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10 Best Soft Cargo Carriers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop top Cargo Carrier Bag 20 Cubic feet Waterproof for All Cars with/Without Rack, Includes Anti-Slip Mat, 10 Reinforced Straps, 6 Door Hooks, Luggage Lock

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,128
Capacity
Material
Mounting System

Most important from
7886 reviews

Capacity
The MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK offers incredible storage capacity, fitting a surprising amount of luggage while still leaving room for more.
Material
The material is heavy-duty and the straps are solid, although adding a ratchet strap for extra security is recommended.
Mounting System
The bag's setup is versatile, accommodating vehicles with or without roof crossbars, and it includes a slip grip pad for added stability.
Aerodynamics
Users found no significant impact on gas efficiency, which is a pleasant surprise for a soft-shell carrier.
Ease of Use
Installation is a breeze, taking just 10-15 minutes the first time and even less on subsequent attempts.
Weather Resistance
The waterproof design proved its worth, keeping everything dry even during hours of driving through rainstorms.

The MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK offers a generous 20 cubic feet of storage, making it suitable for family trips or large hauls. Made from 100% waterproof 700D PVC tarpaulin, it promises durability and resistance to tears, which is great for protecting your luggage from harsh weather conditions. The universal compatibility allows it to fit any car or SUV, whether or not you have a roof rack, adding to its versatility.

The inclusion of 10 reinforced straps and 6 security hooks ensures a secure fit, which is crucial for long drives. The anti-slip mat and luggage lock provide additional security and peace of mind. However, being a soft-shell carrier, it may not be as aerodynamic as hard-shell alternatives, potentially affecting fuel efficiency.

Installation is straightforward, thanks to the provided accessories and easy-to-follow instructions, and it can be folded compactly for storage when not in use. While the MeeFar roof bag is highly rated by users with a 4.4 out of 5-star rating, some might find the soft-shell design less protective against impacts compared to hard-shell options. Nonetheless, its affordability, ample space, and robust weather resistance make it a strong contender for anyone in need of extra cargo space.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,128
Capacity
Material
Mounting System

Most important from
7886 reviews

Capacity
The MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK offers incredible storage capacity, fitting a surprising amount of luggage while still leaving room for more.
Material
The material is heavy-duty and the straps are solid, although adding a ratchet strap for extra security is recommended.
Mounting System
The bag's setup is versatile, accommodating vehicles with or without roof crossbars, and it includes a slip grip pad for added stability.
Aerodynamics
Users found no significant impact on gas efficiency, which is a pleasant surprise for a soft-shell carrier.
Ease of Use
Installation is a breeze, taking just 10-15 minutes the first time and even less on subsequent attempts.
Weather Resistance
The waterproof design proved its worth, keeping everything dry even during hours of driving through rainstorms.
#2

Thule 614 Pulse Cargo Box, Medium, Black

Rating
9.1
Capacity
Mounting System
Aerodynamics

Most important from
1750 reviews

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.

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.

Rating
9.1
Capacity
Mounting System
Aerodynamics

Most important from
1750 reviews

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.
#3

VENTURE 4TH Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet Waterproof Roof Bag with 10 Heavy-Duty Compression & Tie-Down Straps, Anti-Slip Mat & Door Hooks – Fits Cars with or Without Roof Rack

Rating
7.9
Capacity
Material
Mounting System

Most important from
167 reviews

Capacity
A lifesaver for family road trips, offering ample space for suitcases, camping gear, and bulky items.
Material
Withstands heavy rain impressively, keeping contents completely dry thanks to its waterproof material.
Mounting System
Fits perfectly on a car roof, with secure straps that attach easily to roof racks.
Ease of Use
The setup is quick and easy, and when not in use, the carrier folds down compactly for storage.

The VENTURE 4TH Rooftop Cargo Carrier stands out due to its impressive 21 cubic feet capacity, which can accommodate around 10 carry-on bags, making it a solid choice for families or groups going on long trips. Crafted from military-grade PVC fabric, it promises durability and reliable protection against weather conditions, thanks to its waterproof build and SBS zippers with a protective flap. This is particularly beneficial for those frequently traveling in rainy or snowy regions.

Its universal fit is a real advantage, allowing it to attach to vehicles with or without roof racks, sidebars, or crossbars, making it versatile for a wide range of vehicle types. The installation is made straightforward with included door hooks and color-coded straps, supported by an instruction manual, making it user-friendly even for those less experienced with cargo carriers. Security is enhanced with heavy-duty cam buckles and reinforced stitching, plus a combination padlock for peace of mind against theft. However, its offered security features are quite standard and might not be sufficient for high-value items.

Despite its bulky dimensions (51" x 39" x 17"), which could affect car aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, its design is intended to minimize wind resistance. It includes a protective roof mat to prevent slippage and potential damage during travel. While the carrier is robust and reliable, weighing in at 11.5 pounds, which is relatively lightweight for its size, some users might find the setup initially intimidating, especially if their vehicle lacks roof racks. Also, the lifetime replacement guarantee is a reassuring touch, indicative of the manufacturer's confidence in the product's durability.

In essence, this rooftop cargo carrier is ideal for those needing substantial storage space, reliable weather protection, and a versatile mounting system, although it might not be the best fit for those prioritizing advanced security features or aerodynamic efficiency.

Rating
7.9
Capacity
Material
Mounting System

Most important from
167 reviews

Capacity
A lifesaver for family road trips, offering ample space for suitcases, camping gear, and bulky items.
Material
Withstands heavy rain impressively, keeping contents completely dry thanks to its waterproof material.
Mounting System
Fits perfectly on a car roof, with secure straps that attach easily to roof racks.
Ease of Use
The setup is quick and easy, and when not in use, the carrier folds down compactly for storage.

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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