Like most car owners, you probably use your vehicle to transport items, not just people, from one place to another. 

Whether you’re going on a road trip and need to bring your luggage and hobby gear along, or you have a lot of stuff to take home from the store, a roof rack can be a lifesaver. 

Unfortunately, roof racks can be expensive, especially if you need one specifically designed for your car. 

So why are roof racks so expensive? Let’s look at some of the factors contributing to this cost.

What Is A Roof Rack Used For? 

A roof rack is a device attached to a car’s roof (or SUV, crossover) and is used to carry items. Roof racks are a super-easy way to maximize your vehicle’s carrying capacity.

The most common use for a roof rack is to transport luggage, such as suitcases, backpacks, or camping gear. However, roof racks can also transport other large items, such as kayaks, bicycles, skis, and snowboards.

Related articles: 

• How to Pack a Roof Box For Your Next Road Trip
• Best Position For A Roof Box On A Car
• Essentials You Need To Pack On A Family Road Trip

How Much Do Roof Racks Cost?

Roof racks can range from as low as $30 to as high as $900, depending on materials, styles, brands, and add-on features.

Tyger Auto Heavy Duty Roof Rack

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AUXMART 48″ Roof Rack

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Mockins Roof Cargo Basket

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5 Reasons Why Roof Racks Are Expensive

There could be a lot of reasons why roof racks are so expensive. But after doing some research, we found five primary reasons: 

Reason #1: Able To Handle High Load Capacity

One of the main reasons roof racks are so expensive is because they must be able to hold up to the weight of heavy items like luggage, cargo box, camping gear, bikes, kayaks, etc.

Many roof racks in the market are designed to carry up to 75 kg (165 lbs). For instance, an oversized cargo box like the Thule Motion XT-XXL Rooftop Cargo Carrier weighs about 55 lbs. That’s quite heavy for a cargo box.

As for kayaks, a typical kayak will weigh between 20 and 80 pounds (9 to 36 kg). Although this might not seem like a lot when going camping and fishing in them, the weight of all that gear adds up quickly.

Reason #2: High-Quality Materials Used

Another reason why roof racks are expensive is that they are often made of high-quality and heavy-duty materials. For example, aluminum is the common material used in roof racks and is known for being very strong and durable. 

The material is rigorously tested during manufacturing to withstand hundreds of pounds of force without bending or deforming.

It also lasts more than 10 years and doesn’t get rusted when exposed to outside weather, which increases the cost of a roof rack.

Reason #3: Must Be Aerodynamic

Another reason why roof racks are so expensive is that they need to be aerodynamic. Since the racks stick out from the car, they can create drag and wind resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. 

What makes the difference between a cheap roof rack and an expensive roof rack is how streamlined the design is.

Cheaper racks are often bulkier and less aerodynamic, creating more wind resistance and drag. This can reduce your car’s fuel efficiency.

Additionally, to ensure that the rack is quiet, it has to be designed so that it doesn’t make loud, annoying noises as air moves over and around its components.

To combat this, manufacturers must ensure that their racks are as aerodynamic as possible, which drives up the cost. 

Reason #4: Must Be Safe To Use

Are car top carriers safe? Yes, they are.

Many top roof rack manufacturers like Thule and Yakima have their R&D to test and ensure their product is safe to use for users – that is us.

The roof racks have been rigorously tested to survive numerous crash tests, wear and tear simulations, extreme heat, cold, dampness, sunlight, and even harsh chemicals. [1]

All of this testing and development drives up the cost of the roof rack. But it is important to have peace of mind that your gear will be safe when driving cross country.

Reason #5: Practical And Easy To Use

Roof racks are practical, versatile, and easy to use, specifically those with crossbars. This type of roof rack provides the base with which you can mount any number of things to the top of your vehicle like:

• Roof boxes – Extra space for all your gear 
• Bike racks – Bring bikes of any kind – mount the bike rack quickly and easily
• Water Sport Racks – Mount racks for kayaks, surfboards, and SUP boards. 
• Winter Sport Racks – Skis and snowboards – get ready for action in minutes. 

In addition, roof racks must be universal so they can be mounted on any car, SUV, or crossover. Some roof racks have a built-in locking system on roof crossbars to prevent them from being stolen.

