There’s a universal moment of truth every road tripper, camper, or large family faces: staring at a mountain of essential gear and a car interior that seems to be shrinking by the second. I’ve been there more times than I can count. I recall a particularly memorable trip up the Pacific Coast Highway, where my SUV was packed so tightly with coolers, tents, and luggage that the rearview mirror became a purely decorative accessory. Every stop involved a frustrating game of Tetris just to retrieve a jacket. It was on that trip, somewhere between Big Sur and San Francisco, that I promised myself I would reclaim my interior space. The solution was obvious: move the gear up and out. A rooftop cargo basket isn’t just about adding space; it’s about restoring sanity, improving visibility, and keeping dirty, bulky items like muddy hiking boots or damp camping equipment out of your clean cabin. The challenge, however, is finding a solution that doesn’t consume your entire roof, especially when you also want to bring along a kayak or a couple of bikes for the adventure.
- [SPACE SAVING] The narrow multisport rooftop basket measures 64"x 23"x 6", lets you carry 1 bike and a load of gear on your roof while taking up just half of your usable crossbar space.
- [WEATHER RESISTANT] This cargo basket has a steel wind fairing, high-quality and heavy-duty steel construction with a durable black powder coating helps protect cargo basket against the elements and...
- [EASY INSTALLATION] Easy to install on most vehicles. This cargo carrier utilizes your car's crossbars, U-bolt space: 4.65" x 1.375", all mounting hardware included.
What to Consider Before Buying a Rooftop Cargo Basket
A rooftop cargo basket is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for unlocking your vehicle’s true potential. It transforms your daily driver into a capable adventure rig, enabling you to haul everything from camping supplies and construction materials to oversized luggage that would otherwise be impossible to transport. The main benefit is the sheer liberation of interior space, creating a more comfortable and safer environment for passengers. Furthermore, it allows you to carry items that are too dirty, wet, or oddly shaped for the inside of your car, protecting your upholstery and simplifying cleanup after a rugged trip.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a recurring space deficit. This includes adventurous families, outdoor enthusiasts, van-lifers who need to maximize every square inch, and even tradespeople who need to carry extra equipment. If you frequently find yourself choosing between bringing gear or bringing a friend, a cargo basket is for you. However, it might not be suitable for those who require absolute, 100% waterproof and dustproof protection without using a separate cargo bag, as open baskets are, by nature, exposed to the elements. It’s also not for individuals who rarely transport more than what fits inside their vehicle, as the basket can introduce a small amount of wind noise and a minor impact on fuel economy.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: The most critical factor is how the basket fits your vehicle and your lifestyle. Full-width baskets maximize storage but occupy your entire roof. “Skinny” or narrow baskets, like the ARKSEN model, are a brilliant compromise, leaving valuable crossbar real estate free for other mounts like bike racks, ski carriers, or even a solar panel. Always check the external dimensions against your vehicle’s roof and the internal, usable dimensions against the gear you plan to carry.
- Capacity/Performance: Every roof rack and cargo basket has a maximum load capacity, typically ranging from 150 to 250 pounds. It’s vital to respect this limit, which includes the weight of the basket itself, for safety. Consider the weight of your typical load—a large cooler, multiple pieces of luggage, and camping gear can add up quickly. A built-in wind fairing is another key performance feature that significantly reduces wind noise and drag at highway speeds.
- Materials & Durability: Most cargo baskets are made from powder-coated steel. Steel is strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive, but its Achilles’ heel is rust. The quality of the powder coating and the integrity of the welds are paramount. A thick, properly applied coating will resist scratches and prevent moisture from reaching the steel, while poorly executed “tack welds” can be entry points for rust.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the assembly and installation process. Most baskets require some assembly, and the ease of this can vary wildly. The mounting hardware, typically U-bolts, should be simple to use and compatible with your vehicle’s existing crossbars (round, square, or aero). For long-term care, plan on periodically checking for scratches in the finish and touching them up to prevent rust, especially if you live in a wet or snowy climate.
