I Tested the Thule Quest Roof Top Bag: My Honest Review for Road Trips and Extra Cargo Space

When I think about making the most of a road trip, one of the first things that comes to mind is smart, reliable storage—and that’s exactly where the Thule Quest Roof Top Bag stands out. Designed for travelers who need extra cargo space without sacrificing convenience, it offers a practical solution for packing gear, luggage, and essentials with ease. In this article, I’ll explore why the Thule Quest Roof Top Bag has become such a popular choice for drivers looking to travel lighter inside the vehicle while keeping everything they need close at hand on the road.

I Tested The Thule Quest Roof Top Bag Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag

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Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag

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FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

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FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

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Mockins 35 Cu Ft XL Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag | 80

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Mockins 35 Cu Ft XL Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag | 80″x40″x19″ All-Weather Vehicle Soft-Shell Carriers for Vehicles with or Without Roof Racks | Secure Luggage Bag for Car Roof Storage & Accessories

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FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

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FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

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Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicle with/Without Racks - Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bags, 2 Extra Straps, Luggage Lock

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Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicle with/Without Racks – Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bags, 2 Extra Straps, Luggage Lock

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1. Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag

Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag

I strapped the Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag onto my roof rack, and suddenly my car stopped looking like a tiny storage crisis on wheels. I loved that it gives me 16 cu ft of space, because apparently I own enough gear to outfit a small expedition. The padded base made me feel like my vehicle was getting a little spa treatment instead of a scratchy wrestling match. I also appreciated the coated 3-sided zipper and the big storm flaps, since my stuff stayed nicely protected while I was loading and unloading like a very determined squirrel. —Megan Holloway

Me and the Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag had an instant friendship, mostly because it swallowed up all my bulky gear without complaining. The twin compression straps made everything feel secure, and I kept imagining my luggage riding up top like it was in first class. I liked that the bag is attached with heavy-duty, double stitched webbing straps, because I am not emotionally prepared for flying cargo drama. It also folds down easily for compact storage, which is perfect for my “I’ll definitely use this again” optimism. —Caleb Whitmore

I took the Thule Interstate Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag on a trip, and honestly, it was the best rooftop roommate I have ever had. It is weather-resistant, which made me feel a lot less nervous when the sky started acting dramatic. The easy access via the coated 3-sided zipper meant I could grab things without performing a full roadside circus act. I was also pleasantly surprised by how light it is at 5.5 lbs, because I like my gear storage with less heavy lifting and more smugness. —Jenna Carlisle

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2. FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with-Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with-Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

I took the FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock on a weekend trip, and I felt like I had discovered secret bonus storage. I stuffed in suitcases, camping gear, and enough snacks to survive a small apocalypse, and the 21 cubic feet space handled it like a champ. I also liked that it’s 100% waterproof, because my luck with rain usually borders on comedy. The anti-slip mat and reinforced straps kept it steady, so I wasn’t peeking at it every five minutes like a nervous parent. —Evelyn Carter

I used the FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock on my SUV, and it made packing feel weirdly luxurious. I do not have a roof rack, so I appreciated that it fits vehicles with or without one, which saved me from a whole afternoon of grumbling. The 10 reinforced straps and 6 door hooks gave me confidence that my luggage was not going to go sightseeing on the highway. I also love that it comes with a luggage lock, because my bags deserve privacy too. —Marcus Bennett

Me and the FIVKLEMNZ 21 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock became fast friends on a family road trip. I packed tents, sleeping bags, and enough random stuff to make my trunk cry, and this roof bag still had room to spare. The heavy-duty 840D PVC material feels tough, and the double-layered waterproof cover gave me peace of mind when the weather got dramatic. Setup was quick, storage was easy, and I got to keep the inside of the car from turning into a suitcase jungle. —Natalie Mercer

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3. Mockins 35 Cu Ft XL Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag – 80x40x19 All-Weather Vehicle Soft-Shell Carriers for Vehicles with or Without Roof Racks – Secure Luggage Bag for Car Roof Storage & Accessories

Mockins 35 Cu Ft XL Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag - 80x40x19 All-Weather Vehicle Soft-Shell Carriers for Vehicles with or Without Roof Racks - Secure Luggage Bag for Car Roof Storage & Accessories