Roof racks are an innovative and creative way to carry extra items in the car. To achieve these goals, manufacturers have come up with thoughtful designs that can benefit users by providing them flexibility in terms of what they want and do.

Are Roof Racks A Good Investment?

One of the first questions that come to mind when considering purchasing a roof rack is whether or not it’s actually worth the investment. After all, these racks can be quite expensive. 

The roof rack is an invaluable addition to any vehicle. If you often need extra storage for road trips, it might seem like a bit of an investment initially, but the long-term value quickly makes up for this expense.

Don’t Use A Cheap Roof Rack!

You may be tempted to choose the cheapest option, but this could cost you more in the long run. A quality roof rack will last much longer and perform better than a cheap one.

One more thing, the expensive roof racks are quiet when you haven’t got anything on them. The cheap ones, quite apart from fit, quality, and durability issues, are noisy, so you have to take them off when you aren’t using them or be driven mad.

If you’re ready to purchase your first roof rack, come and check out all our cargo carrier reviews, where we examine the best type of roof rack to suit your vehicle.

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Why Are Roof Racks So Expensive? Is It Really Worth The Investment? appeared first on Family Road Trip.

The Volvo XC40 is a fabulous little family run-around car known for its spacious and comfortable seats in the compact SUV market. However, one of its shortfalls when it comes to family road-tripping is its limited trunk capacity.

A great way to expand your capacity in your Volvo XC40 is to install a roof box when you need to increase your carrying volume.

Not sure where to start? And, wondering what is the best roof box for Volvo XC40 in the market right now? You’re in the right place!

We’ve compiled a list of the top five rooftop boxes that will work great with your XC40.

As Amazon Associates, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases made on this page.

In A Hurry? Here’s The Best Roof Box For Volvo XC40

Our favorite choice is the Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier for its impressive safety features, ease of installation, durability, aerodynamics, and sleek design.

5 Volvo XC40 Roof Boxes Reviewed

What are the best roof boxes for the Volvo XC40? We take a look at 5 of the best models on the market.

Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier – Best Premium Cargo Box

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• Capacity: 16 cu ft
• Opening: Dual-Side Opening
• Weight Limit: 165 lbs
• Dimensions: 77 x 36 x 17 inches
• Item Weight: 42 lbs

This Motion XT roof box from Thule is the best storage solution for your Volvo XC40. It has many bells and whistles and features a security system to ensure all your belongings are safe along the journey.

It features a slide lock system that automatically locks the lid with a loud click, so you know it’s shut before the key comes out.

This durable cargo box is made of high-quality, long-lasting materials that will last for years. It can hold any heavy items up to a maximum of 165 lbs (please factor in the weight of crossbars).

The Motion XT is the only Thule cargo box model with two color options –  black and titan glossy. 

The glossy color of this cargo box will make your XC40 look even better and more distinctive. This glossy finish can be vulnerable to scuffs and scratches on the flip side.

Pros

• Sleek and aerodynamic design
• Nice locking system
• Perfect for everyday use
• It’s easy to set up

Cons

• A bit pricey
• Glossy color can easily get scratched

Click here to read more about this product!

Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, XX-Large – Biggest Cargo Box Option

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• Capacity: 22 cu ft
• Opening: Dual-Side Opening
• Weight Limit: 165 lbs
• Dimensions: 90.5 x 35.5 x 18.5 inches
• Item Weight: 52 lbs

This oversized cargo box will accommodate just about any size of your family’s stuff for coming road trips. It fits seamlessly if you have factory Volvo crossbars.

Take note that it is important to measure the distance from your open hatchback door to the middle of the front crossbar on the Volvo XC40. Make sure it’s about 55 inches.

This Thule Force XT looks beautiful in glossy black. It has an aerodynamic design to reduce noise and wind drag. 

It has a locking feature like many cargo carriers have, keeping your belongings safe when parked for extended periods. 

This cargo box measures 90.5 inches long so that you can carry any size of skis up to a maximum length of 215 cm.

The advantage of this vehicle’s oversized cargo box is that you can carry a lot. The downside? You may need extra hands to lift and install it onto the roof rack.

