Looking Beyond the Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box offers 9 cubic feet of hard-shell storage with a 99 lb load capacity. It mounts to your hitch and sits low for easy loading. This design helps you keep bicycles on your rack while carrying extra gear. However, you might need more volume, a roof mount, or a different brand. These thule santu hitch cargo box alternatives provide overlapping specs for varied needs. We selected options that share key features like hitch or roof mounting and comparable storage volumes.
The list includes six carriers that match the Santu’s utility in different ways. Some offer larger cubic footage for bigger trips. Others use roof racks instead of hitches to clear the rear bumper. You can find soft-shell baskets for heavy loads or hard-shell boxes for better weather protection. Each option has specific dimensions and weight limits. You can compare these numbers to find the right fit for your vehicle. The goal is to help you choose based on your exact cargo requirements rather than brand loyalty.
Key differences from the Santu
Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box
The Thule Motion 3 XL shifts storage from the hitch to the roof, offering 18 cubic feet of space compared to the Santu’s 9 cubic feet. This double capacity suits families carrying winter sports gear or large luggage loads. It mounts to roof racks rather than a hitch receiver, which changes your vehicle’s ground clearance and aerodynamics. The X-Large size requires compatible roof crossbars for installation. You gain significant internal volume but lose the low-loading convenience of the Santu. This option is best if you prioritize maximum storage capacity over easy ground-level access.
HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket
The HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier provides 16 cubic feet of capacity, nearly double the Santu’s volume, while maintaining a hitch-mounted design. It features a soft-shell basket construction rather than a hard shell, offering 500 lbs of load capacity instead of 99 lbs. This makes it suitable for heavy, durable items rather than delicate cargo. The foldable design allows for compact storage when not in use. You trade the security and weather protection of a hard shell for higher weight limits and flexible loading options. This carrier is ideal for users hauling heavy, non-fragile gear who need hitch-mounted convenience.
Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box
The Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box offers 84.8 inches in length, significantly longer than the Santu’s 59.1 inches. It provides XL regular size storage on your roof rack rather than your hitch. The dual-side access allows you to load cargo from either side of the vehicle, a feature the Santu does not offer. Weighing 65 pounds, it is heavier than the Santu’s 33.1 pounds. This model suits drivers needing maximum roof rack storage for long items. You sacrifice the low-loading ease of the hitch mount for greater length and versatile access points on your roof.
Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag
The Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag provides 30 cubic feet of capacity, more than three times the Santu’s volume. It uses a soft-shell design with waterproof material rather than a hard shell. The carrier mounts to your hitch and measures 60 inches in length and 24 inches in width. Weighing only 20 pounds, it is lighter than the Santu. This option suits travelers hauling soft camping gear and luggage who prioritize waterproofing and organization over rigid protection. You gain substantial space and lower weight but lose the structural security and weather resistance of a hard-shell enclosure.
Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG
The Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG offers 18 cubic feet of roof-mounted storage, double the Santu’s capacity. It features dual-sided access for loading from either side of the vehicle. The box measures 84 inches in length and 36 inches in width, providing a large footprint on your roof rack. It weighs 53 pounds, which is heavier than the Santu. This model is lockable for security. It suits drivers who need secure, medium-sized vehicle storage for winter sports gear. You trade the low-loading convenience of the hitch mount for greater volume and side-access flexibility on your roof.
Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Cargo Box
The Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Box provides 26 cubic feet of storage, nearly triple the Santu’s volume. It mounts to your roof rack and features dual-side opening for access from both sides. The hard shell construction offers 150 lbs of load capacity, exceeding the Santu’s 99 lbs. It measures 87.2 inches in length and weighs 52.7 pounds. This model suits families or travelers with large gear loads who need maximum storage volume. You gain significant space and side access but lose the low-loading ease of the Santu’s hitch-mounted design. The larger footprint requires compatible roof crossbars.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box
Best for: Thule bike carrier owners needing extra cargo
- Capacity
- 9 Cu Ft
- Shell Type
- Hard-shell
- Load Capacity
- 99 lb
- Dimensions
- 59.1 x 26.6 x 22 in
- Size
- One Size
- Mount Type
- Hitch Mount
The Thule Santu is a 9 cubic foot hitch-mounted cargo box designed for Thule Epos and EasyFold XT bike carriers. It weighs 33.1 pounds and holds up to 99 pounds. The hard-shell design includes wheels and a grab handle for rolling. Its low profile sits close to the ground. This setup helps you carry gear while keeping your bikes on the rack.
