Roof Mount Cargo Bag for a 2012 Mazda 5 with Factory Roof Rack

Question:

My Mazda5 has a factory roof rack with rails that run side to side, but not front to back. What are my options for carrying extra cargo? Most of the bags Ive seen require rails both ways or rails running front to back. Could you tell me what I can use? Do I need to add some type of additional rail? We would mainly be using it to carry extra cargo when we go on vacation. Thanks.

asked by: Erin D

Expert Reply:

We have numerous roof mount cargo bags that will fit with a roof rack like the one on your 2012 Mazda 5. I have included a link to them. They will work with crossbars that run side to side, side rails that run front to back, or both.

The Thule Outbound, # TH869, is an excellent choice. This bag features 16 cubic feet of space and it was manufactured without PVC components. The bag itself weighs only 6-1/2 pounds. But before loading anything on the roof please check the owners manual or with Mazda for the roof capacity.

I also recommend the protective pad # RL100650 to not just protect the vehicle roof but to also help keep the bag in place. And another useful accessory is the wheel step # HE4040 which makes reaching the bag to install, load, or unload much easier.

expert reply by: Michael H