Pros

• Plenty of storage
• Reasonably priced compared to its size
• It’s made from high-quality materials
• Great design and looks sleek

Cons

• Lifting it onto the roof rack can be tricky due to its size
• It can be difficult to store when not in use

Read more about the Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box on Amazon.

Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Box, Alpine – Best For Skis And Snowboards

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• Capacity: 11 cu ft
• Opening: Passenger-side opening
• Weight Limit: 110 lbs
• External Dimensions: 88.5 x 25.5 x 12.5 inches
• Item Weight: 30 lbs

This Thule Pulse Cargo Box Alpine version is perfect if you’re looking for a way to protect your skis and snowboards during winter trips. 

The low-profile ski carrier can hold up to 9 pairs of skis, with a maximum length of 210 cm. Also, you can carry up to 3 snowboards.

It is made from the same ABS plastic materials used in other Thule cargo box lineups. This will protect your winter gears from damage caused by winter elements and road grime.

This cargo box is narrow in size, measuring only 25.5 inches wide, and won’t take much space on the Volvo XC40 rooftop. One of the advantages of it is that there will be less wind noise and wind drag.

The cargo box is perfect for carrying your skis and snowboard, but it might not work well if you need to carry other items regularly.

If you want to read more about this cargo box, click here!

Pros

• Can carry many pairs of skis
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Wind noise was very minimal

Cons

• Lack of space for oversized items like luggage
• Fairly expensive, considering what it can carry

SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box – Best Budget Option

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• Capacity: 18 cu ft
• Opening: Rear Side Opening
• Weight Limit: 100 lbs
• Dimensions: 63 x 38 x 19 inches
• Item Weight: 28 lbs

This SportRack Vista is the perfect storage solution if you’re on a budget. This product has been reviewed positively by many customers who were happy with its large size without paying an arm and a leg price tag.

It’s surprisingly lightweight and can easily hold up big items like your duffels, suitcase, or camping gear. Installation of this box is relatively easy by attaching the U-bolts to the crossbars.

While it is made from durable plastic, it is not as rigid as the Thule Motion XT. It can only carry a maximum weight of 100 lbs. So, keep in mind when packing your stuff, don’t overload. 

This SportRack Vista roof box opens from the rear side. Some people don’t like it because it can be difficult to reach the items in the back. On a positive note, the rear opening provides easy access away from traffic.

Pros

• Very roomy
• Inexpensive
• Very lightweight
• Easy to install

Cons

• The hinges are slightly weak
• The locking system could be better

Check out this product on Amazon!

Thule SideKick Rooftop Cargo Box – Best Value Volvo XC40 Cargo Box

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• Capacity: 8 cu ft
• Opening: Passenger side opening
• Weight Limit: 75 lbs
• Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 15.5 inches
• Item Weight: 19.85 lbs

The Thule Sidekick cargo box has been a popular choice for years. This latest version has minor updates that make it more appealing and still sells strong today.

If you don’t fancy all the bells and whistles like other cargo boxes, this cargo box is perfect for you. It is very compact but handy when you need extra room for small items.

This box is ideal for small loads like camping gear, backpacks, or golf clubs. You can’t carry skis and snowboards with this box. The locking system is very basic, but it gets the job done. 

Overall, the Thule SIdekick is very well-made, simple to install, and a perfect choice for an SUV vehicle like the Volvo XC40.

Pros

• Keeps everything dry
• Durable
• Very lightweight for better MPG

Cons

• Very small
• Fairly expensive considering its size

Click here to read more about this product!

Frequently Asked Questions on Cargo Boxes for Volvo XC40

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about the cargo box for Volvo XC40.

What Are The Best Roof Bars For Volvo XC40?

The spread between the roof rails of the XC40 is about 46 inches (1192mm). So, most aftermarket universal crossbars should fit this dimension. 

If you’re looking for roof bars for your cargo box, here are some recommendations for you to check out: 

• OMAC Cross Bar for Volvo XC40
• Amazon Basics Universal Cross Rail Roof Rack (52 inches)
• Universal Roof Rack Crossbars by StayThere (54”)

Final Thoughts on Volvo XC40 Roof Boxes

So, what’s the verdict? We believe that the Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier is the best option for those looking for a safe and reliable rooftop cargo carrier.

It’s easy to install, features impressive safety technology, and is made from high-quality materials that will withstand wear and tear. Plus, it looks great on your Volvo XC40! 

