Best Car Top Carrier For Subaru Outback | Top Suggestion In 2023

Best Car Top Carrier For Subaru Outback

Do you need help with arranging luggage in your Subaru Outback? If yes, go for the best car top carrier for Subaru Outback. The top car carriers are efficient in saving storage. So, every adventurer out there loves classy roof racks. However, choosing the best one is indeed a hectic task. To help you, we have developed the top 8 car carriers for Subaru Outback. You can also go through the buying guide to clear up your doubts. Our premium tips & tricks will help you in this regard. So, don’t dilly-dally & let’s dive in!

What Is A Car Top Carrier? 

A car top carrier is usually a metallic framework installed on the roof of cars, SUVs, or trucks. Steel and aluminum racks are the most common ones. You will need clamps or fasteners to install it on the car’s roof within minutes. It’s really popular among travelers. After all, it helps them to transport luggage and other bulky items. 

What Are The Types Of Roof Racks?

There are different types of roof racks in the market. Each type of rack is designed to accommodate different types of gear. 

Thus, the one you should choose will solely depend on your needs. 

Let’s check the basic types of top car carriers first!

Crossbars

Crossbars are the most basic type of roof racks. They come with two parallel bars mounted on the vehicle’s roof. They are stable. So, you can use them to carry various gear like – bikes, skis, and even cargo boxes.

Raised Side Rails

Many SUVs out there feature crossovers and raised side rails to carry a variety of gears. They are sturdy as well. 

Flush Mounted Roof Rails

Flush-mounted roof rails are low-budget rails sitting along with the roofline. They are versatile. So, you can use them with various roof rack systems and accessories.

Cargo Baskets

Cargo baskets are large open containers attached to the crossbars. Do you need to carry bulky items like luggage or sports equipment? If yes, cargo baskets are indeed the best choice. 

Cargo Boxes

Unlike cargo baskets, cargo boxes are enclosed containers. They come with special weather protection. So, you can safely carry different items like – skis, snowboards, and camping gear.

Kayak or Canoe Carriers

Do you need a roof rack to hold your kayaks? If yes, go for carriers that can specifically hold kayaks or canoes. They come with adjustable cradles and straps to ensure a secure fitting. The manufacturers have significantly designed these racks for kayaks. Thus, there is no chance of damaging the boat.

Bike Racks

From the name ‘Bike racks,’ you can guess that – they are designed to hold bikes and cycles. Some prefer to mount them directly on the roof rails. You can also mount it separately on a specific bike rack system.

Why Will You Invest in A Car Top Carrier for Subaru Outback? 

Every adventurer should go for car top carriers to make their trip comfier. Let’s learn the benefits of roof racks in detail!

Extended Storage: 

Are you up for long road trips or camping? If yes, you should invest in the car top racks.

After all, car Top carriers greatly help increase the storage of the Subaru Outback. So, accommodating everyone’s luggage in the car has become super easy. 

Convenience: 

Car Top carriers are designed to make your trip more convenient and comfier. It lets you free up the space inside the car. So, you can accommodate a lot of gear without compromising comfort.

Protection: 

Car top racks are very durable. They also come with a specific weather-resistant material. Thus, it will protect your baggage from dust, rain, or snow.

Enhanced Appearance: 

Roof racks are great for enhancing the overall appearance of your car. They make your Subaru Outback ready for adventures and sports.

Our Top Picks! 

8 Best Car Top Carrier For Subaru Outback: Check The Reviews Now! 

Let’s check each top car carrier in detail!

Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform

The Rhino Pioneer platform is the ultimate carrier for every adventure enthusiast. It’s a durable aluminum carrier with sturdy nylon corners. Still, it’s super lightweight. Moreover, the rack is capable of passing through any rough & tough condition. 

Rhino brought drastic changes in Rooftop cargo by introducing the platform system. You can install additional mounting channels to maximize the modularity and weighing capacity.

Most customers have loved it for its modern style and versatility.

Features: 

  • Rhino rack pioneer is an aluminum-made platform with sturdy nylon corners.
  • Its black powder coating offers significant corrosion resistance.
  • It features an additional channel in front & back to hold necessary accessories.
  • This unit is compatible with a wide range of accessories.
  • This unit can carry camping gear, boats, bikes, and kayaks.
  • This unit is compatible with Subaru outbacks of 2015 to 2019.
  • Compared to traditional crossbars, its flat surface is more capable of carrying diverse loads.
  • It comes with a modern aerodynamic design. So you don’t have to worry about drag or noise. 

