Whether you’re planning a family holiday, heading off on a camping adventure, or simply need extra space for everyday journeys, finding the right car roof storage solution can make travelling much easier.

Two of the most popular options are roof bars and roof boxes. While they’re often mentioned together, they serve different purposes. Roof bars provide the foundation for carrying equipment on your vehicle’s roof, while a roof box offers secure, enclosed storage space for luggage and bulky items.

So, do you need roof bars, a roof box, or both? In this guide, we’ll explain the differences, the benefits of each option, and how to choose the best solution for your vehicle.

 

 

What Are Roof Bars?

Roof bars (also known as roof racks or cross bars) are strong, aerodynamic bars that attach across the roof of your vehicle. They create a secure platform for carrying a wide range of accessories, including roof boxes, bike racks, ski carriers, and other outdoor equipment.

Travall roof bars provide a versatile roof storage solution for vehicles with flush roof rails or open roof rails. Made from lightweight, aerodynamic aluminium, they are designed to provide a secure base for roof boxes, bike carriers and other accessories, helping you carry more on every journey. With a load capacity of up to 100kg, they’re built for family holidays, outdoor adventures and everyday practicality (always check your vehicle manufacturer’s roof load limit before use).

Benefits of roof bars:

✔ Carry bikes, kayaks, skis, roof boxes and other equipment
✔ Increase your vehicle’s carrying capacity
✔ Ideal for outdoor adventures and active lifestyles
✔ Can be used with different accessories depending on your needs
✔ Remove the need to compromise on boot space

Roof bars are a great choice if you regularly transport larger items or want the flexibility to switch between different accessories throughout the year.

 

What Is a Roof Box?

A roof box is an enclosed storage container that attaches to roof bars, giving you additional protected luggage space outside your vehicle.

A roof box is particularly useful for holidays, camping trips, family journeys, or any situation where your vehicle’s boot space isn’t enough.

Travall’s Roof Box is available in 370L and 450L sizes and features a durable PC-reinforced shell, dual-side opening, a secure three-point locking system, and a Fast Mount system designed for quick installation onto compatible roof bars.

Benefits of a roof box:

✔ Adds secure, weather-resistant storage space
✔ Keeps luggage protected from the elements
✔ Helps free up valuable boot space
✔ Ideal for suitcases, camping equipment, sports gear and holiday essentials
✔ Keeps the vehicle interior more comfortable for passengers and pets

A roof box is especially useful for families, dog owners, and adventure lovers who often travel with extra equipment.

 

Roof Bars vs Roof Box: What’s the Difference?

The biggest difference between roof bars and a roof box is that roof bars are the carrying system, while a roof box is the storage solution.

	Roof Bars	Roof Box
Main purpose	Carry equipment and accessories	Store luggage securely
Requires	Vehicle roof mounting points or rails	Roof bars
Best for	Bikes, sports equipment, roof boxes	Holidays, luggage and bulky items
Flexibility	Can be used with multiple accessories	Designed mainly for storage
Storage protection	Open storage	Weather-resistant enclosed storage

In many cases, the best solution is actually both. Roof bars provide the secure base, while a roof box provides the extra storage space.

 

Do You Need Roof Bars or a Roof Box?

The right choice depends on how you use your vehicle.

Choose roof bars if you:

Transport sports equipment

If you enjoy cycling, skiing, kayaking, or other outdoor activities, roof bars allow you to attach specialist carriers designed for your equipment.

Need flexibility

Roof bars can be used with different accessories, meaning you can adapt your vehicle depending on your plans.

Carry larger items

Roof bars are ideal for transporting items that won’t fit inside your vehicle, such as bikes, ladders, or outdoor gear.

 

Choose a roof box if you:

Regularly go on family holidays

A roof box is perfect for carrying suitcases, clothing, toys and holiday essentials without filling the passenger area or boot.

Need extra luggage space

SUVs and estate cars can still benefit from additional storage, especially when travelling with multiple passengers.

Travel with dogs

For dog owners, a roof box can help keep human luggage separate from your dog’s travel area, leaving more room for your pet’s essentials.

 

Can You Use a Roof Box Without Roof Bars?

No. A roof box needs to be securely attached to roof bars before it can be used.

Roof bars provide the strong mounting platform needed to safely support the weight of the roof box and its contents. Before purchasing, always check that your roof bars are compatible with your chosen roof box and that your vehicle’s roof load limit is not exceeded.

 

Are Roof Bars Worth It?

For many drivers, roof bars are a worthwhile investment because they offer long-term versatility.

Unlike a roof box, which is mainly designed for storage, roof bars allow you to carry different types of equipment throughout the year. One month you might use them for a roof box on a family holiday, and the next they could support bike carriers for a weekend adventure.

If you enjoy travelling, camping, outdoor activities, or simply need extra carrying capacity, roof bars can transform how you use your vehicle.

 

Are Roof Boxes Worth It?

If your main priority is gaining extra luggage space, a roof box is one of the easiest ways to increase your vehicle’s capacity.

A roof box allows you to carry more without sacrificing passenger comfort or filling your boot. It’s particularly valuable for:

• Family holidays
• Camping trips
• Ski holidays
• Long-distance road trips
• Travelling with pets

With secure locking systems and weather-resistant designs, modern roof boxes provide a convenient way to carry more on every journey.

 

The Best Setup for Road Trips and Adventures

For maximum flexibility, many drivers choose a combination of roof bars and a roof box.

This setup gives you:

• A secure mounting system
• Extra enclosed storage space
• More comfortable journeys
• Greater freedom to pack everything you need

Whether you’re heading off for a weekend escape, a camping adventure, or a family holiday, the right roof storage setup can help make every journey easier.

 

Find the Right Roof Storage Solution for Your Vehicle

At Travall, our roof bars are designed to provide a secure, easy-to-fit foundation for your adventures. Pair them with our durable roof box for additional storage space that helps you travel further, with everything you need.

Explore Travall roof bars and roof boxes today and get ready for your next adventure.