Pros
- 9 cubic foot internal volume
- 99 lb load capacity
- Compatible with Thule Epos and EasyFold XT
- Rolling wheels and grab handle for easy transport
- Hard-shell construction
Cons
- 9 cubic foot capacity is smaller than standard roof boxes
- 99 lb load limit is lower than many hitch carriers
- Requires specific Thule bike carriers for mounting
Good fit if
- You own a Thule Epos or EasyFold XT bike carrier
- You need extra storage without removing your bikes
- You prefer a low-profile box that is easy to load
Skip if
- You do not have a compatible Thule bike rack
- You need more than 9 cubic feet of space
- You require a universal hitch mount without a bike carrier
Verdict: Thule Santu 9 Cu Ft Hitch Box is a specialized accessory for Thule bike carrier owners. It adds cargo space without removing your bicycles. It fits buyers who want to keep their bikes on the rack while carrying extra gear.
Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box
Best for: roof storage for winter sports gear
- Capacity
- 18 cu ft
- Load Capacity
- 165 lbs
- Security
- Slide lock
- Installation
- PowerClick quick-mount
- Vehicle Compatibility
- Select Thule rack systems
- Dimensions
- 84.7 x 35 x 17 in
This Thule rooftop cargo box offers 18 cubic feet of storage and a 165-pound load capacity. Its PowerClick quick-mount system includes a torque indicator for secure installation. The aerodynamic wing shape helps reduce drag. You get separate locking and opening functions via the SlideLock system. It fits 5–7 pairs of skis or 3–5 snowboards. This unit is designed for roof racks, not hitch mounts.
Pros
- 18 cubic feet internal capacity
- 165-pound load capacity
- PowerClick quick-mount with torque indicator
- Separate locking and opening functions
Cons
- Requires roof rack crossbars for installation
- 84.7-inch length may overhang smaller vehicles
- Not a hitch-mounted carrier
Good fit if
- You need high-volume storage for ski trips
- You prefer quick installation with torque feedback
- You have compatible roof rack crossbars
Skip if
- You want a hitch-mounted carrier
- Your vehicle has low ground clearance
- You need to carry heavy loads over 165 lbs
Verdict: Thule Motion 3 XL 18 Cu Ft is a spacious roof carrier for families needing ample gear space. It suits drivers with roof racks who prioritize secure, quick mounting and aerodynamic efficiency.
HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket
Best for: Heavy loads up to 500 lbs
- Capacity
- 16 cu. ft. (cargo bag)
- Shell Type
- Soft shell (cargo bag)
- Load Capacity
- 500 lbs
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof (cargo bag)
- Installation
- Fits 2" hitch receiver
- Vehicle Compatibility
- SUVs, trucks, vans with 2" receiver
View on Amazon: HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket
This hitch-mounted basket offers 16 cubic feet of storage inside a waterproof soft-shell bag. It supports up to 500 lbs and fits standard 2-inch receivers. The design folds flat for easy storage when not in use. You get a complete set with straps and a stabilizer. It suits those needing heavy-duty rear transport for bulky items like camping gear or tools.
Pros
- 500 lbs load capacity
- 16 cu. ft. waterproof cargo bag
- Fits 2-inch hitch receivers
- Folds flat for storage
- Includes hitch stabilizer
Cons
- Soft-shell bag offers less protection than hard plastic
- Basket dimensions are narrow (20 inches wide)
- No integrated locking mechanism for the basket
Good fit if
- You need to haul heavy items up to 500 lbs
- You want a carrier that folds for compact storage
- You prefer a waterproof soft-shell over a hard box
Skip if
- You require a hard-shell enclosure for maximum security
- You need a wider platform for large items
- You prefer a permanent roof-mounted solution
Verdict: HubPax 60" Hitch Cargo Carrier provides substantial 500-lb capacity in a foldable design. It is the right choice for users prioritizing heavy load handling and waterproof soft-shell protection over rigid enclosure security.
Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box
Best for: maximizing roof rack storage capacity
- Opening
- Dual side
- Security
- SlideLock system
- Installation
- Quick mount system with click indicator
- Dimensions
- 84.8 x 34.1 x 18.5 inches
- Weight
- 65 pounds
The Thule Force 3 XL is a roof-mounted cargo box measuring 84.8 inches long, 34.1 inches wide, and 18.5 inches high. It weighs 65 pounds and features dual-side opening for easy access from either side of your vehicle. The SlideLock system secures the lid with an audible click. This model suits drivers needing substantial storage volume without sacrificing aerodynamic profile.
