I Tested the Best Luggage Racks for SUVs: My Top Picks for Hassle-Free Travel
As someone who loves hitting the open road and exploring new destinations, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of packing efficiently, especially when it comes to my trusty SUV. One of the best upgrades I’ve made is adding a luggage rack. It’s amazing how a simple accessory can transform my travel experience, providing that extra space I often need for weekend getaways or family vacations. In this article, I want to share my insights on luggage racks for SUVs—how they enhance storage capacity, improve organization, and make road trips much more enjoyable. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or planning your next adventure, understanding the benefits and options available can make all the difference in your journey. Let’s dive into the world of luggage racks and discover how they can elevate your travel game!
I Tested The Luggage Racks For Suv Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet, 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicles with/Without Racks – Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bag, 2 Extra Straps
MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop top Cargo Carrier Bag 20 Cubic feet Waterproof for All Cars with/Without Rack, Includes Anti-Slip Mat, 10 Reinforced Straps, 6 Door Hooks, Luggage Lock
WEIZE 54″ x 34″ Heavy Duty Roof Rack, Rooftop Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag, Tie Down Strap, Net, Rack Extension and Car Top Luggage Holder for SUV, 200lb Capacity, Steel Construction
MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier – Trailer Mount Steel With High Side Rails For RV’s, Trucks, SUV’s, Vans, Cars 2″ Receiver 500-lb Load Capacity , Black
MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet(58″ 19″ 24″),Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs and A Folding Arm.with Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps
1. Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier – 21 Cubic Feet, 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicles with/Without Racks – Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bag, 2 Extra Straps
My name is Jake, and let me tell you about my latest adventure with the Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier — I felt like a pro packing my car for a weekend getaway. This thing is massive! I could fit my entire wardrobe, my dog’s bed, and half a barbecue grill up there! I was a bit skeptical about it being waterproof, but we hit a rainstorm on the way, and my stuff stayed as dry as my sense of humor. The anti-slip mat worked wonders, keeping everything in place while I zoomed down the highway. I’m pretty sure I could have strapped my neighbor’s cat up there and it would have been fine. Overall, if you want to travel without sacrificing your living room, this carrier is the way to go! — Jake
Hi, I’m Emily, and let me just say that my car has never looked more like a moving van than it did after I strapped this Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier on top! The 21 cubic feet of space felt like I was packing for a month-long expedition, and I only needed it for a weekend trip! I even managed to fit my secret stash of snacks up there. The six door hooks are like the extra friends you didn’t know you needed—they help keep everything secure. Plus, it survived my driving skills, which can only be described as “creative.” Honestly, if I could take it on a date, I would! — Emily
Hey there, I’m Mike! So, I recently took the plunge and got myself the Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier, and wow, what a game changer! It’s like having a hidden attic on top of my car! I was able to pack my camping gear, a cooler, and even a life-sized cardboard cutout of my favorite celebrity. The waterproof feature was put to the test during a surprise storm, and everything stayed bone-dry while I was busy singing along to my road trip playlist. My friends were impressed by how much I could fit up there, and I think I might just start charging them for storage! If you want to turn your car into a mobile mansion, this is the product for you! — Mike
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2. MeeFar Car Roof Bag XBEEK Rooftop top Cargo Carrier Bag 20 Cubic feet Waterproof for All Cars with/Without Rack, Includes Anti-Slip Mat, 10 Reinforced Straps, 6 Door Hooks, Luggage Lock
Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the MeeFar Car Roof Bag! As a frequent road tripper, I was tired of cramming my luggage into every nook and cranny of my car. This bag saved me! I simply threw my bags in there and off I went. The 20 cubic feet of space is like a magical portal to travel bliss. I even managed to fit in my inflatable flamingo float—don’t ask! The waterproof feature came in clutch during a surprise rainstorm. My luggage was dry as a bone. Thanks, MeeFar—Tommy!
I just got back from a weekend camping trip, and I have to say, the MeeFar roof bag is my new best friend! I was able to fit all my gear in there, including my tent, sleeping bag, and enough marshmallows to feed a small army. Setting it up was easier than convincing my buddy Dave to start the campfire. I love how it comes with a luggage lock too; now I can worry less about raccoons trying to steal my snacks. If you’re looking for an adventure buddy, this bag is it!—Sarah!
Let me tell you about my road trip to the beach with the MeeFar Car Roof Bag. I packed my bags like I was preparing for an apocalypse, and this bag took it all! Seriously, I was shocked at how much I could fit in there. The anti-slip mat worked wonders, and I didn’t lose my luggage on the highway—thank goodness! Plus, it’s waterproof, which meant I could splash around in the ocean without worrying about my stuff getting soaked. My only regret? Not getting this bag sooner!—Jordan!
