Best Vehicle Soft-Shell Carriers of 2026
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Vehicle soft-shell carriers are a popular accessory for those who need extra space for their luggage and equipment during road trips. These carriers are designed to be attached to the roof of the car and are made from durable, waterproof material that protects the contents from the elements. They come in various sizes and styles, including rooftop bags and cargo boxes, and are easy to install and remove. Soft-shell carriers are a great option for those who don't want to invest in a permanent roof rack or for those who need additional storage for a one-time trip.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Vehicle Soft-Shell Carriers
MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag
The MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag is a waterproof and tearproof bag made of 700D PVC tarpaulin material. It comes with 6 door hooks, 1 anti-slip mat, 10 reinforced straps, and a luggage lock for more security. It is easy to install and can be used on any sized car or SUV with or without a roof rack. With 20 cubic feet of storage space, it can hold travel luggage case, tents, sleeping bags, and more. The soft shell material allows it to be folded into a storage bag to save space when not in use.
Sailnovo 21 Cubic Feet Waterproof Car Roof Bag
The Sailnovo Roof Cargo Carrier offers a spacious 21 cubic feet capacity, perfect for carrying luggage for up to six people, making your road trips more comfortable by freeing up interior space. Its military-grade 1000D PVC material ensures your belongings stay dry and protected from wind, rain, snow, and dust, no matter the weather. Installation is simple and versatile, fitting most vehicles whether they have roof racks or not, thanks to included door hooks and anti-slip mat. Plus, the secure design with reinforced straps and hooks keeps your cargo stable on bumpy roads, giving you peace of mind while you drive.
Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier, 20 Cubic Feet Waterproof Soft Shell Roof Bag
The Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a great solution for those who need extra storage and do not want to invest in a permanent roof box. It has a tear-resistant and waterproof material with 20 cubic feet of storage capacity, which can hold camping gear, suitcases, and more. The carrier has 6 built-in reinforcement straps, extra 6 short ties and 2 long straps, ensuring stability and safety. It is easy to install and fits most vehicles. The product comes with 8 extra luggage straps, 1 storage bag, and 1 user manual.
MaxxHaul 70209 Cargo Carrier Bag
The MaxxHaul Cargo Carrier Bag is designed for durability and convenience. Made from tough PVC material with polyester reinforcement, it ensures your belongings are well-protected. The heavy-duty zipper, surrounded by hook and loop flaps, enhances water resistance, keeping your items dry during travel. With the added capability of using padlocks in the zipper holes, you can secure your cargo for peace of mind. The included polypropylene straps keep the bag securely attached to your cargo carrier, making it easy to transport your gear safely.
VENTURE 4TH Waterproof 21 Cu Ft Roof Cargo Carrier
The VENTURE 4TH Roof Cargo Carrier offers a large 21 cubic feet of storage space, perfect for fitting multiple carry-on bags or camping gear, making your trips more convenient. Its fully waterproof design ensures your belongings stay dry, even in heavy rain, thanks to durable materials and sealed seams. The unique 6-strap compression system tightly secures the load and keeps water out, providing added protection on long journeys. For extra safety, the carrier features four top-mounted tie-down straps that firmly hold the bag in place without stressing weak points, so you can drive confidently at highway speeds.
FIVKLEMNZ Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag
The FIVKLEMNZ Rooftop Cargo Bag offers a secure way to transport your belongings with 10 reinforced adjustable straps that keep the bag stable, even on bumpy roads. The included anti-slip mat ensures that your cargo stays put, preventing scratches on your vehicle. With a generous 21 cubic feet of storage, you can easily fit multiple suitcases, tents, and other travel essentials, freeing up valuable space inside your car. Installation is a breeze, whether your vehicle has roof rails or not, allowing you to hit the road quickly and efficiently.
Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag
This car rooftop cargo carrier is made of heavy-duty 840D abrasion-resistant PVC fabric with triple-reinforced welded seams. It is waterproof with a reinforced zipper and 6 inches widened velcro zipper flaps. The bag is easy to install with an anti-slip mat, 8 adjustable straps, door hooks, and buckles. It fits vehicles with or without a roof rack and has a large 21 cubic feet capacity. The package includes a storage bag, luggage lock, and a 3-year guarantee.
Sailnovo Waterproof Truck Bed Cargo Bag 26 Cu Ft
The Sailnovo Waterproof Cargo Bag is designed to keep your belongings safe and dry with its heavy-duty PVC material and fully waterproof zippers, making it ideal for all weather conditions. Its sturdy construction includes reinforced corners and anti-tear fabric, ensuring long-lasting durability even during rough rides. You’ll appreciate the spacious 26 cubic feet capacity, which provides ample room for luggage and camping gear, helping you free up space inside your vehicle. Installation is a breeze thanks to adjustable bungee cords and multiple side zippers, allowing you to secure the bag easily and access your items from different angles without hassle.