If you’re in the market for a rooftop cargo carrier, we highly recommend giving the Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier a try.

Happy traveling!

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Best Volvo XC40 Roof Box [Buyers Guide] appeared first on Family Road Trip.

So you just got yourself a Volvo XC40, and you want to increase your carrying capacity?

The Volvo XC40 is a fabulous compact SUV, but the trunk capacity of 20.7 cubic feet can be a little limiting when it comes to preparing for a family road trip.

The great news, though, the Volvo XC40 fitted with flush roof rails is the ideal vehicle for installing roof racks, helping you increase your cargo-carrying capacity.

If you’re in a hurry, our top recommendation for a roof rack to install on your Volvo XC40 is the Thule Wingbar Evo Crossbars. 

They look great on your car, incredibly strong and durable, yet still lightweight and easy to install. 

Let’s take a step back, though, and examine some of the important features to look for in an after-market roof rack and then give you our top six picks for the best racks for Volvo XC40.

• You may also want to check out the best roof box for Volvo XC40.

What To Consider When Selecting A Volvo XC40 Roof Rack?

Before you buy a new roof rack for any vehicle, here are some important things you should consider.

Aerodynamic Vs. Squarebar

When choosing a crossbar, you can choose aerodynamic and square bar designs. Aerodynamic bars are designed to reduce wind noise and drag, making them more efficient in noise and wind drag reduction.

Squarebar designs are more traditional and provide more stability but create more wind noise and drag.

• Tips to stop wind noise from the roof rack

Weight Capacity

Different roof racks have different weights, so choosing one that can handle the weight of whatever you carry is important.

For example, if you are carrying a kayak, you will need a roof rack with a higher weight limit than if you are only carrying a few pieces of camping gear.

Easy Installation

Some roof racks can be installed without tools, while others may require drilling. Make sure you are comfortable with the installation process before purchasing a rack. But worry not; all the products in this review can be installed without any tools.

Note that the Volvo XC40 is fitted with flush roof rails, where the cross bars of a roof rack are installed on an inner and outer grove.

Price

Finally, the price of the roof rack is an important consideration. Choose one that fits your budget without compromising quality or features. A premium crossbar may be a bit more expensive, but it will be worth the investment.

How We Evaluated These Roof Racks

When evaluating roof racks for Volvo XC40, we consulted manufacturer websites for details about each rack’s type, load capacity, size, and materials. In addition, we also considered reviews from thousands of users on Amazon. 

Hopefully, our picks here will help you choose the right one for your needs.

Best Roof Rack For Volvo XC40 Review

Every product has pros and cons. It’s up to you to decide what features or things that matter to you most.

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1. Thule Wingbar Evo Crossbars – Best Thule Roof Rack Volvo XC40

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Specifications:

• Type: Crossbar
• Size: 53”
• Material: Aluminum
• Maximum Load: 220 lbs
• Weight: 3.07 kg (6.75 lbs)
• Dimension: 50 x 3.15 x 1.15 inches

Thule is probably the most well-known brand on this list. After reading all the real owners’ feedback, we’d recommend this product as the best crossbar for your Volvo XC40 for several reasons.

This Thule Wingbar Evo crossbar easily kills the competition because they are excellent noise reducers thanks to its proven Thule’s WindDiffuser and TrailEdge technologies. 

Plus, it weighs only 6.75 pounds which is important because it can reduce the weight of a car and improve the overall gas mileage. 

This Wingbar is one of the most durable and robust crossbars. Made of durable aluminum material and has been reinforced to be able to haul any load up to a maximum of 220 pounds. 

However, we advise you not to maximize its load capacity because the limit weight of the Volvo XC40 roof rack can hold 165 pounds.

It is very easy to install and features the Upper T-track with QuickAccess interface, which lets you quickly install or remove other accessories.

Although we are annoyed by the high pricing, after looking at all the features and the quality it offers, we think this product justifies its price. Furthermore, these sleek and low-profile Thule Wingbar Evo Crossbars will last for years. 

Pros

• Wind noise reduction technology
• Better features
• Premium built quality
• Can haul the load up to 220 pounds

Cons

• Pricey
• Confusing installation instruction

Click here to see more photos of this product on Amazon.

