Halfway through the tedious process of planning the perfect cross-country road trip with your friends or family, you realize your car doesn’t have enough space in the trunk to store everyone’s stuff, let alone kayaks, mountain bikes, surfboards, and tents? No matter the kind of outdoor activity you are into, one thing is for sure; you will need a lot of storage space to bring everything you need with you. Luckily, when your car’s cargo space isn’t enough, you can create some more. And the best way to do this is by installing a roof rack.
A roof rack is an attachment that sits on your car’s roof and allows you to carry stuff like luggage, bicycles, kayaks, skis, canoes, etc. It’s worth mentioning that storing bulky items on a car’s roof may disrupt the airflow, causing slight instability at high speeds. Still, when you need more space, you’ll need to make some compromises and a roof rack is undoubtedly the best way to increase your vehicle’s cargo space.
However, due to the plethora of options, choosing the best roof rack for your car can be a tiring, painstaking, and sometimes confusing process. Fortunately, we have curated a list of the 10 best roof racks we could find. We tried our best to include a little something for everyone so our list features different roof racks for various applications and catering to a wide range of budgets.
Enjoy!
Best Budget Roof Rails
CargoLoc 2-Piece Aluminum Roof Top Cross Bar Set
CargoLoc’s aluminum crossbar set is designed for vehicles with pre-installed roof rails. The set consists of two 52″ strong aluminum crossbars that you can mount on any vehicle with raised roof rails no more than 46″ apart. Each crossbar comes with a locking mechanism, so you don’t have to worry about them getting stolen when left unattended. Moreover, the installation process is a walk in the park. Once complete, you can use these crossbars to fasten a variety of equipment using separate harnesses.
The use of aluminum means the CargoLoc Cross Bar set will be pretty rugged & sturdy but also lightweight, tipping the scale at just 8.6 lbs. Meanwhile, the 2-piece set has an overall weight capacity of 150 lbs, giving you sufficient flexibility to haul a wide range of objects.
CargoLoc’s aluminum crossbar set is one of the best roof racks for those on a budget. Moreover, it may be the cheapest model on this list, but don’t think that you will get a substandard quality product. The adjustable clamping makes it compatible with most cars with raised roof rails. Besides, the simple installation process and the locking mechanism are a bonus that will make your life that much easier.
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 3” X 52.5” X 5.75”
- Total weight: 8.6 lbs
- 150 lbs weight capacity
- 2-piece crossbar set
- Aluminum construction
- Adjustable up to 46”
Pros
- Keyed locking mechanism for complete peace of mind
- Lightweight yet durable aluminum construction
- Extremely easy to install and remove
- High value for money
- Impressive weight capacity
- Secure mounting at all times
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Requires roof rails raised by at least 1″
- Makes audible whooshing noises while driving
Best Premium Roof Rails
Thule WingBar Evo Load Bars
Another interesting roof crossbar option comes from the famous cargo equipment manufacturer Thule. The WingBar Evo load bar kit consists of versatile crossbars you can use to mount anything from skis to several bags filled with luggage. Each bar measures 50” in length and is constructed from aluminum to impart optimum strength while keeping the weight to a minimum.
But wait, these aren’t ordinary aluminum bars like the previous model. Namely, Thule’s bars are equipped with “T” shaped tracks running the entire 50” length. These tracks allow you to easily mount & dismount other Thule accessories required to secure the load.
And to reduce excessive wind noise, the WingBar Evo Load bar kit comes with Thule’s WindDiffuser technology. It includes a few strategically placed components that disturb the airflow resulting in less noise and drag.
If you are looking for a more premium crossbar setup, the Thule WingBar Evo Load Bar kit is the best roof rack for you. Its T-track accessory mounting mechanism is a great feature that will seriously cut down the time and energy required to secure the load. However, don’t forget to check Thule’s comprehensive buyer’s guide on its website to confirm compatibility with your car before purchasing this roof rack.
