In case you find yourself not able to fit in all your stuff for camping or a long trip, a waterproof cargo bag is one of the most viable remedies.
Cargo bags or soft-shell carriers provide the same protection as cargo boxes (hard-shell) but have the upper hand of being lightweight, easy to remove/install, and affordable. These bags are designed to increase your vehicle’s carrying capacity without the need to fold your rear seats.
However, not all cargo bags are the same and they could be placed either on top or behind the vehicle. What’s the best setup? Well, that specifically depends on the gear you want to carry and other requirements such as cargo weight and accessibility.
If you’re planning to take a trip and you’re looking for the best cargo bag that suits your needs, you’re in the right place! To make your life easier, we have pulled together the top 5 waterproof cargo bag reviews for 2023.
List of Top 5 Waterproof Cargo Bags of 2023
Here’s the list of the Top 5 Water Proof Cargo Bag of 2023:
1. VEVOR Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag ($49.99)
VEVOR Hitch Cargo Bag is a perfect choice not just for your long journey but for your long years of usage as well. And since this is a hitch carrier design, accessing your item will be easier. Perhaps, a more universal design for shorthanded people.
Besides that, the VEVOR Hitch Cargo bag has proven that it has the best feature which includes its high resolute, super-tough 840D PVC fabric equipped with vinyl-coated waterproof zippers shielded by a velcro flap with a hook. All seams are also heat welded and stitched so it’s 100% rainproof and extreme temperature/weather does not have a chance to ruin your belongings.
Its total dimension (L 48″ x W 20″ x H 22″) can hold 12 cubic feet which can hold up to 2-3 suitcases of your precious belongings. It’s reinforced with 6 adjustable ratchet straps and an extra 157″ tie strap can strongly secure the hitch cargo bag to the carrier rack. You can tighten or loosen the straps based on your load without the need to worry because they will not scratch your car.
The cargo carrier bag can suit any car with steel cargo baskets. And in just minutes, you can install to use, or fold to store the bag. This is also the best option if you’re a bit tight with the budget.
Pros: Subtle black design, 100% waterproof with leakproof zippers, simple installation/storage, Side set-up design, ease of accessibility, most affordable
2. FIVKLEMNZ Rooftop Cargo Bag ($109.99)
The Fivklemnz rooftop cargo bag takes pride in its extra-large capacity (15 cubic feet) that could take up a full camp set-up. No wonder it’s incredibly popular with consumers and ideal for family adventures.
Made from military-grade, heavy-duty materials, this soft rooftop cargo carrier keeps belongings dry from rainwater. Additionally, it also comes with 8 reinforced adjustable straps and a free anti-slip mat.
This unit weighs less than seven pounds and expands to 43 inches long and 33 inches wide. With or without roof rails, this can be quickly installed on car roofs with its 4 door hooks. Unfortunately, since it’s a roof bag, you may need a little helping hand if you’re shorthanded.
And because it is a soft- shell, it can be folded up and stored in the carry bag that comes with it, just like a small back-pack
Pros: 100% waterproof, simple installation/storage, large capacity cargo, no roof rail requirement with non-slipped mat
Cons: Crude bright orange design, no lock with the zipper/leaks reported, seams and straps not durable enough when bag under stress
3. ROOFPAX Cargo Carrier Bag ($196.3)
The RoofPax soft rooftop cargo carrier maximized safety with its patented 4+2 extra free door hook straps. It features a simple yet effective design so you would not worry about it interfering with airbags in case of emergency.
The capacity of the bag is larger than most at 19 cubic feet but a smaller 15 cubic feet bag is also available. The quality is also premium, military-grade with two waterproof closing zippers, dual seam technology, and water-repellant coating. It also already includes a built-in protective mat and 10 Velcro straps
The RoofBag Cargo Carrier Bag which is US manufactured is also designed for easy and quick installation.