What Does The Customer Like? 

The Rhino Pioneer platform is a high-quality, well-made rack for camping gear. Compared to other roof baskets, this platform can serve longer.

Moreover, customer support is very responsive and helpful. If you have any issues with shipping, you can contact them immediately.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

It was complicated to assemble.

Tester Review: 

I carry multiple gears like – tents, firewood, and chairs whenever I go camping. Thus, the Rhino rack pioneer platform is my daily companion. It won’t break or rust easily, even after prolonged usage. Moreover, you can buy this high-end rack for just $729.95.

Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Rooftop Kayak Rack

Are you looking for the best car top carrier for your kayaks or boats? If yes, go for Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Rooftop Kayak Rack. They come with an integrated, seamless design to make your journey more secure and comfortable. You will love it for its performance and tool-free installation system.

Features: 

  • Thule Aero Rooftop rack features a front handle to fold the rack when it’s unused.
  • It features a rubber pad to protect your gear during the trip.
  • The theft-resistant locks ensure secure carriage throughout the journey.
  • They have also included load straps to down the kayaks and other gears.
  • Its mounting hardware is compatible with most rack systems.
  • You can install this unit quickly without using any tools.
  • Even though it’s a lightweight unit (20 lbs), it can carry up to 130 lbs.

What Does The Customer Like? 

The Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Roof rack is best for carrying water gear, boats, and kayaks. You will love its foldable design to wrap it down when it’s not in use. It’s really easy to set up as well. Moreover, the manufacturer is very responsive and supportive. So, you can ask for a replacement or return if you are unhappy with the purchase.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

Compared to its competitors, this unit is expensive.

Tester Review: 

The Thule Hull-a-Port aerodynamic crossbar has supported me for more than air. It is very durable and lightweight, just as advertised. It is compatible with all Thule and Tracrac racks.

YAKIMA – JetStream Bar Aerodynamic Crossbars

Are you into aerodynamic crossbars? Do you need to hold bikes for your next outing? If yes, YAKIMA crossbars are the best solution for you. It is capable of holding up to 5 bikes. Moreover, you can also access the trunk due to its tilt-away mechanism. You will also love its anti-sway cradle for reduced bike-to-bike interference.

Features: 

  • Yakima has brought a sturdy, quite aerodynamic crossbar for ultimate efficiency.
  • Its overall construction is seamless and lightweight.
  • It has a carrying capacity of up to 165 lbs.
  • This unit is very easy to install due to the t-slot infill.
  • You will love the appearance of its 4-high glossy polymer.
  • It is compatible with all YAKIMA streamlines.

What Does The Customer Like? 

This is a high-quality car top carrier to carry water gear and kayaks. They are lightweight yet very sturdy and stable. You will also love its overall sharp appearance.

What Does The Customer Dislike?

It still needs to be quieter. It was hard to install as well.

Tester Review: 

I bought this unit around a year ago. Still, today it looks and performs just like the new. They are the perfect choice for my water gear.

Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Cross Bar

Rhino Vortex rack is indeed versatile. You can adjust it to 7 different lengths for ultimate compatibility with different vehicles. Its rubber strip is very efficient in reducing noise and wind drag. They can also protect excess loads. To complete the ultimate crossbar system, you can also purchase the fits and legs kit separately.

Features: 

  • Rhino Vortex rack is an aerodynamic, electrical-shaped roof carrier.
  • It is made up of lightweight, rust-proof aluminum bars.
  • It comes in black and silver to suit your vehicle’s appearance.
  • The top channel is best for installing accessories. 
  • You can easily mount the clamp on accessories around bars. 
  • Its rubberized straps can provide sufficient dust protection and cushioning for the cargo.
  • This unit can hold up to 165 lbs on on-road trips. However, its off-road weight rating is around 82 lbs.

What Does The Customer Like? 

The Rhino Vortex Aero crossbar is very sturdy. It can hold up to 3 bikes without any issues. It is also really easy to set up. Moreover, their customer service is very responsive. So, if you face any issues with the product, you can ask for a replacement.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

It creates a bit of wind noise.

