For years, I found myself in a perpetual struggle every time vacation planning rolled around. My car, perfectly sized for daily commutes, became a sardine can on wheels when faced with the demands of family trips. The backseat overflowed, the trunk was bursting, and visibility through the rear window became a distant memory. This chronic lack of space wasn’t just an inconvenience; it created stress, limited our packing options, and made long drives uncomfortable. I knew I needed a dedicated solution to free up interior space and make travel enjoyable again. A compact roofbox would have been immensely helpful.
Essential Considerations for Choosing a Roof Cargo Carrier
Anyone who has ever packed for a road trip knows the universal challenge: finding enough space for everything. Roof cargo carriers are the ultimate answer to this dilemma, transforming your vehicle’s unused roof into valuable storage real estate. They solve the problem of cramped interiors, blocked rear visibility, and the difficult choice of what to leave behind.
The ideal customer for a roof cargo carrier is someone who frequently embarks on road trips, camping adventures, or sports excursions, and needs extra space for gear, luggage, or specialized equipment like golf clubs or skis. If you’re constantly Tetris-ing your belongings into your car, or if your passengers are complaining about lack of legroom due to bags, then a roof-mounted solution is definitely for you.
However, if you rarely travel with excessive luggage, or if your vehicle already has ample storage, you might not need one. Similarly, if you primarily navigate low-clearance areas like parking garages, a roof box might be more hassle than it’s worth, in which case a hitch-mounted carrier or simply a larger vehicle might be more appropriate.
Before committing to a purchase, consider several key factors. First, assess your vehicle’s roof rack compatibility – do you have crossbars, and what type are they? Second, think about the capacity you need; how much extra volume (cubic feet) and weight (pounds) do you anticipate carrying? Third, evaluate the dimensions to ensure it doesn’t obstruct your vehicle’s trunk, sunroof, or antenna. Durability, weather resistance, ease of installation, and security features (locks) are also paramount. Lastly, consider the opening mechanism – passenger-side, driver-side, or dual-side opening – for convenience.
Introducing the Thule Sidekick Cargo Box: A Closer Look
The Thule Sidekick Cargo Box is a compact, hard-shell roofbox designed to add significant storage to smaller vehicles or those needing extra room for specific items without overwhelming the roof. Thule promises a reliable, weather-resistant solution for carrying smaller loads like camping gear or golf clubs. When you purchase this rooftop cargo carrier, it typically comes with the two-part box, U-bolts with reinforcement plates, adjustable brackets for mounting, and a set of keys for its integrated locking system.
This particular cargo box is perfect for individuals or small families who need occasional extra space, valuing affordability and compactness over vast capacity or luxury features. It’s not for those who need to transport multiple skis or snowboards (as it explicitly states ‘No Ski/Snowboard Carrying’), or very large, bulky items. If you’re a minimalist traveler or someone who only needs to supplement their existing car storage, the Thule Sidekick strikes a good balance, especially when compared to larger, more expensive Thule models.
Here’s a quick rundown of its pros and cons:
Pros:
* Compact Size: Leaves ample room for other roof-mounted accessories.
* Affordable: A budget-friendly entry into Thule rooftop storage.
* Lightweight: Easy for one person to lift and mount.
* Good for Small Loads: Ideal for camping gear, golf clubs, or a few bags.
* Weather Resistant: Contents remain dry even in strong rain.
Cons:
* Challenging Assembly: The hinge and U-bolt assembly can be frustrating.
* Flimsy Feel: Some users report the plastic feels thin and flexible.
* Limited Latches: Relies solely on two side locks; no additional latches for closure.
* U-Bolt Design: Knobs protrude into the box, potentially impeding cargo space.
* No Ski/Snowboard Carrying: Not suitable for longer sports equipment.
Deep Dive into Features and Practical Advantages
Having relied on the Thule Sidekick Cargo Box for numerous trips over a significant period, I can offer an in-depth perspective on its core features and how they translate into tangible benefits for the everyday traveler. This rooftop storage solution, while simple, serves its purpose effectively, though not without a few quirks.
Compact Footprint and Design Efficiency
One of the most appealing aspects of the Sidekick Cargo Box is its dimensions: 54 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 15.5 inches high. This compact size isn’t just about fitting on smaller cars; it’s a deliberate design choice that enhances overall roof rack utility. Many larger cargo boxes hog the entire roof, leaving no room for anything else. The Sidekick, however, is slender enough to coexist with other roof-mounted accessories. I’ve personally used it alongside a bike rack, and it allowed me to bring both my gear and my bicycle without having to make compromises. This space-saving design is invaluable for adventurers who want to maximize their vehicle’s carrying capacity for diverse hobbies. Its relatively low profile also helps reduce wind resistance and noise compared to bulkier options, contributing to a more pleasant driving experience, though some wind noise is always inevitable with any roof-mounted accessory.