2. YAKIMA JetStream Bar Aerodynamic Crossbars – Best Alternative To Thule Crossbar

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Specifications:

• Type: Crossbar
• Size: 50”
• Material: Aluminum
• Weight: 9 lbs
• Maximum Load: 165 lbs
• Dimension: 52.5 x 3.25 x 1 inches

If you are a big fan of Yakima products, this YAKIMA JetStream Bar Aerodynamic crossbars is the best option next to Thule Wingbar. 

Although its weight is about 2.5 pounds more heavy than the Thule Wingbar Evo, it has all the features that the Wingbar has, plus it’s slightly cheaper.

This teardrop shape crossbar can effectively minimize the wind noise and drag, thus ensuring a quiet driving experience.

Installing this roof rack is pretty easy. It features T-Slot attachments that work seamlessly with Yakima mounting systems and other compatible accessories.

The YAKIMA Jetstream crossbar is expensive but slightly cheaper than the Thule Wingbar. 

Overall, we like this sleek design crossbar and how it blends in with your Volvo XC40. Finally, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Pros

• Better look
• Very durable
• Work seamlessly with other accessories
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Pricey
• Slightly heavy

See more details about this roof rack on Amazon.

3. Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Cross Bar – Best Value Aero Crossbar

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Specifications:

• Type: Crossbar
• Size: 59”
• Material: Aluminum
• Weight: 4.5 lbs
• Maximum Load: 165 lbs
• Dimension: 61 x 9 x 5 inches

If you are pricing out both Thule and Yakima and looking for a cheap alternative yet excellent product, this Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero crossbar is the right one for you. If you don’t know, this brand is the most popular in Australia.

This low-profile crossbar has an elliptical shape design that reduces wind noise, although it’s not the best on this list. 

One thing you will appreciate is how lightweight it is. Weighing about 4.5 pounds will put less burden on your car rooftop. Although not significantly, it does improve the mpg.

This crossbar is also made of sturdy aluminum material and can haul your loads up to 165 pounds.

What we like about this product is although it is inexpensive, it equips with lockable cores security features to deter theft from stealing your roof racks.

This product comes with a 5-year warranty. So if you are looking for the cheapest and most durable aerodynamic crossbars for your Volvo XC40, this is the one you should consider.

Pros

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Good quality product for the price

Cons

• Sometimes there’s a whistling noise
• Rubber channel strips are sold separately

Find out more about this product on Amazon.

4. Thule SquareBar Crossbars – Best SquareBar For Volvo XC40

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Specifications:

• Type: Crossbar
• Size: 53”
• Weight: 8.2 lbs
• Material: Steel
• Maximum Load: 220 lbs
• Dimension: 53.15 x 1.97 x 0.2 inches

If you don’t fancy the Wingbar or aero bar, then this Thule Squarebar crossbars might be suited to your car. This classic crossbar from Thule is one of the popular options among Volvo XC40 owners.

The noise and wind drag reduction aren’t its plus points, being a square bar style. But it does what it does. This 8.2 pounds crossbar is made from a solid steel material with a plastic coating and has a maximum load capacity of 220.5 pounds.

However, one of the biggest cons of using steel material is that it can get rusty after exposure to the weather over time. The installation is relatively easy, but it doesn’t equip with T-Track for adaptability with other accessories.

In our opinion, the Thule Squarebar crossbars are a decent product but still practical for your XC40. It is nothing fancy but reliable roof rack that you can rely on for a road trip.

Pros

• High load capacity
• Solid and sturdy bar
• Good value for money

Cons

• Noticeable noise when on the road
• Many complaints about missing end caps

Click here to read what else the real owners have to say about this product.

5. Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack – Best Kayak Roof Rack for Volvo XC40

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Specifications:

• Type: Crossbar
• Size: 58”
• Material: Aluminum
• Weight: 10.9 lbs
• Maximum Load: 165 lbs
• Dimension: 60 x 6 x 4 inches

This 58-inch long crossbar is an ideal roof rack option for people who want to carry some large items like kayaks, canoes, and even bikes for road trips. As the width is slightly wider and protrudes over the roof rails, you have a more spacious area for those items. 