Tester Review: 

Rhino aerodynamic crossbars are sturdy. They were capable of holding my 80 lb Canoe with ease. Moreover, loading and unloading gears from the crossbar is also easy.

Thule 135 SquareBar

Are you looking for a sturdy square bar for easy carriage during road trips? If yes, go for Thule 135 Square bars. They are sturdy enough to carry heavy loads (around 220 lbs). You will love its overall looks and performance.

Features: 

  • It features solid steel square bars.
  • You can go for any load bars, including 43″, 47″, 53, and 60″.
  • Its overall weight-carrying capacity is around 220 lbs.
  • They come with a black polymer coating for proper grip.
  • It comes with an underneath slot suitable for all Thule foot packs.
  • You can install it easily within just minutes.

What Does The Customer Like? 

Thule square bars are solid. It will just take several minutes to install it. You won’t need to go for any additional drilling. It will give your car a fresh appearance.

The Customer support is very responsive. 

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

Customers needed help understanding the instructions.

Tester Review:

I bought the Thule square bars for the 480R foot pack. It’s lightweight yet sturdy. It helped me to transport my camping gear securely and with ease.

Malone AirFlow2 Universal Cross Rail Roof Rack

The Malone roof rack system is very strong and capable of holding heavy loads. You will love its aerodynamic design for reduced wind noises. Its integrated towers, double-walled aluminum construction, and anti-theft locks have been popular among customers.

Features:

  • It’s a well-constructed roof rack with a non-corrosive aluminum coating. 
  • Now you can rest assured against theft due to its key-locking security system.
  • You can attach different accessories by using integrated T-slots. 
  • The Aerodynamic design is great for reducing wind noise.
  • This unit is really easy to install. You don’t require extra tools for installation.
  • It can hold up to 165 lbs.
  • You can rely on its performance as they offer a lifetime warranty.

What Does The Customer Like? 

The Malone airflow roof rack is very sturdy. This unit is super easy to install. Its additional strips can also significantly reduce whistling.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

The end caps are cheap and loose. 

Tester Review:

I have installed it on my Subaru Forester 2019 edition. It perfectly fits with my SUV. I don’t mind the raw aluminum look. So, compared to its price, its performance is very pleasing.

BRIGHTLINES Aero Crossbars Roof Racks

The modern, bright lines Aero crossbar enhances your car’s overall appearance. They usually feature a front and a rear crossbar. It is sturdy and long-lasting. So, you can use it to transport kayaks, canoes, camping gear, skis, snowboards, and even bikes.

It’s a ready-made crossbar that doesn’t require additional drilling. So, installing it will be a piece of cake.

Features: 

  • Brightlines have designed an aerodynamic crossbar to reduce wind noise.
  • The front crossbar measures around 44 ¼ inches in length. In contrast, the rear bar is around 43 ½ inches long.
  • You will need several minutes to install it.
  • This unit can hold up to 150 lbs.
  • It is not compatible with the Subaru Forester.
  • They have included four mounting brackets, essential hardware, along with crossbars.

What Does The Customer Like? 

Brightlines’ aerodynamic crossbar comes with a solid & efficient design. It doesn’t create any unwanted noise while driving. It’s a value-for-money item.

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

The instruction manual could be clearer to understand.

Tester Review:

I have bought this modern crossbar for my Subaru SUV. It perfectly fits my Subaru Outback 2019 edition. I used an Allen wrench to install it, and the setup was a piece of cake.

CargoLoc 2-Piece 52″ Aluminum Roof Top Cross Bar

Are you looking for a high-quality crossbar for your car top? Go for the CargoLoc aluminum rack.

CargoLoc is renowned in the cargo management market. You will love their crossbars. After all, their products have to pass a strict level of strength & durability. 

Features: 

  • CargoLoc features a lightweight aluminum construction without any sacrifice in strength. 
  • It can carry up to 150 lbs.
  • You can expect around 46 inches of space in between the side rails. So, accommodating your gear will be easy.
  • This unit features a tight clamping system. So, you can expect secure transport. 
  • The keyed locking mechanism is very efficient for safeguarding against theft.
  • They have also included a limited lifetime warranty.

What Does The Customer Like? 

CargoLoc roof rack is indeed the best car carrier for Subaru Outback. They are not only lightweight but also easy to set up.

You will love its overall appearance. Its keyed lock mechanism is also very secure. Moreover, it doesn’t also create any additional wind noise. 

