Does your Subaru Forester feel a little cramped when it’s time for an adventure? Whether you’re packing for a family road trip, hauling camping gear, or just need extra space for your hobbies, that feeling of “wish I had more room” is all too common.
Choosing the perfect cargo box for your Forester can be tricky. There are so many different sizes, shapes, and brands out there! You want something that fits well, holds a lot, and looks good on your car, but figuring out which one is best can be overwhelming. You might worry about it being too big, too small, or not strong enough for your needs.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a cargo box. We’ll cover important features, different types of boxes, and how to find the one that will make your Forester even more useful. Get ready to unlock more adventure potential!
Our Top 5 Cargo Box For Subaru Forester Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cargo Box For Subaru Forester Detailed Reviews
1. SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
Rating: 9.2/10
The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box in Black is your new best friend for adventures and everyday hauling. Its huge 18 cubic feet of space swallows up gear, making road trips and family outings a breeze. You can pack tents, sleeping bags, sports equipment, or groceries easily. The tough, UV-resistant ABS plastic protects your stuff from the sun and weather. It opens from the back, which is super handy because you can reach your items without standing in traffic. Setting it up is a snap, no tools needed. Plus, it locks securely, keeping your belongings safe.
What We Like:
- Massive 18 cubic feet of storage space is perfect for big trips.
- Rear opening design makes loading and unloading safer and easier, especially in parking lots.
- Tool-free installation means you can attach and remove it quickly.
- Durable ABS material resists fading and damage from the sun.
- Includes locks to keep your gear secure.
- Fits a wide variety of roof racks, including SportRack, square, round, and most factory options.
What Could Be Improved:
- The maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds might limit very heavy loads.
- While it fits many racks, always double-check the fit guide for your specific vehicle.
This cargo box offers a generous amount of space and convenient features for any journey. It’s a smart way to expand your vehicle’s carrying capacity.
2. DNA Motoring Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier Compatible with 14-18 Subaru Forester
Rating: 9.0/10
Ready to pack more and explore further? This DNA Motoring Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier is designed for your 2014-2018 Subaru Forester. It easily mounts onto your existing roof rails, giving you extra space for all your gear. Plus, it comes with a pair of strong aluminum roof rail cross bars, so you’re ready to go right out of the box.
What We Like:
- It fits your 2014-2018 Subaru Forester perfectly.
- The cargo box is waterproof and lockable, keeping your stuff safe and dry.
- It’s made from tough, impact-resistant ABS plastic, so it can handle bumps and weather.
- The strong support arm holds the box open, making it easy to load and unload.
- You get 12 cubic feet of extra storage space for bulky items.
- The aluminum cross bars are lightweight and built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- The box is quite large, so make sure you have space to store it when not in use.
- While durable, ABS plastic might show scratches over time.
This cargo box and cross bar set offers a practical way to expand your Subaru Forester’s carrying capacity. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing more room for adventures or everyday hauling.
3. DNA MOTORING Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier Lockable Heavy Duty Car Top Storage Case
Rating: 9.5/10
The DNA MOTORING Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier is a heavy-duty storage solution that adds valuable space to your vehicle. This case is designed to hold up to 110 pounds of gear, making it ideal for road trips or hauling extra luggage. Its textured black finish looks sleek on any car.
What We Like:
- It’s universal and fits vehicles with cross bars.
- Installation is simple and requires no tools.
- It boosts your cargo space without making the car cramped.
- The box offers 11 cubic feet of room.
- It can hold up to 110 pounds when the weight is spread out evenly.
- The lid opens wide, up to 14 inches, for bulky items.
- It’s made of tough ABS material that resists impacts.
- This material protects your belongings from bad weather.
- A key and lock are included to keep your items safe.
- The lid stays open until you close it.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only fits cars with existing cross bars.
- The size might be a bit large for smaller vehicles.
This cargo box is a practical choice for anyone needing more storage. It offers a secure and weather-resistant way to carry extra gear on your adventures.
4. DNA Motoring Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier + Adjustable 120cm Aluminum Roof Rail Cross Bars
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready to haul more gear without sacrificing passenger space? The DNA Motoring Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier and Roof Rail Cross Bars combo is your ticket to adventure. This system adds 12 cubic feet of storage to your vehicle, perfect for camping trips, sports equipment, or even extra luggage. The hard shell design keeps your items safe and dry, while the adjustable cross bars ensure a secure fit on most vehicles with roof rails.
What We Like:
- The 51″ x 32″ x 15″ box offers a generous 12 cubic feet of storage.
- It opens wide, up to 14.75 inches, making it easy to store bulky items.
- The heavy-duty ABS plastic and aluminum construction promises long-lasting durability.
- Strong support arms hold the lid open for easy loading and unloading.
- The lockable design with included keys keeps your belongings secure.
- The universal fit attaches to vehicles with roof rails up to 120cm wide.
- The package includes everything you need: brackets, cross bars, the box, keys, and mounting hardware.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for universal fit, some users may find the installation process takes time.
- The grey color might not match every vehicle’s aesthetic perfectly.
This DNA Motoring cargo solution is a smart way to expand your vehicle’s carrying capacity. It’s a reliable choice for anyone needing extra room for their adventures.
