Looking for the best roof racks available in Australia? Need a bit of extra storage space to carry that lightweight yet bulky camping gear? Then read on because we’ll help you find the best car roof racks Australia has!
It seems that it doesn’t matter what type of camping setup you have; you always need more storage space to get it there in the first place. Whether your kids are getting bigger and there is less space inside the car, you need somewhere to put your kayak, SUP, or even just those fancy camping chairs – this is when having one of the top roof rack systems
While there is no doubt that roof rack systems are super handy, they aren’t without their downsides. The best kind are expensive, and honestly, they can’t carry all that much once you factor in your vehicle’s roof load capacity. Not to mention the additional fuel costs and reduced vehicle performance. Nevertheless, for many of us, car or 4X4 roof racks are necessary.
If you’re looking for the best 4WD roof racks or the best roof racks for cars, then there are a few things to get your head around first. A lot of it comes down to your vehicle type, what you want to carry, and whether you’re into off-road camping or stick to the bitumen. It’s also about knowing the best roof rack brands because you get what you pay for.
If you’re looking to buy roof racks for your car, then these best roof racks reviews Australia 2024 will be a great start. In this rooftop storage guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to consider when purchasing a rooftop luggage rack to ensure you buy the right one. We’ll also take a closer look at some of the best-rated roof racks currently on the Australian market.
This guide covers a range of different types of roof racks. We look at options for roof rack cross bars, full-length roof racks, rooftop luggage boxes, and more! We also cover all the top roof rack brands Australia offers. So regardless of your needs and budget, you’ll no doubt find the perfect option in this guide.
So let’s get started and find you the best rooftop carrier for your next camping trip!
If you like to camp in Queensland, join our Queensland Camping FB group, where you can talk with other campers, ask for advice, and share your camping experiences.
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Our Pick for the Best Car Roof Racks Australia 2025: Rola Platform Rack
If you don’t want to read our entire rooftop racks guide and just want our suggestion for the best roof racks, we recommend the Rola aluminium platform rack range. These are reasonably lightweight and super solid platforms, have a massive 400 kg loading rate, and are well priced.
This is the best roof rack Australia sells; it just ticks all the boxes. With their solid build, they’re perfect for both on-road and off-road adventures. They are also easy to install, plus this roof platform has a low profile, so even if you have a two-inch lift, your vehicle will still fit in your garage.
Click here to purchase the Rola platform rack now or see our Rola platform rack review below for more information.
Top Roof Racks System Comparison Table
Before we get started on how to choose a car rooftop carrier, below we’ve compiled a quick comparison table so you can see all the different vehicle roof racks that are reviewed later in the guide. The table helps you easily compare the rooftop cargo carriers and their features side by side.
Keep reading below for our full roof rack reviews Australia 2025.
| Brand | Image | Type | Weight of Roof Racks | Load Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhino Vortex |  | Crossbars | 5 kg | Up to 80 kg |
| Rhino Pioneer |  | Platform | Various sizes from 18.1 kg up to 38.5 kg | Subject to crossbars |
| Thule WingBar Evo |  | Crossbars | 2.5 kg | Up to 100 kg |
| Rhino mesh basket |  | Cargo Carrier | Small 9 kg Medium 18 kg Large 19.2 kg | Subject to crossbars |
| Rail Bars |  | Crossbars | 14 kg | Subject to crossbars |
| ProRack S Wing |  | Crossbars | 5 kg | Up to 75 kg |
| Rola Platform |  | Platform | 17.5 kg 20 kg 23.5 | Up to 400kg |
| Prorack S16 |  | Crossbars | Various sizes | Up to 75 kg |
| MSA |  | Cargo Carrier | Four sizes Large, Medium, Small, Extra Small | Subject to crossbars |
How to Choose the Best Rooftop Carrier
As we said in the intro, while roof racks are super handy, they are also a bit of a drag (quite literally) on your vehicle. You need to give careful thought to the following aspects in order to minimise the number of drawbacks associated with the roof rack you ultimately decide to buy.