Pros
- Dual-side opening for convenient access
- SlideLock system with secure click indicator
- Aerodynamic XL Regular design
- Durable construction tested in Thule Test Center
Cons
- 65-pound weight adds significant roof load
- 18.5-inch height may limit garage clearance
- No integrated LED lighting mentioned in specs
Good fit if
- You need dual-side access for tight parking spots
- You require a high-capacity box for long trips
- You prefer a secure locking mechanism with visual feedback
Skip if
- You have low garage ceilings under 19 inches
- You need a hitch-mounted carrier instead
- You prioritize lightweight materials over durability
Verdict: Thule Force 3 XL delivers reliable, high-volume storage with convenient dual-side access. It fits families needing maximum cargo space on roof racks.
Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag
Best for: Hauling soft camping gear and luggage
- Capacity
- 30 cu ft
- Shell Type
- Soft shell
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- Combo lock
- Installation
- 3 heavy-duty buckle straps
- Dimensions
- 60 x 24 x 36 inches
This hitch-mounted soft shell bag offers 30 cubic feet of storage. It measures 60 by 24 by 36 inches and weighs 20 pounds. The waterproof vinyl construction includes a protective flap and reinforced seams. You get six included packing cubes for organization. Three heavy-duty buckle straps secure the load. A combo lock adds security for your gear during travel.
Pros
- 30 cubic feet of capacity
- Waterproof vinyl shell with reinforced seams
- Includes six packing cubes
- Combo lock for security
Cons
- Soft shell offers less protection than hard cases
- No rigid structure to support heavy loads
- Buckle straps may loosen on rough roads
Good fit if
- You need extra storage for soft items like tents
- You want to organize gear with packing cubes
- You prefer a foldable carrier for compact storage
Skip if
- You require rigid protection for fragile items
- You need to carry heavy, dense equipment
- You prefer a hard shell design
Verdict: Mockins 30 CuFt Hitch Cargo Carrier is a practical solution for hauling soft gear like camping equipment. It suits travelers who value organization and waterproofing over rigid protection.
Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG
Best for: Dual-sided access for winter sports gear
- Capacity
- 18 cu ft
- Opening
- Dual-sided
- Security
- SKS lock, full metal opening handle
- Dimensions
- 84 x 36 x 16.5 in
- Recommended Use
- Snowboards and skis up to 195cm
- Mount Type
- Roof Mount
The Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG offers 18 cubic feet of roof storage with dual-sided access. Its 84-inch length and 36-inch width fit most vehicles, while the 16.5-inch height maintains a low profile. The SKS lock secures gear and the box to your car. This carrier suits those carrying skis or snowboards up to 195cm who need easy loading from either side of the vehicle.
Pros
- 18 cubic feet of internal capacity
- Dual-sided opening for flexible access
- SKS lock secures contents and box
- Full metal opening handle for durability
- Fits snowboards and skis up to 195cm
Cons
- 53-pound weight adds significant roof load
- 84-inch length may overhang smaller vehicles
- Roof mount requires crossbars for installation
Good fit if
- You need to load gear from the passenger side
- You transport skis or snowboards up to 195cm
- You want a lockable roof box with high security
Skip if
- You have a small car with limited roof space
- You prefer a hitch-mounted carrier for ground-level access
- You need a capacity larger than 18 cubic feet
Verdict: The Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG fits drivers who prioritize secure, dual-sided access for winter sports gear on a roof rack. It is a solid choice for medium-sized vehicles needing 18 cubic feet of storage.
Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Cargo Box
Best for: Large gear loads and side access
- Capacity
- 26 Cu Ft
- Shell Type
- ABS+PC composite
- Opening
- dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 150 lbs
- Water Resistance
- protects from rain, snow, dust, UV
- Security
- central locking system
View on Amazon: Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Cargo Box
This hard shell roof box offers 26 cubic feet of storage and a 150 lb load capacity. It features dual-side opening for easy access from either side of your vehicle. The ABS+PC composite shell is designed to withstand rain, snow, and UV rays. Tool-free installation fits most factory roof racks. It is a practical option for you if you need extra large capacity and flexible loading access.
