Top Car Roof Boxes and Carriers in the UK
Top Car Roof Boxes and Carriers in the UK
Blog Article
Whether you’re heading to the Scottish Highlands for a camping trip, taking the family to Cornwall, or just need extra space for a weekend away, car roof boxes and carriers are the ideal solution for increasing your vehicle’s storage capacity. With narrow roads, unpredictable weather, and long motorway drives, UK drivers need durable, aerodynamic, and weatherproof options that make travel safer and more efficient.
This ultimate guide reviews the Top Car Roof Boxes and Carriers in the UK, plus tips from an expert on buying, and helpful guidance on fitting and use.
Why Choose a Roof Box or copyright?
Roof carriers and roof boxes are attached to the roof bars of your vehicle and provide additional space to carry extra luggage, sports equipment, camping gear, or whatever is too bulky for the boot. They are perfect for:
Family breaks or long journeys
Outdoor activities (skiing, kayaking, walking)
Carrying buggies or golf bags
De-cluttering the vehicle interior
In the UK, where the cars tend to be smaller than US or European counterparts, roof boxes provide a sensible means of transporting luggage without loss of cabin comfort or safety.
Types of Car Roof Storage Solutions
Having established the need for such a product, it's worth recognizing the principal types before making a selection:
1. Hard Shell Roof Boxes
These are hard plastic cases providing maximum security from weather and theft. Most of them are constructed from ABS or polycarbonate.
Best for: All-weather protection, long-haul travel, and precious items
2. Soft Roof Bags
These collapsible, waterproof bags are lighter in weight and easier to store but provide less security than hard shells.
Best for: Periodic usage, city drivers, or compact vehicles
3. Roof Baskets
Open metal frames which are able to accommodate oddly shaped objects and which can be enclosed in a waterproof tarpaulin.
Best suited for: Camping equipment, sporting gear, or tools
Top Roof Boxes and Carriers for UK Drivers
1. Thule Motion XT XL (610L)
Type: Hard shell
Price Range: £550–£700
A very popular top-of-the-range roof box in the UK, Thule's Motion XT provides a huge 610-litre capacity. It's perfect for families and extended road trips.
Features:
Dual-sided opening
Secure SlideLock system
Aerodynamic shape for low drag
Fits most roof bars
Advantages:
✔ Great build quality
✔ Easy to open and close
✔ Quiet on motorways
Disadvantages:
✘ Expensive
✘ Could be too big for small cars
2. Halfords Advanced 470L Roof Box
Type: Hard shell
Price Range: £300–£400
Halfords' roof box is a good mid-range choice, combining affordability with strength, with 470 litres of capacity and tool-free fitting.
Features:
Opens from both sides
Central locking
50kg weight limit
Advantages:
✔ Good value
✔ Lightweight but strong
✔ Suitable for most UK vehicles
Cons:
✘ Less refined construction than Thule
✘ Not as aerodynamic
3. Green Valley Sherpack 400L Soft Roof Bag
Type: Soft bag
Price Range: £90–£130
Perfect for small cars or occasional use, the Sherpack has 400 litres of space and is completely collapsible when not in use.
Features:
Waterproof tarpaulin construction
Suitable for most roof bars or rails
Foldable for easy storage
Pros:
✔ Inexpensive
✔ Easy to store
✔ Fast to fit
Cons:
✘ Less secure
✘ Not the best for expensive gear
4. Thule Canyon XT Roof Basket
Type: Roof basket
Price Range: £350–£450
For the more off-road adventure, this open-type copyright allows you to load duffel bags, tents, or odd shapes. Ideal for off-roaders and UK campers.
Features:
Low-profile design
Wind fairing for improved aerodynamics
Multiple tie-down points
Advantages:
✔ Robust and adaptable
✔ Can be made custom with accessories
✔ Good for odd-shaped equipment
Disadvantages:
✘ Tarpaulin or netting required
✘ Vulnerable to the elements
Key Buying Considerations
1. Size and Capacity
Roof boxes are sized in litres. Typical capacities are 300L to 600L. Choose your selection to:
Number of travellers
Car size (e.g. don't fit an XL box on a Fiat 500)
Storage requirements (long items such as skis vs bulk bags)
2. Weight Restrictions
Most vehicles have a roof load capacity (typically 50–100kg, plus roof bars and box weight). Always refer to your car handbook.
3. Mounting System
Most roof boxes are compatible with standard roof bars (square, aero, or T-track). Quick-mount systems such as Thule's PowerClick are time and hassle-saving.
4. Ease of Access
Dual-side opening boxes are more convenient, particularly in congested UK car parks.
5. Security Features
Models with central locking, robust keys, and anti-theft design are desirable—particularly for city parking.
6. Storage at Home
Hard boxes can be bulky when not in use. If space is tight, consider a foldable soft bag or wall-mounted storage solution for the garage.
Roof Box Installation Tips (UK Specific)
Always check height clearance in UK multi-storey car parks (especially if you’ve added a tall box to a high SUV).
Fit the box centrally to maintain vehicle balance.
Use ratchet straps inside the box to stop gear from shifting.
Avoid overload—it affects fuel efficiency and might be against the law.
Inspection of mounts and tightness on long road trips.
Safe Driving with a Roof Box in the UK: Tips
Reduced speed: Obey low speeds, particularly in windy or rainy conditions.
Fuel economy: Plan 5–15% more consumption with a packed box.
Noise: Use aerodynamic boxes to reduce motorway wind noise.
Insurance: Tell your insurer, particularly for costly or permanent additions.
Windscreen view: Ensure the box does not cover sunroofs or antennas.
Final Thoughts
A good roof box or copyright can revolutionize your car, enabling you to carry more, go further, and have a great time on UK road trips without compromising cabin space. You're a lone adventurer, a family of five, or a weekend cyclist; there's a roof storage solution that suits your needs and budget.
From top-of-the-range Thule to small and affordable roof bags, drivers in the UK are spoiled for choice. Just be sure to size the box to your car's capacity and your lifestyle, and always use safety guidelines for fitting and driving with roof-mounted equipment.