When you picture car roof bags, you might either imagine a chic old classic car with suitcases strapped to a roof rack or the modern alternative consisting of a heavy-duty fabric bag designed specifically for that purpose. The ability to extend your car’s cargo capacity can be achieved in several ways. This can be in the form of a bike rack; it could also be in the form of a car roof box or roof bag. Purely in terms of value, roof bags look like a very tempting alternative to roof boxes. But the question is, are they worth the saving? Parkers take a look at car roof bags.
Because of the lack of aerodynamics and noise generated as a result, we suggest roof bags for those who are undertaking a trip without motorways over long distances. For long-haul or continental road trips, a sleeker roof box would be better suited.
A roof bag is a good option to consider if perhaps you’re heading away into the Scottish Highlands or somewhere where you’ll be driving at lower speeds, where the roof bag’s aerodynamic flaws don’t matter quite so much. They’re also a very useful addition if you’re already carrying a bike rack or a converted campervan to give you extra storage space.
The best car roof bags 2024 at a glance
We will be listing the best roof bags that are on sale. We’ll also be discussing which ones are best suited to what kinds of vehicles. We’ll also be weighing up the pros and cons when comparing them to roof boxes, as well as which ones are best suited to roof bars or not.
The best car roof bags 2024
The best car roof bag
Some bags attach straight to the top of your car, but I've got a pair of roof rails and wanted something with a solid base that could attach to them. I've seen plenty of overpacked and under-structured bags sagging between a pair of rails on cars before, and that seems like a recipe for a scratched roof.
This Fischer roof bag is the perfect compromise if you want the rigidity of a roof box but the easy storage of a bag. It rolls up into the same sort of size and shape as a camping chair, and has three sturdy rails on the bottom to make installing and filling it a breeze.
Two of these rails have runners that capture the square head of a bolt, and then you clamp these around your roof bars with a plate and triangular thumb screws. It is a little fiddly but took me a maximum of ten minutes. I did have to move my roof rails closer together than I have them for my bike carriers, though.
Once installed, the bag opens fully thanks to a tough zip that runs three-quarters of the way around, and you can lash it down after packing it with four straps to stop things shifting around. I managed to get our gazebo, four camping chairs, two camp beds, plus a load of coats and a wetsuit in it, which was much more than I was expecting.
Bigger bags are available, but I like the compromise of the vaguely aerodynamic wedge shape that this one offers.
The description says it's only 'water resistant' but we drove in pouring rain and everything inside stayed dry. Just bear in mind there's a chance water (or thieves) could find their way in, so don't put anything particularly valuable or easily damaged up there, and you should be fine.
Adam Binnie
Pros
- Great quality and design
- Perfect blend of compactness and storage
- Compatible with all standard rail roof racks
Cons
- Not a massive volume at 270 litres
| Volume: | 270 litres |
| Dimensions: | 100cm (L) x 80cm (W) x 40cm (H) |
| Max load capacity: | 50kg |
| Weight: | 5.5kg |
| Needs roof rails? | Yes |
Editor's pick
This makes it easy to install on a set of roof racks, and as well as being practical during holidays and road trips, it can also be compacted once you remove the poles.
Pros
- 330 litres is big enough for most people
- Can be made compact after removing strengthening poles (when not in use)
- Rigid base makes it easier to install on roof racks
Cons
- Not as aerodynamic as others with bulky design
| Volume: | 330 litres |
| Dimensions: | 110cm (L) x 75cm (W) x 40cm (H) |
| Max load capacity: | 50kg |
| Weight: | 3.6kg |
| Needs roof rails? | Yes |
Best waterproof car roof bag
Rrp: $135.99
Rrp: $135.99
It comes with a combination lock and is designed to fit anything from regular-sized cars to SUVs and even vans. It's designed to be used with or without roof racks, depending on which you prefer. but it's designed to take in extra suitcases to be stored in a neat, waterproof compartment.
Pros
- Can hold multiple suitcases in one place
- Has 594 litres of space
- Designed to be water tight
Cons
- Not aerodynamic by any means
- Will add quite a lot of weight when filled up
Best aerodynamic roof bag
Some users have reported that it doesn't quite hold onto its waterproof label too well, which is worth bearing in mind if you intend to travel around usually wet areas, such as Scotland or Wales.
