Introducing the SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box—a spacious and versatile storage solution designed for your adventures. With an impressive 18 cubic feet of internal capacity, it easily accommodates your gear. Crafted from durable, UV-resistant ABS material, this cargo box is built to withstand the elements. The rear opening design allows for effortless access, while the tool-free installation means you can get on the road quickly. Plus, with a secure key and lock included, your items stay safe no matter where you roam. Let’s dive into what makes this cargo box a must-have for your travels.
SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box
8.9
Great storage option
The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box offers a robust 18 cubic feet of storage capacity, making it an excellent solution for families or travelers needing extra space. I appreciate its easy installation, weather-resistant design, and reliable performance at highway speeds, though some may find its construction less robust compared to premium options.
PROS
- Excellent value for the price
- Easy to install and mount
- Spacious and can hold a significant amount of luggage
- Weather-resistant and keeps contents dry
- Lightweight and manageable for one person to handle
- Sturdy construction with secure locking mechanism
- Fits a variety of vehicles, including SUVs and crossovers
- Good performance at highway speeds
Cons
- Some users report that the construction may feel somewhat flimsy when compared to higher-end options
- Mounting the unit can be a bit fussy, requiring some adjustments to align properly
I am excited to introduce the SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box, a versatile solution designed to enhance your travel experience. With an impressive internal cargo capacity of 18 cubic feet (510 liters), this rooftop cargo box offers ample space for all your gear, whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or embarking on a long road trip. Its dimensions of 63 x 38 x 19 inches (160 x 96.5 x 48 cm) ensure that it can fit various items, while also being compatible with most roof rack systems, including SportRack Rack Systems, square bars, round bars, and many factory racks.
Built with durability in mind, the Vista XL is constructed from rugged, UV-resistant ABS material that promises to withstand the elements. This thoughtful design choice not only ensures longevity but also guarantees that your belongings remain protected. A standout feature of this cargo box is its rear-opening design, which allows for easy access to your items without the hassle of stepping into traffic. The tool-free mounting hardware simplifies the installation and removal process, making it an excellent choice for individuals seeking convenience.
- Mounting Type: Crossbar Mount
- Item Volume: 4681.15 Liters
- Closure Type: Buckle
- Shell Type: Hard
- Product Dimensions: 62.5 x 39 x 19 inches
- Item Weight: 38.9 pounds
Security is a top priority, and the SportRack Vista XL addresses this with its included key and lock mechanism, allowing you to secure both the contents within the cargo box and the box itself to your rack. With a maximum weight capacity of 100 pounds (45 kg), it accommodates a variety of items with assurance. Its thoughtful design, impressive storage capabilities, and emphasis on user-friendliness make the SportRack Vista XL an invaluable addition for anyone looking to optimize their vehicle’s carrying capacity while ensuring safety and ease of access on the road.
Spacious Storage for Adventures
- 18 cubic foot internal cargo capacity
- Durable UV-resistant ABS material
- Rear opening design for easy access
- Tool-free installation and removal
- Secure key and lock included
- Compatible with various rack systems and sizes
Review of the SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
The SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box is a substantial investment for anyone in need of extra storage space while traveling, especially on long trips. Having used this cargo box on multiple vehicles, including a 2015 Nissan Pathfinder and a 2017 Subaru Outback, I can confidently say it provides a reliable and spacious solution for transporting luggage, camping equipment, or even holiday gifts for a large family.
Easy Installation and Versatile Fit
One of the key advantages I found with the SportRack Vista XL is its ease of installation. The mounting process is straightforward and can typically be done in under ten minutes. The box fits well on various crossbar systems, and the included mounting hardware is decent quality. It’s important to ensure your crossbars are compatible, but I had no problems fitting it on both factory and aftermarket racks.
For a family of six, plus a dog, the ample space offered by this cargo box has been invaluable. I recall a specific road trip from Georgia to Texas during the holiday season when we needed to pack not only clothing but also a significant number of Christmas presents. The Vista XL easily housed three suitcases, blankets, and other odds and ends without any hassle.
Durability and Performance
While some reviews mention a perception of flimsy construction, I found that once closed and locked, the cargo box feels sturdy and secure. It has proven its worth during various weather conditions without compromising the safety of my belongings. On one trip through a heavy snowstorm, I was particularly pleased to find everything inside stayed dry.
Driving at speeds up to 75 mph, I experienced minimal shaking and wind noise. Although I noticed the box had a bit of movement at higher speeds, it remained secure and did not show signs of wear or damage, which I had feared given its lightweight ABS plastic construction.
A Budget-Friendly Choice
Being budget-conscious, I appreciate that the SportRack Vista XL delivers value without sacrificing quality. Compared to other high-end brands like Thule or Yakima, I felt it performed very well, offering much of the same utility—just at a fraction of the price. When I needed a replacement for a more expensive carrier damaged in an unfortunate incident, the Vista XL saved me nearly $200.
This cargo box stands out especially for families or individuals who frequently travel long distances. Its spacious nature allows you to pack freely without the stress of overloading your vehicle. On my recent cross-country moves, it played a critical role in keeping my vehicle organized and my pets comfortable without forgoing essentials.
Practical Tips for Use
- Loading: Ensure that the weight is evenly distributed to avoid wobbling. Always double-check that the lid is tightly locked after packing.
- Maintenance: Regular checks on the mounting system can be beneficial, especially after long drives or during rough weather.
- Weather Considerations: Even in heavy rain or snow, the box performs well. However, I would recommend checking its seals before embarking on journeys through extreme weather.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box has proven to be a reliable, spacious, and economical solution for extra cargo space on the go. Whether you’re a family on a road trip or someone needing additional storage for moving, this cargo box competently meets expectations. For its price point, it offers remarkable features, durability, and a level of performance that should meet the needs of most users without breaking the bank.
Discover the convenience and added storage space of the SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box. Explore how it can enhance your travel experience by keeping your gear organized and accessible.
Great question! The Thule Force XT is known for its sturdier construction and premium feel, but it typically comes at a higher price point. The Vista XL, while a bit lighter in build, is a fantastic budget-friendly option that still offers great storage capacity!
Could you dive a bit deeper into the weather-resistant features? Like, how well does it keep stuff dry in heavy rain?
Sure! The Vista XL is designed with a weather-resistant seal, and I’ve found it keeps contents dry even in light to moderate rain. However, in heavy downpours, it’s always a good idea to double-check the contents just in case!
Totally agree with your points! I love how easy it is to install. It made our road trip so much easier! 🚗
Thanks! I’m glad to hear you had a great experience. Installation really can make or break a trip, right?
If someone’s looking for alternatives, what about the Yakima SkyBox? Is it worth the extra cash?
The Yakima SkyBox is a solid option! It’s more durable and has better aerodynamics for highway travel, which can make a difference in gas mileage. If you’re using it often and want something built to last, it might be worth the investment!
Hey, how does the SportRack Vista XL compare to the Thule Force XT? I’m thinking about which one to get!
What would you recommend for someone who frequently needs to carry extra gear? Is this enough for camping stuff?
Absolutely! The 18 cubic feet of space is quite generous and should fit camping gear like tents, sleeping bags, and more. Just be sure to pack it efficiently to maximize space!