If you want a rugged, open-air solution that expands your SUV's carrying capacity without sacrificing the sleek look of your vehicle or adding excessive wind drag, choose VRATKZMVW Camping 700L; if you need a sealed, weather-tight fortress for your family gear with dual-side access and massive volume for bulky luggage, choose SierraSquad ABS Rooftop Cargo.
• SierraSquad ABS Rooftop Cargo: Its biggest advantage is the fully sealed ABS hard shell that provides waterproof protection and dual-side hydraulic opening for easy access from any parking position; its trade-off is the significant weight of the unit itself and the larger physical footprint required to mount such a large enclosure.
• Who should buy which: The VRATKZMVW is for the adventurer who carries sports equipment like bikes or kayaks and values speed and airflow, while the SierraSquad is for the family road-tripper who needs dry storage for clothes, strollers, and suitcases in all weather conditions.
The VRATKZMVW Camping 700L is designed specifically for the driver who views their roof as an extension of their cargo space but refuses to compromise on driving dynamics. This isn't just a plastic box; it is a structural engineering feat built around reinforced aviation aluminum crossbars. When you are driving on highways or navigating uneven rural roads, stability is everything. You will not feel the wobble or flex that comes with cheaper, thinner materials. This makes it an ideal choice for those carrying heavy, irregularly shaped items like bicycles, kayaks, or ski boards that do not fit neatly into a standard container.
For the outdoor enthusiast, the design philosophy here is about freedom and versatility. Because this is an open rack system, you are not limited by the internal dimensions of a fixed box. You can strap down long poles, wide surfboards, or awkward camping furniture that would never fit inside a standard cargo carrier. The weather-resistant coating on the aluminum is a critical feature for those who live in coastal areas or harsh climates. The rust-resistant surface defends against rain, snow, UV exposure, and even salt air, ensuring that your investment does not degrade after a few seasons of use. Furthermore, the aerodynamic layout is engineered to cut through the air efficiently. Integrated rubber gaskets add extra water protection for your loaded gear, though they cannot seal out moisture entirely like a hard box can.
However, this product is not for everyone. If you are traveling with delicate clothing, electronics, or items that must stay perfectly dry regardless of the weather, this open rack requires you to purchase additional waterproof bags or tarps to protect your cargo. It is also best suited for vehicles with factory-installed roof rails. The installation process is damage-free and quick, taking only 15 to 20 minutes with the included hardware and soft rubber padding that protects your car's paint. But if your vehicle lacks these rails, this system is not compatible. It is a tool for the active user who prioritizes load flexibility and low wind resistance over total enclosure.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-05 · 7 min read · Independent comparison
The SierraSquad ABS Rooftop Cargo Box is the definitive answer for families who have hit the ceiling of their trunk space and need to expand without turning their passenger cabin into a warehouse. This is a dedicated storage solution built around the concept of "sealed protection." The ABS hard case is not merely a cover; it is a shield against the elements. Whether you are facing torrential rain, blowing dirt, or intense summer sunlight, your belongings remain safe inside. The tightly fitted seals create a waterproof barrier that keeps clothes, sleeping bags, and food dry even in snowy or breezy conditions. For parents loading up for a multi-day trip, knowing that a sudden storm won't soak the kids' clothes is a peace of mind that open racks simply cannot offer.
One of the most practical features of the SierraSquad is the dual-side opening mechanism. In real-world scenarios, parking spots are rarely perfect. You might be squeezed between two cars, parked diagonally at a campsite, or stuck behind a truck where one side of your vehicle is inaccessible. With a traditional single-opening box, you are forced to walk all the way around the car to grab your stuff. The SierraSquad solves this with hydraulic support arms that allow you to lift the lid with one hand from either the left or right side. This convenience transforms the experience of loading and unloading, making it significantly easier to organize and reach your belongings without circling the vehicle.
The sheer volume of this unit is another major draw. Available in sizes ranging from 600L up to an impressive 880L, the largest model can hold six or more large pieces of luggage. It is designed to handle the bulkier items that define family travel: folding strollers, oversized tents, and multiple suitcases. The streamlined, water-drop shape helps reduce wind resistance and noise at highway speeds, addressing one of the common complaints about rooftop boxes. However, you must accept the physical reality of mounting such a large object. The installation involves placing U-bolts around your roof crossbars and tightening internal knobs. While the glossy black finish adds a bold look to your SUV, the sheer size means you need to ensure your roof rails can support the combined weight of the box and its full load. This is the ultimate choice for the family that values organization, security, and total weather protection above all else.
• Best for irregular, bulky sports gear → VRATKZMVW Camping 700L. The open aluminum frame allows you to strap down long items like skis or surfboards that exceed the length of a standard cargo box.
• Best for total weather sealing → SierraSquad ABS Rooftop Cargo. The ABS hard shell and tight seals guarantee that your cargo stays completely dry and protected from UV rays and dust.
• Best for easy access in tight parking → SierraSquad ABS Rooftop Cargo. The dual-side opening with hydraulic arms lets you retrieve items from either side of the vehicle without maneuvering around it.
• Best for fuel efficiency and wind noise → VRATKZMVW Camping 700L. The aerodynamic crossbar design is optimized to cut wind resistance more effectively than a large, boxy structure, keeping highway noise lower.
• Best for heavy-duty load capacity → VRATKZMVW Camping 700L.
• Best for maximizing interior space → SierraSquad ABS Rooftop Cargo. By moving 6+ large suitcases or a stroller to the roof, it clears the entire trunk for passengers, making it ideal for crowded family trips.
• Best for vehicle compatibility → VRATKZMVW Camping 700L. It fits sedans, SUVs, and minivans with factory rails using a non-invasive, no-drill setup that takes minutes to install.
• Best for security and theft deterrence → SierraSquad ABS Rooftop Cargo. The hard ABS shell resists cutting and includes a locking mechanism with keys, offering a higher level of physical security for valuables.
After weighing the specifications and intended use cases, I believe the choice depends entirely on whether you prioritize the freedom of an open platform or the security of an enclosed box. For me, the SierraSquad ABS Rooftop Cargo wins for general family travel because the ability to keep everything dry and accessible from both sides outweighs the slight increase in wind resistance. The dual-opening feature alone changes the daily utility of the product in a way that open racks cannot match. However, if you are strictly an outdoor athlete who needs to haul long, awkward equipment like kayaks, the VRATKZMVW Camping 700L is the superior technical choice due to its specialized aluminum build and lack of height constraints. Ultimately, for SUV owners looking for a versatile solution that balances protection with convenience, the SierraSquad is the more complete package for the average traveler.
No, the VRATKZMVW is an open rack system made of aluminum with rubber gaskets for added water protection, but it does not provide a sealed enclosure. You will need to use waterproof bags or tarps to keep your gear dry in heavy rain.
Yes, the SierraSquad features a dual-side opening design with hydraulic support arms, allowing you to lift and access the lid from either the driver or passenger side without walking around the vehicle.
The SierraSquad is designed for vehicles with roof crossbars. It uses U-bolts to secure the box to existing rails or bars, so you need to ensure your vehicle has a compatible mounting system before purchasing.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites.
When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon or its affiliates. This site is an independent third-party review and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Amazon or the product brands mentioned.