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 3.15” X 50” X 1.15”
- Total weight: 6.39 lbs
- 220 lbs weight capacity
- 2-piece crossbar set
- Aluminum construction
- Adjustable mounting brackets
Pros
- Quick and straightforward installation procedure
- Strong and durable aluminum construction
- Also available in 43”, 47”, 53”, and 60” configurations
- T-track for easy installation of accessories
- Wing diffuser technology to reduce noise and drag
- Sleek design with attractive silver finish
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Locking mechanism costs extra
- On the expensive side
Best Budget Bike Rack
Swagman 64720 UPRIGHT Roof Mount Bike Rack
Once you have bought crossbars that fit your car, you need specific accessories to secure your load safely. Now, the accessories differ based on the kind of load you are planning on hauling. For example, the Swagman 64720 roof rack is designed to accommodate a bike that mounts directly on the crossbars. Going on a biking trip with friends? No worries, you can use more than one of these bike racks on the same roof if additional capacity is required.
The Swagman 64720 Upright bike rack is made from steel and plastic. It includes a long steel rail where the tires sit, along with an upright plastic arm that secures your bike’s down tube. The upright arm comes with a locking mechanism to keep your bike secured at all times. Moreover, the long rail also features tie-down straps for additional safety while driving.ad
The bike rack itself should be compatible with most crossbars, but we recommend you check beforehand, just to be safe. The rail is long enough to accommodate bikes with a wheelbase up to 54”, while tires up to 3” wide will fit like a glove.
If you like to go on frequent biking adventures, the Swagman 64720 is a great budget option to start with. It has a decent 35 lbs weight limit per bike and comes with a lifetime limited warranty from Swagman.
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 8” X 59” X 23”
- Total weight: 5 lbs
- 35 lbs weight capacity per bike rack
- Single-unit bike rack
- Steel and plastic construction
- Fits bikes with a wheelbase up to 54″
- Fits bikes with tires up to 3” wide
Pros
- Budget bike rack
- High value for money
- Locking mechanism for security
- Tie-down straps ensure safe mounting
- Fits almost all crossbars
- No need to remove the front wheel
- No tools required to operate
- Lifetime limited warranty
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Keyed lock is not completely effective
Best Premium Bike Rack
Rhino-Rack RBC050 Roof Top Hybrid Bike Carrier
If the previous model is a bit too basic for you, we have one more option in the bike rack category. Meet the Rhino-Rack rooftop hybrid bike carrier; it is a heavy-duty bike rack constructed entirely from lightweight aluminum.
The Rhino-Rack employs a similar design to the previous bike rack but with one significant difference. Namely, the upright arm in this bike rack is mounted onto the front fork and wheel assembly, where it gets a much better grip, resulting in a much more stable bike at high speeds. Besides, the ratchet arm that comes in contact with your bike is coated in a soft material to prevent any damage or scratches.
Rhino Rack’s bike rack also scores incredibly well in the compatibility department. You can use the 63” bike rail to haul anything from a 20” kid’s bike to a full-size 29” mountain bike. Moreover, you get a 45 lbs weight capacity per bike rack.
The RBC050 uses universal mounting hardware that makes it compatible with pretty much any crossbar setup, making it one of the most versatile bike roof rack setups out there. It is perfect for those looking for a reliable & long-lasting bike rack to regularly take on far away biking adventures. If you’ve got an high-end bike, this is probably the model you want to go for.
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 40” X 14” X 6”
- Total weight: 16.5 lbs
- 45 lbs weight capacity per bike rack
- Single-bike bike rack
- Aluminum construction
- Fits anything between 20” kids bikes and 29” mountain bikes
Pros
- Ergonomic design with a premium feel
- Three-stage locking mechanism
- Easy mounting and dismounting
- High weight rating
- Adapter available to accommodate fat tire bikes
- Versatile roof bike rack
- Attractive matte black color scheme
- 5 years manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Costs more than other models
- Initial assembly required
Best Kayak Rack
Thule 848 Hull-a-Port XT Rooftop Kayak Carrier Black
The Thule Hull-a-Port XT is a high-quality roof kayak rack boasting an innovative design allowing it to carry up to two kayaks at once. And the best part is that this roof kayak carrier will fit all types of crossbars setups up to 80 mm wide, including the Thule WingBar Evo mentioned above.
