Yakima VS Thule cargo box.

[Irish]

Looking at getting a cargo box for doing road trips with the family mostly, mounting on a Jetta Wagon, and possibly for an emergency situation as well. Anybody have any experience with Yakima or Thule cargo boxes? Anybody use both and have an opinion to which is superior in terms of build & quality? Pros, cons, things to be aware of?

This thread could also be of interest in a SHTF situation type of thing where people are interested in expanding their cargo capacity for getting out of Dodge situation. Nothing like doubling your cargo capacity and not reducing your MPG too bad.

[ghost762]

I would go with Thule. There stuff seems to be better made than Yakima. Plus Thule is the OEM maker of VW's racks so if you managed to pick up as set of carriers second hand the cargo box should just bolt right up. I recommend searching here for OEM carriers. http://forums.vwvortex.com/

[punkkin]

Thule is way better. Better waterproofing and more robust. Unless you're getting the Yakima for a super super deal, I'd go with the Thule.

[Irish]

Originally Posted by ghost762

Plus Thule is the OEM maker of VW's racks so if you managed to pick up as set of carriers second hand the cargo box should just bolt right up.

I didn't know that, thanks!

[ghost762]

Originally Posted by Irish

I didn't know that, thanks!

If you sign up for Vortex or are already a member my user name is the same on there. I also go few friends that work/worked at an independent rack shop in WA so I could direct your questions toward them.
http://www.racksandbeyond.com/cart/

[motorwerks]

Being a VW person at heart I want to say Thule.... however, Yakima bars are stronger and rated for a higher weight.

[Tennvol12345]

I have a Thule rack system that I've had since 1994 and the plastic on the bars are cracked to hell, the steel is rusting, and the endcaps long gone and have since been replaced by many layers of duct tape. I've had kayaks and rolls of carpet on it but the best thing was a sofa driven from Knoxville, TN to Chattanooga, TN on top of a Honda Civic...NRS load straps are a life saver!

Back in 2003 I bought a old school Rocketbox for $75 off a guy I worked with who needed money for climbing gloves. No issues at all with the Rocketbox and it's been waterproof (despite a huge crack patched with duct tape) and dust proof during my crazy ass offroad adventures. Can't comment on Thule boxes but will say my Rocketbox is solid. Gas mileage sucks balls with it on my roof though.

[hatidua]

I've had both. Get whichever one you find a better price on for the size you want.

[sacmaster]

I've got a Yakima Skybox. Used it to drive 12000 miles in a month around the country stuffed full of packs and camping gear. Never had an issue with it.