Which Yakima roof box is right for you?
A complete size guide
12th August 2026 | 3 minutes to read
Whether you're packing skis for a winter escape, loading camping gear for a long weekend, or simply trying to free up space for the family road trip, choosing the right roof box can make all the difference.
One of the most common questions we hear is:
"What size roof box do I need?"
The answer depends on what you're carrying.
From skis and snowboards to camping gear, luggage and family holiday essentials, this guide compares Yakima's GearBox and SkyBox NX roof boxes to help you choose the right option for your next adventure.
Find out which roof box is best for you:
Roof Box Ski and Snowboard Comparison
Whether you're carrying skis, snowboards, camping gear or family luggage, choosing the right roof box comes down to two things: the length you need for your gear and the storage volume you need for your trip.
Use the table below for an approximate guide to the Yakima roof box range:
|
Roof Box |
Volume |
Length |
Skis / Snowboards |
Best For |
|
GearBox Range |
||||
|
GearBox M |
400L |
165 |
Up to 160cm |
Weekend trips, kids' gear |
|
GearBox L |
470L |
186 |
Up to 180cm |
Most skiers and snowboarders |
|
GearBox XXL |
560L |
206 |
Up to 200cm |
Long skis, family holidays |
|
SkyBox NX Range |
 |  |  |  |
|
SkyBox NX L |
450L |
192 |
Up to 185cm |
Most skiers and snowboarders |
|
SkyBox NX XL |
500L |
213 |
Up to 205cm |
Long skis, family holidays |
Maximum ski and snowboard lengths are approximate and may vary depending on bindings and packing configuration.
Which Roof Box Is Right for Me?
Here’s a basic breakdown of which roof box you’ll need for what.
Best for Weekend Trips
If you're carrying luggage, kids' gear or shorter skis and snowboards, the GearBox M provides plenty of storage while maintaining a compact footprint on your vehicle.
Best All-Rounder
For most families, skiers and snowboarders, the GearBox L and SkyBox NX L offer the ideal balance of cargo capacity and versatility.
Best for Long Skis and Family Holidays
If you're travelling with longer skis, bulky camping equipment or packing for multiple people, the GearBox XXL and SkyBox NX XL provide maximum storage capacity and longer internal dimensions.
Why Choose a Yakima Roof Box?
Dual-Side Opening
Access your gear from either side of the vehicle, making loading and unloading easier wherever your adventure takes you.
Secure Storage
Integrated locks and internal tie-down points help keep your gear secure, organised and protected while travelling.
Built for Adventure
Aerodynamic, durable and designed for years of road trips, camping weekends and snow escapes.
SkyBox NX Exclusive Features
The SkyBox NX features a self-limiting torque knob that clicks when the box is securely mounted, providing simple, worry-free installation. Once fitted, the knob can be removed, creating a flatter interior floor and giving you more usable storage space.
Why use a roof box?
- Keeps wet or bulky gear out of the cabin
- Frees up space for passengers and pets
- Secure, weather-resistant storage
- Perfect for snow trips, camping, road trips and everyday adventures
Before You Buy
Roof boxes require a compatible roof rack system and must be installed within your vehicle's roof load limits and hatch clearance. Always check your vehicle owner’s manual before loading.Â
Check the minimum and maximum bar spread dimensions of the roof box also to ensure it will fit on your vehicle.Â
Need roof racks too? Yakima offers a complete range of vehicle-specific roof rack systems available through Repco.