The 848 Hull-a-Port kayak rack features an interesting design that is not only ergonomic but also safe and secure, thanks to the padded contact points to prevent damaging your precious kayaks. You can also easily adjust the upright arm as per requirement by operating the provided lever. And wen not in use, you can position it to lay flat with the rest of the body, significantly reducing drag.
Thule’s 848 roof kayak rack has a total weight capacity of 130 lbs when loaded with two boats. Strap catches are integrated at various points to make the entire process of securely strapping a kayak that much easier. However, keep in mind that the kit comes with all the straps and tie-downs required for one kayak. If you need to carry more than one, you’ll need to buy extra straps. And take notes, this roof rack does not come with a locking system, although Thule will be happy to sell you one separately.
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 9” X 20” X 20”
- Total weight: 12.5 lbs
- 130 lbs weight capacity for two boats
- 2-piece roof kayak rack
- Lightweight construction
- Compact dimensions
Pros
- Compact design that easily folds down when not in use
- Universal crossbar mounting
- Can carry up to two kayaks at once
- Comes with load straps and tie-downs
- No assembly required
- High-quality roof rack
- Straightforward installation process
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Locking system costs extra
Best Paddleboard/Surfboard Rack
Orion Motor Tech Anti-Vibration Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pad
Don’t want to spend money on getting roof rails, crossbars, and specific mounting accessories? All you need is the Orion Motor Tech roof rack pad. It consists of two 33.5” long ultra-soft blocks made from Expanded Polyethylene (EPE), a smooth material with excellent chemical resistance and cushioning properties. The central core is wrapped in durable and robust 600D nylon to protect the soft material.
All you have to do is simply fasten these two EPE and nylon blocks on your car’s roof, and you are good to go. Indeed Orion Motor Tech’s roof rack does not require roof rails, crossbars, or mounting accessories. At the cost of one, this roof rack replaces up to three things.
Even the installation process is a piece of cake and you can use it to carry a wide range of sporting equipment, including kayaks, surfboards, skis, canoes, paddleboards, snowboards, etc. To install your desired equipment, appropriately place it on top of the blocks and use the included nylon straps to secure it. That’s it!
Orion’s soft roof rack pad is better suited for people involved in several sporting activities where buying specific mounting accessories for each application isn’t very practical. However, the only downside is that the pads may not be as secure at high speeds as some of the other models. Indeed, if you only need to carry a kayak around and never need to bring a couple of snowboards to the mountain, we would strongly recommend you go for a dedicated kayak rack. On the other hand, Orion’s model is probably your best bet. Make sure you use a couple of extra straps and it will get the job done just fine.
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 36.22” X 9.06” X 4.72”
- Total weight: 4.04 lbs
- 165.3 lbs weight capacity
- 2-piece soft roof rack pad
- Expanded Polyethylene and nylon construction
Pros
- No roof rails, crossbars, or additional accessories required
- Ultra-soft pads give an optimum cushioning effect
- No chance of scratching or damaging your sporting equipment
- Easy to install and remove
- Can accommodate several types of equipment
- All the necessary straps are included
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Not as secure as other models
- Noisy, even at relatively low speeds
Best Ski/Snowboard Rack
Thule 7326B SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack
Thule’s SnowPack ski & snowboard roof rack is an innovative model designed to carry up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards at a time. Like previous Thule roof racks on this list, this one is also compatible with a wide range of crossbars, including the Thule WingBar Evo mentioned earlier. The SnowPack features a hybrid aluminum and plastic construction to provide optimum strength and weight savings.
The procedure to mount skis or snowboards onto this rack is also quite simple; all you have to do is open the swing arms, appropriately place your winter sports equipment, and close it. The soft rubberized inserts on each side will properly grip the equipment without scratching or damaging it in any way. Also, don’t forget to use the keyed locking mechanism to ensure the complete safety of your belongings.
