How to choose the right roof box

A roof box is one of the easiest ways to add usable storage without filling the boot or back seat. The right choice usually comes down to what you carry, how often you use it, your vehicle size, and whether you need room for skis or snowboards.

This guide helps you compare roof box sizes, clearance, storage capacity and use cases before heading through to the full roof box range.

Compare roof box sizes

  • Medium Roof Boxes

    Best for smaller cars, day trips, extra bags and everyday storage without adding too much length or height.

    View Medium Roof Boxes 

  • Large Roof Boxes

    A good all-round size for family trips, weekends away and general luggage without going too bulky.

    View Large Roof Boxes 

  • XL & XXL Roof Boxes

    Better for longer trips, ski gear, camping gear and families needing maximum storage space.

    View XL Roof Boxes 

Quick roof box size guide

If you're looking for a simple starting point, check out the guide below. The right roof box still depends on your vehicle, roof rack position, hatch clearance and what you are carrying, but this gives you a good place to start.

Roof box size Best suited to Common uses
Small Compact cars, hatchbacks and smaller SUVs Weekend bags, jackets, light travel gear, extra boot space
Sport Vehicles needing a longer, narrower roof box Sports gear, skis, snowboards and travel gear, with room for another accessory
Medium Wagons, compact SUVs and mid-size SUVs Family trips, soft luggage, camping gear, snow gear
Large Mid-size SUVs, large wagons and family vehicles Longer trips, prams, soft bags, skis, snowboards and bulky gear
XL / XXL Large SUVs, utes, vans and bigger family vehicles Ski trips, camping, longer holidays and maximum storage
Low-profile / alpine Larger vehicles with enough roof length Skis, snowboards and lower-height setups
Thule Motion3 Roof Box

Choosing a roof box for ski trips

If you’re carrying skis or snowboards, internal length matters more than litre capacity alone. Longer roof boxes are usually better for snow trips, especially if you’re packing skis, boots, helmets and soft bags.

Read the Snow Trip Guide →

Popular Roof Boxes

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Popular vehicles for roof boxes

Roof Box Buying Guide

Common roof box questions

What size roof box do I need?

For everyday luggage and weekend trips, a medium roof box is usually enough. For ski trips, family holidays or bulky camping gear, a large or XL roof box is often the better option.

Can roof boxes carry skis and snowboards?

Yes, but check the internal length of the roof box before buying. Litre capacity tells you how much volume it has, but internal length determines whether longer skis or snowboards will fit.

Will a roof box stop my boot or hatch opening?

It can, depending on the vehicle, roof rack position and roof box length. Adjustable mounting points help move the box forward or back to improve hatch clearance. Check out our Roof box hatch clearance guide

Do I need roof racks for a roof box?

Yes. Roof boxes mount to crossbars, so you’ll need a compatible roof rack system fitted to your vehicle before installing a roof box.

Image of a Thule Motion3 XL Low Gloss Black Roof box, mounted on a set of Thule WingBar Edge Roof Racks with a snowy backdrop

Will a roof box block your hatch?

On SUVs, wagons and hatchbacks, roof box position and rear overhang can affect whether the tailgate opens fully. Adjustable roof boxes and the right crossbar position can make a big difference.

Read the Hatch Clearance Guide →

Helpful roof box links

Shop all roof boxes
Thule roof boxes
Rhino-Rack roof boxes
Roof box hatch clearance guide
Roof rack buying guide

About Stoke Equipment Co.

We’re a Kiwi-owned roof rack store, based in Nelson. We stock secure and reliable cargo solutions from Thule and Rhino-Rack — with fitment help from people who actually use the gear.
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