How many fit
19 of the 26 models checked meet every need here: “You want tool-free mounting”.
19 models fit, out of 26 checkedPicked for one job
The best roof box for occasional road trips
Top pick
Thule Pulse 2 M
For occasional use, Thule Pulse 2 M is the easiest balance, since it weighs 31 pounds and comes with tool-free PowerClick clamps.
Why it suits this job
- Capacity is 14 cubic feet.
- Gear up to 155 centimeters long fits.
- The catch
- Ordinary adult skis longer than 155 cm will not fit.
- Go with SportRack Vista XL if
- what decides it for you is mounting it without tools
More reasons we picked it
- Dualside access is how it opens.
- Published exterior dimensions are 68.9 x 32.1 x 16.6 inches.
We may earn a commission from qualifying Amazon purchases. How we make money
Thule Pulse 2 M strikes the easiest balance for occasional use, with a weight of 31 pounds and tool-free PowerClick clamps.
By the numbers
What the data shows
What we found across the roof cargo boxes we compare, plus the checked facts behind each finding.
Worth knowing
Thule Pulse 2 M lists 14 cu ft for listed cargo volume, 13% below the 16 cu ft median.
- Thule Pulse 2 M
- 14 cu ft
- Typical (median)
- 16 cu ft
- Models with this figure
- 20 of 26
Show the facts and the math
How we countedThe count uses each product's current fit ratings for “You want tool-free mounting”. A need with no documented match is not counted.
How we calculatedFigures are the published exterior-category volume. Shape, mounting hardware and long gear can leave less room to pack. The median draws on the 20 of 26 models that publish comparable figures.
| Product | Needs it meets | Facts we checked | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thule Pulse 2 M |
|
| |
| SportRack Vista XL |
|
| |
| JEGS 18 Cubic Foot Rooftop Cargo Carrier |
|
|
|
Decision guide
How to choose for this job
For occasional use, Thule Pulse 2 M is the easiest balance, since it weighs 31 pounds and comes with tool-free PowerClick clamps.
What settles the choice
It holds 14 cubic feet. Ordinary adult-length skis longer than 155 cm will not fit.
What puts Thule Pulse 2 M ahead
You get 14 cubic feet, and gear up to 155 centimeters long fits inside.
When another box is the better fit
SportRack Vista XL is the one to choose if mounting it without tools is the deciding need. JEGS 18 Cubic Foot Rooftop Cargo Carrier is likewise the choice when mounting it without tools decides it.
What this page can’t tell you
- Vehicle compatibility cannot be certified by this screen.
- A published volume figure cannot promise that a given suitcase layout will fit.
- Roof limits depend on the vehicle configuration.
3 options
The top pick and the alternatives
Thule, Pulse 2 M
Thule Pulse 2 M
This box offers 14 cubic feet, and gear can be up to 155 centimeters long.
Top pick iffit a shorter roof and leave the rear hatch free
Key facts
- Capacity is 14 cubic feet.
- Gear up to 155 centimeters long fits.
The catch
Ordinary adult skis longer than 155 cm will not fit.
SportRack, Vista XL SR7018
SportRack Vista XL
It has 18 cubic feet of space and opens at the rear.
Pick this instead ifwhat decides it for you is mounting it without tools
Key facts
- Capacity is 18 cubic feet.
- The box uses rear opening access.
The catch
The rear opening can be awkward on a tall SUV, and you cannot load from both sides.
JEGS, 555-90098
JEGS 18 Cubic Foot Rooftop Cargo Carrier
The documented crossbar spread is 24 to 35 inches, and the box has 18 cubic feet of space.
Pick this instead ifyour deciding need is mounting it without tools
Key facts
- Capacity is 18 cubic feet.
- The documented crossbar spread runs from 24 to 35 inches.
The catch
Its wide, short shape suits luggage and camping gear, and skis are out.
Ready to buy
See today’s price and what owners say
Top pick for this job
Thule Pulse 2 M
Capacity is 14 cubic feet.
See price & reviews on AmazonPick this instead if
SportRack Vista XL
what decides it for you is mounting it without tools
See price & reviews on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying Amazon purchases. How we make money