Choosing the Right Vehicle Cargo Box for your Adventure Travel and Lifestyle Needs

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Vehicle Cargo Box

When shopping for a cargo box, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. The style, size, weight capacity, and material of the box will depend on how and where you plan to use it.

Style - Vehicle Cargo Box come in several styles including: roof-mounted, hitch-mounted, and trunk-mounted. Roof boxes provide the most storage space but can negatively impact fuel efficiency. Hitch boxes don't affect fuel economy as much but limit available cargo space inside the vehicle. Trunk boxes are convenient for shorter loads.

Size - Consider available roof or hitch space as well as your storage needs. Common small, medium, and large sizes for roof boxes are S (150-180 liters), M (200-240 liters), and L (300-350 liters). Match box size to vehicle size.

Weight Capacity - Weight capacities range from 60-150+ pounds. Heavier duty boxes can accommodate bulky outdoor gear like skis, bikes, kayaks, etc. Lighter boxes work well for storage of luggage and lighter gear.

Material - Hard-sided models made of ABS plastic or composite materials are durable for outdoor use. Soft-sided fabric boxes are lighter weight but less protective of contents. Waterproof and lockable boxes provide better security.

Roof Boxes - Comprehensive Storage for Adventures

Vehicle cargo box boxes mounted atop your vehicle provide the most additional cargo carrying capacity. With interior capacities ranging from 150-350+ liters, roof boxes can haul significantly more gear for road trips, weekend getaways, outdoor excursions, and more. Their low profile shape minimizes wind drag compared to carrying items loose atop your roof rack.

Pros:
- Maximum storage space for vehicles without much interior cargo room
- Contents are safely stored up high, away from potential theft or damage
- Aerodynamic shape reduces fuel consumption impact vs roof rack mounted items
- Waterproof and lockable models secure valuables during transport and pit stops
- Common universal fit systems mount easily to existing roof racks of many vehicles

Cons:
- Additional height increases vehicle clearance needs for parking garages etc
- Higher mounting position raises vehicle's center of gravity
- Increased wind noise experienced while driving at highway speeds
- Fuel economy is impacted more than other styles like hitch or trunk boxes

Hitch Mounted Cargo Carriers - Convenient Rear Access

For vehicles with decent interior cargo space but occasional need for extra capacity, a hitch mounted cargo box is a practical option. Located out of the way at the rear, these boxes provide up to 100+ liters of additional storage without encroaching on passenger or gear space inside the vehicle. Hitch boxes are easily accessible from the rear for loading and unloading.

Pros:
- Rear opening access is very convenient for adding/removing gear
- Internal space isn't counted against interior cargo room
- Mounted lower than a roof box for improved vehicle handling and clearance
- Minimal impact on vehicle fuel efficiency versus roof box mounting

Cons:
- Smaller capacity than roof boxes, typically 100 liters maximum
- Rear visibility partially blocked when box is loaded
- Safety concerns about secured mounting in high winds or sudden stops
- Risk of damage or theft to rear mounted contents versus roof box

Vehicle Trunk Vehicle Cargo Box - Simple Solution for Short Trips
For shorter excursions requiring just a little extra cargo capacity, a trunk box offers a simple solution. Mounting securely to the exterior of the vehicle trunk or tailgate, these compact boxes provide 25-75+ liters of additional storage space without visual or handling impacts. Trunk boxes are perfect for occasional weekend trips or daily commuting needs.

Pros:
- Low-profile design doesn't affect vehicle clearance or handling
- Minimal fuel efficiency impact versus roof or hitch mounting
- Simple and secure fitment to spare tire area or tailgate
- Contents remain safely enclosed in trunk when vehicle is parked

Cons:
- Smallest capacity of the three box styles, generally under 100 liters
- Trunk access means unloading larger or multiple items takes more effort
- Visibility of rear view camera could be partially blocked when loaded
- Risk of damage if mounted items protrude outside of trunk boundaries

Choosing the Right Vehicle Cargo Box for Your Needs

Whether you need cargo capacity for rugged off-road adventures, weekend getaways with gear in tow, or occasional day trips, understanding your cargo hauling needs and vehicle capabilities will help you select the ideal style and size of cargo box. Roof boxes provide max space but impact fuel economy, while hitch and trunk boxes are convenient options requiring less capacity. Factors like intended cargo, driver visibility, vehicle clearance, and transportation environment should all guide your choice. With the right box, your vehicle is outfitted for versatile storage through every excursion or road trip ahead.

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About Author:

Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)