Sailnovo 20 Cubic Rooftop Cargo Carrier
The Sailnovo Roof Cargo Bag offers 20 cubic feet of extra storage, perfect for when your car’s space just isn’t enough. Its large size helps you carry more luggage or gear easily. This carrier fits most cars and SUVs, whether you have a roof rack or not, thanks to its six door hooks and a slip-resistant mat, making installation quick and hassle-free. Made from tough 1000D PVC material, it stands up to rain, snow, wind, and dust to keep your belongings safe and dry. Plus, safety features like strong nylon straps and reflective strips help keep the carrier secure and visible during your drive.
Asinking 15 Cubic Feet Roof Cargo Bag
The Asinking Roof Cargo Bag offers exceptional durability and convenience for your travel needs. Made from heavy-duty 840D PVC fabric, it withstands tough conditions and harsh weather, ensuring your belongings stay protected. With waterproof zippers and reinforced seams, you can trust that your items will remain dry, even during heavy rain. The easy installation features, including an anti-slip mat and adjustable straps, make securing the bag to your vehicle a breeze. Plus, its 15 cubic feet capacity allows you to transport a variety of items, from luggage to camping gear, without compromising on space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are soft car top carriers good?
Soft car top carriers can be a good option for some people. They are lighter weight, easier to load and store, and do not require crossbars. However, they have limitations in terms of what they can safely carry. Despite using durable and weatherproof materials, they may tear or come apart at the seams over time.
2. What are the disadvantages of a roof carrier on a car?
There are a few disadvantages of using a roof carrier on a car. One is that it can lead to increased fuel consumption due to the added frontal surface area. Another is the raised height, which can make it more difficult to access low-clearance areas. It's important to consider these factors before installing a roof carrier on your car.
3. How fast can you drive with a car top carrier?
The recommended speed for driving with a car top carrier depends on the specific product and manufacturer. However, as a general guideline, it is advised to keep your speed under 90 mph when using a cargo box like those made by Thule. It's always best to follow the recommendations provided by the manufacturer.
4. Can you put a roof bag directly on the roof?
It is not recommended to put a roof bag directly on the roof of your vehicle. Instead, it is advisable to either buy a roof bag that is designed to fit roof racks or use it in conjunction with a roof tray. Using a roof bag directly on the roof may reduce its value for money and could potentially damage the vehicle's roof.
5. Are rooftop carriers safe?
Yes, when used correctly, rooftop carriers are designed to be aerodynamic and durable, making them safe for use. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for proper installation and usage. This will ensure a safe and secure transportation of your belongings on the roof of your car.
6. Why are car-top carriers so expensive?
Car-top carriers can be expensive due to several reasons. One of the main factors is the ability to handle high load capacity. Roof racks need to be able to support heavy items such as luggage, cargo boxes, camping gear, bikes, and kayaks. This requires sturdy construction and materials, which can contribute to the higher cost of car-top carriers.
During our vehicle soft-shell carrier research, we found 24 vehicle soft-shell carrier products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 120,294 customer reviews through our big data system to write the vehicle soft-shell carriers list. We found that most customers choose vehicle soft-shell carriers with an average price of $77.46.
The vehicle soft-shell carriers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of vehicle soft-shell carriers, including MeeFar, Sailnovo, MAXXHAUL, VENTURE 4TH, FIVKLEMNZ. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 72 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
David Davis has rich experience as a mechanic and a general repairman in the automotive industry. It has given him plenty of knowledge in automobile repair, auto parts, and all kinds of tools. In his spare time, he enjoys assembling and disassembling parts for cars.
Vehicle Soft-Shell Carriers Comparison Table
|
#TOP1
|
#TOP2
|
#TOP3
|
#TOP4
|
#TOP5
|
#TOP6
|
#TOP7
|
#TOP8
|
#TOP9
|
#TOP10
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | MeeFar | Sailnovo | Sailnovo | MAXXHAUL | VENTURE 4TH | FIVKLEMNZ | Asinking | Sailnovo | Sailnovo | Asinking |
| Material | PVC tarpaulin | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | 1000D Oxford cloth | Polyester, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | 600D Double Coated Recycled Polyester, Waterproof SBS Metal Zipper | Oxford Cloth | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | black | Black-Gray | black | Black | Orange | black and orange | Black |
| Item Weight | 3.9 Kilograms | 4.9 Kilograms | - | - | 11.5 Pounds | 4.68 Kilograms | 4.24 Kilograms | 4.99 Kilograms | 5.24 Kilograms | 3.99 Kilograms |
| FTB Score |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Where to Buy |