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How to Pay for a Roof-Top Cargo Box

How to · Auto

How to Pay for a Roof-Top Cargo Box

Get your extra storage for the road trip without blowing your budget by timing the sale and spreading the cost.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $750 before anything else
Across the 0% window $50.00/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $750 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A cargo box turns a cramped sedan into a gear-hauler. It makes the ride quieter inside and keeps your trunk clear for the essentials. These boxes are pricey, so wait for the Memorial Day sales when outdoor retailers mark down last year's models.

You can pay for the $750 box over time to keep your cash flow steady. Just keep your eyes on the calendar so the purchase doesn't linger longer than necessary.

The 0% intro APR is not free money; it is a deadline. If you have a balance left after 15 months, the bank will charge you interest on what remains.

The steps

  1. 01

    Measure your roof

    Check your car manual for the maximum weight your roof racks can hold. Don't buy a box that is longer than your roof, or you won't be able to open the trunk fully. A box that is too big will catch wind and lower your gas mileage.

  2. 02

    Wait for the holiday

    Set a reminder for Memorial Day weekend. Most outdoor shops drop prices by 20% or more during this window. Use the time before the sale to compare mounting styles so you know which one fits your specific roof racks.

  3. 03

    Use your financing window

    Use the Discover it® Cash Back (Discover) card to cover the cost. It offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. This lets you pay the $750 off in small chunks of about $50.00 per month without paying extra in interest.

  4. 04

    Set up autopay

    Automate your monthly payments for the 15-month intro window. This ensures you never miss a due date. If you automate $50.00 each month, the balance will be gone right when the window closes.

  5. 05

    Clear the balance

    Check your account status after one year. If you have any remaining balance, pay it off in a lump sum before the 15 months are up. This avoids the standard interest rates that kick in after the window ends.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Will a cargo box hurt my gas mileage?

Yes, it adds wind resistance. You will likely notice a small drop in your miles per gallon, especially at highway speeds.

Is the box hard to take on and off?

Most modern boxes use quick-mount clamps that take about five minutes. It is easiest if you have a second person to help you lift it onto the roof.

Do I need special roof racks?

You need crossbars that run side-to-side across your roof. If you only have the rails that run front-to-back, you will need to buy crossbars first.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% intro APR period early. Always pay at least the minimum on time to keep the offer active.