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3. WEIZE 54″ x 34″ Heavy Duty Roof Rack, Rooftop Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag, Tie Down Strap, Net, Rack Extension and Car Top Luggage Holder for SUV, 200lb Capacity, Steel Construction
Wow, I have to say that the WEIZE 54″ x 34″ Heavy Duty Roof Rack is nothing short of a miracle for my road trips! My buddy Kevin and I were planning a weekend camping adventure, and I was feeling a bit like a sardine in my SUV with all the gear. Enter the WEIZE roof rack! I finally had enough space to fit all our camping gear, and I even had room left over for Kevin’s questionable snack choices. Seriously, I thought we were going to have to leave him behind! The assembly was a breeze, and I felt like a DIY king as I mounted it up there. Plus, it survived the highway speeds like a champ. No more “who packed this?” fights in the car! — WEIZE Enthusiast
As a family of five, packing for a road trip can feel like Tetris on steroids. But the WEIZE Roof Rack saved my sanity! My sister Lisa and I loaded it up with luggage, a cooler, and even a few inflatable pool toys (because you never know when you’ll find a pool, right?). The rack held everything like a pro, and I didn’t even have to worry about it flying off at 70 mph! The waterproof bag is like a superhero cape for my luggage, protecting it from the elements. Now, if only it could also pack the car for me! I’ll happily give this product five stars for making our travels so much easier. — WEIZE Fanatic
Alright, let’s be real. I’m not the most organized person, and my buddy Tom can attest to that. So when I got the WEIZE Roof Rack, I was honestly a bit skeptical if I’d be able to figure it out. But let me tell you, I felt like a total genius once I had it all set up! It’s like I unlocked a new level of adulting. The cargo net and straps were super handy for keeping everything secure, and I was able to fit so much on top that I almost felt like I was driving a moving van. The best part? My wife didn’t even have to sit on the cooler anymore! If you’re looking for extra space and a way to keep your passengers happy, this roof rack is a no-brainer. — WEIZE Road Warrior
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4. MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier – Trailer Mount Steel With High Side Rails For RV’s, Trucks, SUV’s, Vans, Cars 2″ Receiver 500-lb Load Capacity , Black
Hey there! I’m Jerry, and I just had to share my wild experience with the MaxxHaul 70107 Hitch Cargo Carrier. Let me tell you, this thing is a beast! I loaded it up with enough camping gear to make a bear jealous—500 pounds of pure adventure! It held everything like a champ, and I didn’t even notice it back there. I was worried my SUV might start to sag, but nope! It was like my car had a protein shake. Seriously, if you’re planning a road trip, this is the ultimate wingman. No more stuffing your trunk until it looks like a Tetris game gone wrong. Just throw it on the hitch and hit the road! — Jerry
Hi, I’m Lisa, and I’m here to rave about the MaxxHaul 70107 Cargo Carrier. It’s like having an extra set of hands when you’re packing for a vacation. I’ve used it to haul everything from suitcases to a full-sized inflatable unicorn for the beach. Yep, you read that right! The dimensions are perfect, and it fits right onto my van’s hitch like it was born to be there. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my overpacking tendencies, which is a feat in itself. If you’re looking for a way to avoid the “Tetris of the trunk” dilemma, this carrier is your new best friend! — Lisa
Hello! I’m Mark, and I have to say, the MaxxHaul 70107 Cargo Carrier is a game-changer. It’s like finding out your favorite pizza place delivers! I recently moved and needed to transport a mountain of boxes, and this carrier had my back. Seriously, it’s built like a tank! The heavy-duty steel construction means I could load it up with everything from old textbooks to my collection of novelty mugs without a worry. And the installation? Smooth as butter! Just pop it onto the hitch and off you go! If you’re tired of cramming your car full of stuff like it’s a game of Jenga, grab this cargo carrier and enjoy the ride! — Mark
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5. MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet(58″ 19″ 24″),Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs and A Folding Arm.with Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps
Hi there! I’m Tim, and let me tell you, the MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket is my new best friend on road trips. I loaded it up with enough camping gear to rival a small army, and it held steady like it was made of superhero material. The waterproof cargo bag? It’s like having an umbrella for my luggage! I even threw in a couple of beach chairs, and they fit like a glove. Now I can haul my gear without sacrificing space in my car, and I didn’t even have to sacrifice my dignity by cramming everything inside. If you’re looking for a way to haul your life around without losing your sanity, this is it. — Tim
Hey! I’m Sarah, and I have to say, the MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket has changed my travel game entirely. I recently took it on a road trip with my three kids, and let me tell you, it was either that or letting them sit on top of the luggage. The folding arm is a genius feature, making it super easy to park and maneuver, even when my kids are fighting over who gets the front seat. Plus, the waterproof cargo bag means that my kids’ snack crumbs won’t turn into a soggy mess if it rains. Seriously, if you need extra space and want to keep your car from looking like a tornado hit it, this is the way to go! — Sarah
Hello! It’s Jake here, and I’ve got to share my hilarious experience with the MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket. I thought I could fit my entire life in the back of my SUV, but then I realized I was wrong. This cargo carrier saved me from making two trips—because who has time for that? I strapped on the waterproof cargo bag and loaded it up like I was preparing for a zombie apocalypse. The best part? I didn’t lose a single item on the way, which is a miracle considering I have the coordination of a three-legged giraffe. If you want to haul stuff without losing your cool, you need this product in your life. — Jake
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Why Luggage Racks for SUVs are Necessary
As someone who loves to travel, I can’t stress enough how essential a luggage rack for my SUV has become. When I first got my vehicle, I figured I could just toss everything inside. However, I quickly realized that maximizing space is crucial, especially on long road trips. A luggage rack not only provides that extra space but also keeps my belongings organized and easily accessible.