Keeping these factors in mind, the ARKSEN 64″ Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Basket & Net stands out in several areas, particularly its unique dimensions and value proposition. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the ARKSEN 64″ Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Basket & Net is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
- DURABLE BUILD - Tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating to promote high strength and a lightweight design. and covered in a rust free coating. It is rated for 200 lbs
- 【LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY】Free up space in your vehicle with this roof rack cargo basket that can hold up to 200 Lbs. Overall dimensions include: 46"(L) x 36"(W) x 5"(H)
First Impressions: Unboxing the ARKSEN Carrier
Upon receiving the ARKSEN 64″ Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Basket & Net, the first thing we noticed was the modular nature of its construction. The box contains three main basket sections, a front wind fairing, and a bag of hardware, including the U-bolts for mounting. This multi-piece design is a double-edged sword: it allows for a more compact shipping box and, as we later discovered, offers some interesting customization options. Picking up the individual steel components, they felt substantial and solid, giving an initial impression of strength.
However, as we examined the finish, we shared the concerns noted by several users. The black coating, described as a “durable black powder coating,” felt more like a thin layer of paint. It looked good from a distance, but we could tell it would be susceptible to scratches during assembly and loading. This isn’t a deal-breaker at this price point, but it’s a significant departure from the thick, textured finish you’d find on premium brands like Yakima or Thule. The included cargo net was a welcome addition, though basic in its construction. Overall, the unboxing revealed a product that feels sturdy at its core but has clearly made compromises on the finish to achieve its budget-friendly price.
What We Like
- Unique “skinny” design preserves up to half of your crossbar space for other gear.
- Modular three-piece construction allows for a shorter configuration if needed.
- Excellent value, offering a functional design for a fraction of the cost of premium competitors.
- Universal U-bolt mounting system fits a wide variety of factory and aftermarket crossbars.
Drawbacks
- The paint finish is thin and prone to scratching, leading to a high potential for rust.
- Manufacturing inconsistencies can make assembly difficult, with reports of misaligned holes.
- Actual internal storage dimensions are smaller than the overall product dimensions suggest.
A Deep Dive into the ARKSEN Cargo Carrier’s Performance
A cargo basket’s true worth is only revealed on the road, under load, and through the rigors of assembly and daily use. We put the ARKSEN 64″ Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Basket & Net through its paces, from the initial garage assembly to a weekend trip loaded with gear, to see how its budget-friendly design holds up in the real world.
Assembly and Installation: A Game of Tolerances
The assembly process for the ARKSEN carrier is where you’ll first encounter the product’s primary trade-off: price versus quality control. The basket arrives in three sections—front, middle, and back—that must be bolted together. In our test, the pieces aligned reasonably well, and we had it fully assembled in about 30 minutes. However, we cannot ignore the significant number of user reports describing a much more frustrating experience. Some users found that the connecting bars simply would not fit into their designated slots without significant force, while others reported misaligned bolt holes that required drilling to correct. This suggests a notable inconsistency in manufacturing tolerances. Our advice is to be prepared for some potential coaxing. As one user aptly noted, you might have to “force it in,” which unfortunately compromises the thin paint and creates an immediate entry point for rust.
Once assembled, mounting the 26.5-pound basket to our vehicle’s crossbars was straightforward. The included U-bolt hardware is universal and worked perfectly with our aero-style bars; other users confirmed compatibility with Yakima round bars as well. The main drawback of this simple mounting system, which we also observed, is that the threaded ends of the U-bolts and their plastic securing knobs stick up about an inch into the cargo area. This isn’t a major issue for soft luggage, but it can create an uneven surface for hard-sided cases or coolers and slightly reduces the usable flat floor space.
