Do you ever feel like your Subaru Outback is running out of space during a long road trip? Whether you are packing camping gear for a weekend in the mountains or hauling luggage for a family vacation, that trunk fills up faster than you expect. An overloaded vehicle makes for a cramped and uncomfortable ride for everyone inside.
A roof box is the perfect solution to reclaim your interior space, but picking the right one for your Outback is not always simple. You have to consider the factory roof rails, the car’s height, and how the box fits your specific lifestyle. With so many brands and sizes available, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the technical details and mounting requirements. You do not want to spend your hard-earned money on a box that creates loud wind noise or interferes with your liftgate.
In this guide, we will take the guesswork out of your search. You will learn about the best roof box options that pair perfectly with the Subaru Outback’s unique design. We break down the top features to look for, from aerodynamic shapes to easy-access locking systems. By the end of this post, you will feel confident choosing the right storage upgrade for your next big adventure. Let’s dive into our top picks and get you ready for the open road.
Top Roof Box For Subaru Outback Recommendations
- 18 cubic foot (510 L) internal cargo capacity
- Made from durable UV-resistant ABS material
- Rear opening for easy access away from traffic
- Tool-free mounting hardware for easy installation and removal
- Includes key and lock to secure contents in the box, and the box to your rack
- Offers durability and maintains a sleek appearance, designed to handle daily use and the demands of active lifestyles
- A quick, secure, and intuitive mounting system that indicates when the cargo box is safely attached with a simple click
- Provides easy access to your cargo from both sides of the vehicle, enhancing convenience and efficiency
- Extensively tested for road safety and durability in the Thule Test Center, ensuring top-notch quality and reliability
- SlideLock system with separate locking and opening functions, automatically locks the lid in place and indicates when the box is closed securely
- 【DURABLE CONSTRUCTION】Crafted from high-quality ABS material, the hard shell rooftop cargo box ensures long-lasting durability. Its waterproof and UV-resistant design protects luggage from various weather conditions, making it ideal for road trips. The aerodynamic shape also reduces fuel consumption and noise for a smoother ride
- 【SPACIOUS 12 CUBIC FEET STORAGE】With dimensions of 54.3"L x 31.5"W x 13.4"H/62.2"L x 31.5"W x 13.4"H, the rooftop cargo box offers 12 cubic feet (340L) of extra storage space. With a maximum capacity of 165 lbs, it significantly increases storage capacity for your belongings
- 【UNIVERSAL FIT】Compatible with all vehicles equipped with a roof rack, including cars, vans, and SUVs. Prior to purchase, please verify compatibility by checking the roof rack fitting guidelines
- 【CONVENIENT DUAL-SIDED OPENING】The dual-sided opening system allows easy access from both sides of the cargo box. Includes 2 keys and 2 straps for added security. Ensure one side is locked when opening the other side
- 【RELIABLE WARRANTY】 is committed to delivering high-quality products and meeting customer expectations. Enjoy a one-year warranty for added peace of mind. For any inquiries, our team is available to assist you within 24 hours
- Durable Construction: Crafted from high-quality ABS material, the hard shell rooftop cargo box ensures long-lasting durability. Its waterproof and UV-resistant design protects luggage from various weather conditions, making it ideal for road trips. The aerodynamic shape also reduces fuel consumption and noise for a smoother ride
- Spacious 12 Cubic Feet Storage: With dimensions of 54.3"L x 31.5"W x 13.4"H, the rooftop cargo box offers 12 cubic feet (340L) of extra storage space. With a maximum capacity of 165 lbs, it significantly increases storage capacity for your belongings
- Universal Fit: Compatible with all vehicles equipped with a roof rack, including cars, vans, and SUVs. Prior to purchase, please verify compatibility by checking the roof rack fitting guidelines
- Convenient Dual-Sided Opening: The dual-sided opening system allows easy access from both sides of the cargo box. Includes 2 keys and 2 straps for added security. Ensure one side is locked when opening the other side
- Reliable Warranty: Roof cargo carrier is committed to delivering high-quality products and meeting customer expectations. Enjoy a one-year warranty for added peace of mind. For any inquiries, our team is available to assist you within 24 hours
- Universal Fit - This roof top storage box is universal fit for mounting to max 13 inches wide cross bar, please check the dimension before purchase.
- Spacious Capacity - Expand your vehicle's cargo capability significantly with 11 cubic feet of spacious storage and a robust 110 lb weight limit. Designed with a 14-inch wide opening for easy loading of large gear, this box provides ample room for luggage and essentials while keeping your passenger area comfortable and uncluttered. It's perfect for families, road trippers, or outdoor adventurers.
- Secure Lock, Stable Travel - The key lock system keeps your valuables safe. You can only remove the key after all lock points are fully secured. The belongings and luckages stay firmly in place inside during your drive, even on bumpy roads – no shifting or falling out. Open it from the passenger side for easy loading and unloading.
- Impact-Resistant Protection - Built with UV-protected, weather-resistant ABS, the cargo box shields contents from rain, sun, snow, and impacts while maintaining structural integrity in all conditions for reliable long-term performance.
- Overall Dimensions - 53" L x 34" W x 15" H | Capacity: 11 Cubic Feet and up to 110 LBS. Package includes [1] 53 inches length storage box, [2] security lock key, and [4] heavy duty tool free installation mounting brackets.
