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Best Roof Rack Basket 2021

April 5, 2021 by Kelvin Black

roof rack basket

Road trips are awesome - there is no denying that. But that's if you are able to carry all your luggage. With people and pets in the car, space can be, and is usually, an issue. 

The easiest solution to fix that issue is by attaching a roof rack basket to your car. Rack baskets are an ingenious way to free up your interior space while giving you extra space to store all your gear safely at the rooftop of your vehicle. 

That said, when looking to buy one for your safari, there are a few things you should keep in mind. For example, the size. Because, ultimately, a roof basket is only as useful as the amount of extra space it can offer. Besides the size of the rack, other things you'll need to consider include the security the rack offers, as well as the impact on your car's aerodynamics. 

To help simplify your shopping, below we've reviewed the best roof rack baskets to help you choose the one that perfectly meets your needs. 

Material
Best Choice
Steel
Runner Up
Steel
Budget-Friendly
Steel
Brand
MAXXHAUL
Rhino Rack
CargoLoc
Item Weight
25 Pounds
35 Pounds
0.01 Pounds
Package Dimensions
46" x 36" x 4-1/2"
47 inch x 35 inch x 8 inch
9.8 x 34.5 x 17.5 inches
Capacity
150 lb
165lbs
150lbs
MaxxHaul 46" x 36" x 4-1/2" - 150 lb. Capacity - NOT Assembled...
Rhino Rack Roof Mount Cargo Basket, Regular
CargoLoc 32531 Rooftop Cargo Basket,Black
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Best Choice
Material
Steel
Brand
MAXXHAUL
Item Weight
25 Pounds
Package Dimensions
46" x 36" x 4-1/2"
Capacity
150 lb
MaxxHaul 46" x 36" x 4-1/2" - 150 lb. Capacity - NOT Assembled...
Buy on Amazon
Runner Up
Material
Steel
Brand
Rhino Rack
Item Weight
35 Pounds
Package Dimensions
47 inch x 35 inch x 8 inch
Capacity
165lbs
Rhino Rack Roof Mount Cargo Basket, Regular
Buy on Amazon
Budget-Friendly
Material
Steel
Brand
CargoLoc
Item Weight
0.01 Pounds
Package Dimensions
9.8 x 34.5 x 17.5 inches
Capacity
150lbs
CargoLoc 32531 Rooftop Cargo Basket,Black
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2021-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

10 Best Roof Rack Baskets For Your Car

Table of Contents
1. MAXXHAUL Roof Rack Basket - Best Value
2. Rola Roof Cargo Basket
3. Rhino Cargo Basket Roof Rack 
4. Tyga Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Basket
5. Reese Explore Roof Top Cargo Basket
6. Thule Canyon Roof Rack Basket Cargo Carrier - Premium Quality

7. CargoLoc Luggage Basket for Roof Racks - Budget-Friendly
8. CargoLoc 2-in-1 Safari Basket
9. All Goodly Universal Roof Baskets for SUV
10. Yakima Rooftop Cargo Basket
Key Takeaway

1. MAXXHAUL Roof Rack Basket - Best Value

Buy Now

Maxxhaul is one of the well-known manufacturer and distributor of towing and truck accessories. According to the company's homepage, they are specialised in truck accessories such as hitch balls, couplers, heavy duty towing, bicycle racks, trailer accessories, cargo carriers, and tow bars. 

It therefore comes as no suprise why their roof rack basket makes it to the top of our review list. It comes with a few unique features. Including, a universal mounting system, easy installation, and strong steel construction. The company also says that the frame is powder coated to resist rust. 

Features

Rust resistant finish to resist corrosion

It comes with rubber caps to help protect your cargo and the U-Bolts

The U-Bolts provide for simple installation and can attach to most cross bars

Provides instant cargo space for any vehicle that has cross bars

It's dimensions are 38.2 x 19 x10.6 inches, and is designed to haul up to 150 pounds. 

Pros

  • Designed to last thanks to a steel construction 
  • Easy to assemble and install
  • It is resistant to rust

Cons

  • There is no styrofoam in the packaging, just a bubble wrap to protect the finish

2. Rola Roof Cargo Basket

Buy Now

Rola says it is an industry leader when it comes to innovating car cargo accessories. It is Australia's premiere vehicle outfitter of cargo and rack management products for approximately thirty years now. 