But, the tradeoff is that there will be noticeable wind noise even though it has an aerodynamic design. This AirFlow2 roof rack from Malone is made of aluminum material, weighs about 10.9 pounds, and has a weight limit of 165 pounds.

The installation of this roof rack is easy and doesn’t need any tools. The T-slots design feature enhances its practicality for attaching accessories like cargo baskets or boxes. Also, AirFlow2 has a built-in Allen wrench to tighten the attachments to your XC40.

The overall quality of this roof rack is good, but it’s hard to beat the fancier Thule and Yakima. Surprisingly it comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. So if you want more space and a sturdy and easy-to-use crossbar, this is the one you should have on your shopping list.

Pros

• Great for hauling large items
• Strong and sturdy
• Easy to install
• We love the adjustment tool is included

Cons

• Noticeable wind noise
• Still fairly expensive

Click here to check the latest pricing on Amazon.

6. CargoLoc Roof Top Crossbars – Best Budget Option

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Specifications:

• Type: Crossbar
• Size: 52”
• Material: Aluminum
• Weight: 8.6 lbs
• Maximum Load: 150 lbs
• Dimension: 3 x 52.5 x 5.75 inches

If you don’t want to spend much money, we recommend purchasing CargoLoc Roof Top crossbars since they are inexpensive and cost-effective for transporting goods on your next trip.

This crossbar has a very simple design and makes it very easy to install. In addition, it is equipped with a keyed locking mechanism to ensure the crossbars stay on the side rails after tightening the clamps.

The overall built quality of this roof rack is not as good as others on this list, but it can handle 150 pounds load with no issue. But, you don’t recommend using it to carry heavy items like bikes.

At first, we were skeptical about whether this product could survive a long trip. However, after reading some reviews, we were surprised about the durability of this product.

One of the owners said that the crossbars survived more than 3000 miles of a road trip from Florida to Washington without any issue, except one of the plastic ends was broken.

If you’re occasionally making road trips with a family and don’t carry some very heavy loads, then this product is worth it. Also, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Pros

• Very affordable
• Simple design
• Very easy to install
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Not as sturdy as the other crossbars
• It can’t handle a heavy item of more than 150 pounds.

Check the latest pricing on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Volvo XC40 Roof Racks

Here are some answers to questions related to Volvo XC40 roof racks.

Best Volvo XC40 Roof Rack

If you are looking for the best roof rack for your Volvo XC40, we recommend the Thule Wingbar Evo Crossbars. They are a little more expensive than other options but offer superior quality and performance. 

If you are on a budget, the CargoLoc Roof Top Crossbars is a good option and will get the job done without breaking the bank.

Whichever option you choose, properly measure your car’s roof dimensions before purchase to ensure compatibility.

Before you go, check out our related articles:

• The best roof box for Volvo XC90 reviewed

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Best Roof Rack For Volvo XC40 – Increase Your Carrying Capacity With Ease appeared first on Family Road Trip.

If you’re looking for the best roof box for your Volvo XC90, you’ve come to the right place.

A cargo box is not only used for maximizing your vehicle’s storage capacity but also makes for a stylish accessory on your XC90.

This blog post will look at the best roof boxes on the market. We’ve put in the research to make your decision easier. 

We’ve read many reviews, manuals, and manufacturers’ notes to ensure you’re getting the best cargo space solution for your needs.

As Amazon Associates, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases made on this page.

In A Hurry? Here’s The Best Roof Box For Volvo XC90

Our favorite choice is the Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier (see on Amazon) for its impressive safety features, ease of installation, durability, aerodynamics, and sleek design.

5 Volvo XC90 Roof Boxes Reviewed

What are the best roof boxes for the Volvo XC90? We take a look at 5 of the best models on the market.

Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier – Best Premium Cargo Box

Buy it on Amazon

• Capacity: 18 cu ft
• Opening: Dual-Side Opening
• Weight Limit: 165 lbs
• Dimensions: 84.5 x 36 x 17 inches
• Item Weight: 46 lbs

This Motion XT roof box from Thule is the best storage solution for your Volvo XC90. It has many bells and whistles features, particularly the security system, ensuring all your belongings are safe along the journey.

It features a slide lock system that automatically locks the lid with a loud click, so you know it’s shut before the key comes out.

