The 10 Best Rooftop Bags for Your Travel Needs of 2025

An overview of the top 5 products for which we spent the most time investigating is provided below, along with a list of their advantages and disadvantages.

1. Best Overall: Keeper - Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag

2. Best Budget: Reese Explore 1041000 10 cu. ft. Car Top Carrier, Black

3. Best Material: Amazon Basics Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag

4. Best Compatibility: Thule Outbound Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag

5. Best Design: MaxxHaul 70209 Cargo Carrier Bag

1. Keeper - Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag

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Product Summary

This is a popular choice thanks to its high-quality construction and spacious design. It's made from durable materials that are resistant to water, UV rays, and general wear and tear. The bag is easy to install and remove, and its aerodynamic shape minimizes wind noise and drag.

Specification

• Protect Your Cargo: Keeper Roof Top Cargo Bag features 15 cubic ft. to protect and secure cargo loads from road grit, sun, wind and rain.
• Measurements: This cargo bag measures approximately 44 in. x 34 in. x 17 in. with rubber-laminated nylon material. more

Reasons to buy

• Provides extra storage space for your vehicle, which can be especially useful for road trips or camping trips.
• Allows you to bring larger items that may not fit inside your vehicle.
• Can be used in conjunction with a roof rack to securely and easily transport your items.

Reasons to avoid

• If a rooftop bag is not installed properly, it can shift during transport and cause damage to your vehicle or other motorists on the road.

2. Reese Explore 1041000 10 cu. ft. Car Top Carrier, Black

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Product Summary

This is a premium option for those who need a lot of storage space. It features a sleek design and a durable construction that can withstand even the toughest weather conditions. It is also easy to install and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Specification

• Designed to keep your cargo clean
• Protection from sun and wind more

Reasons to buy

• Rooftop bag is designed to be waterproof or water-resistant, which can protect your belongings from the elements.
• Can be easily removed and stored when not in use.
• Lightweight and easy to transport, making them a convenient option for travel.

Reasons to avoid

• Overloading a rooftop bag beyond the recommended weight limit can put extra strain on your vehicle and potentially cause damage to the roof or suspension.

3. Amazon Basics Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag

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Product Summary

This rooftop bag is a great budget-friendly option that doesn't sacrifice quality. It's made from heavy-duty materials that are resistant to water and UV rays, and it comes with a protective mat to prevent scratches. It is easy to install and can fit on almost any type of roof rack.

Specification

• Rooftop cargo carrier bag with 15-cubic-foot storage capacity
• 8 inch straps with buckles for easy connection to a vehicle’s roof rack more

Reasons to buy

• Can be a good option for those who do not have space to store a trailer or other larger storage solutions.
• Can be a good alternative to a traditional roof box for those who do not need to carry as much cargo.
• Rooftop bag is made with durable materials that can withstand wear and tear over time.

Reasons to avoid

• May not be compatible with certain roof racks or vehicles, which can limit your options.

4. Thule Outbound Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag

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Product Summary

This is a spacious option that can fit a lot of gear. It features a sleek design that minimizes wind resistance, and its durable construction can withstand harsh weather conditions. It is also easy to install and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Specification

• Weather-resistant rooftop cargo bag help keep your cargo dry longer
• Provides 13 cu ft of storage space more

Reasons to buy

• Can help to reduce clutter inside your vehicle, creating a more comfortable travel experience.
• Can be used on a variety of vehicles with roof racks, including cars, SUVs, and vans.
• Rooftop bag is designed with aerodynamics in mind, which can help to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency.

Reasons to avoid

• Depending on the size of the rooftop bag, it may obstruct your view of the road or create additional wind noise.

5. MaxxHaul 70209 Cargo Carrier Bag

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Product Summary

This is a versatile option that can fit on almost any type of vehicle. It's made from durable materials that are resistant to water and UV rays, and it comes with a protective mat to prevent scratches. It is easy to install and has a compact design that makes it easy to store when not in use.

Specification

• Constructed from PVC material with polyester reinforcement and UV coating
• Features welded seams and heavy duty zipper that is placed around the 3 side of the bag more

Reasons to buy

• Can be used to carry a variety of items, including sports equipment, camping gear, luggage, and more.
• Can be a good option for those who want to avoid the hassle and expense of shipping items or renting a larger vehicle.
• Can help to protect your items from theft or damage, as they are stored securely on the roof of your vehicle.

Reasons to avoid

• Rooftop bag may not be suitable for carrying extremely heavy or bulky items, which may require a more heavy-duty storage solution.

Size: 

Think about the rooftop bag's dimensions in relation to your car and the quantity of equipment you need to transfer. Some rooftop bags can be fairly big, therefore they could not work with smaller cars.

Weight capacity: 

Verify the rooftop bag's weight capacity to be sure it can support the weight of your equipment. The rooftop bag shouldn't be overloaded because it might be harmful and damage your car.

Material: 

To keep your equipment safe from the outdoors, look for rooftop bags constructed of sturdy, weather-resistant fabrics.

Waterproofing: 

In order to keep your equipment dry and safe during rainy weather, make sure the rooftop bag is waterproof.

Attachment system:

Make sure the rooftop bag's attachment method is appropriate for the roof rack on your car. Certain rooftop bags need a certain roof rack or mounting method.

Ease of use:

Choose a rooftop bag that is simple to put on and take off. Some models could need two persons to install them, whereas one person can install others.

1. Can a rooftop bag be used without a roof rack?

   Most rooftop bags require a roof rack to be properly secured, but some models can be attached directly to a car's roof using straps.

2. Are rooftop bags waterproof?

   Most rooftop bags are designed to be water-resistant or waterproof, but the degree of protection can vary depending on the materials used.

For transporting extra items on road trips or outdoor excursions, a rooftop bag might be a convenient and useful option. Think about things like size, material quality, and simplicity of installation when selecting a rooftop bag. Before driving, it's critical to confirm that the rooftop bag is suitable with the roof rack of your car and is tied securely. Furthermore, by cleaning it frequently and keeping it correctly, you can ensure that your rooftop bag lasts for a lot of future excursions. In conclusion, a carefully picked rooftop bag may offer useful additional storage space for your travels.

See other reviews here: Best Roof Bars For Car