Roof box and roof rack

How to choose a roof box and roof rack for your car

Roof boxes: capacity, dimensions and opening

Capacity is measured in litres and indicates the useful internal volume. The external dimensions, particularly the length, determine whether the box is compatible with your car's roof without protruding dangerously. The opening can be single-sided or double-sided: the latter allows access to the load from both sides of the vehicle, which is useful when parking close to a wall. Always check the height of the lid when open against your garage ceiling.

Mounting systems and bar compatibility

Almost all roof boxes and roof racks attach to the roof bars using quick-release or screw-in systems. The main standards on the market are Thule, Yakima, and universal systems compatible with T-shaped or rectangular bars. Before purchasing, check the profile of your bars and the maximum roof load permitted by the vehicle manufacturer.

Baskets and platforms: when to choose them

Roof baskets are the best choice for transporting bulky or irregularly shaped items, such as camping equipment, bags or work materials. Modular platforms — including those from Fabbri — attach to the towbar and transfer the weight to the rear of the vehicle rather than the roof, keeping the centre of gravity low. They are useful when the roof is already occupied or the vehicle does not have roof bars.

Kayak and surfboard carriers: what to consider

Kayak carriers are divided into stacker models (multiple kayaks stacked vertically), roller models for loading from the ground, and assisted-lift models. Thule and Yakima offer specific solutions for kayaks, canoes, surfboards or SUPs. Thule Surf Pads are soft board supports that wrap around the bars without a rigid mounting system. For heavy boards and kayaks, consider accessories with rollers or articulated arms that make loading by yourself easier.

Materials and finishes

ABS roof boxes are lightweight and impact-resistant; glossy finishes show scratches more easily than matte or textured versions. Some models feature key locks, an important feature for leaving luggage unattended. Modula, Nordrive and Thule offer both entry-level and top-of-the-range versions with reinforced structures and security locks.