There’s a location a few hours from Denver that’s one of my favorite places on the planet. Last year, my wife and I packed up our Subaru and set off for a week of camping, hiking, fishing and relaxing, although mother nature had other plans.
The sky was clear when we arrived but dark clouds quickly appeared on the horizon. After a few hours, they were above us and we took shelter in our tents when the rain started. Aside from a 30-minute break, long enough for us to cook dinner, it never subsided.
The next morning, things were still not improving. Most tents can stay dry overnight, with a few puddles of water running through, but there’s no sign of clear weather. Within 30 minutes, we had packed up, the tent and waterproof duffel were secured to the roof, and we were on our way home, all thanks to Thule Canyon XT cart.
- Outer Dimensions (LxWxH) – 50.25 x 41 x 6 inches
- Inner Dimensions (LxWxH) – 41 x 39 x 5 in
- Load capacity – 150 lbs
- Weight – 29 lbs
Shopping carts have become increasingly popular in recent years, with companies like Toyota even bringing them from the factory into cars like the Land Cruiser Heritage Edition. I originally bought mine when I was still living in suburban Detroit. If I’m being honest, it’s because I think our Subaru XV Crosstrek looks better with something on the roof. If I end up using it, it’s just the icing on the cake. Then I sold my house and most of my possessions and moved to Colorado, where the Canyon XT has been used a lot, from duffel bags full of camping gear to two 12-foot stand up paddle boards to a few Christmas trees.
The reason I chose a shopping cart over a crate (aside from looks) is because I need flexibility. Cargo box is very good. They keep your luggage dry in a downpour, and are much more streamlined than a bunch of bags strapped to your roof, but nothing else on the market can match. with everything I use my basket.
Ease of use comes in second. I bought a bungee cargo net for myself, and between that and the numerous ratchet straps I carry with me at all times, I haven’t had a single item come loose, even on a 2,000-mile ride. miles across the American West. The plastic bungee net hooks secure to the basket’s tube and, if desired, the bag can be secured relatively easily with a bicycle buckle.
It’s not perfect; There is no car accessory that I have come across in my life. Crosstrek isn’t known for its quiet ride as it is now; Throw a basket on top and the wind noise is very noticeable. It’s also expensive, although I received a REI coupon so the hurt to the wallet was much less. Over the past 4+ years I haven’t had any rust or wear issues, and I imagine it will last as long as our XV.
Thule isn’t the only manufacturer making these rooftop baskets. Outside the Canyon XHere are some of the ones I like:
Other top picks