It says it has designed this roof cargo basket to fit full size cars, vansm and sport utility vehicles that have existing roof bars. 

With a capacity of up to 130 pounds, it can help free up valuable cargo space by securing it at the rooftop, and allowing for a more relaxed, comfortable travel experience. 

Features

The construction is heavy duty steel. This means that it will last a very long time.

Mounting hardware is available, and features adjustable brackets to make sure it fits most cross bars. 

It is designed to be scratch resistant and the rough-coat finish will ensure protection against the elements. 

It's dimensions are 48 x 37.5 x 5 inches, and can carry up to 130 pounds. 

Pros

  • Bars are thick and durable
  • It won't interfere with the hatch door opening
  • High quality welds and coating
  • Quick, easy installation

Cons

  • The screws are moulded plastic

3. Rhino Cargo Basket Roof Rack 

Buy Now

Rhino-Rack is a pretty well known manufacturer of basket roof racks. In fact, according to the company, it has been doing so since 1992. And just like Rola, Rhio-Rack is an Australian company. 

If you are a sun-seeker and nature lover, the company says you'll find this safari rack an amazing accessory. 

So, what unique features does it bring to the table? It features sleek, stylish and rugged aesthetic, has high rails for added security, it is lightweight, it is powder coated to avoid rusting, and fits both Euro- and Vortex bars. 

Its dimensions are 32 x 9 x 43 inches, and can carry up to 165 pounds. 

Features

With a carrying capacity of up to 165 lbs, it has a high carrying capacity. 

The steel construction is heavy duty and of high quality. The durable black powder coating also helps shiled the frame against elements. 

Features an aerodynamic wind deflector release. 

Installation is easy. There are only two pieces.

It is suitable for all types of vehicles, whether vans, cars, or SUVS.

Pros

  • The product is sturdy and well built
  • Features a nice powder coat finish
  • An LED light bar (30 inches) can fit perfectly by removing the front plastic air panel

Cons

  • It can get a bit noisy on the roof when it is windy

4. Tyga Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Basket

Buy Now

This cargo basket also made it to our list of the best roof rack baskets for a reason. It is designed to fit most vehicles with roof top bars, its construction is heavy duty, and reduces drag while cutting down on noise. 

Features

The manufacturer believes so much in the quality of their product so much so that they offer it with a 3 years hass-free warranty. 

Assembly is easy, as only two pieces need construction. It also comes with mounting hardware.

The frame is thick and splid, and is rust-resitant thanks to e-coating. Also, the many tie-down locations on the frame help make securing gear with cargo nets easy. 

Its dimensions are 47.25 x 36.6 x 5.9 inches, and provides a storage capacity of up to 150 pounds. 

Pros

  • The basket is secured by tamper-resistant hex bolts as opposed to those little hand-knobs most roof baskets feature
  • There is flexibility in mounting options
  • Is rust-resistant thanks to the rubber gasket bands that slide over the joints to keep water out of the tubing 
  • It is aerodynamic to ensure minimal impact on a car's fuel economy

Cons

  • Must be removed before auto car wash
  • Can be a bit noisy, particularly when it is windy

5. Reese Explore Roof Top Cargo Basket

Buy Now

The Reese Explore roof top cargo basket is another option to consider when looking to embrace the outdoors without leaving any gear behind. The company says it is durable, rust- and scratch resistant, and the sleek, angled front wind shield ensures optimal aerodynamic coefficient. 

Features

Will fit most vehicle's cross bars, whether aero, square, round, or factory installed. 

It is designed to minimize as much drag as possible thanks to the sleek, angled front windshield.

The steel construction is strong, heavy-duty, and high quality. The frame is also both rust- and scratch resistant. 

Its dimensions are 44 x 35 x 4.25 inches, and is designed to carry luggage weighing up to 125 pounds. 

Pros

  • Easy assembly
  • The mounting hardware us sturdy and is easy to use
  • Made to last

Cons

  • The "weatherproofing" may not be effective against rain due to the rubber sleeves

6. Thule Canyon Roof Rack Basket Cargo Carrier - Premium Quality

Buy Now

Thule has been around for quite sometime now, and is without a doubt one of the most respected brands when it comes to transporting things safely, easily and in style. 

