ARKSEN Extra-Wide 42 Cubic Feet Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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In this arksen extra wide 42 cubic feet review, we look at a soft-sided cargo carrier designed for full-size vehicles. This roof bag offers 42 cubic feet of storage space, making it suitable for bulky travel gear. Its defining specs include a width of 48.4 inches and a length of 83.1 inches. The shell is constructed from 500D PVC tarpaulin, which provides weatherproof protection for your belongings. Weighing 20.8 pounds, it mounts securely to roof racks. This guide explains how these dimensions and materials affect your hauling needs.
What stands out
- 48.4-inch width accommodates more luggage than standard bags.
- 500D PVC tarpaulin shell offers sturdy, wear-resistant weatherproofing.
- Includes a combination lock for basic security.
- Comes with 12 reinforced straps and an anti-slip mat.
- Waterproof zippers are hidden under a protective flap.
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this bag if you have a full-size car or SUV with a wide roof rack. The 48.4-inch width allows you to carry more suitcases or bulky items like tents. It is ideal for travelers who need extra volume without switching to a hard shell. The included anti-slip mat helps keep your gear stable during transit. If you prioritize capacity and weather resistance over rigid protection, this soft carrier fits your setup.
Who should skip it
Skip this option if you need rigid protection for fragile items. Soft-sided bags cannot withstand impacts from road debris or falling objects like hard shells can. You might also look elsewhere if you require advanced security features beyond a basic combination lock. This carrier does not include GPS tracking or alarm systems. Additionally, if your roof rack has limited width, the 48.4-inch span may be too wide for safe installation on smaller vehicles.
Verdict: The ARKSEN Extra-Wide 42 cu ft Roof Bag provides high capacity and weather protection for wide roof racks. It is a practical choice for hauling large loads securely.
Key specs explained for this roof bag
Capacity: 42 cu ft
This volume allows you to store approximately 11 to 16 suitcases or several large tents. It provides ample room for family travel gear without requiring multiple trips. You should compare this capacity against rigid roof boxes, which often offer less internal space relative to their exterior footprint. This size suits buyers who prioritize maximum haul capacity over aerodynamic efficiency.
Dimensions: 83.07 x 48.43 x 18.11 in
The width of 48.43 inches makes this carrier extra-wide, allowing it to hold larger items that might not fit in standard carriers. The length of 83.07 inches requires careful measurement of your vehicle's roof rack crossbars. You must ensure your rack can support this length without overhang. This dimension is critical for full-size vehicles with wide rack spacing.
Shell Type: 500D PVC tarpaulin
This material is sturdy and wear-resistant, providing a durable outer layer against road debris and minor impacts. It is heavier than soft nylon bags but offers superior protection against punctures. You benefit from this durability if you frequently transport sharp or rough-edged items like camping gear. It is a practical choice for long-term outdoor use.
Water Resistance: weatherproof
The bag is designed to keep your cargo dry during rain and snow. It features water-proof zippers set under a flap to prevent leaks at the most vulnerable points. While not fully submersible, it protects against typical driving weather. You should still use waterproof bags for sensitive electronics. This spec ensures your luggage remains dry on most trips.
Security: combination lock
A combination lock is included to secure the main flap, deterring casual theft. You do not need to carry a separate key, reducing the risk of misplacing it. This feature adds a layer of peace of mind when parking in public areas. It is a standard security measure for soft-sided carriers, ensuring your belongings stay locked during transit.
Design and Build Details
According to the listing, this carrier uses 500D PVC tarpaulin for its shell. This material choice provides a sturdy, wear-resistant surface that resists fading due to added UV inhibitors. The black finish is standard for this model. The construction includes double-reinforced strap seams to prevent ripping during use. You get a weatherproof design with zippers set under a protective flap. This layout helps keep your cargo dry and clean during rain or snow. The anti-slip mat inside offers traction to keep bags from shifting or scratching your roof rack.
The dimensions are 83.07 inches long, 48.43 inches wide, and 18.11 inches high. This extra-wide profile allows for storing bulky items like 11 to 16 suitcases or large tents. The weight is 20.8 pounds, which you must account for when calculating your vehicle's roof load limit. The package includes 12 reinforced adjustable straps and heavy-duty buckles for a secure fit. You also receive eight door hook straps and a combination lock for security. A storage bag is included for off-season keeping. These specs indicate a focus on high-volume storage and weather protection for full-size vehicles.
Setup And Daily Use Guide
Setting up this roof bag requires no tools. The listing includes twelve reinforced adjustable straps and heavy-duty buckles for securing the unit. You place the bag on your roof rack crossbars. An anti-slip mat sits between the bag and your rack to prevent movement, scratching, or residue. This mat provides traction to keep your luggage stable during transit. The bag’s extra-wide design at 48.4 inches requires you to verify your roof rack width. The 83.1-inch length and 18.1-inch height fit most full-size vehicle racks. You must ensure your crossbars are compatible with soft-sided carriers. The included combination lock allows you to secure the main compartment. This feature adds a layer of security for your belongings. The zippers are waterproof and set under a protective flap. This design shields your cargo from rain and dust. You can store the bag in its included storage bag when not in use. The 500D PVC tarpaulin shell is durable and wear-resistant. UV inhibitors help prevent fading over time. The double-reinforced strap seams offer a rip-free design for reliable use. Eight door hook straps are included to assist with loading and unloading. You should follow the instruction manual for proper strap tension. Proper setup ensures the bag remains secure at highway speeds. The weatherproof construction keeps your items dry during wet conditions. This setup process is straightforward and does not require specialized knowledge. You simply need to align the bag and tighten the straps evenly.