- Wing-shaped profile with a dynamic, forward-leaning nose for reduced drag and fuel efficiency
- Sturdy lid design with a wide handle for smooth opening and closing with just one hand
- Available accessories include interior box light, protective box liner, and storage cover
- Easy to mount thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system. The integrated torque indicator “clicks” when it’s properly mounted, ensuring fast and secure fitting
- SlideLock system with separate locking and opening functions, automatically locks the lid in place and indicates when the box is closed securely
- Size and Capacity: Our rooftop cargo carrier provides ample space to store your luggage, camping gear, sports equipment, and more. The size is 46.10'' X 15.55'' X 7.08'', Capacity 60 L, freeing up space inside your vehicle for a more comfortable journey
- Heavy-duty Storage Box: It is very reliable for truck bed storage with our interlocking design even in the toughest condition. Ideal for tools and dry goods, perfect for car back seats, trunk, truck bed or as a waterproof storage box
- Seal: The car roof cargo carrier boasts is seal, guaranteeing utmost safety for your items. Comparable to weatherproof storage boxes, and storage bins with lids heavy duty, it shields belongings from elements
- Lockable Latches: Our rooftop cargo carriers, perfect for luggage rack for SUV, boast lockable latches for worry-free transportation. Comparable to a locking storage box, they serve as premier truck bed organizers and protect your camping gear
- Tie Down Channels: The lockable storage box, equipped with tie-down channels, ensures secure transportation of belongings, including camping gear, storage, and truck bed organizer
- All-Weather Durability: Crafted from premium 1200D oxford and PVC, this waterproof rooftop cargo carrier protects against rain, snow, and dust; Built to last, it keeps your car top carrier dependable and your belongings safe on every trip
- Universal Fit for Vehicle: With extra door hooks, easily fits all vehicle types, including SUVs, sedans, and trucks; It works with or without roof racks, making it a versatile car top carrier or roof rack storage solution for any car roof system
- Generous Storage Space: Based on 46 inches long, 34 inches wide, 17 inches high, with 15.3 cubic feet of storage, this roof top cargo carrier is perfect for family vacations, cross-country trips and camping activity
- Quick Installation: The iBirdie car top carrier is easy to install with heavy-duty straps and anti-slip mats to protect your vehicle's paint; It folds compactly for storage when not in use, making it the perfect cargo bag for top of car trips
- Safe Use: Reinforced buckles and secure straps keep the cargo bag firmly in place, while the included anti-slip mat ensures stability; Everything you need for a safe, steady drive is provided
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Roof Box for Your Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is built for adventure. However, even the most spacious SUV runs out of room when you pack for a long camping trip or a ski weekend. A roof box expands your storage capacity instantly. It keeps your gear dry, secure, and out of your main cabin. Follow this guide to find the perfect match for your vehicle.
Key Features to Look For
Before you buy, check the mounting system. Most modern boxes use “quick-mount” hardware that clamps onto your existing crossbars without tools. You should also look for “dual-side opening.” This feature lets you access your gear from either side of the car, which makes loading much easier. Finally, check the locking mechanism. High-quality boxes include central locking systems that ensure the lid is fully closed before you can remove the key.
Important Materials
Most roof boxes use high-density plastics like ABS or polycarbonate. These materials are lightweight but very strong. They can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh sunlight without cracking. Some premium models use reinforced plastic to reduce “flex” when driving at high speeds. Avoid cheap, thin plastics, as they can become brittle over time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Aerodynamics play a huge role in quality. A box with a sleek, low-profile shape will cut through the wind better than a boxy design. This reduces road noise and saves you money on gas. Quality is also determined by the hinge system. A smooth, spring-loaded hinge makes opening and closing the box effortless. Conversely, poor-quality hinges can rust or fail after a few seasons of heavy use. Always check the weather sealing as well; a good box should have a rubber gasket to keep rain and dust away from your belongings.
User Experience and Use Cases
Roof boxes are perfect for bulky, lightweight items. Think sleeping bags, tents, pillows, and skis. Keep in mind that a full box changes the height of your car. Always measure your total height before entering a parking garage or a drive-thru. Most Outback owners find that a medium-to-large box fits the roof dimensions perfectly without hanging over the windshield.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will a roof box fit on my factory Subaru crossbars?
A: Yes, most universal roof boxes are designed to fit the factory crossbars found on the Outback.
Q: Does a roof box affect my gas mileage?
A: Yes, adding a box increases wind resistance. You will likely notice a small drop in your fuel economy.
Q: Can I install the box by myself?
A: You can, but it is much easier with two people. The boxes are bulky and awkward to lift alone.
Q: How much weight can I put in the box?
A: Most boxes hold 110 to 165 pounds. Always check your Subaru’s roof load limit, too.
Q: Are roof boxes waterproof?
A: Most are weather-resistant. They keep gear dry in heavy rain, but they are not fully submersible.
Q: Should I remove the box when I am not using it?
A: Removing it will save you money on gas and reduce wind noise. Keep it on only when you need the extra space.
Q: Will the box block my panoramic sunroof?
A: It won’t block it, but you will see the bottom of the box when the shade is open.
Q: Is the box secure from theft?
A: Yes, almost all roof boxes come with keyed locks to keep your gear safe.
Q: What is the best size for a Subaru Outback?
A: A medium or long box is usually best. It offers plenty of space without hitting the rear hatch when it opens.
Q: Do I need to clean the roof box?
A: A simple wash with soap and water once a year keeps the plastic in good condition.