Best Thule Roof Mount Roof Cargo Boxes: 3 Spec-Based Picks

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You want side access for loading gear Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box Its dual-side opening allows you to load items from the side of the vehicle.
• You need maximum cargo capacity for large families Thule Motion 3 XXL Roof Box The XXL size and 95-inch length provide the largest volume on this list.
• You have standard crossbars and need flexible storage Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Bag This soft-sided bag fits irregularly shaped gear and weighs only 5.5 pounds.

Our 3 picks

1 Best overall

Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box

Best for: side access and secure tool-free mounting

Mount Type

Roof Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

16 cu ft (450 L)

Shell Type

ASA-ABS plastic

Opening

Dual-side

Load Capacity

75 kg

Water Resistance

Weather-resistant

View on Amazon: Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box Affiliate link

The Thule Pulse 2 L is a large, dual-side opening roof box with 16 cubic feet of capacity. Its streamlined 81 x 17 x 37 inch shell fits modern vehicles and resists weather with ASA-ABS plastic. It supports up to 75 kg and installs tool-free. This carrier suits commuters and weekend travelers who need easy access from either side of their car.

Pros

• Dual-side opening for easy access from either side of the vehicle
• 16 cubic feet (450 litres) of cargo space
• 75 kg load capacity for luggage and gear
• Tool-free installation with a torque indicator click
• ASA-ABS plastic shell resists sun, scratches, and weather

Cons

• 16 cubic feet capacity is smaller than the 21 cubic feet of the Motion 3 XXL
• Larger dimensions may not fit compact vehicles
• No mention of a remote or app for monitoring

Good fit if

• You need to access gear from the curb side of a parked car
• You carry skis, snowboards, or large luggage regularly
• You want a tool-free installation with a secure click indicator

Skip if

• You require more than 16 cubic feet of storage
• You drive a compact car with a small roof
• You prefer a soft-sided carrier like the Interstate

Verdict: Thule Pulse 2 L Dual-Side 16 cu ft is a practical choice for drivers who value side access and secure tool-free mounting over maximum volume.

2 Best budget

Thule Motion 3 XXL Roof Box

Best for: maximum cargo capacity and fuel efficiency

Mount Type

Roof Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

21 Cubic Feet

Security

SlideLock system

Installation

PowerClick quick-mount system

Dimensions

95 x 40 x 20 inches

Weight

77 pounds

View on Amazon: Thule Motion 3 XXL Roof Box Affiliate link

The Thule Motion 3 XXL offers 21 cubic feet of storage in an XX-Large footprint. Its 95 x 40 x 20 inch dimensions fit most roof racks via the PowerClick quick-mount system. The wing-shaped profile reduces drag for better fuel efficiency. You get a one-handed wide handle and SlideLock security. This box suits families needing maximum cargo space without excessive height.

Pros

• 21 cubic feet capacity for large loads
• PowerClick system with torque indicator for secure mounting
• Wing-shaped profile reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency
• SlideLock system automatically locks lid when closed

Cons

• 77-pound weight adds significant load to your vehicle
• 95-inch length may not fit smaller roof racks
• No mention of included interior lighting or liner

Good fit if

• You need the largest Thule capacity for gear
• You have a roof rack that supports 95-inch lengths
• You want a low-profile design to maintain fuel economy

Skip if

• You have a small SUV with limited roof space
• You prefer a lighter box for easier handling
• You need a box under 20 cubic feet

Verdict: Thule Motion 3 XXL Roof Box provides maximum volume for large families. It fits buyers who prioritize capacity and aerodynamic efficiency over compact size.

3 Best one size

Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Bag

Best for: Flexible storage on standard crossbars

Mount Type

Roof Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

16 cu ft

Shell Type

Soft bag

Opening

Coated 3-sided zipper

Water Resistance

Weather-resistant

Installation

Webbing straps

View on Amazon: Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Bag Affiliate link

The Thule Interstate is a 16 cubic foot rooftop cargo bag. It measures 40 x 38 x 18 inches and weighs 5.5 pounds. This one-size carrier uses a padded base to protect your vehicle. A three-sided zipper allows easy access to your gear. Large storm flaps help keep items dry. It secures to crossbars with heavy-duty straps. You should choose this if you need flexible storage that folds for compact saving.

Pros

• 16 cu ft storage capacity
• Padded base protects vehicle
• 3-sided zipper for access
• Folds for compact storage

Cons

• Weather-resistant, not waterproof
• One size fits all
• Soft bag offers no rigid protection

Good fit if

• You need extra space for bulky items
• You want a bag that folds small
• You have standard roof crossbars

Skip if

• You need waterproof protection
• You want a hard shell
• You have a wide SUV roof

Verdict: Thule Interstate 16 cu ft Cargo Bag is a flexible soft-sided option for drivers who prioritize compact storage and easy access over rigid protection. It suits those with standard crossbars who need to haul irregularly shaped gear.

Specifications side by side

Key Specs for Choosing Your Roof Box

1. Check the shell type

   Decide between a rigid hard shell or a flexible soft bag. Hard shells like the Thule Pulse 2 L protect gear from weather and impact. The Thule Motion 3 XXL also uses a rigid design for durability. Soft bags like the Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Bag conform to irregular shapes. Choose a soft bag if you need to store bulky items that do not fit in a rigid container. The bag weighs only 5.5 pounds, making it easy to handle when not in use.

2. Compare cargo capacity

   Volume determines how much gear you can transport. The Thule Motion 3 XXL offers the largest capacity with an XX-Large size. Its 95-inch length and 40-inch width create a massive footprint for family trips. The Thule Pulse 2 L provides 16 cubic feet of space. This size suits drivers who need ample room without excessive length. Consider your typical load size. If you haul large suitcases, the XXL model is necessary. For smaller loads, the Pulse 2 L is sufficient.

3. Evaluate opening style

   Access method affects convenience during loading. The Thule Pulse 2 L features a dual-side opening. This allows you to load items from either side of the vehicle. It is useful if you park in tight spaces. Most other boxes open only from the top. Top loading requires you to lift items over the roof. Side access simplifies the process. Check the product attributes for opening type. If you frequently load heavy or awkward items, side access saves time and effort.

4. Measure vehicle dimensions

   Ensure the box fits your car and roof bars. The Thule Pulse 2 L is 81 inches long and 17 inches wide. This compact length fits most sedans and small SUVs. The Thule Motion 3 XXL is 95 inches long. It requires a larger vehicle and wider roof rack spacing. Measure your vehicle length and roof bar width before buying. A box that is too long may obstruct rear visibility. A box that is too wide may not fit your crossbars. Always verify these measurements against your vehicle specs.

5. Review weight limits

   Check the weight of the box itself and your vehicle limits. The Thule Interstate Cargo Bag weighs only 5.5 pounds. The Thule Motion 3 XXL weighs 77 pounds. Your vehicle has a maximum roof load capacity. Subtract the box weight from this limit to find your remaining cargo allowance. A heavy box reduces the amount of gear you can carry. Lighter bags offer more flexibility for weight-sensitive vehicles. Always stay within the manufacturer's specified weight limits for safety.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• thule vs yakima roof cargo box
• thule vs sailnovo roof cargo box
• best thule strollers
• best box fans