The Thule basket cargo carrier comes loaded with some unique features. Including, low drag coefficient, versatile mounting, and a stylish and functional low-profile design, with tapered side walls for easier loading and unloading. 

Features

Fits a broad range of vehicles, and comes with a versatile mounting hardware. 

Features a low drag coefficient thanks to wind fairing that comes included to help with better airflow over your cargo.

Loading and unloading is easy thanks to a wedge-shape low profile design that combines both style and function wuth tapered side walls. 

Its dimensions are 41 x 39 x 5 inches, and can carry a load of up to 150 pounds. 

Pros

  • Just like other Thule products, it is heavy duty and long lasting
  • Installation is easy
  • Sturdy and low profile

Cons

  • You may hear whistles. But you can quickly solve that by putting gasket sealer on the connecting parts.
  • Instructions could have been better

7. CargoLoc Luggage Basket for Roof Racks - Budget-Friendly

Buy Now

CargoLoc is also another car top basket that has been designed to ensure your enjoy your outdoor experience without thinking about the storage of your gear. 

Just like the previous options, this one comes laden with some unique features. Including, lightweight construction, durable steel frame, easy installation, and weather resistant. 

Features

It is easy to install and remove

It is lightweight. 

Its dimensions are 9.8 x 34.5 x 17.5 inches, and can haul loads of up to 150 pounds. 

Pros

  • You can request a warranty from the manufacturer by calling their customer service
  • It is a relatively economical option
  • Installation is easy

Cons

  • You get what you pay for

8. CargoLoc 2-in-1 Safari Basket

Buy Now

CargoLoc also provides a 2 in 1 dual mount. This means that you can mount this safari basket on either the roof or the hitch area of your car. Talk of being versatility! 

Some of the interesting features this product comes with include steel construction, easy installation, and limited lifetime warranty. 

Features

It features a super sturdy steel construction, there is no doubt you will be using it for years to come. 

A steel construction also means that it is rust-free.

Installation is easy thanks to an easy-to-follow manual. 

Its dimensions are 21.06 x 6.5 x 24.8 inches, and can haul up to 150 pounds for the rooftop basket carrier and an extra 350 pounds for the hitch carrier variation. 

Pros

  • Installation is easy. It can be done in less than half an hour.
  • Both variations are sturdy and high-quality

Cons

  • You may notice the hitch accessory wobbling a bit 

9. All Goodly Universal Roof Baskets for SUV

Buy Now

All Goodly says this universal roof basket is meant for the outdoor adventured lifestyle. It can help you anything you can think of, whether cargo bags, camping equipment, or just any other extra luggage. 

Some of the unique features it comes with include custom wind fairing, easy installation, heavy-duty and weather-resistant steel construction, and plenty of tie downs on the side rails and bottom metal bars. 

Features

Features custom wind fairing. This is meant to reduce drag and thereby minimize wind noise and vibration.

The installation is easy. All that is required to install it on a vehicle's cross bars are 4 universal U-bolts.

Its dimensions are 43 x 39 x 6.5 inches, and can load up to 250 pounds of cargo.

Pros

  • High load capacity 
  • Sturdy, stylish and easy to install

Cons

  • The smell can be a nuisance in the first couple of days 

10. Yakima Rooftop Cargo Basket

Buy Now

Yakima is one of the world's leading brand of car luggage accessories, including hitch racks, bike racks, and roof racks. 

This cargo basket ranks among out list of the best roof rack baskets for a reason. It is sleek and burly built, features an aerodynamic look, has a quick release mounting system, and is super simple to install. 

Additionally, it includes adjustable accessory bars to help make it easy for anyone looking to add boards, boats, and bikes on top. 

Features

Comes with universal mounting hardware that can work with RoundBar, CoreBar, JetStream and most factory crossbars. 

It is made from strong, durable steem that will ensure it lasts for many years to come. The integrated fairing will also help reduce drag and wind noise. 

Adjustable accessory bars are designed to pin in bulky items. 

Its dimensions are 51.8 x 31.5 x 7.5 inches, and carries a load of up to 150 pounds. 

