For Subaru Forester owners, adding extra cargo space often means choosing a roof-mounted cargo box or compatible cross bars. The options below highlight boxes and carriers designed for Forester models and versatile enough to fit similar SUVs. This guide presents selected products, their capacities, mounting compatibility, and key durability features to help you compare quickly.
| Product | Capacity | Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box | 18 cu ft | Most SUVs; rear-opening | UV-resistant ABS; convenient rear access |
| DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8136-BK Rooftop Box | 13 cu ft? (67″ x 30″ x 13″) | Subaru Forester 14-18; OEM rails | Lockable; cross bars included |
| DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8091-BK Rooftop Box | 12 cu ft; 68″ x 31″ x 16″ | Subaru Forester 2014-2018; cross bars | Lockable; wide opening |
| DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8293-BK Universal Box | 12.7 cu ft | Universal cross bars; fits many vehicles | Open from side; durable ABS |
| HmmtyRack Aluminum Cross Bars | High capacity up to 100 kg/220 lbs | Compatible with Forester 2014-2025 | Locking feature; lightweight aluminum |
SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
The SportRack Vista XL is an 18 cubic foot cargo box featuring UV-resistant ABS construction for durability and a rear-opening design for convenient access away from traffic flow. Its capacity is well-suited for luggage, outdoor gear, and seasonal gear, making it a practical option for longer Forester road trips or family adventures. The box locks securely to cross bars and is designed to resist weather exposure while offering straightforward loading and unloading. This model emphasizes broad compatibility with a range of SUV roof racks and emphasizes ease of use for mixed family cargo needs.
DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8136-BK Rooftop Cargo Box Carrier
This Forester-specific cargo box integrates with OEM roof rails and includes aluminum cross bars for a robust, all-weather solution. With a 13-foot equivalent external footprint (67″ L x 30″ W x 13″ H) and heavy-duty ABS construction, it offers secure storage for bulky items while maintaining a low profile for aerodynamic efficiency. The included locking mechanism helps safeguard contents, and the cross-bar design distributes weight to minimize stress on the vehicle roof during long highway trips. It is a practical choice for travelers needing reliable, weather-resistant storage on Forester models from 2014 to 2018.
DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8091-BK Rooftop Cargo Box
This model is tailored for Forester models from 2014 to 2018, mounting on OEM roof rails with cross bars. It measures 68″ L x 31″ W x 16″ H, providing a wide opening to accommodate bulky items, and offers 12 cubic feet of internal storage. The heavy-duty ABS shell, combined with aluminum cross bars, minimizes flex and adds endurance for travel and weather exposure. A lockable design helps deter theft, while the broad opening simplifies loading and retrieval of gear during family trips or weekend excursions.
DNA Motoring PT-ZTL-8293-BK Universal Cargo Box
The PT-ZTL-8293-BK is a universal 12.7-cubic-foot cargo carrier designed to fit vehicles equipped with cross bars. It opens from the side and remains open for easy loading, with a capacity suitable for a family’s luggage and sporting gear. Constructed from rugged ABS and reinforced with cross-bar support, this box is marketed as a versatile option for Forester owners who require a broad compatibility footprint. Its robust closure system and weather-resistant materials provide dependable protection against wind, rain, and road grime during long trips.
HmmtyRack Aluminum Cross Bars
HmmtyRack cross bars provide a sturdy, lockable support system for Forester models from 2014 to 2025. While not a cargo box themselves, they are essential for mounting roof boxes and other carriers. Made from lightweight aluminum with secure plastic feet, these cross bars reduce weight without compromising strength. The locking feature adds a layer of security, helping to prevent unauthorized removal of roof-mounted cargo. This option is especially suitable for Forester owners who already own an empty roof and want a trusted base for future cargo boxes or accessory racks.
Buying Guide
- Compatibility: Check Forester year range and roof rail configuration. Some boxes specify compatibility with OEM rails or require cross bars for proper installation.
- Capacity vs. use case: If you frequently travel with multiple passengers or bulky items, prioritize higher cubic-foot capacity. For occasional trips, a smaller 12–13 cu ft carrier may suffice.
- Opening style: Rear-opening boxes offer easier access when parked away from traffic; side-opening designs can simplify loading in tight spaces.
- Build material: ABS plastic is common and weather-resistant; ensure UV resistance to prevent cracking under sun exposure.
- Security: Look for lockable lids and integrated locking systems to deter theft; verify whether keys are included or require separate purchase.
- Weight and mounting: Ensure cross bars are rated for the total cargo weight and that installation hardware is compatible with your Forester’s rails.
- Open dimensions: Consider the width of the opening to store longer items or bulky gear; some models offer 14″ wide access.
- Maintenance: Choose UV-stable materials and easy-to-clean interiors to handle mud, snow, and wet gear.
- Accessory ecosystem: Some brands supply cross bars or mounting kits; others require compatible aftermarket components for a complete system.
- Warranty and support: Review product warranties and customer service responsiveness in case of installation questions or weather-related issues.