When you go through your travel checklist, seeing that your car doesn’t have a big trunk can be a major headache. But to get around this problem, there’s no better solution than a roof box.
A roof box can be fitted to any vehicle, whether a city or family car, allowing you to transport large, heavy luggage safely.
As long as you use it with the care it requires, it can be your greatest ally and provide you with a headache-free holiday with as much luggage as you want and need.
Read this article to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of this accessory and why it could be an asset for your trips.
What is a Roof Box?
A roof box is a box that you place on the roof of your car. Depending on its size, it can store clothes, sports equipment, or even a suitcase.
Roof boxes are handy when you are away for a while, whether on holiday or to play sports.
What Types of Roof Boxes are there?
Before buying one, you need to know that roof boxes come in a range of different materials and are various sizes.
The most common models are rigid and folding roof boxes.
Hard Roof Boxes
Hard roof boxes are generally made of ABS plastic, which is high-strength and impact-resistant. They also have a central security lock (with a key) and are waterproof.
The main advantages of this model are that it can carry a larger load, making it ideal for winter sports and that it is widely available on the market.
Folding Roof Boxes
Fabric boxes with a folding metal frame are very resistant to damage and are often waterproof.
Unlike hard roof boxes, they have a 2-sided locking zip to prevent anyone else from opening them.
The main advantage of this model is how easily it can be stored. It can be folded when not in use and thus stored in small spaces such as a wardrobe.
What are the Advantages of using a Roof Box?
The main advantage of using a roof box is, without a doubt, the exponential increase it provides in a car’s load capacity. However, the accessory also allows you to:
- Distribute weight evenly throughout the vehicle, making it easier to drive;
- Carry cargo in any kind of weather, as it is made of waterproof materials;
- Carry luggage safely, avoiding possible theft.
What are the Disadvantages of using a Roof Box?
Installing a roof box can provide certain disadvantages, such as:
- Noise, which can be more noticeable when driving on motorways or at high speed;
- Paint damage and scratches if you are not careful when installing the roof box or roof rails;
- Difficulty parking in underground car parks with a height limit, as the box will make your vehicle taller;
- Increased fuel consumption due to the reduced aerodynamics of the car.
Does a Roof Box Affect Fuel Consumption?
While the ability to carry more cargo can be an advantage, remember that doing so will make your vehicle heavier, even if the box is empty.
More weight means your car’s engine will have to work harder to move it, increasing its fuel consumption.
As such, we recommend removing your car’s roof box when not in use, allowing you to save fuel.
How do you Choose the Best Roof Box?
As this accessory varies in size and capacity, the best roof boxes will be those that meet your needs.
As such, when buying a roof box, pay attention to the following details:
- Quality of the material: opt for plastic or fabric;
- Fixing standards: depending on the model, you may need a roof rack;
- Owner’s Manual: check the recommendations regarding the volume and maximum load that can be transported.
Is it safe to Use a Roof Box?
Along with other accessories such as trailers, for example, roof boxes act as an appendage to a car. As such, it will impact a vehicle’s aerodynamics and centre of gravity.
Driving with a suitcase on your roof will be safe and convenient if you follow all the applicable safety recommendations.
Can you Install a Roof Box Yourself?
A roof box’s large size and weight mean you should get help installing yours.
This will prevent any possible damage to your vehicle.
What Should you do to Maintain your Car Roof Box?
Beyond the installation, you’ll need to adopt certain precautions when using your roof box, such as:
- Checking it’s firmly attached before each trip;
- Securing the entire load with straps or a safety net. This ensures objects don’t scatter in the event of an accident;
- Place the heaviest load towards the front of the vehicle so that the weight does not affect its centre of gravity, making driving more stable and safer;
- Adopt defensive driving, as the box on the roof will affect your vehicle’s aerodynamics and centre of gravity.
How Much Does a Roof Box Cost?
It all depends on the size and capacity of the roof box, as well as accessories and installation.
The price of a roof box can start at tens and easily exceed hundreds of euros.
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