Pros

  • The design is stylish
  • It is sturdy and the locking mechanism is easy to adjust
  • The installation is easy
  • It is quiet even at high highway speeds

Cons

  • When reaching on top of the roof, you may find te latches to be a bit difficult to work with

Benefits of Buying a Safari Roof Rack

Buying a safari roof rack provides a myriad of benefits to those seeking outdoor adventure. The following are some of the benefits. 

Ability to carry more cargo: All vehicles are limited when it comes to how much cargo they can carry. It is also not uncommon for even large trucks that have 8-foot beds to run out of cargo room. Having a cargo carrier helps expand your vehicle's space without the need to make any significant modifications to your vehicle. 

Ability to carry awkward-sized items: Common cargo hatches and trunks are ideal for carrying small-to-medium items or the ocasssional grocery shopping. When it comes to carrying things like bikes, skis, kayaks, or other similarly sized items, carrying them can present a challenge or even become impossible. On the other hand, with a rooftop cargo basket, such challenges are eliminated. 

What to consider when choosing a good car safari roof rack

Regardless of the car you drive, whether a jeep tj, a ford excursion, a jeep wrangler, mini cooper, ford focus, honda crv, a jeep cherokee, santa fe, or a 4runner, there are a few considerations you have to make when choosing a roof rack for your safari. 

You have to consider:

Rust Resistance: This is an important consideration as it impacts on the durability of the cargo basket. All cargo baskets are made of metal, and as you probably know, metals rust. Therefore, look for a basket that is rust-resistance; or alternatively, make sure to apply a rust-resistant coat yourself if you notice the one you've bought is beginning to rust. 

Dimensions: Not all cargo baskets are created the same. Each varies depending on what type of vehicle it is created for. What you choose should therefore be dependent upon the type of car you drive, as well as the kind of luggage you wish to be carrying it with. 

Mounting Style: Generally, there are three mounting styles: front, rear, and rooftop attachment. The choise is up to you. But, ideally, choose one that will perfectly match both your needs and driving requirements. 

Capacity: Cargo baskets vary greatly in how much cargo they can haul. But generally speaking, expect most baskets to haul about 300 pounds of weight. Heavy duty ones are also capable of hauling up to 600 pounds. 

That said, rooftop baskets are ideally intended to carry bulky yet lightweight items. If you are looking to haul relatively heavy items, then consider hitch rack carrier instead. 

Aerodynamics: Anything you add on the exterior of your car will certainly have an impact on your car's overall aerodynamics, reducing the fuel economy values you get. That's why it is important to choose a cargo basket that has been designed with aerodynamics in mind. 

Aerodynamically-designed baskets will usually have pointed noses and sleek curves to help in slicing through the air. 

Key Takeaway

 For its stylish design, versatility, durability, and rave customer reviews on Amazon, the Maxxhaul roof rack basket earns our top spot. With the features it provides, it is hard to beat what this rooftop carrier offers. 

If you are tight on the budget, then please consider CargoLoc basket rack. The simple design will still offer you lots of storage and convenience to make those overland adventures memorable. 

MaxxHaul 46" x 36" x 4-1/2" - 150 lb. Capacity - NOT Assembled...
Instant cargo space for vehicle with cross bars; Easy to assemble and install (assembly and mounting hardware are included)
$105.19
Sale
ROLA 59504 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket
Assembled Dimensions - 48 x 37.5 x 5 inches; Includes easy to fit custom air deflector; Long lasting durability. Heavy-duty steel construction
$269.99 $185.98
Rhino Rack Roof Mount Cargo Basket, Regular
Easy assembly with 2 piece construction;; External dimensions of 1, 200mm (47 inch) x 900mm (35 inch) x 200mm (8 inch)
$275.40
Tyger Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack | L47.25 x W36.6...
Frame Dimension: L47.25" x W36.6" x H5.9"
$199.00
Reese 1391300 Explore Rooftop Cargo Basket, Easy Assembly 125 Lb....
DIMENSIONS: 18.4 x 37.9 x 9.2 inch
$107.59
Thule 859XT Canyon XT Basket, Black, One Size
$349.95
CargoLoc 32531 Rooftop Cargo Basket,Black
Light weight; Easy to install and remove; Holds up to 15 Cubit Feet of cargo; 150lbs Load Capacity
$105.42
CargoLoc 2-in-1 Hitch Mount and Roof Top Cargo Carrier, 48 x 19.5
Durable; Steel Construction; Limited Lifetime
$86.99
KCHEX 64" Universal Black Roof Rack Cargo Carrier w/with...
Large, multi-sport basket for roof rack; Sturdy, weather-resistant, heavy-duty steel construction, black coating
$155.76
YAKIMA - OffGrid Roof Cargo Basket, Large
Burly cargo basket with a clean, modern design