Pros
- Compact bag designed for a few extra items
- Sleek and aerodynamic which helps with fuel economy
- Can easily fit onto some roof racks
Cons
- Some users report lack of waterproof-ness
- Not everyone will want the smaller size
Best car roof bag for capacity
Rrp: $99.95
Rrp: $99.95
However, in addition to capacious volume, another plus point with this roof bag is that it can be used without a roof rack if you wish. But the downside of the Range 3's design is that it sits directly on the roof regardless of whether you use roof racks or not. It's tit-for-tat here with design versus volume, so it depends very much on your specific needs.
Pros
- Huge volume AT 509 LITRES
- Well made
Cons
- Not aerodynamic at all
| Volume: | 509 litres |
| Dimensions: | 122cm (L) x 91cm (W) x 46cm (H) |
| Max load capacity: | Not given |
| Weight: | 3.7kg |
| Needs roof rails? | No |
The best mid-range roof bag
Along with the bag, you also get an anti-slip mat, six door hooks, a storage bag, and a password-locking device. It's not designed to be attached to roof racks, which is a bit of a shame. But for value per litre, the Marretoo is a good shout.
Pros
- Huge storage at 594 litres
- Very durable and waterproof, thanks to heavy-duty fabric
- Comes with useful kit, such as locks and storage bag
Cons
- Isn't designed for a set of roof racks
- Not very aerodynamic
Best for smaller cars
Rrp: $99.99
Rrp: $99.99
Like the Range 3, it too can be used with or without roof racks and sits directly on the roof in either case. Consequently, you may wish to pair it with a roof tray. Its construction is excellent and very durable.
Pros
- Size suitable for a range of smaller vehicles
- Highly durable and comes with anti-slip mat
- Can hold up to 368 litres, which is more than others
Cons
- Primarily designed for use without racks
| Volume: | 311 litres |
| Dimensions: | 102cm (L) x 94cm (W) x 43cm (H) |
| Max load capacity: | Not given |
| Weight: | 3.6kg |
| Needs roof rails? | No |
Best car roof bag on a budget
The 600D nylon fabric is waterproof and reasonably durable but you don't get that same level of build quality as seen on the other bags above.
Pros
- Good value for money at £70
- Large volume at 424 litres of space
- Suitable for a wide range of vehicles
Cons
- Build quality inferior to competitors
| Volume: | 425 litres |
| Dimensions: | 105cm (L) x 90cm (W) x 45cm (H) |
| Max load capacity: | Not given |
| Weight: | 2.7kg |
| Needs roof rails? | No |
Things to remember with car roof bags and when carrying them
Roof weight limits
It’s very important you do not exceed your car’s roof load limit. Check your car’s handbook to find out what this is. Remember, to calculate the total payload that will be on the roof, you need to add the weight of the roof racks (even if you’re using van roof racks), roof bag, and payload together. And remember to always follow the fitting instructions as provided by the manufacturer and not to drive with empty roof bags fitted to car roofs. It’s all in the habit of checking before buying, like, for example, knowing what dimensions your vehicle is before buying a protective cover for it.
How do roof bags compare to roof boxes?
The advantages are that they represent value for money over their roof box counterparts. They’re generally less expensive and this will suit a lot of people looking for extra storage. If you travel around with a pet and may require a pet car seat cover, you will need a bit of leeway for luggage space. Also, like roof boxes, they come in a range of shapes and sizes that will be better suited to certain vehicles over others. The largest roof bags can be had in 500-litre form, and while some boxes can surpass 600, that’s still impressive. What’s also impressive is that they’re made from heavy-duty waterproof and UV-resistant fabrics. Those made by good manufacturers will last a while, even with all-round harsh weather conditions.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider too. They are not as accessible as roof boxes once fitted and filled. Roof boxes open easily from one or both sides, whereas roof bags need to be unclipped and unzipped. Boxes are much more aerodynamic too, and therefore don’t have as much of a detrimental effect on fuel economy. Roof bags also create more wind noise at speed that not even the best wind deflectors could cure. Lastly, some sit directly onto the roof of a vehicle. We recommend you avoid this either by buying one that is designed to fit roof racks or use in conjunction with a tray. The issue with the latter is that it reduces the value for money aspect. At the very least, buy a non-slip protective mat to go between the roof bag and roof.
Aaron Hussain is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He is obsessed with classic cars and anything with a fascinating story to tell.
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