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10 Best Soft Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier - 21 Cubic Feet, 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicles with/Without Racks - Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bag, 2 Extra Straps

The Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag by Asinking is a solid choice for those needing extra storage space on road trips or camping adventures. With a generous 21 cubic feet capacity, it can hold a significant amount of luggage, blankets, tents, and more. The 840D PVC material makes it highly durable and resistant to abrasions, ensuring it can withstand rough handling and harsh weather conditions. Its triple-reinforced welded seams further enhance its durability, making it a long-lasting option.

The bag's waterproof features are impressive, with waterproof zippers and wide velcro flaps that help prevent leaks during heavy rain. This makes it highly reliable for protecting your items from the elements. The ease of installation is another plus, as it comes with an anti-slip mat, adjustable straps, door hooks, and robust buckles, allowing for a secure fit on vehicles with or without roof racks.

It is essential to note that being a soft-shell carrier, it may not be as aerodynamic as hard-shell options, potentially affecting fuel efficiency. Security-wise, it includes a luggage lock, which provides some peace of mind, though it may not be as secure as hard-shell carriers with built-in locks. Weighing 9.33 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, making it easy to handle and store when not in use. This rooftop cargo carrier excels in capacity, durability, waterproofing, and ease of use, making it an excellent option for travelers, though it may fall short slightly in aerodynamics and security compared to hard-shell alternatives.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
This Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag is a game-changer for extra cargo space, staying in place the entire trip with no shifting or leaks, even in the rain.
Material
The high-quality, water-resistant material ensures your belongings stay dry, even in heavy rain and snow conditions.
Mounting System
Installation is fairly easy, and it ties down well, providing a secure fit on various vehicles.
Aerodynamics
Gas mileage may take a 10-20% hit, but the spacious storage and overall performance make it worth it.
Weather Resistance
The high-quality, water-resistant material ensures your belongings stay dry, even in heavy rain and snow conditions.
#2

MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop top Cargo Carrier Bag Waterproof 15 Cubic feet for All Cars with/Without Rack, Includes Anti-Slip Mat, 8 Reinforced Straps, 6 Door Hooks, Luggage Lock

The MeeFar XBEEK Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag is a solid choice for anyone needing extra storage space for road trips or transporting gear. With a generous capacity of 15 cubic feet, it can easily accommodate several suitcases, tents, or other travel items. Its construction from 100% waterproof and tearproof 600D PVC tarpaulin provides excellent weather resistance, ensuring your belongings stay dry and secure during rainy conditions.

One of the standout features is its ease of use. The bag comes with an anti-slip mat, reinforced straps, and security hooks, making installation straightforward, even for those unfamiliar with cargo carriers. The included combination lock adds another layer of security, keeping your items safe from theft.

In terms of compatibility, the MeeFar XBEEK is designed to fit all car models, whether they have a roof rack or not, which is a definite plus for users with various vehicles. Its soft shell design allows it to be compactly folded away when not in use, saving you space. There are a few drawbacks to consider, including the soft material not offering the same level of protection as hard-sided carriers, especially in preventing damage from heavy items shifting during transit. Additionally, while the waterproof features are promising, heavy rains or prolonged exposure to water could still pose a risk, so it's wise to be cautious in extreme weather. Finally, weighing in at 8.6 pounds, it is relatively light, but users should be mindful of the total weight limit when loaded, as this can affect vehicle performance.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
A great purchase for anyone needing extra storage space on road trips, easily accommodating several suitcases, tents, and more.
Material
The material is described as heavy duty and very durable, with no rips or tears even after long journeys.
Mounting System
The included anti-slip mat and reinforced straps ensure the bag stays in place, preventing any scratches or movement during travel.
Aerodynamics
Despite initial concerns, users found the bag to be an excellent investment, providing peace of mind and extra storage space without compromising vehicle performance.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward and quick, with users reporting setup times as short as 10-15 minutes initially and even faster on subsequent uses.
Weather Resistance
Traveling through various weather conditions, including heavy rain and high winds, users reported their belongings stayed completely dry, highlighting the bag's excellent waterproofing.
#3

Thule 614 Pulse Rack, 14", Black

The Thule 614 Pulse Rack is designed for those needing extra storage space on road trips or for adventurous outings. With a capacity of 14 cubic feet, it can accommodate various gear, including up to five snowboards, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. The rugged plastic material ensures durability, protecting your belongings from the elements while also being water-resistant. The FastGrip quick-mount system is user-friendly, allowing for speedy installation in just minutes, which is a huge plus for busy families or individuals on the go.