What Does The Customer Dislike? 

Some customers wanted to avoid its material and construction.

Tester Review:

I have installed it on my Subaru Outback 2022 edition. Their Allen wrench was effective. It has eased up the whole installation process.

How To Choose The Best Car Top Carrier For Subaru Outback? 

Do you need help choosing the best car top carrier for Subaru Outback? We truly understand your worries. 

After all, car top racks are a significant investment for every adventurer. So, let’s check the guidelines now! 

Aerodynamic Vs. Square bar: 

Aerodynamic Vs. Square bar, which car top carrier suits your needs the most?

Each of them has its benefits and flaws. If you are up for a traditional car top carrier, go for Square bar carriers. However, many adventurers might not prefer them for excess drag & noise. 

Manufacturers have designed the Aerodynamic bars to reduce noise. Yes, they are indeed modern and efficient. 

However, regarding stability, the Square bar carriers are kept from being beaten.

Weight:

It’s significant to consider the overall weight of your car top rack. After all, it adds extra weight to your car’s roof. So, the carrier should indeed be lightweight. 

Remember to check your vehicle’s weight rating for the roof. The carrier you choose must distribute weight evenly throughout the car roof.

Material: 

Manufacturers design roof racks to last for a prolonged period. So, they must be made of high-quality yet lightweight materials like – steel. Also, the rack should have enough capacity to endure heavy loads & rough weather.

Weighing Capacity: 

The weighing capacity of your roof rack is an important consideration. If you plan to carry just the camping gear, a low-limit carrier will do the job. In contrast, you must go for the high-capacity car racks to carry heavy items like kayaks & bikes.

Ease Of Installation: 

Modern roof racks are mostly easy to install. Adhere the roof rails with the crossbars, fasten the bolts, and that’s it. You might even drink new holes for adjustments in some cases. However, no worries! Our recommended racks are super easy to install.

Price: 

Last, it would help if you went for a roof rack within your budget. Of course, you must not compromise in terms of quality. A premium quality roof rack might seem too expensive. However, its overall performance will be worthwhile in the long run.

How To Use Roof Rack On Subaru Outback? 

Roof racks are great for enhancing the storage of your Subaru Outback. But you have to choose the right model first! 

Once you install the right roof rack, carrying kayaks, bikes, skis, and other gear will be a piece of cake. 

How to use the roof rack on Subaru Outback? 

Install The Roof Rack:

  • Attach the cross bars to the roof rails.
  • Secure the attachments with bolts or clamps.
  • You can go through the manufacturer’s instructions for proper understanding.

Load The Gears: 

Once the rack is installed, you can load your gears.

  • Always fasten them tightly with the crossbars. 
  • While loading, even distribution of weight is a must.
  • You can also use straps to keep everything in place.

Drive Carefully: 

Now, you have to be very careful while you drive your cargo. You must avoid high-speed driving. 

After all, loaded gears create additional wind resistance. It also increases the overall weight of your cargo. Thus, it can significantly affect the fuel efficiency as well.

Unload The Gears: 

Once you reach your destination –

  • Unfasten the straps.
  • Unload The gears from the roof rack.
  • Remember to remove the crossbars after the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the roof box on a Subaru Outback? 

Subaru Outback roof boxes come with dual side openings. So, you can load your gears from either side. The roof boxes are usually 76 inches long, 36 inches wide, and 16 inches tall.

Are Thule Cargo Carriers Compatible with Subaru Outback? 

Thule cargo carriers are compatible with the Subaru Outback of 2022 edition. They are very efficient for easy loading and unloading. Moreover, their overall weighing capacity is up to 13 cubic feet. 

Is the Subaru Outback spacious?

The Subaru Outback is spacious. It can hold up to 32.6 cubic feet of gears posterior to the rear seats. You can also expand its capacity to 75.6 cubic feet by replacing the rear seats.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best car top carrier for Subaru Outback is a great deal for every adventurer. Your investment will be well-spent if the rack is compatible with your SUV. So, you have to be very wise. 

Our content has reviewed the eight best car carriers from the market. I loved the Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform & YAKIMA – JetStream Bar Aerodynamic Crossbars for overall performance, construction, and durability. 

Before reviewing, we have performed a long, thorough research. So, you can rely on our top picks. Choose the right roof rack and prepare for your next road trip!