Simple Buyer's Guide to Roof Boxes
Find the Perfect Roof Box For You - Click Here
Size:
Roof Boxes tend to range from 300L to 610L.
The best way to visualise this is to use your cars boot which is also measured in litre's ( Information shown in you cars manual or can be found on Car.info )
Review the full range of current & past Thule Box dimensions - Here
As a general rule of thumb the larger the box the greater the cost.
| Size |
Gear |
What else could I get on the roof aswell ?* |
| Up to 400L |
Outdoor Equipment, Small Pushchairs, Small Luggage |
1 - 2 Bike Carriers |
| 400 - 500L |
Checked Luggage, Pushchairs, Travel Cots & Camping Kit |
1 - 2 Bike Carriers |
| 500L + |
Large Checked Luggage, Long Family Holidays.
|
1 Bike Carrier |
*Depending on the size of your cars roof but as a general rule of thumb
Types of Roof Box
There are lots of types or roof box & its worth considering the potential uses before reading on.
Small - Under 400L
Roof boxes for hatchbacks & smaller vehicles
Thule Ocean 80, Ocean 100 & Force XT S
Half Width
Perfect if your looking to carry bikes, water sports equipment or specialist roof tents as well (Thule Foothill)
Thule Ocean 600, Motion XT Sport, Force XT Sport
Ski Box
Designed to carry skis & snowboards safely
Thule Force XT Alpine, Motion XT Alpine, Vector Alpine
Large - Over 500L
Family holidays, camping, fishing & luggage
Thule Ocean 200, Thule Force XT XL, Motion XL, Motion XT XXL
Weight Capacity:
Check the weight capacity of the roof box to ensure it can handle the load you plan to carry.
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Material and Durability:
Look for roof boxes made from durable and weather-resistant materials, such as ABS plastic or fiberglass. This ensures protection against the elements and long-lasting use.
Mounting System:
There are 4 main roof box fittings to consider; U-Bolt, Quick Clamp, T-Track & Powerclick.
Look for roof boxes with secure locking mechanisms to protect your belongings. Some boxes offer central locking systems that secure all attachment points simultaneously. Central locking comes with the
Force, Motion & Vector Ranges
Aerodynamics and Noise:
Opt for a sleek and aerodynamic design to minimize wind resistance and reduce noise during travel. This not only improves fuel efficiency but also ensures a quieter ride.
Storage:
Check if the roof box is easy to store when not in use. As large items they can be difficult to store safely & without causing damage. Consider using a
Multilift to store in garage rafters & getting a
Box cover to protect from damage.
Waterproofing:
Ensure the roof box has effective seals and gaskets to keep your belongings dry in various weather conditions. Waterproofing is crucial to protect against rain, snow, and road spray.
Brand Reputation and Reviews:
Research and read customer reviews about the brand and specific model you are considering. A reputable brand with positive reviews often indicates a reliable product.
Warranty and Customer Support:
Look for roof boxes that come with a warranty, and consider the customer support offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty provides peace of mind, and reliable customer support can be valuable in case of issues.
.
All Thule Roof Boxes come with a 5 year warranty -
Details Here
Budget Consideration:
Set a budget based on your requirements. While cost is a factor, prioritize features and quality that align with your needs rather than solely focusing on the price.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing a roof box that best suits your travel and storage needs.