Vehicle Roof Weight Limit
It might sound odd to start by discussing the vehicle roof weight limit – but this is the most important thing to consider when purchasing a roof rack system. Without knowing what the roof weight limit is for your vehicle, then you’re really going in blind.
All vehicles have a weight limit that can be placed on the roof. If we’re talking about 4WDs in most cases, it’s somewhere around 100kg, sometimes less, sometimes more – so check this out. This means that whatever you put on the roof of your vehicle can’t be more than this amount. That includes both the roof rack system AND whatever gear you plan on storing there.
So if you have a roof rack system that weighs 30 kg, you can only add another 70 kg worth of gear. Now that may be more than enough for some people – whereas others may really need to rethink what they plan on storing on their roof.
Also, keep in mind that just because the roof rack says it can handle up to 120 kg, this does not mean you can load up to 120 kg of stuff. That’s because the roof weight limit of your vehicle trumps the weight limit of your roof rack.
This is why you really want to opt for a lightweight aluminium roof rack and only store lightweight, bulky items on the roof – this will give you the best bang for your buck in terms of vehicle storage space. Keep the super heavy stuff (provided it can actually fit) in the boot. Things like tents, gazebos, camping chairs, tables, boogie boards, etc are prime candidates for storing on your roof racks.
So before you buy any roof rack, know your vehicle’s roof load AND the weight of the roof rack you’re thinking about buying AND the weight of what you want to carry. If you don’t get this all right before you buy, you may well end up wasting your money!
What items will you carry?
So now you know the weight limit of your car’s roof – let’s consider what you might want to store up there.
Given you need to consider both the weight of your roof rack system and the gear, your best bet is to store lightweight bulky items up there or for things that can’t be stored inside the vehicle because, quite frankly, they stink – like LPG bottles or portable loos. At the end of the day, though, roof racks aren’t for cramming as much as you can on them.
Car top rails are great for longer items but cannot carry smaller items on their own. While a rooftop basket is great for smaller items, a platform without sides is a little more versatile for items of all shapes and sizes.
I suggest before you purchase any roof rack system, you add up the weight of what you’re considering storing on your roof rack – this will guide you on what the right sort of roof rack system is for you.
How will you attach the roof racks?
In most cases, you won’t have a choice in how you mount your roof racks, as this will be determined by the standard factory fittings of your car. So before you purchase any roof rack, know how you’ll attach it first.
In general, these days there are four main ways to attach roof racks to your vehicle.
- Raised Side Rails: These are common on SUVs and are raised rails on each side of the vehicle that go from the front to the back. These rails have a gap between the roof of the vehicle and the rail.
- Flush Side Rails: Like raised side rails, flush side rails are on each side of the vehicle and are flush with the car roof; that is, there is no gap between the car roof and the rail. This is common in modern cars.
- Fix Point: Some cars have neither flush nor raised side rails; rather, they have fixed points hidden away. These points tend to be either on the car roof or inside the door jamb.
- Naked/Bare Roofs: Some cars have no rails or fixpoints – for these types of cars, you’re limited to a door jamb-type roof rack. These types of racks clamp to the door jamb.
- Backbone: Replace the existing side rails on vehicles to enhance the strength and load distribution of the roof rack.
On- or Off-road use
Just when you thought you had this whole weight thing figured out… Keep in mind that generally, roof racks have a different weight limit when going off-road. Often this is around 20 kg less than the on-road weight limit.
So if you’re planning on going off-road with your roof racks on, then also take note of the off-road weight limit.
Types of Roof Rack Systems
Now that you have the whole weight thing figured out, we can finally talk about the different types of roof rack setups available!
I’ll briefly go over some of the options below:
Roof Bars / Crossbars
If you’re after cheap roof racks, then you’re probably going to want to go for roof bars (also referred to as crossbars or rails). This is the best aftermarket roof rack system for those after something cheap, lightweight, easy to install, and easy to remove.