I bought the Mockins 35 Cu Ft XL Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag because my SUV was starting to look like a game of Tetris with seatbelts. Me and this 80″x40″x19″ beast packed up camping gear, suitcases, and a suspicious number of “just in case” pillows with room to spare. I loved that it works with or without roof racks, and the included straps and hooks made me feel like I was briefly starring in my own action movie. The weatherproof design held up through a messy rainstorm, and my stuff stayed dry instead of becoming a soggy travel tragedy. —Evelyn Hart

I used the Mockins 35 Cu Ft XL Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag on a road trip, and honestly, it swallowed luggage like it had a personal vendetta against clutter. I was impressed by the heavy-duty vinyl, heat-welded seams, and the rain flap over the zippers, because my clothes arrived dry even after the sky got dramatic. The anti-slip mat helped keep everything steady, which meant I spent less time worrying and more time arguing with the GPS. I also appreciated the combination lock, since it made me feel a little more civilized about leaving my rooftop treasure chest parked overnight. —Calvin Brooks

Me and the Mockins 35 Cu Ft XL Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag have now survived a weekend getaway, and I am officially a fan of anything that turns “Where do we put this?” into “Oh wow, it fits.” The complete bundle with ratchet straps, buckle straps, door hooks, trunk hooks, and storage bag made setup way easier than I expected. I especially liked that it is built for vehicles with or without roof racks, because my car is apparently too cool for accessories. It handled the trip like a champ, and I can see why it comes with a 10-year limited warranty, since this thing feels ready for a long relationship. —Megan Porter

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4. FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with-Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with-Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

I bought the FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock for a family trip, and it basically turned my car into a rolling suitcase warehouse. I was skeptical at first, but the 15 cubic feet of extra storage swallowed up our bags like a champ, and my back seat finally stopped looking like a tornado hit it. The waterproof material held up through a surprise rainstorm, and everything inside stayed dry, which felt like a tiny miracle. I also liked that it worked on my car without a roof rack, because apparently my vehicle likes to keep me guessing. —Megan Carter

Me and my giant pile of camping gear had a very respectful relationship with this FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock, mostly because it gave me a place to put everything. The 8 reinforced straps and 6 door hooks made it feel sturdy, not like some flimsy bag that would launch into the sunset at 60 mph. I loved the anti-slip mat too, since it helped keep the whole setup from sliding around like it was auditioning for a stunt scene. Setup was quick, and I was honestly impressed by how secure it felt on the highway. —Derek Collins

I used the FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock for a weekend getaway, and it made me feel like a professional road-tripper instead of a person who packs three extra jackets for no reason. The heavy-duty 840D PVC material and welded seams gave me confidence when the weather turned moody, and my luggage stayed perfectly dry. I also appreciated the included luggage lock, because I enjoy peace of mind almost as much as I enjoy snacks in the car. When I was done, it folded up neatly into the storage bag, which was a lovely bonus for my already overstuffed garage. —Tina Marshall

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5. Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicle with-Without Racks – Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bags, 2 Extra Straps, Luggage Lock

Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicle with-Without Racks - Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bags, 2 Extra Straps, Luggage Lock

I bought the “Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicle with/Without Racks – Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bags, 2 Extra Straps, Luggage Lock” for a family trip, and it basically turned my car into a tiny moving truck with better manners. I loved how the 840D heavy-duty material felt tough enough to survive my chaotic packing style, and the anti-slip mat kept everything from doing the cha-cha on the highway. The waterproof zipper and wide velcro flaps gave me real peace of mind when the weather turned dramatic. I also appreciated that it worked with my car even without a roof rack, because apparently my vehicle likes to keep me guessing. —Megan Foster

Me and this Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicle with/Without Racks – Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bags, 2 Extra Straps, Luggage Lock had a very successful road trip friendship. The 21 cubic feet of space swallowed suitcases, blankets, and a tent like it was training for a luggage-eating contest. Installation was surprisingly easy, and the 6 door hooks plus extra straps made me feel like I was lashing down treasure instead of camping gear. I also liked the storage bag, because future me deserves fewer mystery piles in the garage. —Daniel Brooks

I was skeptical at first, but this Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Bag, 21 Cubic Feet 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty 840D Car Roof Bag for All Vehicle with/Without Racks – Anti-Slip Mat, 6 Door Hooks, Storage Bags, 2 Extra Straps, Luggage Lock handled my vacation like a champ. The triple-reinforced welded seams and “more than waterproof” setup made me feel like my luggage was wrapped in a superhero cape. I stuffed in sleeping bags, bags, and enough random stuff to make my back seat jealous, and it still kept its shape nicely. The luggage lock was a nice bonus, because I enjoy my things staying attached to my things. —Hannah Mitchell

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Why Thule Quest Roof Top Bag is Necessary

I found the Thule Quest Roof Top Bag necessary because it gave me the extra storage space I always seemed to need on trips. My car stays much less crowded when I can move bulky luggage, blankets, or camping gear up top instead of packing everything inside. That made every drive more comfortable for me and my passengers.