Pros
- 26 cubic feet internal capacity
- 150 lb load capacity
- Dual-side opening design
- Tool-free assembly system
- ABS+PC composite shell
Cons
- 52.7 lb weight
- 87.2 inch length
- No specific aerodynamic drag rating listed
Good fit if
- You need extra large storage capacity
- You park in tight spaces requiring side access
- You have roof racks with round, square, or aerodynamic bars
Skip if
- You have a roof rack with low weight limits below 150 lbs
- Your vehicle roof cannot support a 52.7 lb box
- You need a box shorter than 87.2 inches
Verdict: Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Box fits you if you prioritize maximum storage volume and the ability to load from both sides of your vehicle. It is best for families or travelers with large gear loads.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box | Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box | HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket | Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box | Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag | Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG | Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Cargo Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 9 Cu Ft | 18 cu ft | 16 cu. ft. (cargo bag) | not specified | 30 cu ft | 18 cu ft | 26 Cu Ft |
| Shell Type | Hard-shell | not specified | Soft shell (cargo bag) | not specified | Soft shell | not specified | ABS+PC composite |
| Opening | not specified | not specified | not specified | Dual side | not specified | Dual-sided | dual-side |
| Load Capacity | 99 lb | 165 lbs | 500 lbs | not specified | not specified | not specified | 150 lbs |
| Water Resistance | not specified | not specified | Waterproof (cargo bag) | not specified | Waterproof | not specified | protects from rain, snow, dust, UV |
| Security | not specified | Slide lock | not specified | SlideLock system | Combo lock | SKS lock, full metal opening handle | central locking system |
| Installation | not specified | PowerClick quick-mount | Fits 2" hitch receiver | Quick mount system with click indicator | 3 heavy-duty buckle straps | not specified | tool-free |
| Vehicle Compatibility | not specified | Select Thule rack systems | SUVs, trucks, vans with 2" receiver | not specified | not specified | not specified | round, square, and aerodynamic bars |
| Dimensions | 59.1 x 26.6 x 22 in | 84.7 x 35 x 17 in | 60"L x 20"W x 6"H (basket) | 84.8 x 34.1 x 18.5 inches | 60 x 24 x 36 inches | 84 x 36 x 16.5 in | 87.2 x 38.2 x 17.4 in |
| Recommended Use | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Snowboards and skis up to 195cm | not specified |
| Size | One Size | One Size | 16 Cubic feet | XL Regular | 30 Cu Ft - Black/Orange | NX 18 | 26 Cu Ft Extra Large Black |
| Mount Type | Hitch Mount | Roof Mount | Hitch Mount | not specified | Hitch Mount | Roof Mount | Roof Mount |
| Lockable | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Lockable | Lockable |
| Weight | 33.1 pounds | not specified | not specified | 65 pounds | 20 pounds | 53 pounds | 52.7 pounds |
| Color | Black | WHITE GLOSSY | not specified | Black | Black/Orange | Black | Black |
| Model | 909401 | 11500504 | BASKET | 645850 | MA-HB-30OR-60X24-PC-10 | 8007370 | Cargo Box 26 Cu Ft Black |
If your hitch setup carries cooking gear too, you can compare camp chef grill barbecue box alternatives by their dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the largest hitch cargo box available?
The Mockins 30 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier offers the highest volume in this group. It provides 30 cubic feet of storage space. This soft-shell bag mounts to your hitch receiver. It measures 60 inches long and 24 inches wide. This size suits travelers hauling soft camping gear or luggage.
Which cargo carrier handles the heaviest loads?
The HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket supports up to 500 pounds. This capacity exceeds most rigid boxes. It uses a foldable metal frame design. The basket includes waterproof soft-shell protection. This option fits users who prioritize heavy load handling over enclosed security.
Do any roof boxes allow access from both sides?
Yes, the Thule Force 3 XL and Yakima SkyBox NX 18 XLG feature dual-side access. The Thule model measures 84.8 inches long. The Yakima option is 84 inches long. Both allow you to load gear from either side of the vehicle. This feature is useful for parked cars in tight spaces.
Which hard shell roof box has the biggest capacity?
The Relaxcabine 26 Cu Ft Hard Shell Roof Box provides 26 cubic feet of space. It is an extra-large black model. The box measures 87.2 inches long and 38.2 inches wide. It supports a load capacity of 150 pounds. This rigid enclosure suits families with large gear loads.
Can I carry bikes and cargo at the same time?
The Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box is designed for this specific need. It adds 9 cubic feet of storage to your hitch. The low profile allows you to keep bicycles on your rack. You do not need to remove your bikes to use the cargo box. It is a specialized accessory for Thule bike carrier owners.
What is the lightest hitch cargo carrier listed?
The Mockins 30 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier weighs 20 pounds. This soft bag is lighter than most rigid boxes. The HubPax basket does not list a weight, but the Mockins is explicitly rated at 20 pounds. This low weight makes it easy to handle and store when not in use.
Which roof box is best for winter sports gear?
The Thule Motion 3 XL Roof Cargo Box is recommended for winter sports. It offers 18 cubic feet of space. This X-Large size fits bulky gear like skis or snowboards. It mounts to your roof rack. The aerodynamic design helps maintain fuel efficiency during travel.
How wide is the Thule Santu hitch box?
The Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box is 26.6 inches wide. It is 59.1 inches long and 22 inches high. The unit weighs 33.1 pounds. These dimensions allow it to fit standard hitch receivers. The compact width helps keep the vehicle narrow for garage storage.