A typical design flaw found in other ski roof racks is that they are pretty much inoperable when wearing thick gloves. To tackle this problem, the Thule 7326B SnowPack has an extra-large push-button to open the swing arms, so you don’t have to go through the trouble of taking your gloves off in the cold every time you want to mount or dismount any equipment. All in all, if you are looking for one of the best ski racks out there, this is it!
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 34.2” X 2.8” X 3.9”
- Total weight: 14.2 lbs
- 6 ski pairs or 4 snowboards holding capacity
- 2-piece ski and snowboard roof rack set
- Aluminum and plastic construction
- 29.5” loading width
Pros
- Can fit pretty much any factory or aftermarket crossbar setup
- Extremely easy to install and operate
- Strong and long-lasting components
- Can be operable even while wearing gloves
- Locking mechanism for complete security
- Sleek and aerodynamic design helps reduce drag
- Ultra-soft rubber inserts hold the load securely without any damage
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Costs more than other models
Best Platform Rack
Rhino-Rack 42114BF Pioneer Platform
When it comes to designing and manufacturing any kind of high-quality automobile storage racks, Rhino-Rack is a brand that stands out from the rest for consistently coming up with award-winning products. The famous Pioneer Platform is a prime example of that lineage; it won the Gold Award at the 2020 Good Design Awards for its ergonomic design and usability. The Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform is a roof load carrier constructed from lightweight yet strong aluminum and uses a fiberglass reinforced nylon material on sharp edges such as corners.
The Pioneer Platform’s main advantage over the previous models is that it doesn’t limit what you can or cannot carry. If it fits, it sits. Even items like luggage bags, shovels, a spare wheel, will fit without a problem. All you have to do is securely tie the load down, so it doesn’t move around when driving.
At 48″ X 37″, the Pioneer Platform has ample space to accommodate all kinds of stuff and the plastic cladding around the aluminum frame provides optimum support to tie down the load. Since this roof rack has certain compatibility limitations, make sure to check beforehand if it will be compatible with the crossbars on your car. Thankfully, the compatibility section on Rhino Rack’s website has a list of all compatible crossbar setups for quick reference.
If you need to bring a wide range of diverse item, the Pioneer Platform is what you need!
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 48” X 37” X 2”
- Total weight: 26.5 lbs
- Platform style roof rack
- Aluminum frame with fiberglass reinforced nylon body
- Also available in larger sizes
Pros
- High flexibility allows you to load different types of equipment
- Comes with detailed assembly instructions
- Aerodynamic design to reduce drag and wind noise
- Anti-corrosion properties
- High maximum weight capacity
- 5 years manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Assembly process takes time
- On the expensive side
Best Budget Cargo Basket
MaxxHaul 70115 Steel Roof Rack
So far, in this list, we have covered crossbars as well as a wide range of racks for bikes, skis, kayaks, surfboards, paddleboards, snowboards, etc. Finally, we have a couple of luggage roof racks for the final category, and MaxxHaul’s model is the first entry. The 70115 is a roof rack designed to increase your car’s cargo space and features an all-steel powder-coated heavy-duty frame to prevent corrosion and ensure it lasts for years ahead.
The MaxxHaul 70115 roof rack comes with a universal mounting system that allows installation on pretty much any factory-fitted or aftermarket crossbar setup. The U-bolt mounting system makes installing the 46” X 36” steel frame even simpler. Once the initial setup is complete, you can load up to 150 pounds of luggage, furniture, off-roading equipment, or pretty much anything else that fits up there. Make sure the load is securely strapped into place, and you are good to go.
MaxxHaul’s 70115 is the best roof rack for those looking for some extra cargo space on a budget. It is suited for occasional or light use; those looking for a high-grade roof rack should look at the following model.
