Vehicles › 2020–present Subaru Outback › Cargo Boxes
Best Rooftop Cargo Boxes for 2020–2025 Subaru Outback
Fit data verified September 2026 · affiliate links, no extra cost to you
The Outback's long roof takes big boxes well, but the factory swing-out bars sit close together — short boxes fit, long ones overhang. For 16 cu ft and up, use aftermarket bars with wider spread. Wilderness owners mount to the fixed rack.
Fit-verified comparison
| # | Product | Fits | Type | Weight | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yakima SkyBox 16 Rooftop Cargo Box, 16 cu ft | All | — | — | $550–$700 | Buy |
| 2 | Yakima GrandTour 16 Premium Cargo Box, dual-side opening | All | — | — | $800–$1,000 | Buy |
| 3 | Yakima SkyBox NX Skinny 12 cu ft Cargo Box | All | — | — | $450–$600 | Buy |
| 4 | Yakima RocketBox 16 Cargo Box | All | — | — | $450–$600 | Buy |
| 5 | Yakima DeepSpace 10 Hard Shell Cargo Box | All | — | — | $350–$450 | Buy |
Top picks, ranked
#1 Yakima SkyBox 16 Rooftop Cargo Box, 16 cu ft
Yakima
Fit per listing
⚠ Universal T-slot/clamp mount; needs crossbars first.
$550–$700
View on Amazon#2 Yakima GrandTour 16 Premium Cargo Box, dual-side opening
Yakima
Fit per listing
⚠ Premium 16 cu ft; needs crossbars.
$800–$1,000
View on Amazon#3 Yakima SkyBox NX Skinny 12 cu ft Cargo Box
Yakima
Fit per listing
⚠ Narrow — leaves room for a bike or kayak beside it.
$450–$600
View on Amazon#4 Yakima RocketBox 16 Cargo Box
Yakima
Fit per listing
⚠ Budget Yakima 16 cu ft.
$450–$600
View on Amazon#5 Yakima DeepSpace 10 Hard Shell Cargo Box
Yakima
Fit per listing
⚠ Compact 10 cu ft.
$350–$450
View on AmazonFit gotchas for the 2020–present Subaru Outback
- Factory swing-out bars: bar spread is fixed — check the box's minimum spread.
- Hatch clearance is generous on the Outback; most boxes under 90 in are fine.
- Wilderness: use ladder-rack mounts, not clamp bars.
- 176 lb roof load limit.
FAQ
Can I mount a cargo box on the factory Outback crossbars?
Yes if the box's mounting slots match the factory bar spread; most 12–16 cu ft boxes do.
Do I need aftermarket bars?
For 18+ cu ft boxes or frequent use, yes — stiffer and adjustable spread.
Will the box work with a sunroof?
Yes; place the front bar so the sunroof tilts without touching.
Verdict
Budget: 13 cu ft box on factory bars. Best overall: 16 cu ft on aftermarket bars. Wilderness: rack-mounted box up to 18 cu ft.