Rooftop cross bars run side to side across your vehicle and usually come in pairs – although it is possible to have more than two bars run across the roof of your vehicle. You can choose between flush roof bars, which finish flush with the side of your vehicle, or overhang roof bars, which, as the name suggests, hang over the side of your vehicle.
These types of roof racks are easy to install if your vehicle comes with the factory-standard side-raised roof rails or solid roof rails (which are useless on their own).
The downside, though, with roof bars is they are fairly limited in what they can carry because there isn’t much of a surface to tie things down. They are, however, ideal for people looking to store long items, like kayaks, paddleboards, fishing rods, camping tables, gazebos, tents, etc.
We personally have opted for roof bars for our vehicle as they are lightweight, and so we’re not wasting too many precious kilos from our maximum vehicle roof load on the rack themselves. If you want to store smaller items on your roof racks, you can always opt for one of the large waterproof bags and tie these onto your car top carrier rails.
Baskets
A car top basket is a metal basket with a base and sides. They are useful for storing various gear of all different shapes and sizes – not just big and bulky items. Some baskets have the sides missing or the front and rear missing so that you can overhang larger items.
However, keep in mind that in most cases, you will need first to install car top cross bars and then attach the basket—which, of course, will take up some of your roof weight limit.
Platforms or Trays
A really popular choice for those after camping roof racks is a platform. These come in a range of different sizes and are just flat bases that you can tie gear to. The best roof rack platform can be more versatile than simple crossbars because you can tie various sized items to it. They are also ideal for attaching various accessories to carry specific items such as kayaks, solar panels, etc.
However, just like baskets, platforms do generally need to be attached to a set of crossbars, and as such, you will need to factor in the weight of both.
Luggage Boxes / Cargo Carriers
A rooftop storage box or luggage box is basically a hard shell suitcase for the roof of your car – so there really is no limit to what you can store in here. The benefit of a car-top luggage carrier is there is no need to tie the items down, and given your items are securely locked away, you don’t need to be concerned about them while parked up somewhere.
But here I go again – luggage boxes need to be installed on top of crossbars, so you will have to consider both items’ weights.
What material do the best roof racks use
Roof racks tend to be made of aluminium or steel, and cheaper versions are made with plastic.
Steel is cheaper than aluminium and more durable, but the downside is it’s much heavier, so it eats into that weight limit. With a heavy steel roof rack on your vehicle, you’ll be limited to what you can store up there before you reach your vehicle’s roof limit. The other downside is it’s more prone to rust than aluminium.
Aluminium is a great choice for automobile roof racks, but they are also super expensive! Aluminium is super lightweight, durable, and more corrosion resistant. It is also said to have less drag when the vehicle is in motion, they are better for fuel consumption, and are quieter.
If you’re looking for something super versatile for your camping trips, then you really can’t pass up an aluminium roof rack—yes, it is more expensive, but you’ll have many more options in terms of what you can carry on it.
Give the cheap plastic roof racks a miss!
Roof Rack Accessories
One of the most common reasons people opt to install a roof rack is to add accessories – with one of the most popular being an awning (click here to read our guide on choosing the best 4WD awning). But other accessories include lights, solar panels, shovel holders, bike mounts, etc.
If you plan on adding any of these accessories to your roof rack, check to make sure they are compatible, and again – be sure to consider the weight of these accessories when deciding which roof rack is right for you.
Best Roof Racks Reviews Australia 2025
Hopefully, after reading the above, you better understand what the best car racks are for you. Keep reading our best roof rack storage reviews below.
Vortex Rhino Roof Racks Review
Rhino is probably one of the car rack brands you’ve heard of before – these guys are considered to be among the top roof rack brands around. They make a range of different types of roof rack mounts, but first, let’s look at their popular Vortex crossbars.