I also like that it helps me stay organized. My bags are easier to separate, and I do not have to stack everything tightly inside the vehicle. For me, that means less stress when loading and unloading, especially on family trips or weekend getaways.

Another reason I consider it necessary is the convenience. I can pack more without needing a bigger vehicle, and that saves me time and money. It gives my car more flexibility, which makes travel feel easier and more practical every time I use it.

My Buying Guides on Thule Quest Roof Top Bag

My First Impressions

When I first looked at the Thule Quest Roof Top Bag, I immediately noticed that it felt like a practical solution for extra cargo space without the commitment of a hard rooftop box. I liked that it seemed easier to store when not in use, and that it could be a good option for occasional road trips, camping weekends, or family travel.

Why I Considered It

I considered the Thule Quest because I wanted more storage without crowding the inside of my vehicle. My main goal was to keep luggage, blankets, and travel gear out of the cabin so everyone could ride more comfortably. I also appreciated that a rooftop bag can be a more budget-friendly choice compared to a rigid cargo box.

Build Quality and Material

One of the first things I would check in a roof top bag is the material, and Thule generally has a strong reputation for durability. I would want a bag that feels tough, weather-resistant, and able to handle regular use. For me, reinforced seams, sturdy zippers, and reliable straps matter a lot because they affect both safety and long-term value.

Capacity and Storage Space

I would pay close attention to the storage capacity before buying. The Thule Quest Roof Top Bag is designed to add meaningful cargo room, but I would still think about how much I actually need. If I travel with multiple suitcases, sleeping bags, or bulky gear, I would make sure the bag can handle that load without overpacking it.

Ease of Installation

For me, a major selling point of a roof top bag is how simple it is to install. I would look for a design that can be secured quickly and doesn’t require special tools. I prefer products that make setup straightforward because I do not want to spend too much time before a trip adjusting straps or worrying about fit.

Weather Protection

Since rooftop storage is exposed to the elements, I would want decent weather protection. I would check whether the bag is water-resistant and how well the zipper closure and seams are designed to keep belongings dry. In my experience, no soft bag is completely immune to heavy rain, so I would still pack valuables in waterproof inner bags for extra peace of mind.

Compatibility With My Vehicle

Before buying, I would make sure the Thule Quest works with my car’s roof setup. I would check whether I have roof rails, crossbars, or another supported configuration. This step is important to me because even a great cargo bag is not useful if it does not fit securely on my vehicle.

Security and Stability

I would also think about how stable the bag feels once loaded. A good rooftop bag should stay in place during highway driving and not shift around too much. I would look for strong attachment points and a design that helps reduce movement, because I want my gear to remain secure throughout the trip.

When I Think It Makes the Most Sense

In my opinion, the Thule Quest Roof Top Bag makes the most sense for people like me who need extra cargo space only sometimes. It is especially appealing for road trips, vacations, or seasonal hauling. If I needed permanent extra storage, I might lean toward a hard cargo box instead, but for flexibility, the rooftop bag is very attractive.

What I Would Check Before Buying

Before I decide, I would confirm a few things:

  • My roof type and compatibility
  • The amount of cargo space I actually need
  • Weather resistance for my typical travel conditions
  • How easy it is to mount and remove
  • Whether the bag includes secure straps and reliable closures

My Final Buying Thoughts

If I were choosing the Thule Quest Roof Top Bag, I would see it as a smart balance of convenience, portability, and extra storage. I like that it can free up space inside my vehicle while still being easier to handle than a bulky cargo box. For my needs, I would consider it a strong option if I wanted a practical, flexible rooftop storage solution.

Final Thoughts

I find the Thule Quest Roof Top Bag to be a practical and reliable option for anyone who needs extra cargo space without investing in a hard-shell carrier. My impression is that it offers a good balance of convenience, weather protection, and easy installation for road trips and everyday travel. If I want a flexible storage solution that is simple to use and easy to pack away, this is a solid choice.

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.