Extra luggage space is something most of us only need a few weeks a year. So instead of upgrading to a larger car or estate, maybe a roof box is a practical and cost-effective solution?
Mounted on roof bars, these streamlined storage cases can significantly increase your car’s carrying capacity for just a few hundred pounds. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can be a bit confusing.
Here’s what to consider…
Spend a little more for quality
A roof box has a hard life. It faces motorway speeds, harsh weather, heavy loads, and frequent handling.
The difference between a budget and a high-quality box can be surprisingly small – typically £25 to £50. Spending that little extra can mean the difference between a box that lasts for years and one that starts to fall apart after only a few uses.
Shape of the box
One of the most common mistakes is choosing a box that doesn’t maximise the space on the roof of your car.
Roof boxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes:
- Narrow boxes: Ideal if you want to carry items like a kayak alongside the box.
- Medium-width boxes: Allow space for one or two bikes while still offering good storage.
- Wide boxes: Maximise capacity but limit space for other items on the roof.
- Long-wide boxes: Spacious but often bulky and difficult to handle alone.
- Long boxes: A great all-round option—easy to handle, roomy, and often leave space for bikes.
Size of the box
Manufacturers often quote capacity in litres, and this can be hard to visualise.
Think carefully about what else you might want to carry in the box. A well-designed 400-litre box can be far more practical than one with the same volume but awkward internal shaping.
Check the length and width of the box and think about the items you’ll be packing – suitcases, skis, pushchairs, or camping gear.
What’s the roof box made of?
Material quality matters more than you might expect.
Cheaper roof boxes are often made from thinner plastic, which can:
- Flex under load, making them harder to close
- Become noisy over time
- Be more prone to damage or break-ins
A sturdier box with strong fittings will be more durable, secure, and easier to use.
Access and opening
Think about where and how you’ll access the box.
- Some boxes only open from one side, while others open on both sides (dual opening).
- Dual opening is useful if you park on a busy street, as you won’t need to stand on the side of traffic to load or unload your roof box.
Locking systems are also important. Central locking may sound convenient, but if the box is fully loaded, aligning all locking points can be tricky and you may need someone else to help you.
Check how your roof box fits
Take a close look at how the box attaches to your roof bars.
“Quick-fit” systems are often marketed as a major advantage, but in reality, they may not save much time. If you only install the box once or twice a year, it might not matter if it’s a bit fiddly to fit.
If possible, test the fitting mechanism before buying.
More than just looks
Modern roof boxes should be almost silent when you’re on the road. The roof bars will lift them high enough off the roof to ensure there’s no whistling beneath.
While you probably want it to look stylish, Make sure it’s still practical. Would you rather a box that looks good, or one that’s still joining you on family trips in ten years’ time?
Where to buy a roof box
Main dealers often sell roof boxes and bars tailored to your car, but they’re typically rebranded products with a higher price tag – and sometimes outdated designs.
It’s worth comparing options from independent retailers and specialist suppliers, where you’ll often find better value and a wider, more up-to-date selection.
Do you need to let your insurer know about a roof box?
If you add a roof box to your car, your insurer may consider this a modification. If you have an accident and haven’t let them know you’ve added a roof box, it may invalidate your insurance. Check your policy documents to find out which modifications you need to tell your insurer about.