The Vortex Rhino-Rack is a durable roof rack system that is quick and easy to install and remove. The car top carrier cross bars feature specially moulded pads and custom-fit clamps so they can easily be attached to your car’s door jamb curves. The pads are made with rubber, so they won’t rub on your car either.
They are made from lightweight aluminium and have a high load rate of up to 80 kg, depending on your vehicle’s roof weight limit. Other features include lockable legs, so there’s no need to worry about someone nicking them, and they have a rubber stripe designed to reduce wind drag and noise.
These Rhino roof racks are ideal on their own for transporting lightweight bulky items or pairing them with a range of other cargo carriers, platforms, or baskets. They also come in a choice of either black and silver and both the flush or overhang design.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
Rhino Pioneer Platform
Another popular roof rack system from Rhino is their Pioneer Platform. In fact, in the various camping groups I belong to, this is one that I’m regularly seeing recommended as the best roof rack for camping gear. These platforms come in a range of different sizes, so you’ll be able to find the perfect size for your needs.
The Rhino Pioneer Platform is a sleek and stylish roof rack system designed to fit a range of vehicles. They are made from strong yet lightweight aluminium and are black powder-coated, so they are corrosion-resistant. For added strength, they also have fibreglass-reinforced nylon corners.
You will need to pair the Rhino Pioneer with a set of crossbars, and the previous Rhino Vortex ones are the perfect partner. You can also pair it with a range of offer rack accessories such as luggage bags, jerry can holders, shovels, and more.
Each Rhino Pioneer Platform also comes with a 5-year warranty so that you can purchase with peace of mind.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
WingBar Evo Thule Roof Racks Review
Thule roof racks are another super popular choice among Aussies after the best roof rack system for their camping gear. Thule makes top-quality products that are among some of the lightest roof racks currently on the market. The Thule WingBar Evo crossbars, for example, are the lightest of all in these reviews.
The Thule Wingbar was inspired by the design of an aircraft wing. These Thule car roof racks have fantastic aerodynamic features, making them one of the quietest roof rack options on the market. They’re also designed to reduce drag, which helps with fuel economy.
A great feature of this best Thule roof rack is the T-tracks. This means various accessories can easily slide into place along the track. The entire length of the bar can be used, so there is plenty of space for loads of different accessories.
These crossbars have a huge weight limit of 100 kg (subject to your vehicle’s roof limit, of course), making them great for either using them on their own or pairing them with a basket, platform, or cargo carrier.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
Prorack Roof Top Luggage Box Review
If you’re looking for a car rooftop box to pair with your crossbars, then why not consider a Prorack Roof Box? It comes with everything you need to attach to the roof of your vehicle and only weighs a total of 10kg.
This hard shell rooftop cargo carrier has a capacity of 360 litres, so you’ll be able to fit all your excess gear in these. All assembly tools are included, so installation is quick and easy.
They’re also easy to open and close, and with the dual side opening, you can access the entire box from both sides of your vehicle. You can also lock the Prorack roof box, so there is no concern of theft while you’re parked up.
This hardtop luggage carrier is reasonably lightweight, considering its size. However, it will need to be mounted to crossbars, so you’ll need to also take this weight into consideration.
Overall, if you’re looking for something safe and secure to store smaller items, this Prorack hardtop roof carrier is well worth considering. Lightweight and easily accessible, it’s the perfect place to store those items that you just can’t squeeze into the car.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
Rhino-Rack RLBS Mesh Baskets Review
These Rhino-Rack RLBS Mesh baskets are a great option for those after something more than simple crossbars yet still wanting affordable car roof racks.
The Rhino roof baskets are made from steel, which is zinc-coated and powder-coated black. It has a heavy-duty tubular construction, which makes this basket perfect whether you’re looking for the best off-road roof rack or on-road.
There is a choice of three different size baskets; the small car carrier weighs 9 kg, medium sizes weigh 18 kg, while the large carrier weighs 19.2 kg. This makes these affordable roof racks reasonably lightweight compared to the other platforms and cargo carriers in these reviews, particularly considering this is a cheaper option.
