XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier Review: The Budget Hauler That Punches Above Its Weight

We’ve all been there. The car is packed to the gills for the annual family camping trip. Coolers are wedged behind seats, sleeping bags are obscuring the rearview mirror, and the kids are complaining about duffel bags encroaching on their legroom. It’s the moment you realize your spacious SUV has shrunk, and the grand adventure feels more like a game of high-stakes Tetris. This was our reality before we decided to expand upwards. The alternative—leaving essential gear behind or towing a cumbersome trailer—was simply not an option. Reclaiming your vehicle’s interior isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety, sanity, and ensuring the trip starts on the right foot. A rooftop cargo basket promises a simple solution, but finding one that balances size, durability, and price can be a journey in itself. This is the problem the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier aims to solve.

What to Consider Before Investing in a Rooftop Cargo Basket

A rooftop cargo basket is more than just an accessory; it’s a key solution for unlocking your vehicle’s full potential for adventure, travel, and utility. It transforms the unused space on your roof into a secure, versatile platform for everything from muddy camping equipment and oversized luggage to bulky hardware store purchases. The primary benefit is the immediate liberation of your vehicle’s interior, creating a more comfortable and less cluttered environment for passengers while keeping dirty or unwieldy items outside the cabin. This simple addition can be the difference between a cramped, stressful road trip and a relaxed, enjoyable journey.

The ideal customer for this type of product is the adventurous family, the weekend warrior, the cross-country road-tripper, or even the DIY homeowner who needs to haul more than their trunk can handle. If you find yourself consistently compromising on what to bring or struggling with interior space, a roof basket is a game-changer. However, it might not be the best fit for those who rarely travel with excess gear, are highly concerned about a fractional decrease in fuel economy, or lack the existing crossbars required for mounting. For those needing to haul extremely heavy items (over 500 lbs) or who don’t have roof rails, a hitch-mounted cargo carrier might be a more suitable alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The physical footprint of the basket is paramount. Measure your vehicle’s roof to ensure a good fit without excessive overhang. The 64″x 39″ size of the XCAR carrier, for instance, offers a generous platform perfect for larger SUVs and vehicles, capable of holding multiple large totes or suitcases side-by-side. Consider the height of the side rails as well; higher rails can offer more security for taller items.
• Capacity/Performance: Pay close attention to the weight capacity, which is typically limited by your vehicle’s roof and crossbar ratings as much as the basket itself. The XCAR’s 150-pound limit is standard for this class and sufficient for most luggage and camping gear. Also, consider the aerodynamic profile. A basket with a front wind fairing, like this one, is designed to reduce drag and wind noise at highway speeds.
• Materials & Durability: Most baskets are made from powder-coated steel. Steel is strong and cost-effective but can be susceptible to rust if the coating is compromised. This is a critical factor for longevity, especially in wet climates. While aluminum options are lighter and naturally rust-resistant, they often come at a significantly higher price point.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Assembly and installation should be straightforward. Look for universal mounting hardware, like the U-bolts provided with the XCAR, which are designed to fit a wide variety of factory and aftermarket crossbars. For long-term care, plan on periodically checking the hardware for tightness and inspecting the coating for any chips or scratches that could become entry points for rust.

With these considerations in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a cargo basket that not only meets your needs but also provides years of reliable service. The XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier presents a compelling option, especially for those prioritizing space and value.

While the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the XCAR Roof Rack Cargo Basket

Upon arrival, the box for the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier is substantial, hinting at the generous size of the unit within. Inside, the components are logically arranged: two main basket halves (front and rear), the central extension piece, a wind fairing, and a hardware pack. The finish is a uniform matte black powder coat that looks clean and ready for the elements, though upon closer inspection, it’s clear this is a utility-focused finish, not a premium automotive one. The instructions are straightforward, relying mostly on diagrams, which we found perfectly adequate. As one user noted, “Assembly was pretty easy and the instructions were great.” The modular, three-piece design is a standout feature, allowing you to build it in its full 64-inch glory or omit the center section for a more compact setup on smaller vehicles—a versatility not always found at this price point. The alloy steel construction feels hefty and solid, giving an initial impression of sturdiness that belies its budget-friendly cost. You can see the full list of included components and specs here.

Deep Dive: Putting the XCAR Cargo Basket to the Test

A roof basket is more than its specs; it’s about how it performs in the real world. Does it hold up on a rain-soaked highway? Is it a pain to assemble? Will it whistle and howl, ruining your road trip soundtrack? We loaded up the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier on our test SUV and put it through its paces, from the garage assembly to hundreds of miles on the road.

