Pros and Cons – Why choose a cargo box?
Pros and Cons – Why choose a cargo box?
When it comes to expanding your car’s storage capacity, there are many options available – but two of the most popular are roof boxes and cargo boxes mounted on the towbar (also known as backboxes).
If you’re looking for ease, efficiency, and versatility, a towbar mounted cargo box might just be the smarter choice. Let’s break down the pros and cons and see why.
Easy access vs. difficult access
Cargo box on towbar: Easy access
One of the biggest advantages of a cargo box mounted on your car’s towbar is accessibility. Positioned at waist height behind the vehicle, it allows everyone to easily load and unload luggage or equipment – no climbing, no reaching, and best of all, you can still open your trunk without obstruction. This means quick access to your gear whenever you need it.
Roof box: Hard to reach
In contrast, roof boxes can be challenging to access. You often have to open the car doors and stand on the car’s frame or even bring a step ladder to reach your belongings. This can be inconvenient, especially for heavier items or in bad weather.
Installation made simple
Mounting a cargo box on your towbar is generally straightforward, often requiring no special tools or roof racks. Many models are designed for quick attachment and removal – perfect for users who want flexibility without hassle.
Aerodynamics & safety: Roof box vs. Cargo box
Roof boxes increase drag and fuel consumption
Because roof boxes sit atop your vehicle, they create significant air resistance, increasing drag by approximately 30–40%. This makes your engine work harder, resulting in higher fuel consumption and increased operating costs, especially at highway speeds.
Cargo boxes offer superior aerodynamics
Towbar-mounted cargo boxes, like IXTAbox, have a much lower impact on aerodynamics – typically ranging from a 5% reduction to a 15% increase in drag depending on size and placement. In fact, if the box is narrower than your car and mounted correctly above the underbody, it can even reduce overall drag by smoothing airflow behind the vehicle, helping lower fuel consumption.
Safety considerations
Roof boxes’ high placement can negatively affect vehicle handling and increase damage risks during collisions. Most roof boxes may detach or burst open in a crash, risking injury to others on the road.
Cargo boxes, like IXTAbox, are securely mounted low and at the rear, which reduces the chance of damage to the box, its contents, and improves safety for all road users.
Quiet and comfortable driving
Roof boxes generate noticeable wind noise due to increased air resistance, especially at higher speeds. This turbulence can make long drives tiring and less enjoyable.
Boxes mounted behind the car, avoids direct airflow, reducing turbulence and wind noise substantially. This translates into a quieter, more comfortable driving experience – even at highway speeds.
Single purpose vs. versatile use
Roof boxes: Single use
Typically, roof boxes serve only as storage – and when not in use, they become bulky items that must be stored somewhere.
IXTAbox: Multipurpose solution
Designed for multiple sports and activities, IXTAbox can carry bikes (with racks mounted on top), skis, golf gear, camping equipment, kite surfing gear, and more. Plus, it doubles as storage at home – you can pack your gear inside and leave it ready for your next adventure.