The Rhino luggage basket is a stylish-looking roof rack, and for the price, you really can’t go wrong. If you’re someone looking for a lightweight and affordable roof rack, the Rhino roof basket is a perfect choice. Please note that if purchasing a Rhino mesh basket, they will require roof/cross bars. These are to be brought separately.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
Rail Bars by Yakima Review
Rail Bars racks by Yakima are another top option for those after a set of crossbars for their vehicle. These crossbars offer a low-profile, smaller-footprint way to carry a lot of gear.
Like the ProRack crossbars, the Railbars are aerodynamically designed. These crossbars are made from aluminium and have a black powder-coated finish. The crossbars have no overhang but require your car to have factory-fitted rail bars.
Everything you need to fit these crossbars comes with your purchase, including locks, making adding other accessories to the crossbars easy.
Lightweight, low profile, and super durable, the Rail Bars roof racks are yet another perfect option for those looking for a simple roof rack system.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
Rola MKIII Titan Tray Roof Racks Review
If you’re looking for affordable platform roof racks, then the Rola has a range of awesome aluminium platform racks. They have a nice modern look to them, are reasonably lightweight, have a huge weight capacity of up to 400 kg, and come in a range of different sizes.
The Rola roof racks are super tough platforms made from lightweight anodized aluminium with stipple powder coating. This makes these roof racks perfect for both your off-road adventures and on-road.
Everything you need for mounting this platform comes with your purchase. You don’t even need crossbars for this platform, as you can mount it directly to the car’s side rails. The Rola platform comes in 3 sizes: 1200 x 1200 mm, 1500 x 1200 mm, and 1800 x 1200 mm.
These roof racks have an accessory channel that makes it super easy to add various accessories and tie down your gear. Plus, the platform has a low profile, so you don’t need to be concerned about not fitting into your garage. Even if your vehicle has a 2-inch lift, you’ll remain under an overall height of 2 metres.
If you’re looking for a platform-style roof rack, the Rola range of aluminium roof racks is certainly one to consider. They are one of the cheaper aluminium platforms on the market and have one of the largest weight capacities. So, if your vehicle has a large roof weight capacity, then the Rolla platform might be what you’ve been searching for.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
Prorack S16 Aero Through Bar Roof Racks Review
Prorack S16 Aero through-bar roof racks are another top option for those after a set of crossbars for their vehicle. These come in a choice of a flush bar for a seamless look or through bars, as well as your choice of black or silver.
As the name suggests, these roof racks are whisper quiet and, like the ProRack crossbars, are aerodynamically designed. The Aero through-bar quiet roof racks are said to have up to 70% less wind drag and noise than most other options on the market.
Everything you need to fit these crossbars comes with your purchase, including locks and a universal T-slot system, making adding other accessories to the crossbars easy.
Lightweight, reasonably priced, and with a load rating of up to 75 kg, the Aero through-bar roof racks are yet another perfect option for those looking for a simple roof rack system.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
MSA Basket Packs Review
If you want an alternative to a hardtop cargo carrier, the MSA basket packs are a great soft storage alternative. They come in four different sizes to suit most vehicles.
The MSA Basket packs are made from a waterproof 15oz polyester/cotton blend canvas and have a laminated PVC base to keep them protected. They have a chunky zip on three sides for easy access, and these are fully covered by a Velcro-style dust cover for extra protection.
The basket packs are attached with the use of a seat belt harness system, but they also come with additional Velcro-style tie downs. You will also get a removable rain and dust-resistant cover for an added layer of protection.
Convenient, lightweight, and easy to load and attach, the MSA Basket Packs range is another option worth considering.
Click here for more information and to check the price.
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And there you have it, our ultimate guide to the best car roof racks. We have plenty of other guides to help you with camping, including how to choose a pop-up tent, how to choose the best camping fridge, and we even have the ultimate camping checklist here.
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