Design and Real-World Capacity: The ‘Skinny’ Advantage
The standout feature of the ARKSEN 64″ Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Basket & Net is undoubtedly its 23-inch width. This “skinny” profile is a game-changer for anyone who partakes in multiple outdoor activities. On our test vehicle, it left more than enough room on the crossbars for a full-size bike rack, a scenario that is simply impossible with a traditional 39- or 44-inch wide basket. We heard from one user who paired it with a solar panel on their van and another who used it on a camper trailer, both praising its space-saving design. This versatility is its single greatest strength.
Another clever aspect of the design is its modularity. As one owner happily discovered, you can omit the center section during assembly to create a shorter, more compact basket (approximately 43 inches long) that might better fit smaller vehicles or trailers. When fully assembled, however, some users have noted the basket can appear to sag slightly in the middle. We observed a very minor dip, but it didn’t seem to affect its structural integrity under our 120-pound test load.
It’s crucial to address the carrying capacity dimensions. While the product is listed as 64″x23″x6″, we confirmed one user’s finding that the actual, internal usable space is closer to 58″ x 21″ x 5″. This 2-inch difference in width and 6-inch difference in length is significant. Before you buy, measure your largest cooler or cargo box to ensure it will fit within that 21-inch gap. While the 150-pound weight capacity is standard and sufficient for most camping gear, the dimensional reality is a key purchasing consideration.
Durability and Weather Resistance: The Achilles’ Heel
Here is where our expert opinion and user feedback align perfectly: the long-term durability of the ARKSEN carrier is entirely dependent on proactive owner intervention. The steel construction itself is robust, but the finish is its undeniable weak point. We found that the paint scratched easily during assembly and from the simple act of sliding a plastic cargo box across its floor. These scratches, along with the numerous tack-welded joints, are prime locations for rust to form.
One of the most concerning pieces of feedback came from a user who shared photos of significant rust blooming from the welds and running down their truck’s paint after just one month of use. This is unacceptable for any outdoor product. However, another user offered the perfect solution, which we strongly endorse: before you even assemble the basket, invest in a couple of cans of high-quality, rust-prevention clear coat spray paint and apply two to three thorough coats to every surface, paying special attention to the welds and joints. This small investment of time and about $20 will likely be the difference between a rack that lasts one season and one that lasts for many years. It transforms the carrier from a potential liability into a genuine “Yakima killer pricewise,” as one owner put it. The included steel wind fairing did its job admirably, effectively reducing wind noise to a low hum at highway speeds, a feature that performed better than expected for a budget unit.
What Other Users Are Saying
The consensus on the ARKSEN 64″ Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Basket & Net is that it offers incredible value, provided you know what you’re getting into. Positive reviews consistently praise its unique form factor and versatility. One user was thrilled with their purchase for a camper trailer, stating, “Needed a narrow roof basket… and this one works great! I assembled the front and back parts (omitting the center part) to make a short basket that fit my needs.” Another user, who was looking for a solution to fit alongside a solar panel on their Ram Promaster, noted that the only alternative was a Yakima SkinnyWarrior setup that would have cost over $600, making the ARKSEN a clear winner on price.
On the other hand, the negative feedback is just as consistent and focuses squarely on quality control. The most damning review came from a user who reported, “after one month, the rack is rusting. All of the half welded joints are rusting and leaving rust spots all over the truck. Do not buy!” This highlights the critical need for extra rust-proofing. Another user echoed the assembly frustrations, saying, “the bars would not fit into the slots. You’ll have to force it in… which compromises the paint and it will rust.” This feedback collectively paints a clear picture: it’s a functionally well-designed product let down by its finish and manufacturing tolerances.
How the ARKSEN Carrier Compares to the Alternatives
While the ARKSEN carrier occupies a unique niche with its skinny design, it’s important to see how it stacks up against other popular options in the cargo basket market.
1. TUFFIOM 64″x 39″ Extendable Rooftop Cargo Carrier Basket
- 【Extension Basket Design】 Removable extension part design, you can choose whether to install expansion part according to adapt to the size of your car. 2 basket sizes available in (39"x64"x6") or...
