10 Best Hard Shell Car Top Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier offers 21 cubic feet of storage, providing ample space for various items like luggage, tents, and sleeping bags. Its dimensions are 52 inches long, 40 inches wide, and 18 inches high, which should fit well on most vehicles. Made from heavy-duty 840D PVC fabric, it boasts durability and resistance to rough weather conditions. The triple-reinforced welded seams and waterproof features, including a zipper wrapped in velcro flaps, ensure that your cargo remains dry even in heavy rain.

Weighing 4.24 kilograms, it is relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle during installation and removal. The mounting system is versatile, as it can be secured on cars with or without roof racks using 8 adjustable straps, door hooks, and robust buckles. An anti-slip mat further ensures stability during travel. Security is addressed with additional straps and a luggage lock, giving peace of mind to users.

Being a soft-shell carrier, it may not be as aerodynamic as hard-shell options, potentially impacting fuel efficiency. Additionally, while the easy installation process is a plus, some users might find the numerous straps and hooks initially confusing. Despite a few minor drawbacks, this carrier’s large capacity, waterproof features, and secure mounting system make it a solid choice for anyone needing extra storage space on their vehicle.

The Thule 614 Pulse Rack is a hard-shell car top carrier that offers 14 cubic feet of additional storage space, making it ideal for family road trips or outdoor adventures. Its rugged design, made from durable plastic, ensures that your belongings stay protected from the elements. The dimensions (67 x 35 x 16 inches) provide ample room and it can hold up to 110 lbs of gear, including up to 5 snowboards with a maximum length of 155 cm.

The carrier weighs 34 lbs, which is relatively light for its category, making it easier to handle during installation and removal. The FastGrip quick-mount system is a standout feature, allowing for fast and secure mounting in minutes. Additionally, the passenger-side opening simplifies loading and unloading, especially in tight spaces. The central locking system enhances security, and the Thule Comfort Key ensures that the box is properly secured by only allowing the key to be removed when all locking points are fastened.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The aerodynamic design could be more refined, as the box's height off the crossbar (16 inches) may impact vehicle fuel efficiency. Also, while the box is water-resistant, it may not be completely waterproof in heavy rain conditions. Despite these minor issues, the Thule 614 Pulse Rack remains a reliable option for those needing extra cargo space on their vehicles.

The JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier boasts a substantial 18 cubic feet of storage capacity, making it a great choice for those needing to transport a good amount of gear, such as three to five golf bags. With dimensions of 57x38.5x17.75 inches, it offers ample space while maintaining a manageable weight of 35 pounds.

The material used is high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, known for its durability and weather resistance, crucial for protecting your belongings against the elements. The aerodynamic design also helps in reducing wind resistance, potentially improving fuel efficiency on long trips. The carrier's mounting system is user-friendly, requiring no tools for assembly and installation, and it includes all necessary hardware along with easy-to-follow instructions.

Security is robust with a four-corner locking system and a front latch, ensuring your items are safe. Additionally, the weather-tight seal offers excellent protection against rain and snow. Accessing the carrier is convenient as it opens from both sides of the car, facilitating hassle-free loading and unloading. The carrier is made in the USA and comes with a limited lifetime guarantee, underscoring its quality and durability. This carrier suits those who frequently need to transport bulky items while maintaining security and ease of access.