Roof Box/Storage/Cargo box for X3??

I'm going on a trip and i need extra cargo space. I drive a 2006 x3. I don't know anything about rack systems or how the roof box all attaches.
I'm thinking of buying a roof box/ cargo box for the top of my sav. I already have the bmw base support system (roof rack). Does anyone know what box/cargo box that is compatible to the bmw roof rack?? (other than the bmw roof boxes) I don't want to buy another rack if i dont have too.
If anyone has any info on this subject please let me know.

Thanks!

The BMW support system is simply a Thule AERO cross bar kit, with fancy X3 specific base. What's funny is, its a fraction of the cost of a Thule branded kit. Any thule/yakima box will work fine. I hear the Thule boxes have better "claws" to grip the base support.

I purchased the Thule Ranger bag, its got a solid base like a box, but the enclosure is a bag @ 11 cu ft. We are so happy with it, we plan on upgrading to a 16 cu ft Thule box later for future road trips.

I found a limited selection to get a box that will clear the rear deck spoiler when it's open. That is, if you want a box long enough to carry skis. Wound up with Yakima Pro Series 12. But I don't see this style currently on REI.com. I bought it from a local REI store, with the assurance that if it didn't fit (clear the rear hatch) I could bring it back. I mount it to standard Thule cross bars (non aero). Mounts solid. I don't know that the Yakima box mounts are any more or less secure than Thule. I do know that I have driven into strong headwinds and that it hangs on at effective wind speeds approaching 100 mph.

Thanks guys for the info!!!

I have the Thule Ascent 1100...though mostly used for skis it has come in handy a few times. The nice part about it is that it has a low profile so I can get in the garage with the box on! Low profile does mean...I can't get a cooler in there...but to pull straight into the garage after skiing...it's worth it!

I used to have a Thule Box that mounted on my home made adapters to the BMW Rails but since switching from 207 skis to 175 a few years ago, I can carry it all inside anyway.

Cheers

Originally Posted by bluskye

The BMW support system is simply a Thule AERO cross bar kit, with fancy X3 specific base. What's funny is, its a fraction of the cost of a Thule branded kit. Any thule/yakima box will work fine. I hear the Thule boxes have better "claws" to grip the base support.

I purchased the Thule Ranger bag, its got a solid base like a box, but the enclosure is a bag @ 11 cu ft. We are so happy with it, we plan on upgrading to a 16 cu ft Thule box later for future road trips.

Bluskye, I am looking at Ranger, do you have any experience with it in rain/snow?

Originally Posted by enamoured

Bluskye, I am looking at Ranger, do you have any experience with it in rain/snow?

Yes, used it this summer on a road trip from Chicago->Florida. Went through rain. Held up fine with no leaks. I have not use it in snow, but I imagine it would be fine.

My only complaint is if the bag is empty, you have to remember to tighten the straps down, or else it will flap in the wind. Embarrassing, but nothing critical.

Thanks for the info.

never bought a box but I'd go with the Thule Ranger - not aero but it has good capacity & like the soft sides !!

Keep in mind, the Ranger bag is only 12 cu-ft. So in reality, thats about 3 to 4 med duffel bags worth of storage. A good amount, but nothing like the boxes that start can go to 16/18 cu-ft of storage.

For those in Canada or close to border, Canadian Tire has a sale on Thule Ranger, C$225.

Purchased a Thule Ranger 90 a few months ago and it's worked well for me...

a bit of confusion here. What are the standard roof rack rails on the X3 called? Was their an option for different rack and/or rails?

EDIT: nevermind. I see you need the crossbars. DUH

thx