What is the difference between a roof box and a roof basket?

Short answer: A roof basket is an open-top cage; a roof box is a lidded, lockable box. Cart It suits irregular, bulky loads that can get wet, and you can tie down items that extend above it. A roof box protects items from rain, dust, and theft and has better aerodynamics. A basket is a good choice for camping and commercial hauling, while a roof box is ideal for holidays and long-distance travel.

Differences at a Glance

• Protection: A roof box is enclosed — rain, dust, and road grime stay out, and it closes with central locking. A basket is open; unless the load is covered with a tarp, it remains exposed and cannot be locked.
• Load Shape: A basket accommodates irregular, overhanging loads (jerry cans, camping chests, construction materials, unpackaged items). A roof box has fixed interior dimensions and requires loads that fit inside without protruding.
• Aerodynamics and Noise: The enclosed shell of a roof box cuts through the air smoothly. A basket creates more drag and wind noise, especially when loaded.
• Loading Ease: You can toss items into a basket from above, so loading is quick. Opening and loading a roof box is more orderly but a little slower.
• Storage: A basket sits flat and takes up little space. A roof box is bulky; plan where to store it in winter.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose a roof basket — if you camp, carry unpackaged or irregular loads, need to secure long items (ladders, pipes, profiles), or do not mind if the load gets wet. Thunder Pro Series roof baskets are available in 100×120 cm and 100×160 cm sizes; the basket mounts on roof bars.

Choose a roof box — if you carry items that must stay dry, such as holiday luggage, clothing, and electronics; leave your vehicle unattended while travelling (locking); or care about noise and fuel consumption on long motorway trips. Thunder Carrier roof boxes are available in 350, 370, 450, and 480 litre options.

Both it is mounted on roof bars mount on roof bars; neither can be used without them.

Securing a Load in a Basket

The only risk with an open basket is the load shifting. For long and bulky loads, use a fitting that slots into the T-channel in the roof bar profile: the load stop limits the load's forward movement during braking and backward movement during acceleration; using more than one at the front and rear is recommended. A load stop does not replace tie-downs — the load must also be secured with a ratchet strap.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a roof box and a roof basket?

A roof box is a lidded, lockable box that protects items from rain, dust, and theft and has better aerodynamics. A roof basket is an open-top cage that accommodates irregular, bulky, overhanging loads; loading is faster, but items remain exposed and cannot be locked.

Which one carries more?

It depends on the volume, but neither determines how much weight you can carry: the limit is set by whichever is lower, your vehicle's roof load limit or the roof bar capacity. The basket's or box's own empty weight also counts toward this limit.

Which is better for camping?

Usually a roof basket. Camping loads are irregular and bulky, include unpackaged items, and often do not need to stay dry; loading from above is also quick. You can also secure long items (poles, ladders) in a basket.

Does a roof basket protect items from rain?

No, the basket is open at the top. If the load must stay dry, cover it with a tarp or use an enclosed roof box instead.

Can a basket or roof box be attached directly to the roof?

No, both mount on roof bars. If your vehicle does not have roof bars, you need to get them first; the type of roof rails on your vehicle determines which series to choose.

How do you prevent a load in a basket from shifting?

A load stop that fits into the T-channel in the roof bar profile limits the load's forward and backward movement; using more than one at the front and rear is recommended for long loads. A load stop does not replace tie-downs; the load must also be secured with a ratchet strap.

Related product: Roof Basket 100×120 cm – Thunder Pro Series