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 46” X 36” X 4.5”
- Total weight: 25 lbs
- 150 lbs weight capacity
- Cargo roof rack
- Steel construction
- Also available in a larger size
Pros
- Strong and sturdy steel frame
- Ample cargo space
- Great roof rack for the price
- Powder-coated for corrosion resistance properties
- Attractive matte black finish
- Comes with all required mounting hardware
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Not suited for heavy-duty applications
Best Premium Cargo Basket
Rhino-Rack RMCB02 XTray Roof Mount Cargo Basket
Rhino-Rack is back with another excellent roof rack. This time, we have the RMCB02 XTray large cargo basket, a premium cargo roof rack made entirely from industrial-grade heavy-duty steel with a black powder-coated finish. The powder coating preserves the matte finish for as long as possible and prevents surface rust up to a certain extent.
The Rhino-Rack XTray cargo basket may look like any other ordinary roof rack from afar, but several things make it one of the best in its class. First, the RMCB02 is specifically designed to be the most practical roof rack of the lot. It is equipped with a wind deflector that is cleverly positioned to help reduce wind noise and at the same time protect the precious cargo from insects, grime, rocks, etc.
The RMCB02 should be compatible with most crossbars, but you should always confirm before purchasing to avoid the hassle. The frame measures 58” X 43” and has a maximum weight capacity of 165 pounds.
Be it the occasional family cross-country road trip or everyday cargo runs, the Rhino-Rack Xtray cargo basket is capable of handling any job you could throw at it. Yes, it might be a bit more expensive compared to other models, but it will be the last roof rack you buy.
Highlighted features
- Overall dimensions: 6” X 58” X 43”
- Total weight: 46.3 lbs
- 165 lbs weight capacity
- Heavy-duty cargo roof rack
- Steel construction
Pros
- Wind deflector to reduce wind noise and protect your cargo
- Can be used while off-roading
- Highly secure and safe roof rack
- High weight capacity
- Powder coating protects against corrosion and preserves the finish
- High rails for cargo security and support
- Compatible with nearly all crossbars
- 3 years manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Costs more than other models
How to Choose the Best Roof Rack
Operational safety
Probably the most crucial factor to consider when choosing any roof mounting equipment is safety. For example, a good roof rack should have several provisions to guarantee the operator’s safety and others on the road. Things like secure fittings, using tie-downs, straps, etc., can go a long way in making your roof rack safer.
Construction material and design
When talking about roof racks, structural integrity is a factor that you simply can’t ignore. Look for steel or aluminum construction for high strength and reliability. However, since roof racks are exposed to the elements, there are chances of rust due to moisture. Hence, you should prefer materials like aluminum and stainless steel.
Safety from theft
While on a long cross-country road trip with a trunk and roof rack packed full of luggage, or other sporting equipment, there will be several instances when your car is left unattended in a parking lot. Unlike your car’s trunk, a roof rack is not protected by a locking metal gate, leaving it quite vulnerable to theft. The last thing you want on your way to your much-awaited vacation is to have all your equipment stolen. Therefore, pick a roof rack with a reliable locking mechanism. That way, you can step away from your car without worrying about your precious cargo.
Weight capacity
Another essential factor to consider while choosing the best roof rack for your needs is its maximum weight capacity. Each model comes with a maximum weight rating, and it is important to never exceed it. Also, make sure the load is not concentrated on one spot. Always try to evenly distribute it throughout the roof rack’s area.
In addition to the roof rack’s weight rating, you must also check your car roof’s structural weight limit. The rack’s rating should not exceed the roof’s for safety reasons.
Compatibility
No matter how stylish or sleek a roof rack is, it will be of no use to you if it isn’t compatible with the roof rails or crossbars on your car. There are different roof racks available depending on your specific setup, and it is essential to take utmost care before purchasing. However, most roof racks are equipped with universal mounting hardware that allows installation on pretty much any kind of crossbars, but we would recommend you still check beforehand. The best way to check compatibility is to go to the manufacturer’s website and look for the compatibility section to get quick and reliable results.
Aerodynamics
As a general rule, a car’s aerodynamic properties are not engineered with a roof rack in mind. So adding a roof rack to your vehicle can seriously affect its aerodynamic balance resulting in several unwanted side effects such as wind noise, additional drag, decreased fuel economy, etc. Therefore, it is crucial to pick a roof rack designed to dampen these side effects as much as possible.
