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Roof boxes in the test: Which model is the perfect holiday companion?
Find out everything about the best roof boxes for your 2025 holiday trip: tests, tips and safety instructions for more storage space.
Roof boxes in the test: Which model is the perfect holiday companion?
The holiday season is just around the corner and many people are planning road trips. In order to increase the available storage space and avoid overcrowded cars, many drivers rely on roof boxes. These practical solutions allow additional space, for example for cool boxes and luggage, and increase comfort while driving. The test of five common roof boxes on an Audi A4 station wagon shows important results regarding quality and handling. IMTEST reported.
The roof boxes tested have a capacity of between 400 and 560 liters and must be carefully secured. This requires robust support systems made of steel or aluminum. These carrier systems must not be wider than the car, and it is recommended that you seek advice from a specialist retailer to find the right model.
Test results at a glance
Here are the tested models and their rankings:
| Place | Model | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Kamei Fosco 540 | Test winner with one-hand quick attachment (overall grade: good 1.6) |
| 2. | Thule Motion XT M | Handy and robust (overall grade: good 1.8) |
| 3. | Hapro Trivor 560 | Very good protection against moisture (overall grade: good 2.0) |
| 4. | Norauto Bermuda 400 | Price-performance winner, easy to use (overall grade: good 2.3) |
| 5. | Northline Tirol Anthracite | Difficult handling, long guarantee (overall grade: satisfactory 2.8) |
The roof boxes must comply with road traffic regulations, including a maximum width of 2.55 m and a maximum height of 4 m. In addition, they must not protrude over the roof of the car and should be loaded evenly so as not to impair driving performance. All models tested weigh between 17.5 kg and 23.5 kg and have a maximum payload of 75 kg. In addition, they often have a waterproof design, although the ingress of water cannot be completely ruled out. A maximum speed of 130 km/h is recommended for using the roof boxes.
Important information on usage
To ensure safety on the road, drivers should pay attention to a few points. This includes checking the vehicle's roof load and using a high-quality carrier system. Using a roof box can increase fuel consumption by 5 to 20%, depending on the vehicle type and speed. It is advisable to stow your load safely and adjust your driving behavior, especially in cross winds. It is also recommended to clean and remove the roof box after your vacation to extend its lifespan.
Dear drivers, there are advantages and disadvantages when choosing between buying or renting a roof box. Buying offers benefits for long-term use and cost savings for frequent use, while renting allows for short-term flexibility. Alternatives to the roof box are rear boxes, rear racks and trailers, which also offer additional storage space but vary in their handling.
In summary, a roof box is a valuable addition to any car trip, especially during travel time. Whether for summer vacation or weekend trips, they offer flexible storage space and help you relax on the road. Further information about roof boxes and their use can be found on the website Carwow.