If you’re in need of some extra storage for your next winter road trip, car roof boxes can make the difference between an easy trip and one that you’ll regret slightly. Not, of course, before you get a set of roof racks installed.
Roof boxes provide a few hundred litres of extra storage space on a part of your car that would otherwise be unoccupied, the roof. These hinged boxes open up and can easily store suitcases, boxes and other items that eat up valuable cabin space.
Naturally, you’ll need roof racks before fitting either a roof box or even a roof bag. It’s also worth looking at where you can store your roof box when it’s not installed on your car. After all, an empty roof box will do nothing but spoil your fuel economy so it’s a good idea only to use it when required.
The best roof boxes tested 2024 at a glance:
The best car roof box: Thule Motion 3L – buy from Amazon
Editor’s pick: Thule Vector L – buy from eBay
The best value roof box: Farad Marlin 400L – buy from Amazon
We love the extra versatility these things can provide, sometimes doubling a car’s storage capacity. That’s why we’re bringing you the best roof boxes for your next big trip. And if you’re stuck for somewhere to place your bikes, have a look at our guide on the best bike racks for your car.
How we tested the roof boxes
We’ve partnered up with our German friends, Auto Zeitung to share the results of a thorough and comprehensive roof box test they performed with a number of different makes and models.
The team had a realistic criteria to judge their findings on. The roof boxes were attached to the top of a Volkswagen Tiguan 1.5 eTSI which was supported by Volkswagen roof rails and support rods from the marque’s accessories range.
With the petrol tank filled to the brim and not accounting for a driver and 140kg of luggage, the basic weight of the Tiguan is 1,637kg. The maximum roof load on the vehicle is 75kg, and this was taken into account throughout the test. From sleeping bags to pillows and even skis, Auto Zeitung’s test team used a variety of equipment to make up a realistic load of what you might put in a roof box on a winter holiday.
What we look for in roof boxes
The main thing we look for in a good roof box is functionality. Preparing for holiday season requires more practicality than style, so we’re always looking to see how much stuff a roof box can fit in, making life easier for your journey.
Build quality is the next big thing. Any fiddly straps or low-quality components get an instant deduction in points. You are most likely travelling long distances to your skiing destination, so knowing that your roof box can hold itself together and keep your possessions in safe security is hugely important to us.
We should also point out that while our friends at Auto Zeitung pitted up eight roof boxes in their test, not all of them are easily available in the UK marketplace. We’ve done what we can to carry across as much information as possible on those that are available, and labelled those that were tested by our continental colleagues.
To add a bit of flavour, we’ve also included a selection of roof boxes that were carefully chosen and recommended by the Parkers team, giving you more choice and things to consider when buying your next roof box.
The best roof boxes for a winter holiday tested 2024
Tested by Auto Zeitung
The best roof box (winner)
The total capacity is 450-litres and can take a load of weight. It's hardened shell means its durable in all conditions, and you can spec it with an interior light box, a pull strap for easier access inside and even a protective liner.
Pros
- High quality materials and build
- Plenty of space at 400L of capacity
- Should be large enough for most applications
Cons
- The Alpine version is more aerodynamic
- Slightly heavier than others at 20kg
| Capacity | 450L |
| Dimensions | 194 x 89 x 43cm |
| Weight | 20kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Tested by Auto Zeitung
Editor's pick
There are however, a few drawbacks. The box itself without anything in it is 30kg - making it twice as heavy as the lightest roof box the team had on test. And when opening it up after rainy conditions, water beads tended to sneak inside and damage the felt. This is something to bear in mind, in case you pack items such as blankets or pillows.
Pros
- Great build quality and materials
- Swallows up skis and boards over two-metres long
- Weatherproof against rain and snow
Cons
- Substantially heavier than the others at 30kg
- Water drips can damp the inner felt and potentially your possessions
| Capacity | 430L |
| Dimensions | 231 x 88 x 35cm |
| Weight | 30kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Tested by Auto Zeitung
The best value roof box
Chief among which was a plastic key that locks up the mechanism. Those and the fiddly tension straps gave the impression that the Marlin 400L isn't the most durable roof box available. It does regain a few points by offering up to 400-litres of space and it does take a high payload of items.
Pros
- Takes a high payload of items at 75kg
- Good value for money compared to the Thule boxes
- Relatively roomy, but not ideal for longer skis and boards
Cons
- Low quality key and locking mechanism
- Straps are very fiddly
| Capacity | 400L |
| Dimensions | 160 x 80 x 40cm |
| Weight | 23kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Tested by Auto Zeitung
Best value medium-sized roof box
However, there are quite a few downsides. A fiddly locking system, fragile screw slides, and only being able to accommodate skis up to 1.5m long mean the OMAC is not a top contender in our colleagues' test.
Pros
- Good amount of space overall, but doesn't take longer skis
- Good value for money compared to others
- Additional locking bolt at the front of the box
Cons
- Doesn't come with tension straps, nor is it even pre-assembled
- Has a low loading height
| Capacity | 400L |
| Dimensions | 169 x 79 x 37.5cm |
| Weight | 11kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Recommended by Parkers
Best value large roof box
Designed with aerodynamics in mind as well as practicality, the Wego shouldn't affect your fuel economy too much with its sleek design. Partner this with a dual opening mechanism for maximum versatility and the Wego really is a great option for big families and/or long trips.
