Planning a road trip or outdoor adventure? Feeling cramped inside your vehicle with all your gear? You’re not alone. Studies show that a lack of storage space is a major source of travel stress for families and adventurers alike. A roof box, also known as a cargo carrier or roof top box, can be the perfect solution. But with so many sizes available, how do you choose the right one? This guide will provide you with the expert knowledge you need to make an informed decision and maximize your vehicle’s cargo-carrying capabilities.
Understanding Roof Boxes
What is a Roof Box and How Does it Work?
A roof box is a hard-shelled container designed to attach securely to the roof of a vehicle, providing additional storage space. They are typically made from durable plastics like ABS, Polycarbonate, or a blend of both, offering protection from the elements and securing your belongings during travel. They work by attaching to existing roof racks or crossbars on your vehicle. Items are loaded inside, and the box is securely locked, protecting your possessions from theft, rain, snow, and wind.
Benefits and Key Features of Roof Boxes
Roof boxes offer a multitude of benefits for travelers:
- Increased Storage Capacity: The most obvious benefit! Provides significant extra space for luggage, camping gear, skis, snowboards, and more.
- Protection from the Elements: Keeps your belongings dry, clean, and protected from rain, snow, sun, and wind.
- Security: Most roof boxes feature locking mechanisms to deter theft and provide peace of mind.
- Aerodynamic Design: Modern roof boxes are designed to minimize wind resistance and reduce noise, though some impact on fuel economy is unavoidable.
- Versatility: Suitable for various vehicle types and activities, from family vacations to ski trips to camping adventures.
- Organization: Keeps items organized and prevents them from cluttering the inside of the vehicle.
Key features to consider include:
- Size and Capacity: Measured in cubic feet or liters, determining how much gear it can hold.
- Opening Mechanism: Dual-side opening offers easier access from either side of the vehicle.
- Mounting System: Quick-release or tool-free mounting systems simplify installation and removal.
- Material: The type of plastic used affects durability, weight, and UV resistance.
- Locking System: Security level and ease of use.
- Aerodynamic Profile: Impact on wind noise and fuel efficiency.
- Durability: Resistance to impacts, scratches, and weather conditions.
Installation Tips
Installing a roof box generally involves these steps:
1. Ensure Compatibility: Confirm that the roof box is compatible with your vehicle’s roof rack system. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines and weight limits. 2. Position the Box: Carefully lift the roof box onto the roof rack, centering it between the crossbars. 3. Attach the Mounting Hardware: Secure the roof box to the crossbars using the provided clamps, brackets, or mounting hardware. 4. Tighten the Fasteners: Ensure all fasteners are securely tightened according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Overtightening can damage the box or rack. 5. Test the Installation: Before driving, double-check that the roof box is securely attached and doesn’t wobble or move. 6. Weight Distribution: Distribute the weight evenly inside the box to maintain vehicle stability.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your roof box:
- Regular Cleaning: Wash the roof box with mild soap and water to remove dirt, grime, and road salt.
- UV Protection: Apply a UV protectant spray to prevent fading and cracking of the plastic.
- Storage: Store the roof box in a dry, protected area when not in use. A garage or shed is ideal.
- Inspect Regularly: Check for cracks, damage, or loose fasteners before each use.
- Lubricate Locks: Lubricate the locking mechanism periodically to ensure smooth operation.
- Avoid Overloading: Never exceed the weight limit specified by the manufacturer.
Top Buying Factors for Roof Box Size
Choosing the right size roof box is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider:
Vehicle Size and Roof Length
The size of your vehicle is the most important factor. A large SUV can handle a larger roof box than a compact car. Consider the following:
- Roof Length: Measure the length of your vehicle’s roof to ensure the roof box doesn’t overhang the windshield or rear hatch. Overhang can obstruct visibility and interfere with the hatch opening.
- Vehicle Type: Smaller vehicles (sedans, hatchbacks) generally require shorter, narrower roof boxes. Larger vehicles (SUVs, vans) can accommodate longer, wider models.