One of the standout features is the central locking system, which enhances security, giving you peace of mind when leaving your belongings in the box. The passenger-side opening makes loading and unloading straightforward, reducing the hassle after a long day of travel. The external dimensions are spacious enough to fit larger items, but the height of 16 inches may require checking compatibility with your vehicle's roof clearance.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While it fits a decent amount of cargo, the 110 lbs load capacity means that heavier items may not be suitable for transport. Additionally, although it is made from durable materials, some concerns have been raised about the potential for wear and tear over time, especially with frequent use. The product is a bit bulky, which could impact aerodynamics and fuel efficiency compared to more streamlined designs.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
Perfect size for camping gear, with no water leakage even during a torrential downpour.
Mounting System
Easy installation, even for a smaller person, and sturdy compared to cheaper brands.
Aerodynamics
No noticeable wind noise while driving and negligible effect on gas mileage.
Ease of Use
Easy installation, even for a smaller person, and sturdy compared to cheaper brands.
Weather Resistance
Perfect size for camping gear, with no water leakage even during a torrential downpour.

Buying Guide for the Best Soft Cargo Carriers

Soft cargo carriers are a great solution for expanding your vehicle's storage capacity, especially for road trips, camping, or moving items. They are versatile, easy to install, and can be used on a variety of vehicles. When choosing a soft cargo carrier, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of storage space the cargo carrier provides, usually measured in cubic feet. This is important because it determines how much you can carry. Smaller carriers (10-15 cubic feet) are suitable for light packing or short trips, while medium carriers (15-20 cubic feet) are good for family trips or moderate loads. Larger carriers (20+ cubic feet) are ideal for long trips or carrying bulky items. Choose a capacity based on the amount and size of items you plan to transport.
MaterialThe material of the cargo carrier affects its durability, weather resistance, and overall performance. Common materials include polyester, nylon, and PVC-coated fabrics. Polyester and nylon are lightweight and durable, while PVC-coated fabrics offer excellent waterproofing. If you expect to encounter harsh weather conditions, opt for a carrier with waterproof or water-resistant materials. For general use, a durable polyester or nylon carrier should suffice.
Mounting SystemThe mounting system determines how the cargo carrier attaches to your vehicle. Some carriers are designed to be used with roof racks, while others can be mounted directly to the roof using straps. Roof rack-mounted carriers are generally more secure and stable, making them suitable for heavier loads. Strap-mounted carriers are easier to install and remove, making them a good choice for occasional use. Consider how often you'll use the carrier and the type of loads you'll carry when choosing a mounting system.
AerodynamicsAerodynamics refers to how the shape of the cargo carrier affects your vehicle's fuel efficiency and noise levels. A more aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance, which can help maintain fuel efficiency and reduce noise during travel. Look for carriers with a streamlined shape if you plan to use them frequently or for long trips. If you only need the carrier occasionally, aerodynamics may be less of a concern.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include locks, zippers, and other mechanisms that keep your belongings safe. This is important to prevent theft and ensure your items stay secure during transit. Some carriers come with integrated locks or lockable zippers, while others may require additional locks. If you plan to leave your vehicle unattended with the carrier attached, prioritize models with robust security features.
Ease of UseEase of use encompasses how simple it is to install, load, and unload the cargo carrier. This is important for convenience and efficiency. Look for carriers with user-friendly designs, such as wide openings, easy-to-use zippers, and clear instructions. If you plan to use the carrier frequently, choose one that you can easily handle on your own.
Weather ResistanceWeather resistance refers to the carrier's ability to protect your belongings from rain, snow, and other elements. This is crucial for keeping your items dry and safe. Carriers with waterproof materials and sealed seams offer the best protection. If you expect to travel in varying weather conditions, prioritize weather-resistant models. For occasional fair-weather use, a carrier with basic water resistance may be sufficient.

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