Type of use
Roof racks come in several different shapes and sizes where each type serves a unique purpose. Thus, you need to analyze your needs and pick the model that fulfills them best.
For example, purpose-built roof racks can carry only particular equipment like skis, snowboards, paddleboards, surfboards, mountain bikes, kayaks, canoes, and so much more.
On the other hand, cargo baskets or platform racks are much more flexible in loading options. The point is that the best roof rack for you depends up to a great extent on the type of equipment you intend to load in it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there any special precautions I need to take while driving with a roof rack?
Yes, installing a roof rack must be accompanied with the utmost caution and vigilance as many things could go wrong. But first, here are some things to take care of before you start driving. Ensure that the load is tightly & securely strapped in place and while you are at it, also give the crossbars and the rack itself a solid shake to check for any loose fittings.
Once you get on the road, you would want to be on the lookout for any low-clearance bridges or underpasses that might damage or scrape your cargo. Better yet, measure your car’s total height with the roof rack beforehand for quick reference. Moreover, be sure to stay below the posted speed limit and also the rack’s speed rating if provided. Needless to say, they tackle corners at slower speeds than usual.
Do I need to drill holes more or make any other permanent changes to my car to install a roof rack?
Absolutely not.
Installing a roof rack or crossbars is a quick and straightforward process with no need to drill any holes. Most roof racks come with universal mounting hardware, and all you have to do is follow the included instruction manual.
However, installing roof rails on a car is a whole different story. That would require some serious drilling and could even result in compromised structural integrity. But the good news is that most cars come with either integrated or raised roof rails from the factory itself.
Can roof racks be installed on any car?
Yes! Well, almost any car. You can install an off-the-shelf roof rack on around 98% of vehicles. Besides, most new cars can be optioned with crossbars directly from the factory. So all that remains for you to do is find a roof rack for those crossbars. Most models feature universal mounting hardware that makes them compatible with nearly all crossbars.
What are the disadvantages of installing a roof rack on my car?
Just like all things in life, installing a roof rack on your car also has some downsides. Thankfully though, the advantages far outweigh the cons due to technological advancements in the industry. The main disadvantage of installing a roof rack on your car is aerodynamic imbalance; it can be a significant problem in small vehicles and can even result in swaying while driving at high speeds. Other cons include wind noise, increased drag, reduced fuel economy, potential damage to the roof, etc.
Tips to Install a Roof Rack
As we have said before, installing a roof rack on your car is a straightforward process. Depending on the model you buy, it may take some time, but anyone can do it without needing any form of expertise.
The first thing you want to do is quickly unbox the rack and make sure all the required components are present. Next, most roof racks come unassembled and require you to join the pieces together. The assembly process is different for all models, so it is best to refer to the instruction manual for guidance.
Once you have the roof rack assembled, place it on the crossbars on the roof; this part is a little tricky since you need to be careful while deciding mounting points. Place the rack in such a way that it is centered with equal spaces on all sides. A misaligned roof rack can increase wind noise and make it harder to distribute the weight evenly.
The next step is to use whatever mounting hardware your rack came with and secure it onto the crossbars. Most roof racks come with everything you will need to complete this step. Don’t forget to check if the fitting is tight after installation. Your roof rack mustn’t have any slack or leeway that can pose a safety hazard when driving.
All that’s left now is to load your luggage or sporting equipment and head-on for the adventure of a lifetime.
Verdict
A roof rack is a must-have for people who are into sporting adventures or go on frequent road trips with families & friends. To that end, choosing the best roof rack becomes a necessary process, and we hope our review of 10 Best Roof Racks has educated you about these cargo-boosting automotive accessories. All roof racks we listed serve different purposes and are great at what they do.
If you are looking to buy a rack to carry your sporting equipment like skis, snowboards, mountain bikes, etc., we have included specific models designed from the ground up only to serve that purpose. On the flip side, those who require a little bit of everything are better off with carrier roof racks like the Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform. That way, you have the freedom to load anything you want, anytime you want.