- Aesthetics: Consider how the roof box will look on your vehicle. A disproportionately large box can look awkward.
Storage Needs and Cargo Type
Think about what you plan to carry in the roof box.
- Family Vacations: Large families will need a larger roof box (16-22 cubic feet or more) to accommodate luggage, strollers, and other travel essentials.
- Skiing/Snowboarding: Choose a longer, narrower roof box specifically designed to hold skis and snowboards. Consider the length of your skis to ensure they fit comfortably.
- Camping Gear: Calculate the volume of your tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and other camping equipment to determine the required capacity.
- Occasional Use: If you only need extra storage space occasionally, a smaller roof box (10-14 cubic feet) may suffice.
- Cargo Dimensions: Pay attention to the internal dimensions of the box, not just the volume. Some boxes might have an odd shape that isn’t efficient for packing.
Weight Capacity
Every roof box has a maximum weight capacity, as does your vehicle’s roof rack system. Never exceed these limits. Overloading can damage the roof box, roof rack, or even the vehicle’s roof, and can create a dangerous driving situation.
- Check Vehicle Manual: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the maximum roof load capacity.
- Roof Rack Capacity: Verify the weight capacity of your roof rack system. It’s usually printed on the rack itself or in the manufacturer’s documentation.
- Roof Box Capacity: The roof box’s weight capacity should be clearly stated by the manufacturer.
- Factor in Box Weight: Remember to subtract the weight of the empty roof box from the total weight capacity to determine how much cargo you can safely carry.
Aerodynamics and Fuel Efficiency
While all roof boxes will have *some* impact on fuel efficiency, aerodynamic designs can minimize the effect.
- Low-Profile Designs: Choose a low-profile roof box to reduce wind resistance.
- Shape and Contours: Look for a box with smooth, streamlined contours.
- Positioning: Mount the roof box as far back on the roof as possible, without interfering with the rear hatch. This helps reduce wind resistance.
- Driving Habits: Reduce your speed when driving with a roof box to minimize fuel consumption.
- Expect a Reduction: Expect a reduction in fuel economy of 1-5 MPG when using a roof box. This is unavoidable, but smart choices can mitigate the impact.
Budget
Roof boxes range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand.
- Entry-Level Options: Basic roof boxes offer good value for occasional use.
- Mid-Range Options: Offer a balance of features, durability, and price.
- High-End Options: Feature premium materials, advanced features, and superior aerodynamics.
- Consider Long-Term Value: Investing in a high-quality roof box can save money in the long run by lasting longer and providing better performance.
- Read Reviews: Research different brands and models to find the best value for your needs.
Essential FAQs about Roof Box Size
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify your decision:
1. Q: How do I measure my skis to ensure they fit in a roof box?
- A: Measure the length of your longest skis from tip to tail. Look for a roof box with an internal length that is equal to or greater than your ski length. It’s always better to have a little extra room.
2. Q: Can I use a roof box on any car?
- A: Most cars with a factory-installed or aftermarket roof rack system can accommodate a roof box. However, it’s essential to check the vehicle’s roof load capacity and the compatibility of the roof box mounting system with your specific roof rack.
3. Q: Will a roof box damage my car’s roof?
- A: If properly installed and maintained, a roof box should not damage your car’s roof. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, avoid overloading the box, and regularly inspect the mounting hardware.
4. Q: What is the difference between a roof box and a roof bag?
- A: A roof box is a rigid, hard-shelled container, while a roof bag is a soft-sided, flexible bag. Roof boxes offer better protection from the elements and greater security, while roof bags are generally more affordable and easier to store.
5. Q: Can I leave my roof box on my car all the time?
- A: While you *can* leave your roof box on your car all the time, it’s not recommended. It will increase wind resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. It is best to remove and store the box when not in use.
Conclusion
Choosing the right roof box size is a balance of factors, including vehicle size, storage needs, weight capacity, aerodynamics, and budget. By carefully considering these elements and following the tips in this guide, you can select a roof box that perfectly meets your needs and enhances your travel experiences. Happy travels!