Before you buy this roof bag
This soft-sided carrier fits vehicles with crossbars. You must verify your roof rack width matches the 48.4-inch span. The 83.1-inch length requires checking overhang limits. You should ensure your vehicle’s roof load capacity handles the 20.8-pound bag plus your cargo. The 42-cubic-foot volume is large, so you need to pack efficiently. This bag sits alongside rigid options in the 1 products reviewed here. Unlike hard shells, it folds flat for storage when not in use. You will need to clean the PVC tarpaulin periodically. Use mild soap and water to remove dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals that might degrade the UV inhibitors. The anti-slip mat helps keep the bag stable, but you should inspect straps for wear. This model suits travelers who need flexible, high-capacity storage. It is less aerodynamic than hard boxes. You should consider noise levels at highway speeds. The combination lock adds security. You must keep the lock and keys safe. This bag is a practical choice for occasional use.
Check before you buy
- Check if your roof rack width is at least 48.4 inches.
- Verify your vehicle's dynamic roof load limit can handle 20.8 pounds plus cargo.
- Ensure your crossbars are compatible with the included strap buckles.
- Confirm your garage space can store the folded 42 cu ft bag.
- Check if your vehicle height allows for the 18.1-inch bag height.
The product at a glance
ARKSEN Extra-Wide 42 cu ft Roof Bag
Best for: transporting large luggage volumes
- Capacity
- 42 cu ft
- Shell Type
- 500D PVC tarpaulin
- Water Resistance
- weatherproof
- Security
- combination lock
- Dimensions
- 83.07 x 48.43 x 18.11 in
- Vehicle Type
- Car
View on Amazon: ARKSEN Extra-Wide 42 cu ft Roof Bag Affiliate link
The ARKSEN 42 cubic foot roof bag provides ample storage for bulky travel gear. Its extra-wide 48.43-inch design fits most roof racks, holding up to 16 suitcases. The 500D PVC tarpaulin shell offers weatherproof protection with UV inhibitors. You get a combination lock and 12 reinforced straps for security. This soft carrier weighs 20.8 pounds and mounts directly to your vehicle roof.
Pros
- 42 cubic feet of high capacity
- Extra-wide 48.43-inch footprint
- 500D PVC tarpaulin shell
- Includes combination lock
- 12 reinforced adjustable straps
Cons
- 20.8-pound weight adds roof load
- Soft shell offers less impact protection than hard cases
- No integrated aerodynamic fairing
Good fit if
- You need to transport 11-16 suitcases
- You have a wide roof rack setup
- You want weatherproof soft-side storage
Skip if
- You require rigid hard-shell protection
- You prioritize minimal wind noise
- You have a narrow roof rack
Verdict: ARKSEN 42 Cu Ft Extra-Wide Roof Bag is ideal for families moving large luggage loads who prioritize volume over rigid protection. It fits wide racks well but adds significant weight to your roof.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ARKSEN Extra-Wide 42 cu ft Roof Bag |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 42 cu ft |
| Shell Type | 500D PVC tarpaulin |
| Water Resistance | weatherproof |
| Security | combination lock |
| Dimensions | 83.07 x 48.43 x 18.11 in |
| Vehicle Type | Car |
| Mount Type | Roof Mount |
| Lockable | Lockable |
| Weight | 20.8 pounds |
| Size | 42 Cu Ft |
| Color | Black |
Frequently asked questions
Does the ARKSEN 42 cu ft bag fit wide roof racks?
Yes, it is designed for wide racks. The listing specifies a width of 48.4 inches. This extra span allows it to accommodate larger crossbar setups common on SUVs and trucks. You should verify your rack width matches this dimension before purchasing.
How heavy is the empty ARKSEN roof bag?
The empty unit weighs 20.8 pounds. This added mass contributes to your vehicle’s total roof load. You must ensure your car’s roof capacity can handle both the bag’s weight and your cargo. Exceeding this limit can affect handling and safety.
Is the ARKSEN cargo carrier lockable?
Yes, the listing indicates it is lockable. This feature helps secure your belongings against theft while parked. You will likely need to provide your own lock or cable, as the data does not mention included locking mechanisms. This adds a layer of security for valuable items.
What are the overall dimensions of this roof bag?
The dimensions are 83.1 inches long, 48.4 inches wide, and 18.1 inches high. These measurements define the storage envelope. You should check these numbers against your vehicle’s roof space to ensure proper fit. The length may extend beyond your vehicle’s width if not centered.
Is this carrier suitable for transporting large luggage volumes?
Yes, it is best for transporting large luggage volumes. The 42 cubic feet capacity provides significant storage space. This makes it ideal for family trips or moving bulky items. You can fit multiple large suitcases or outdoor gear inside this soft-sided container.
Can I use this bag on a car with a roof rack?
Yes, it uses a roof mount type. The listing confirms it is designed for car vehicles with roof racks. You place it directly on crossbars. The included straps and anti-slip mat help secure it to the bars. Ensure your rack is sturdy enough to support the load.