Pros: Lifetime warranty on zippers and buckles, no roof rail requirement
Cons: Expensive, the zipper is not fully covered by the protective flap, additional non-slip mat required for glass moonroof
4. MEEFAR Hitch Mount Cargo Bag ($89.99)
Another popular waterproof carrier bag in the market is the Meefar Hitch Mount Cargo Bag. It fits all types of cars with a steel cargo basket perfect for any extra luggage.
The bag’s proportion (L 59″ x W 24″ x H 24″) can carry 20 cubic feet and protects your stuff from water with its 100% waterproof 600PVC tarpaulin material. There are 8 straps to easily and quickly install the bag into the cargo basket.
The bonus is, it comes with a combination lock that secures your belongings, keeping your worries away!
Pros: 100% waterproof, security zipper, quick and easy set-up
5. AMAZON Basic Cargo Carrier Bag ($57.99)
Amazon Basic Cargo carrier bag offers resistance to deterioration and weather protection on whatever fits within its 15 cubic feet of storage. It’s also a great option if you’re shopping on a budget.
With stay-dry flaps and strong seams, your things are basically shielded from natural elements, and rain is kept from sipping in. The bag however requires at least roof rails to connect its 8 straps for extra security. And since you would not always be using the bag, it’s good to know the Amazon Basic cargo bag can be folded and put into a carrying case included for easy storage. On top of that, the bag is guaranteed for one whole year!
Pros: Waterproof design, protects against the environment, 15 cubic feet of space at a most affordable price, one-year limited warranty
Cons: Fairly basic option, isn’t made from heavy-duty materials, no pad or other non-slip features on the bottom
Final Verdict
Overall, VEVOR Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag is the optimum choice due to its numerous advantages. On top of that, it is a budget and user-friendly alternative that comes with great compatibility and accessibility. The product comes with the best material and sufficient safety features and weather protection so you would be satisfied with your journey for many years to come!
Different Types Water Proof Cargo Bags
Here are the different types of Cargo carrier bags:
● Hitch Cargo Carriers
If you want regular access to your cargo, hitch cargo carriers/bag fits you the most because they are typically mounted behind your vehicle. This type of bag can also hold up heavier weights but are lighter and faster to install.
● Roof bags/racks
If you do not need frequent access to your luggage and you don’t have problems with being shorthanded, roof bags are another option. However, roof bags and roof carriers work best for lightweight objects like light camping equipment.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Cargo Bag?
Be sure to check that your cargo bag ticks also these features:
● Durability
Since cargo bags are used outdoors, choose a bag with a high-duty and super-tough material. The idea is, it should be 100% waterproof with zipper and seams built to withstand extreme weather conditions. You don’t want any water slippage to your precious belongings.
● Luggage protection
Be sure that your cargo bag has the best features to prevent your luggage to be left or flown along the way. Reinforced snap like the VEVOR Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag gives you a piece of mind that your things are secure without scratching your car.
● Vehicle compatibility
You never know when you would need to buy a new car, so a flexible cargo bag that can fit all types of cars is the most desired. Bags with hitch mount designs are usually the most flexible.
The best cargo bag should be a balance of these features and that’s what we have seen with VEVOR Hitch Cargo Carrier offer at the most reasonable price.
Are Waterproof Cargo bags Worth It?
A waterproof cargo bag gives an extension to your limited car space. It lessens your stress about having to prioritize which things to carry because you already have extra available space.
FAQ
● Are rooftop or hitch cargo bags legal?
Yes, the bags themselves are legal. However, if your bag is not properly secured and flies off on the road, creating damage, and disrupting the traffic, you might get in trouble for it.
● How much does a waterproof roof or hitch cargo bag cost?
Waterproof cargo bags can cost between $50 to $200. The price varies with the size and features it can offer.
● How much hitch cargo carrier can hold?
Typically, they will hold between 150 to 300 pounds, but some can carry up to 500 pounds maximum when paired with the appropriate hitch rack.
