enough room to accommodate everything you need.
- 【FIT ALL CARS】Whether your car is with roof rack or not, the 4 door hooks and 8 strong straps can always secure your roof top carrier bag. In addition, the equipped anti-slip mat can keep the cargo bag stay in place even in high speed road, and protect your car roof from scratches and damage.
- ⌛ INSTALL IN MINUTES WITH OR WITHOUT A ROOF RACK | FOLDS DOWN TO THE SIZE OF A CEREAL BOX: The Wild Xplorer cross country car top carrier can be used with any hardtop, 4 door Cars, SUV, Truck, Minivan, or Pickup. As with all rooftop cargo carriers if your automobile has 2 doors you will need a roof rack, cargo rack or car roof rack
- 💯 THE ONLY XXL WATERPROOF CAR ROOF BAG TO OFFER A COMPLETE GUARANTEE: This is the ONLY and LAST cargo roof bag you’ll ever need to buy! Made with the highest quality water proof triple-layer 600d material and market leading fixtures and fasteners this roof rack cargo carrier stands up to all weather, all year round!
- 💪 THE BIGGEST ROOF CARGO BAG ON THE MARKET: With a massive 19 cubic feet capacity we include everything you need to get on the road in minutes. 6 heavy duty metal door hooks (2 spares), 10 reinforced straps, premium NIFCO buckles, waterproof zipper system, double strap covers with 8 velcro restrainers, premium protection mat and a FULL WARRANTY. This is the only car top carrier roof bag for your next adventure
- 【UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY】Our car roof bag is compatible with vehicles with or without roof rack. Mount the Car Roof Bag to any vehicle with side rails, cross bars or a basket. Or apply the Cartop Carrier to cars without luggage rack effortlessly with our firm door hooks (sold separately).
- 【EASY TO INSTALL】Place the roof rack cargo carrier and mat on top of your vehicle. Mount the Cargo Carrier Bag to the top, close the zipper, and secure the straps with fasteners for extra car roof storage.
- 【LARGE STORAGE】Our Car Rooftop Carrier provides an extra 16 cubic feet of space, offering another trunk space to your vehicle for road trip travels. The Cargo Bag is ideal for family trips, camping, adventures and anywhere extra roof storage is needed on the car top for suitcases, luggages, tents and sleeping bags.
What are your concerns about purchasing the best soft roof racks?
We're sure you've purchased something and afterward regretted it. We are all concerned about the items we purchase. The easiest method to prevent these concerns is to conduct a thorough study before purchasing the best soft roof racks.
That is also why we decided to introduce this post in order to provide you with advice on how to avoid buying errors when selecting the best soft roof racks.
Aerodynamics
Size
Beyond the size, you should also consider whether the volume in cubic feet of space is adequate for your requirements. There are sizes that range from 8 to 22 feet. You can likely find the right size box for you. You should avoid purchasing something too large for your car.
Weight Capacity
Ease Of Use
Access
Others only permit access from one side, while some others allow you to open from both sides. Some will only allow you to access the back, so you must be aware of traffic and not stop at the curb.
Looks
Price
Storage capacity is generally more expensive. You will also pay more for extra features and a well-known brand.
You can expect to pay $300-$400+ for a good quality carrier made by reputable manufacturers. Unfortunately, if you require something more, then the cost will go up."
Security
Fuel Economy
FAQs
What Is A Good Size Roof Box?
The best size of roof boxes is the one that suits your specific needs. If you have a small car, it's not worth buying a 22-L roof box. If you are looking to transport skis, you will need to consider the dimensions of your skis when buying a roof cargo container.
Will A Cargo Box Affect My Fuel Consumption?
You will experience an increase in fuel consumption. It's very minimal. Fuel economy begins to decline when you drive at highway speeds. Fuel economy can drop by 6-10%
Do I Need A Roof Rack?
Yes. To mount the rooftop cargo boxes, you will need to have a properly fitted roof rack. All boxes can fit on most roof rack cross bars, and the mounting system is universal. To find the best roof rack for your vehicle, check out our Roof Rack Buyers Guide.
How To Storage A Car Roof Box?
You have several options when it comes to where you store your roof box. You can either keep the roof box in your garage or place it in your backyard with the raincover on. If your vehicle is large enough, you could even store it inside of your car.
How Much Gear Can I Load?
Three things will determine this:
- Carry capacity of your fitted roof rack
- How the cross bars and roof style are attached to your vehicle
- Size of your rooftop carrier
What Is The Best Position For A Roof Box?
This is the ideal position for the roof box to be centrally located when you look from the front. The weight should be evenly distributed. To avoid roof boxes that extend too far from your windshield, you should set it so that your hatch can be reached.
Do I Need Anything Else Apart From Roof Bars And A Roof Box?
No. Every roof box that we sell comes with a pair of standard and box fittings, along with a set straps for keeping luggage in place. Because the boxes are secured to roof bars by the fixings inside, they can not be lifted from their bars once locked.
I Have A Full-length Box And It Seems To Overhang The Bars A Long Way. Is This OK?
Yes. The boxes have a design that allows approximately 1/3 to hang out behind the rear bars. One third of the roof bars supports the third and the third rests on the front bar.
Can You Drive With An Empty Roof Box?
Yes. However, you should not use your roof box for a prolonged period of time. It could have a negative impact on your fuel consumption and create extra noise.
Will Roof Racks Scratch My Car?
A rack that is properly attached to a clean roof will not cause damage or scratch to your car. To remove road grime and dirt buildup, we recommend you regularly take your roof rack off of your vehicle.
Conclusion
Finally, the best soft roof racks may be readily used and offers a range of options to meet your needs. When looking for another kind of best soft roof racks, which we recommend 20 Cubic Car Cargo Roof Bag - Waterproof Duty Car Roof Top Carrier, all of these characteristics are significant.
We've combed through all of this data in order to assist you in making the best decision possible. Let us know if there's anything else we can do to help you discover the best soft roof racks in the comments section below!
About Sarah Combs
