Will a Thule Roof Mount Cargo Bag Fit Between Rola Roof Rack Crossbars

Question:

I have an 06 Prius and was given the large Thule cargo bag 16 cubic feet as a gift and want to know if I can use it with Rola roof rack. The bag is about 40inch long and the picture looks like these bars must be mounted much closer together than 40?

asked by: Marc A

Expert Reply:

You are correct, The Thule cargo bag, # TH869, is 40 inches long and the bar spread for Rola roof racks on your 2006 Toyota Prius are closer to 26 inches apart on center. You could still use both but part of the bag would ride on top of the bars and it is not an ideal situation.

None of the roof racks have a bar spread that would be wide enough but I have another solution. Instead of using this bag you could use a different bag that does not require a roof rack at all and actually save some money in the process.

You could use the 18 cubic foot Rightline Sport, # RL100S30, which is 48 inches long, 40 inches wide, and 19 inches tall. There are 2 ways that you can use this bag on a vehicle with a naked roof. First, you can run the straps through the interior of the vehicle. While functional what can happen is the straps can interfere with the headroom in the vehicle. Sometimes the straps can act like wicks and let water in as well.

The better way is to use the optional car clips, # RL100600, that clips onto the car between the tops of the doors and the roof (the same way the roof rack feet attach). This will keep the straps out of the car.

I also recommend the protective pad, # RL100650, to not only protect the vehicle roof but to also help keep the bag in place while driving. I have included a link to the right to a video review of this bag for you.

Please consult the vehicle owners manual and/or Toyota for the vehicle roof weight carrying capacity prior to loading.