This durable cargo box is made of high-quality, long-lasting materials that will last for years. It can hold any heavy items up to a maximum of 165 lbs (please factor in the weight of crossbars).

The Motion XT is the only Thule cargo box model with two color options –  black and titan glossy. 

The glossy color of this cargo box will make your XC90 look even better and more distinctive. But unfortunately, this glossy finish can be vulnerable to scuffs and scratches on the flip side.

Click here to read more about this product!

Pros

• Sleek and aerodynamic design
• Nice locking system
• Perfect for everyday use
• It’s easy to set up

Cons

• A bit pricey
• Glossy color can easily get scratched

Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, XX-Large – Biggest Cargo Box Option

Buy it on Amazon

• Capacity: 22 cu ft
• Opening: Dual-Side Opening
• Weight Limit: 165 lbs
• Dimensions: 90.5 x 35.5 x 18.5 inches
• Item Weight: 52 lbs

This oversized cargo box will accommodate just about any size of your family’s stuff for coming road trips. It fits seamlessly with your factory Volvo crossbars.

Please take note that it is crucial to measure the distance from your open hatchback door to the middle of the front crossbar on the Volvo XC90. Make sure it’s about 55 inches.

This Thule Force XT looks beautiful in glossy black. In addition, it has an aerodynamic design to reduce noise and wind drag. 

It has a locking feature like many cargo carriers have, keeping your belongings safe when parked for extended periods. 

This cargo box measures 90.5 inches long, which means you can carry any size of skis up to a maximum length of 215 cm.

The advantage of this vehicle’s oversized cargo box is that you can carry a lot. The downside? You may need extra hands to lift and install it onto the roof rack.

Read more about the Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box on Amazon.

Pros

• Plenty of storage
• Reasonably priced compared to its size
• It’s made from high-quality materials
• Great design and looks sleek

Cons

• Lifting it onto the roof rack can be tricky due to its size
• It can be not easy to store when not in use

Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Box, Alpine – Best For Skis And Snowboards

Buy it on Amazon

• Capacity: 11 cu ft
• Opening: Passenger-side opening
• Weight Limit: 110 lbs
• External Dimensions: 88.5 x 25.5 x 12.5 inches
• Item Weight: 30 lbs

This Thule Pulse Cargo Box Alpine version is perfect if you’re looking for a way to protect your skis and snowboards during winter trips. 

The low-profile ski carrier can hold up to 9 pairs of skis, with a maximum length of 210 cm. Also, you can carry up to 3 snowboards.

It is made from the same ABS plastic materials used in other Thule cargo box lineups. This will protect your winter gear from damage caused by winter elements and road grime.

This cargo box is narrow in size, measuring only 25.5 inches wide, and won’t take much space on the Volvo XC90 rooftop. One of its advantages is that there will be less wind noise and drag.

The cargo box is perfect for carrying your skis and snowboard, but it might not work well if you need to carry other items regularly.

If you want to read more about this cargo box, click here!

Pros

• Can carry many pairs of skis
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Wind noise was very minimal

Cons

• Lack of space for big items like luggage
• Fairly expensive considering what it can carry

SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box – Best Budget Option

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• Capacity: 18 cu ft
• Opening: Rear Side Opening
• Weight Limit: 100 lbs
• Dimensions: 63 x 38 x 19 inches
• Item Weight: 28 lbs

This SportRack Vista is the perfect storage solution if you’re on a budget. This product has been reviewed positively by many customers who were happy with its large size without paying an arm and a leg price tag.

It’s surprisingly lightweight and can easily hold up big items like your duffels, suitcase, or camping gear. Installation of this box is relatively easy by attaching the U-bolts to the crossbars.

While it is made from durable plastic, it is not as rigid as the Thule Motion XT. In addition, it can only carry a maximum weight of 100 lbs. So, keep in mind when packing your stuff, don’t overload. 

This SportRack Vista roof box opens from the rear side. Some people don’t like it because reaching the items in the back can be challenging. But, on a positive note, the rear opening provides easy access away from traffic.

Check out this product on Amazon!

Pros

• Very roomy
• Inexpensive
• Very lightweight
• Easy to install

Cons

• The hinges are slightly weak
• The locking system could be better

Thule SideKick Rooftop Cargo Box – Best Value