0% intro APR for 6 months on purchases Discover it Student Chrome Calculators How we make money
VOATLAS
How to Pay for a Rooftop Cargo Box

How to · Auto

How to Pay for a Rooftop Cargo Box

Spread out the $750 cost of a hard-shell cargo carrier before your summer road trip without paying extra interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $750 before anything else
Across the 0% window $41.67/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $750 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Packing for a road trip gets tight fast when you're cramming bags, coolers, and gear into the trunk. Owning a solid hard-shell cargo box gives your cabin breathing room, but a new setup runs about $750. Prices are softest in early spring during outdoor sales before the summer travel rush hits.

If you want to buy early without taking a $750 hit all at once, you can spread out the purchase. The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening, which makes financing the gear simple if you pay it off on time.

A 0% intro rate is a repayment window, not free money. If you still have a balance when the 18 months end, the standard variable APR kicks in on whatever is left, making your $750 cargo box much more expensive.

The steps

  1. 01

    Time the spring sales

    Retailers discount outdoor gear in early spring to clear inventory before summer travelers buy at full price. Check major outdoor stores around March and April for member sales or coupons. You can usually save 10% to 20% on major brands.

  2. 02

    Measure your roof setup

    Make sure your car already has crossbars installed, or factor that hardware into your total budget. Check your owner manual for roof weight limits so you don't overload the vehicle. Measure your garage clearance with the box mounted so you don't scrape your roof later.

  3. 03

    Set your payoff plan

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. On a $750 cargo box, paying $41.67 per month clears the balance right on schedule. Set up automatic payments right away so you don't miss a deadline.

  4. 04

    Look for local deals

    If new prices stay high, check local marketplaces in late winter. People often clear out gear to make room in their garages. As long as the mounting clamps work and keys are included, a used box holds gear just as well.

  5. 05

    Lock down your extras

    Factor in a pair of internal straps and extra lock cylinders if the box doesn't include them. Store heavy gear in the center over the crossbars to keep your driving stable. Practice mounting the box once before packing day so you aren't stressed.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

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

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Is a rooftop cargo carrier worth the cost?

If you travel with family, pets, or bulky gear more than twice a year, the extra space is worth it. It keeps the car cabin comfortable and saves you from renting a larger vehicle.

Does a cargo box hurt gas mileage?

Yes, adding a box creates wind drag and usually drops fuel economy by 2 to 5 miles per gallon. Take the box off when you aren't using it to keep regular fuel costs down.

How much does a good cargo box cost?

A reliable hard-shell cargo box costs about $750 new. You can find soft cargo bags for under $200, but they offer less security and weather protection.

Can I put a cargo box on any car?

You need roof rails and crossbars installed on your vehicle first. Always check your car's roof weight capacity to ensure it can support both the rack and a fully loaded box.