Ski Racks and Roof Boxes: How to Carry Skis and Boards on Your Car
By Justin McKelvey · Updated
Short answer: a ski rack is the simplest, cheapest way to carry skis and snowboards on your car, while a roof box holds skis, boards, boots, and bags and keeps everything dry and locked. Hitch racks are easiest to load but block the rear. Choose based on how much you carry, whether your car has roof bars, and your garage and parking height.
Your options
Roof-mounted ski racks
Clamp-style racks attach to roof crossbars and hold skis or snowboards by pinching them between padded arms. They're compact, relatively affordable, and easy to leave on all winter. Gear is exposed to road salt and grime, though.
Roof boxes (cargo boxes)
Hard-shell boxes mount to crossbars and hold skis, boards, boots, and bags. They keep gear clean, dry, and locked, and free up room inside the car. They're bulkier, cost more, add height and wind noise, and take more effort to store in summer.
Hitch-mounted racks
These fit a trailer hitch receiver and hold skis or boards behind the car. They're easy to load without reaching overhead, but they can block the rear hatch or camera, collect road spray, and need a hitch.
Magnetic racks
Magnetic racks stick to a steel roof without crossbars. They're convenient for occasional use but only work on suitable steel roofs, and they must be installed on a clean surface to protect the paint.
| Compare | Roof ski rack | Roof box | Hitch rack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carries | Skis and boards | Skis, boards, boots, bags | Skis and boards |
| Protection from weather | None | Full | None |
| Security | Lockable clamps | Locking lid | Lockable on most models |
| Loading | Overhead | Overhead | Waist height |
| Needs | Crossbars | Crossbars | Trailer hitch |
How to choose
Check your car first
Most roof racks and boxes need crossbars. If your car has factory side rails, you may only need crossbars and towers made to fit them; bare roofs need a fit kit. Use the rack maker's fit guide for your exact make, model, and year, and check your car's roof load limit in the owner's manual. The combined weight of bars, box, and gear must stay under it.
Capacity
Ski racks are rated by how many pairs of skis or snowboards they hold. Snowboards with bindings take more room than skis. For roof boxes, check the interior length against your longest skis and the volume against what you plan to carry.
Height clearance
A roof box can add significant height. Measure your total height before entering garages, parking structures, and drive-throughs. Many people put a reminder note on the dash.
Security and access
Look for locks on clamps or lids. Roof boxes that open from both sides are easier to load in tight parking spots.
Road conditions
Road salt and spray are hard on exposed skis and bindings. A box or a ski bag inside the car protects them. Rinse racks and gear after salty drives.
Driving tips
- Load skis tips-back on roof racks to reduce lift and wind noise.
- Double-check that clamps and lids are locked before driving.
- Expect more wind noise and slightly higher fuel use with a box or rack.
- Remove empty racks or boxes when you're not using them.
Planning the drive? See how to plan a ski trip and pack boots in a ski boot bag. Browse more gear guides.
Where to start shopping
FAQ
Is a ski rack or a roof box better?
A ski rack is simpler and cheaper for carrying just skis or boards. A roof box costs more but carries boots and bags too and keeps everything dry and locked.
Do I need crossbars for a ski rack?
Most roof ski racks and roof boxes need crossbars. Magnetic racks are an exception, but they only work on suitable steel roofs.
How do I know if a ski rack fits my car?
Use the rack maker's fit guide for your car's make, model, and year, and check your car's roof load limit in the owner's manual.