Load Capacity and Versatility for Smaller Gear
With an 8 cubic feet (227L) volume and a load capacity of 75 pounds, the Sidekick is clearly designed for “small loads.” This isn’t a criticism; it’s its strength. While it won’t swallow oversized luggage or multiple sets of skis, it’s perfectly sized for those crucial items that clog up your car’s interior. I’ve successfully packed four duffel bags, a couple of beach towels, and two camp chairs inside for a family vacation, which completely cleared out the back of my SUV, restoring rear visibility and passenger comfort. For golfers, it’s a neat solution for clubs. For campers, it handles sleeping bags, a tent, and other soft gear. The relatively low load capacity (75 lbs) is also a blessing in disguise for smaller vehicles, preventing overloading the roof and maintaining vehicle stability.
Passenger-Side Opening for Convenience
The cargo box features a passenger-side opening. While some might prefer a dual-side opening for maximum flexibility, the passenger-side configuration is actually quite practical. It means you’re always loading and unloading from the curb side, away from traffic, which is a significant safety advantage. This design makes accessing your gear safer and more convenient, especially when parked on busy streets or at rest stops. Its hinges, although a point of contention during assembly (more on that later), allow the lid to open wide, providing good access to the entire interior of the box for efficient packing and unpacking.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Constructed from plastic, the Thule Sidekick is touted as durable and water resistant. My experience has largely affirmed this. During several long road trips, including stretches through heavy rain and even some light snow, the contents of the box remained completely dry. This is paramount for protecting clothing, electronics, or anything susceptible to moisture. The material, while feeling somewhat thin and flexible when empty, becomes surprisingly rigid and secure once mounted and loaded. It holds its shape well under various driving conditions, including highway speeds up to 80 mph. The hard shell also provides a level of protection against impacts or minor abrasions that soft bags or open roof baskets cannot offer.
Security Features
Security is a key concern for any external storage solution. The Thule Sidekick Cargo Box includes two integrated locks. These locks serve a dual purpose: securing the contents inside the box and locking the box itself to your roof rack. While some users express concern about the absence of additional latches beyond the locks, I found that once the locks were engaged, the lid remained firmly closed. I routinely checked the locks during fuel stops on extended journeys, and they consistently held fast, even over rough terrain and at high speeds. This gives peace of mind, knowing your valuables are protected from both theft and accidental opening.
Mounting System and Its Nuances
The Thule Sidekick uses a U-bolt mounting system with reinforcement plates and adjustable brackets, designed to fit various rack systems including Thule’s own, round bars, and most factory racks. Once properly installed, this system provides a very secure attachment to the vehicle’s crossbars. I’ve taken this box on multiple 650+ mile trips, and it has remained rock-solid.
However, this is also where some of the product’s major disadvantages come to light. The assembly and mounting process can be notoriously tricky. Installing the hinges that connect the top and bottom halves requires careful alignment and can be a “nightmare” for one person. Some users have described having to crawl inside the box to secure nuts and washers, which is not ideal and highlights a design flaw in the assembly instructions or the hardware itself. While I didn’t have to resort to such extreme measures, it certainly required patience and dexterity.
Furthermore, while the U-bolts themselves are sturdy, securing them to the roof rack can be a bit of a contortion act, especially the inner bolts, which protrude into the cargo space. This protrusion means you have to pack around them, which can be an inconvenience. There’s also a minor concern about the U-bolt knobs not having a locking mechanism, potentially loosening with prolonged vibration, although I haven’t personally experienced this issue over extensive use. The thinness of the lid and overall material quality for the price point has also been noted by some, contrasting with the typical robust reputation of the Thule brand. Despite these assembly and design quirks, once the box is on, it performs reliably. Its relatively light weight (19.85 lbs) makes it manageable for a single person to lift and position onto the roof rack, a significant advantage over heavier, bulkier units.
What Users Are Saying: Real-World Experiences
After extensively using the Thule Sidekick Cargo Box myself, I delved into other user experiences online, and it’s clear that many share a similar journey. Users often commend its ability to significantly expand storage, with one noting it neatly fit several bags and camping gear, restoring crucial rear visibility. The product’s robustness in keeping contents dry through heavy downpours and remaining secure on long, high-speed trips is a frequently praised aspect, as is its lightweight design for easier solo handling. However, the assembly, especially attaching the lid’s hinges and securing the U-bolts, emerges as a consistent challenge, often described as frustrating and requiring patience or a second pair of hands. Some also expressed reservations about the material’s perceived thinness and occasional quality control issues like missing parts upon delivery. Despite these noted hurdles, the consensus leans towards the Sidekick being a valuable and cost-effective solution for specific, smaller cargo needs.
Final Thoughts: Why This Compact Roof Solution is a Smart Pick
The persistent challenge of insufficient vehicle space can quickly turn an exciting road trip into a cramped, stressful ordeal, compromising comfort and even safety due to obstructed views. Solving this problem isn’t just about convenience; it’s about reclaiming the joy of travel. The Thule Sidekick Cargo Box emerges as an excellent fit for this need. Its compact yet effective design ensures you gain valuable storage without monopolizing your roof, leaving room for other gear. Despite initial assembly challenges, its robust construction and effective sealing prove reliable in protecting your belongings from the elements on long journeys. Offering a cost-effective entry into premium roof storage, the Sidekick provides genuine utility and peace of mind. If you’re ready to reclaim your vehicle’s interior and travel with ease, click here to explore the Thule Sidekick Cargo Box and transform your travel experience.