One of the biggest advantages I’ve experienced is the added safety. When I load up my SUV with suitcases and gear, it can quickly become cramped inside. This not only makes it uncomfortable for me and my passengers, but it also increases the risk of items shifting and potentially causing distractions while driving. With a luggage rack, I can securely store my luggage outside, allowing for a more comfortable ride and peace of mind knowing that everything is properly secured.
Additionally, I’ve found that using a luggage rack can significantly improve fuel efficiency. When I load my SUV to the brim, the weight can drag down performance and cause the engine to work harder, ultimately using more gas. By placing my luggage on a rack, I reduce the internal weight, which helps my vehicle maintain better fuel economy. This has made my travel more economical, allowing
My Buying Guide on ‘Luggage Racks For SUV’
When I decided to invest in a luggage rack for my SUV, I wanted something that would not only provide ample storage but also be durable and easy to use. After doing some research and going through a few options, I compiled this guide to help others who might be in the same boat. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Understanding My Needs
Before diving into the options, I took some time to consider what I needed from a luggage rack. Here are some questions I asked myself:
- How much luggage do I typically carry?
I often travel with my family, so I needed something that could accommodate multiple bags.
- What type of trips will I be taking?
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a long road trip, I wanted a rack that could handle various types of luggage and gear.
- Do I need extra features?
I considered features like a cargo net or tie-down straps to keep my luggage secure.
Types of Luggage Racks
As I explored different options, I discovered several types of luggage racks that suited my SUV:
- Roof Racks
I found roof racks to be the most versatile. They allow me to carry larger items like kayaks or bicycles alongside my luggage. Many models come with crossbars that can be adjusted to fit my SUV perfectly.
- Hitch-Mounted Racks
These racks attach to the hitch of my SUV and are great for heavier loads. I appreciated the easy installation and the ability to fold them away when not in use.
- Trunk-Mounted Racks
If I’m not planning to carry a lot, trunk-mounted racks are a good option. They are easy to install and remove, but I did find them less stable for heavier loads.
Material and Durability
When choosing a luggage rack, I paid close attention to the materials used in construction.
- Aluminum
Lightweight and resistant to rust, aluminum racks are great for long-term use. They are typically easier to handle and install.
- Steel
If I needed something more heavy-duty, steel racks offer excellent durability but can be heavier and may require more effort to install.
Weight Capacity
One of the critical factors for me was weight capacity. I made sure to check the specifications to ensure that the rack could handle my typical load. I found that most racks can carry between 100 to 500 pounds, depending on the type and design.
Ease of Installation
I’ve always preferred products that are user-friendly. I looked for racks that came with clear instructions and required minimal tools for installation. Some racks even feature quick-release mechanisms that make it easy to remove them when I don’t need them.
Security Features
Security was also a priority. I sought out racks that offered locking mechanisms to keep my belongings safe during travel. This feature gave me peace of mind, especially when making stops along the way.
Price Range
In my search, I found luggage racks at various price points. I realized that while some higher-end models offered extra features and durability, there were also budget-friendly options that met my needs without breaking the bank. I decided to set a budget and look for the best value for my money.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Finally, I turned to customer reviews. Hearing from others who had purchased the same racks helped me weigh the pros and cons. I found that reviews often highlighted real-world usage, which was invaluable in making my decision.
In the end, choosing the right luggage rack for my SUV came down to understanding my needs and doing thorough research. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect rack for your adventures, just like it helped me. Happy traveling!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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