Last update on 2021-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Other Options Worth Considering

Tyger Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack | L47.25 x W36.6...
597 Reviews
Tyger Heavy Duty Roof Mounted Cargo Basket Rack | L47.25 x W36.6...
  • Frame Dimension: L47.25" x W36.6" x H5.9"
  • Stylish design makes your vehicle stand out on the road! Mounts to any existing vehicle roof rail cross bars to provide extra storage capacity up to 150 lbs.
  • Heavy duty 1 inch steel frame tube with black E-Coating for rust resistance and provides many tie-down point locations, great for securing gear with cargo nets.
  • Easy two-piece assembly. All mounting hardware included.(Your vehicle must have roof rails and cross bars installed to mount this basket).
  • TYGER 3 years no-hassle quality warranty against factory defect. Must be removed before auto car-wash.
$199.00
Buy on Amazon
Reese Explore 1040900 Steel Rooftop Basket
6 Reviews
Reese Explore 1040900 Steel Rooftop Basket
  • Quality durable Steel Construction with a rust resistant finish
  • Sleek aerodynamic design with angles wind shield resists drag
  • Adjustable brackets fits most Factory and aftermarket Cross bar styles
  • Measures 44 inches x 33 inches x 4.25 inches and has a load capacity up to 125 pounds
  • Easy to assemble
$142.89
Buy on Amazon
XCAR 64'x23'x6' Roof Rack Rooftop Cargo Basket + Kayak Rack...
54 Reviews
XCAR 64"x23"x6" Roof Rack Rooftop Cargo Basket + Kayak Rack...
Buy on Amazon
Sale
FieryRed Folding Cargo Carrier Luggage Basket - 500 lbs. Capacity...
221 Reviews
FieryRed Folding Cargo Carrier Luggage Basket - 500 lbs. Capacity...
  • ✓CARGO CARRIER HITCH MOUNT BASKET KIT - Includes a cargo net and bonus hitch stabilizer to ensure that any type of cargo is loaded in your vehicle's cargo basket, Let you feel free to throw all extra camping gear in the basket.
  • ✓DURABLE - Heavy-duty tubular construction and durable blank powder coat keep carrier intact always, Strong Square tube construction , Single Piece fully welded basket,Has the capacity to hold up to a hefty 500 Lbs of cargo such as luggage carrier or camping gear and any construction material.
  • ✓EASY TO INSTALL - Package includes all mounting hardware and customized tie-down points for users’ convenience, Universal design fits all 2" hitch receiver.
  • ✓FOLDING SHANK - With the foldable design, the shank can be adjusted. When the carrier is empty and not in use, it can be folded up to a vertical position to save space.
  • ✓LARGE STORAGE SPACE - Size of this cargo carrier is 57.5" x 21" x 7.1", Perfect rack size to haul more items, and to free up extra vehicle interior space in your traveling. Foldable design, easy to install in the rear of your car, camper car, suv, rv, truck or van.
$132.99 $107.58
Buy on Amazon
labwork 64 inch Universal Roof Rack w/Extension Cargo SUV Top...
17 Reviews
labwork 64 inch Universal Roof Rack w/Extension Cargo SUV Top...
  • The roof rack you can store hauling extra luggage, camping equipment, cargo bags and more.
  • Built for the outdoor adventurers lifestyle. Easy to install with 4 universal U-bolts.
  • The bottom metal bars and side rails provide plenty of tie down points.
  • A steel wind fairing is also included.
  • Carry big loads and mount accessories directly to the crossbars or straight bars of this roof rack cargo basket.
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2021-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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MaxxHaul 46' x 36' x 4-1/2' - 150 lb. Capacity - NOT Assembled...
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$105.19
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2021-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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