Assembly and Installation: A Proactive Approach is Key

The assembly process for the XCAR basket is, for the most part, a straightforward affair that can be completed in under an hour. The three main sections—front, back, and the optional middle extension—are joined together using included plates and screws. We found that laying all the parts out first is essential. As one owner mentioned, “The directions are very simple to follow,” and we agree. However, this is where the budget-friendly nature of the product reveals itself. Several users reported minor alignment issues with screw holes, requiring a bit of “finagling” to get everything lined up. We experienced this on one connection point, where gentle persuasion was needed to thread the bolt. While not a deal-breaker, it’s a reminder that manufacturing tolerances aren’t at a premium level. Using your own ratchet or power tools, as another user suggested, can definitely speed things up.

Here’s our most critical piece of advice, echoed by a chorus of experienced owners: you must take preventative measures against rust during assembly. The hollow steel tubes and connection points are vulnerable. Water can seep in through screw holes and joints, sit inside, and cause rust from the inside out, eventually leading to rusty water dripping onto your vehicle’s roof. To combat this, we took the advice of seasoned users and applied black RTV silicone sealant to every joint and screw hole as we assembled the pieces. This creates a waterproof barrier. Some owners even go a step further, spraying a rust-inhibiting coating like Rust-Oleum or LPS-3 inside the tubes before assembly. This ten-minute proactive step is the single most important thing you can do to ensure the longevity of the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier and is a non-negotiable part of our installation recommendation.

Mounting the basket to the crossbars is achieved via four universal U-bolts. This system is simple and effective, clamping the basket’s floor tubes to your vehicle’s crossbars. It’s crucial to measure your crossbar distance. For the full 64″ length, you need a minimum distance of 29.7 inches between bars. We did run into a common fitment issue noted by owners of vehicles with fixed crossbars, like a Toyota Highlander. The U-bolts must clamp around specific floor tubes, so if your fixed crossbars don’t align with these designated spots, you may have trouble mounting it securely. For those with adjustable crossbars, this is a non-issue. Once mounted and tightened, the rack is impressively solid; we could grab it and shake the entire vehicle, confirming a secure fit.

On-the-Road Performance: Capacity, Aerodynamics, and Noise

Once secured to our vehicle, the true test began. With a stated load capacity of 150 pounds, the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier is ready to handle a significant amount of gear. Its expansive 64″x39″ dimensions are its greatest asset. As one particularly satisfied user discovered, it “fits 4 27 gallon plastic totes perfectly.” We verified this, finding it to be a perfect hauler for those ubiquitous black-and-yellow bins from big-box hardware stores. We also loaded it with two large rolling suitcases and a couple of duffel bags, with room to spare. This is more than enough capacity to free up the entire rear cargo area of a mid-size SUV for a family of four’s vacation luggage.

One of our biggest concerns with any rooftop accessory is wind noise. A poorly designed rack can create an incessant, maddening howl at highway speeds. We were thoroughly impressed with the XCAR’s performance in this regard. The included front wind fairing, which bears the XCAR logo, does an admirable job of deflecting air smoothly over the basket’s front lip and the cargo within. On the highway, cruising between 65 and 75 mph, the noise was negligible. With the radio on at a normal volume, it was completely unnoticeable. One owner even reported “at 95 mph there is NO wind noise,” and while we didn’t push it that far, we can confirm it is exceptionally quiet for its size and price. This is a massive win, as it makes long-distance travel far more pleasant.

In terms of fuel economy, any rooftop addition will create drag and have an impact. However, we found the effect to be minimal during our testing, a sentiment shared by other users who “didn’t seem to affect gas.” The impact will vary based on your vehicle, driving speed, and how much gear you’re hauling, but for a basket this large, the aerodynamic performance exceeded our expectations. When loaded and properly secured with a cargo net or ratchet straps (not included), the gear felt stable and secure, with no unnerving shifts or rattles during transit.

Durability and Long-Term Value

The conversation about the durability of the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier invariably circles back to the topic of rust. Constructed from powder-coated alloy steel, the basket is fundamentally strong. The issue, as discussed, is not the steel itself but its vulnerability to moisture at the seams and connection points. We saw reviews from users who, after a few rainstorms, noticed rust stains on their car’s roof. This is a direct result of not sealing the unit during assembly. Our own test unit, which we meticulously sealed with silicone, has been through several downpours with no signs of rust bleeding.

Does this mean the product is flawed? Not necessarily. It means it’s a budget-conscious product that requires a bit of DIY spirit to maximize its lifespan. For the price, which is often a fraction of what premium brands like Thule or Yakima charge for a similarly sized basket, this trade-off is, in our opinion, entirely reasonable. If you view the sealing process as part of the installation, you’re getting a robust, highly functional cargo carrier for an incredible value. As one practical owner stated, “It’s a cheap Chinese-made roof basket… I took the advice of other reviewers and sealed the tubes… On the whole, it seems like it will be a perfectly serviceable roof basket.”