5. BOPARAUTO Cargo Cover for Subaru Forester Accessories 2014-2016 2017 2018 with Back Curtain Rear Trunk Shade Cover (Manual Tailgate) (Not fits for Power Rear gate)
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your Subaru Forester’s trunk space with the BOPARAUTO Cargo Cover! This cover is designed specifically for 2014-2018 Subaru Forester models with a manual tailgate. It keeps your belongings hidden and protected, adding a layer of security and privacy to your vehicle. Plus, the added back curtain ensures no gaps are left uncovered.
What We Like:
- Fits perfectly for 2014-2018 Subaru Forester models with a manual tailgate.
- Comes with a back curtain to cover the gap behind the seats, providing complete coverage.
- Made from high-quality and durable materials, ensuring it lasts.
- Keeps your items hidden from view, preventing theft and protecting your privacy.
- Easy to install and use for everyday convenience.
What Could Be Improved:
- Only compatible with manual tailgates; it does not fit power rear gates.
- Some users might prefer a wider range of color options beyond black.
This BOPARAUTO Cargo Cover is a practical addition for any Forester owner. It offers excellent functionality and peace of mind for keeping your trunk organized and secure.
Choosing the Perfect Cargo Box for Your Subaru Forester
Your Subaru Forester is a fantastic vehicle for adventures, and a cargo box can make those adventures even better. It gives you extra space for gear, luggage, and anything else you need to bring along. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the best cargo box for your Forester.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a cargo box, keep these important features in mind:
- Size and Capacity: Think about what you’ll be carrying. Do you need space for skis, camping gear, or just extra suitcases? Cargo boxes come in different lengths and volumes. Make sure it fits your Forester’s roof without sticking out too far.
- Ease of Installation: You don’t want to spend hours wrestling with your cargo box. Look for models with simple mounting systems. Some attach quickly with just a few turns of a knob.
- Security: Your gear needs to be safe. Most cargo boxes lock. Check that the locks feel sturdy and secure.
- Aerodynamics: A well-designed cargo box cuts through the wind. This helps with gas mileage and reduces noise.
- Dual-Sided Opening: This feature makes it easier to load and unload from either side of your car.
Important Materials
The material of a cargo box affects its durability and weight.
- ABS Plastic: This is a common material. It’s strong and can handle bumps and scratches. It’s also relatively lightweight.
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): This is another type of strong plastic. It holds up well to different weather conditions.
- Polycarbonate: Some higher-end boxes use polycarbonate. It’s very tough and can resist impacts.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a cargo box better or worse.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Thick, sturdy plastic makes the box last longer.
- Well-made hinges and latches ensure it opens and closes smoothly.
- A strong mounting system keeps it firmly attached to your car.
- Good weather seals prevent rain and snow from getting inside.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Thin, flimsy plastic can crack or break easily.
- Weak hinges or locks might not work reliably.
- A difficult installation process can be frustrating.
- Poor aerodynamic design leads to more wind noise and lower gas mileage.
User Experience and Use Cases
How people use cargo boxes shows their real-world value.
- Road Trips: Families often use cargo boxes for vacations. They pack extra clothes, toys, and snacks. This frees up space inside the car for everyone to be comfortable.
- Outdoor Adventures: Skiers, snowboarders, and campers love cargo boxes. They can carry bulky equipment like skis, snowboards, tents, and sleeping bags.
- Everyday Errands: Even for daily use, a cargo box can be handy. You can store groceries, sports equipment, or even your dog’s crate.
- Moving or Hauling: If you need to move items that don’t fit inside your Forester, a cargo box offers extra space.
A good cargo box is a smart investment for your Subaru Forester. It expands your carrying capacity and makes your journeys more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size cargo box to get for my Subaru Forester?
A: Measure your roof space. Also, consider how much gear you usually carry. Check the cargo box dimensions to ensure it fits your Forester’s roof length and width without blocking the liftgate.
Q: Are cargo boxes difficult to install?
A: Most modern cargo boxes are designed for easy installation. Look for systems that use quick-release clamps or simple mounting hardware. Many can be installed in under 30 minutes.
Q: Will a cargo box affect my gas mileage?
A: Yes, a cargo box will likely reduce your gas mileage slightly due to increased wind resistance. However, a well-designed, aerodynamic box will have less impact than a poorly shaped one.
Q: Can I leave a cargo box on my Forester all the time?
A: It’s generally recommended to remove the cargo box when you’re not using it. This helps prevent unnecessary wear and tear, improves gas mileage, and protects the box from the elements.
Q: Are cargo boxes waterproof?
A: Most cargo boxes are water-resistant, meaning they can handle rain and snow. However, they are not fully waterproof. It’s best to put sensitive items in waterproof bags inside the cargo box.
Q: How much weight can a cargo box hold?
A: The weight capacity varies by model. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications. You also need to consider your Forester’s roof load limit, which is usually lower than the cargo box’s capacity.
Q: Can I still open my Forester’s liftgate with a cargo box installed?
A: This depends on the length of the cargo box and your Forester model. Longer boxes may slightly restrict how far the liftgate opens. Measure carefully to avoid this issue.
Q: What is the difference between a hard-shell and a soft-shell cargo box?
A: Hard-shell boxes are made of rigid plastic and offer better protection and security. Soft-shell boxes are made of fabric and are lighter and more flexible, but offer less protection.
Q: Do I need roof rails to install a cargo box?
A: Most cargo boxes attach to existing roof rails or crossbars. If your Forester doesn’t have them, you may need to purchase and install them first.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my cargo box?
A: Clean your cargo box with mild soap and water. Dry it thoroughly. Periodically check the latches, hinges, and mounting hardware for any signs of wear or damage.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!