Choosing the Right Roof-Mounted Cargo Box
If you live in the Roaring Fork Valley, your use your car for all sorts of adventures. Sometimes it’s hauling skis and sometimes it’s packed with camping gear, hiking gear, and everything else you need for a few days in the backcountry. A quality rooftop cargo box gives you the extra space to bring it all along without stuffing your back seat or strapping gear to the roof and hoping for the best.
At Cracks & Racks, we install and sell two trusted brands of roof boxes, Thule and Intrepid Camp Gear, so you can find the right box for how you actually use your vehicle. Here is a breakdown of your options and what to look for before you buy.
THULE CARGO BOXES
Thule Motion 3
The Thule Motion 3 is the award-winning update to one of the world's best-selling roof boxes, and it earns that reputation. It combines a sleek, low-profile design with excellent aerodynamics, so it does not create unnecessary drag or noise on the drive up to the mountains. The intuitive dual-side opening and easy mounting system make loading and unloading gear simple, whether you are packing skis before a dawn patrol or bikes before a weekend trip.
Thule Force 3
Built for the active family, the Thule Force 3 is a robust option for year-round use. Its tough AeroSkin surface is designed to handle wear and tear, so it holds up to seasons of ski trips, camping runs, and everyday errands without losing its durability or function. If you need one box that can do it all, the Force 3 is a dependable choice.
Thule Pulse 2
The Thule Pulse 2 is a reliable, no-frills roof box that is ideal for daily use and spontaneous trips. With smart features and a functional design, it is built for quick getaways and everyday convenience, making it a great fit if you want extra cargo space without a bulky setup.
Intrepid Camp Gear ITX Cargo Cases
For outdoorspeople who need serious hauling capacity, the Intrepid Camp Gear cargo cases offer two options with 120 and 190 liters of storage. Crafted from high-grade aluminum, these cases are built to meet the demands of any adventure, from multi-day backcountry trips to hauling extra ski and bike gear for the whole crew. They lean a little more ‘overlandy’ but are bombproof options to protect your gear and stay organized. Intrepid's ITX cases are engineered with durability in mind from the ground up, giving you a rugged, aluminum-built option that stands up to the terrain and weather of the Roaring Fork Valley and Colorado backroads.
ITX120
The Intrepid Camp Gear ITX120 offers 120 liters of storage, making it a solid choice for skis, poles, and weekend bags without adding unnecessary bulk to your roof. Crafted from high-grade aluminum, it is built to handle the demands of regular use, whether you are headed up to the mountain or out for a quick overnight trip.
ITX190
For outdoorspeople who need even more hauling capacity, the Intrepid Camp Gear ITX190 offers 190 liters of storage, giving you room for bulkier gear like camping equipment or bike gear.
Like the ITX120, it is crafted from high-grade aluminum and built to meet the demands of multi-day backcountry trips and everything in between.
What to Look for in a Roof Cargo Box
Not all cargo boxes are built the same, and the difference shows up the first time you hit a rough road or get caught in a Colorado storm. Whether you are shopping Thule, Intrepid, or comparing other brands on your own, here is what separates a reliable box from one that will let you down.
Cargo space. Think about what you actually haul. A smaller box in the 120 to 300 liter range works well for skis, poles, and weekend bags, while a larger box gives you room for bulkier gear like camping equipment or all the supplies for setting up a killer tailgate at your kids’ sports events.
Material and build quality. Rigid hard-shell construction, whether it is molded ABS plastic or high-grade aluminum, holds up to impacts, UV exposure, and years of wear better than lighter-duty materials.
Weather resistance. Look for weather-resistant sealing around the lid and body so your gear stays unphased through rain, snow, and dust.
Tie-downs and interior organization. Internal tie-down points keep gear from sliding or shifting in transit, protecting both your equipment and the inside of the box.
Aerodynamics. A low-profile, aerodynamic shape reduces wind drag and road noise and can noticeably improve fuel economy on longer highway drives. The Thule boxes are incredibly aerodynamic, but the Intrepid case’s low-profile performs well at high speeds too.
Mounting system. A secure, stable mounting system is what keeps the box firmly attached at highway speeds. Look for a design that is also easy to install and remove when you don’t need it.
Locking mechanisms. Secure locks protect your gear when the box is parked or unattended, which gives you peace of mind on road trips and overnight stays.
Find the Right Fit for Your Adventures
Whether you are chasing powder days, logging miles on the trail, or just need more room for weekend gear, the right rooftop cargo box makes it easier to bring everything you need. The best choice depends on your vehicle, your roof rack setup, and how you actually use your gear, and that is where having input from an expert makes all the difference.
Not sure which box fits your lifestyle and vehicle? Reach out to our team and we will help you find the right size and brand for how you get adventure, then get it professionally installed so it is ready for your next trip. You can also browse our full lineup of roof racks and cargo solutions in our showroom or schedule an installation online.