- 【Sturdy Steel Construction】Built with heavy-duty tubular steel for unparalleled strength and anti-scratch. Dark grey epoxy powder-coated finish protects it from rust, debris, and weather elements...
- 【Large Capacity Basket】Upgrade basket heigh design for more safe and spce to storage luggage. Besides, it comes with 2 ratchet strap and 2 strap with hook for securing the luggage to prevent...
The TUFFIOM carrier offers the same 64-inch length as the ARKSEN but in a full-width 39-inch design. This is the choice for users who need to maximize raw cargo volume and don’t plan on carrying other gear like bikes or kayaks alongside the basket. Its extendable nature is similar to the ARKSEN’s modular design, offering versatility in length. If your primary goal is hauling the absolute most gear possible in a single basket and roof-width is not a concern, the TUFFIOM is a more spacious alternative, though you sacrifice the multi-sport capability that makes the ARKSEN so appealing.
2. MORryde CTG60-4290W Sliding Cargo Tray 42″ x 90″
- Fully assembled cargo slide
- Finished carpeted flooring
- No measuring & cutting the floor
The MORryde Sliding Cargo Tray is in a different league entirely, and it’s important to understand its application. This is not a rooftop carrier but a heavy-duty sliding tray designed for the cargo bays of RVs, vans, or truck beds. Its primary advantage is accessibility; the tray slides out, allowing you to easily load and unload heavy items without climbing into the vehicle. With a much higher load capacity and a correspondingly higher price tag, this is a premium cargo management solution for serious RV owners or professional contractors, not a direct alternative to a rooftop basket.
3. TOOENJOY 43” Roof Rack Cargo Basket
- [STURDY AND SOLID] THICKER HEAVY-DUTY STEEL tubing and frame distinguish it from other welded baskets and are more SOLID! Not easy to bend!
- [RUST-PROOF] The INSIDE and outside of the steel pipe adopt an ALL-AROUND fluorescent powder SPRAYING PROCESS, which is more RUST-PROOF and WEAR-RESISTANT, not easy to fall off, and has a glossy feel!...
- [FRONT SPOILER DESIGN] Wind Fairing REDUCES WIND RESISTANCE AND NOISE, protects cargo from damage, ensures driving security and less fuel consumption.
The TOOENJOY basket represents a more traditional, compact option. At 43″ x 35″, it’s significantly shorter and wider than the ARKSEN. This makes it an excellent choice for smaller cars, crossovers, or SUVs where a 64-inch basket might look oversized or create too much overhang. If your cargo needs are more modest—perhaps a couple of duffel bags and a small cooler—and you prefer a classic, full-width basket design for a smaller vehicle, the TOOENJOY is a solid, well-regarded alternative that prioritizes a compact footprint over the extended length and multi-sport versatility of the ARKSEN.
The Verdict: A High-Value Hauler for the Hands-On Owner
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the ARKSEN 64″ Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Basket & Net is clear: it is an exceptionally clever and useful product for a very specific type of user. Its primary selling point—the “skinny” design that frees up half your roof for other toys—is a genuine game-changer that few other products offer, especially at this price point. It successfully provides a solution for the adventurer who refuses to choose between their bike and their camping gear.
However, this incredible value comes with a significant caveat: the out-of-the-box finish is simply not adequate for long-term weather resistance. We would only recommend this basket to the DIY-savvy buyer who is willing to invest an extra hour and a can of spray paint to properly protect their investment from rust. If you are someone who expects a perfect, maintenance-free product right out of the box, you will likely be disappointed. But if you see it as a 90% complete “kit” that you can easily perfect, you will be rewarded with a versatile and highly functional cargo solution for a fraction of the cost of its premium competitors.
If you’ve decided the ARKSEN 64″ Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Basket & Net is the right fit for your adventures and you’re ready to give it a quick protective coating, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API