Pros
- Huge storage capacity
- Very easy to install
- Quite aerodynamic
Cons
- Overkill for smaller cars and loads
- Only really suitable for larger cars
| Capacity | 500L |
| Dimensions | 198 x 80 x 38cm |
| Weight | 16.9kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Recommended by Parkers
Best roof box for small cars
More affordable than the premium options but still made of UV-resistant materials, the Ciao is best suited to smaller cars offering 340 litres of capacity. It may only open on one side, but it still represents excellent value for money.
Pros
- Quality item for the money
- Lightweight at just 10kg
- Great value for money
Cons
- Not the biggest capacity available
| Capacity | 340L |
| Dimensions | 140 x 80 x 44cm |
| Weight | 11kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Recommended by Parkers
Best roof box for aerodynamics
Beyond this, the Motion XT Alpine features all the other Thule features that make it such a clever purchase. The PowerClick quick mounting system makes installing the roof box simple, while the SlideLock will automatically lock the roof box once the lid is closed. It can even fit in skis up to two-metres long or slightly more.
Pros
- Aerodynamic design
- Huge storage capacity
- Great quality box
Cons
- Hefty weight at 25kg
| Capacity | 450L |
| Dimensions | 232 x 95 x 35cm |
| Weight | 32kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Recommended by Parkers
Best small aerodynamic roof box
You get 300 litres of storage, and it's designed to be just that little bit more aerodynamic than your average small roof box. It even comes with its own Thule-specific key for a bit of extra security, too. It's also relatively compact at just 139 x 89.5 x 39cm, which is useful if you only have a small car to attach your roof box to.
Pros
- Quite aerodynamic and compact
- Offers pretty good storage
- Good for lots of cars
Cons
- Isn't the most extensive in terms of space with a volume of 300L
| Capacity | 300L |
| Dimensions | 139 x 89.5 x 39cm |
| Weight | 14kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Recommended by Parkers
Best budget roof box
Security is found in the form of a central locking mechanism for the single-side opening, while the roof box is secured via a series of U-bolts in a simple but time-consuming affair.
Pros
- Value for money
- Relatively lightweight
- Has its own central locking system
Cons
- Quality isn't as great as others
- Not real carbon fibre, despite design
| Capacity | 320L |
| Dimensions | 131 x 78 x 35cm |
| Weight | 11.5kg |
| Total payload | 55kg |
Recommended by Parkers
Best for storage capacity
Nordrive roof boxes come in a variety of sizes ranging from 280L all the way up to 630L in capacity. With thick materials and compatible with a number of roof bars, this is a great option if you're planning a winter getaway.
Compatible roof bar manufacturers are as follows: Silenzio, Quadra, Alumia, Helio, Snap, Club, Kuma, Kargo, Kargo Plus, Yakima.
Pros
- Great quality
- Loads of space on offer
- Compatible with plenty of roof bars
Cons
- Slightly heavier than the other options
| Capacity | 530L |
| Dimensions | 199 x 39 x 88cm |
| Weight | 17kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
Best for most uses
Compatible roof bar manufacturers: Quadra, Alumia, Helio, Snap, Club, Kuma, Kargo, Kargo Plus, Whispbar.
Pros
- Great quality roof box
- Ideal for most holidays
- Quite lightweight for its size
Cons
- Not the largest in capacity
| Capacity | 330L |
| Dimensions | 133 x 36 x 76cm |
| Weight | 10.5kg |
| Total payload | 75kg |
FAQs
What size roof box do I need for my car?
This depends on your car’s roof capacity, the type of items you plan to carry, and how much extra space you need. Smaller cars typically accommodate boxes around 300-400 litres, while larger vehicles can handle boxes up to 600 litres or more. Always check your vehicle’s maximum roof load limit, which includes the weight of the roof box itself.
Can I use any roof bars with a roof box?
No, not all roof bars are compatible with all roof boxes. It’s important to make sure that the roof bars you have or plan to purchase can securely fit the roof box model you choose.
Is it safe to leave a roof box on the car all the time?
While it is safe to leave a roof box on your car, it’s not always recommended. Leaving it on can impact fuel efficiency due to increased drag and may expose the box to weather damage or theft. If you’re not using it frequently, it’s best to remove and store it.
How does using a roof box affect my car’s fuel efficiency?
Using a roof box increases aerodynamic drag, which can reduce your car’s fuel efficiency by up to 10-25%, depending on the size and shape of the box.
Do I need to inform my insurance company if I use a roof box?
It is advisable to inform your insurance company if you use a roof box, as it might affect your coverage. Some policies require notification of any modifications or additions to the vehicle that may impact its handling, security, or value.
Other things to consider with car roof boxes
Above all, you should always consider if the roof box you’re going for is going to fit on your roof bars or rack. Some manufacturers do handily provide a list of compatible bars that their products will fit on, but others don’t. This can make things slightly tricky. We have made things slightly easier by also providing you with a guide on the best van roof racks as well.
However, another option is to opt for a roof bag. Provided your car has a couple of roof bars, you can strap these directly to your roof. But we would always advise that in order to protect the paintwork, strap these things to a set of racks that sit above the metal.
Thirdly, you have to always remember that roof boxes come with the extra weight and compromised aerodynamics. You might notice, therefore, that your fuel economy will be hindered. This is because they sit directly on your roof which affects airflow when in motion, causing drag. This causes the engine to work harder – especially when fully loaded – and thus, reduces fuel economy. Some roof boxes are designed with aero in mind, such as the Thule XT Alpine, and these are generally more ideal for skiing trips due to their longer profile.
How we choose
All of these roof boxes have been hand-selected by our team of experts who have spent hours investigating and researching roof boxes to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we’d never recommend a product we don’t believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about.
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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Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections – read why you should trust us.
Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.