The hardware and mounting brackets are functional and strong enough for the 150 lb load limit. The plastic knobs used to tighten the U-bolts are easy to grip and use, but for maximum security, we recommend a final tightening with a socket wrench. The overall value proposition is the key selling point here. You are getting a massive, modular, and aerodynamically quiet cargo solution that, with a small amount of preventative work, can serve you well for years of adventures. It’s a product that delivers 90% of the performance of its high-end competitors for less than 50% of the cost, making the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier an outstanding choice for the savvy adventurer.

What Other Users Are Saying

After compiling our own findings, we looked at the broader consensus among dozens of user reviews. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with a few consistent caveats. The most common point of praise is the exceptional value. One user summed it up perfectly: “For the money you CAN’T beat the cost and value of the cargo roof rack. Great size! Very sturdy!” Many, like us, were pleasantly surprised by the lack of wind noise, with one person noting it was “perfect additional storage. Did not notice any noise from this rack.”

The positive feedback often highlights its practicality for real-world use. One family on a cross-country trip reported it “traveled from CA… to northern OH with 3 suite cases, a uniform bag, and a duffel bag on top! Had no issues at all.” This speaks volumes about its capability as a serious road trip tool.

On the critical side, the rust issue is the most frequently mentioned drawback. One user lamented, “I bought this last year… and just saw that it got all rusty a few days later after the sun came out. Now its all over the top of my car.” This underscores our advice: sealing the joints during assembly isn’t optional, it’s essential for longevity. The other minor complaint involves manufacturing tolerances, with some users needing to “take some pliers to straighten it out so it would fit together” or finding that mounting brackets didn’t fit perfectly on their specific vehicle’s crossbar spacing.

How Does the XCAR Carrier Compare to the Alternatives?

The XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier occupies a popular space in the market, but it’s not the only storage solution available. Depending on your needs, vehicle, and the type of gear you haul, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.

1. MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag

The MeeFar carrier represents a completely different approach to external storage. Instead of the roof, it utilizes your vehicle’s trailer hitch. Its primary advantages are a much higher weight capacity (500 lbs vs. XCAR’s 150 lbs) and easier access—you don’t have to lift heavy items over your head. The folding design is also a huge plus, allowing it to tuck up against the vehicle when not in use. This is the ideal choice for someone hauling very heavy gear like coolers, firewood, or construction materials, and for those who may have trouble accessing a high roof. However, it does extend the length of your vehicle and can obstruct backup cameras or sensors.

2. Viking Solutions SwiveLift Hitch-Mounted Lifting System

The Viking SwiveLift is a highly specialized tool rather than a general cargo carrier. Its purpose is singular: to help you lift and load extremely heavy and awkward items, specifically big game for hunters. It’s not designed for luggage or totes. It features a winch and swivel system that can lift hundreds of pounds from the ground into your truck bed or onto the carrier itself. This is an indispensable piece of equipment for a specific niche audience (hunters, ranchers, tradespeople). For the average person looking for vacation storage, the XCAR is far more practical and versatile.

3. WEIZE Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag

The WEIZE carrier is the most direct competitor to the XCAR. It shares the same 64″x39″ dimensions and a similar steel construction. The key differentiators are its slightly higher weight capacity (200 lbs vs. 150 lbs) and the inclusion of a waterproof cargo bag, tie-down straps, and a cargo net right in the box. This makes the WEIZE a more complete, all-in-one package for someone who wants to buy once and have everything they need for their first trip. The choice between the XCAR and the WEIZE will likely come down to price and whether you already own a cargo bag and straps or prefer to purchase them separately.

Final Verdict: An Unbeatable Value for the Prepared Adventurer

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the XCAR 64″x 39″ Roof Rack Cargo Basket Carrier is overwhelmingly positive, with one important condition. This is an exceptional product for its price, offering a massive storage footprint, a versatile modular design, and surprisingly quiet performance on the road. It successfully transforms your vehicle’s roof into a highly capable cargo deck, freeing up invaluable interior space for passengers and pets. It stands strong as a workhorse for family vacations, camping trips, and hauling bulky gear.

The crucial condition is this: you must be willing to invest about 15 extra minutes and a few dollars in silicone sealant during assembly to waterproof the joints. If you take this simple, proactive step, you mitigate its only significant weakness and are left with a durable, reliable rack that performs well above its price tag. If you’re looking for a premium, maintenance-free product straight out of the box, you may want to look at higher-end brands. But for the savvy, budget-conscious buyer who doesn’t mind a little prep work to achieve incredible value, the XCAR is an enthusiastic recommendation. It makes expanded cargo capacity accessible to almost anyone. If you’re ready to reclaim your car’s interior and expand your adventure horizons, check the latest price and get ready for your next trip.