Some people have an innate ability to learn their lessons from the wise words and experiences of others. As I gazed at the half-empty plastic storage case on my roof with a bewildered stare, I couldn’t help but wish I was one of those people. How long had it been open? For 10 miles, 30, 100? It was impossible to say. Remnants of the broken front latch still clung to the box, shattered by whatever debris had hit it at 75 mph. Inside, I observed the sad and soggy array of my remaining damp clothes and camp supplies that still clung to the bottom of the bin. Everything else was gone, and if I wanted it back, I’d need to backtrack. My stomach churned as I did the math. It could have happened anywhere between here and my last fuel stop nearly 200 miles ago. In the middle of the night, during a West Texas storm, that was 200 miles too many.
Losing half my supplies on a cross-country trip was a hard lesson as a college student, but it’s one I have never forgotten. It changed how I saw cargo cases, from just a box to throw stuff into to a critical barrier between the environment and the items we count on. After all, losing a few rock band shirts and Walmart camp gear is just a funny story, but the loss of emergency equipment in a winter storm or critical supplies on a backcountry trip wouldn’t be a laughing matter. If you’ve got supplies worth protecting, sometimes “good enough” just isn’t. Over the years, I’ve tried and tested all shapes and sizes of cases to find the best results. I’ve found a few I love, but the number of purpose-built options today is greater than ever before. I’m making my cargo case crusade official, pitting a selection of the best models head to head to see how they stack up.
Considerations
Storage cases come in a seemingly endless array of shapes, sizes, and materials to suit various purposes, from those of world travelers to weekend warriors. To keep the test focused on comparable products and provide the most value to the reader, the category was narrowed to cases that endure the most abuse and harbor the largest potential risk to your personal property should a failure occur: exterior storage boxes.
When making selections for the test, we started by only choosing models that were marketed as exterior-rated storage cases for outdoor use. We then attempted to keep their sizes as close to 25 x 15 x 10 inches as possible to eliminate any inherent advantages when stress testing. A long, narrow box will respond differently to an impact than a cube, while a foot has more leverage on a wider top to bend the surface.
Internal volume, or how much equipment can be stored in a case, was an important criterion. Both the shape and the thickness of the walls can increase durability while decreasing storage capacity. Combining the two, we get one of the most critical factors in the test, the space efficiency ratio, which is the difference between the external size of the box and the internal storage capacity. Scores could theoretically range from 0 percent (least space efficient) to 100 percent (perfect space efficiency). Ideally, internal and external dimensions should be as close as possible without sacrificing strength or durability.
Next, we looked at water and dustproofing. A storage case should protect its contents from the elements; otherwise, mold, rot, and grit can quickly deteriorate its contents. Like many products, cargo boxes are rated on the ingress protection (IP) scale. The first digit represents protection from the incursion of solid elements ranging from 1, indicating protection from large objects such as a hand, to 6, indicating protection against ingress of any particulates, including dust. The second number rates resistance against liquid incursion, ranging from a 1 (protecting from water droplets) to an 8 (protecting against prolonged submersion). A chart is provided for reference, and all items that carry a rating are denoted as such in their tests.
Availability and strength of lashing points were next on the list. We looked at the number of available tie-downs, the directions in which they could be used, their ability to withstand pressure, and whether or not the lid could still be opened while the box was secured to the vehicle. The ability to lock the box was an essential consideration as well.
Durability is paramount for any box that could endure a strike from a tree branch, be dropped off a vehicle, or be used as a step or seat in camp. As noted previously, we tried to stay with similar-sized models to eliminate any bias from the structural shape, with one notable exception. The Harbor Freight Apache was also included due to its popularity and availability in the rifle case size. You’ll find it in a sidebar rather than directly stacked against the others.
For exterior hard cases, it’s critical to evaluate the ease of operation on a daily basis. Although it can be a broad category, we considered factors like how easy the box is to open and close and whether or not it can be performed with one hand. Nothing is more frustrating than smacking your hand on the rack when trying to close a box in cold weather or attempting to open it while one hand is holding the supplies you want to put inside. Other considerations included whether or not a box was prone to damage the interior of a vehicle, the comfort of the handles (and if they can be gripped with a single hand), and other niceties like internal storage organization, bottle openers, and flat surfaces for use as a table or prep surface.
Storage Cases: Testing
The evaluation was designed around many real-world experiences we’ve encountered with storage cases, subjecting the items to simulated actions for wind, dust, and rain and then working up to more damaging tests like accidental drops. We structured the conditions to be as similar as possible each time and worked our way up from tests that posed the least risk of damage to the most. This setup ensured every case would undergo the main tests in a “new” state before significant damage occurred.
Durability and the versatility of tie-down points were tested first. We secured one side of the case with a ratchet strap, applying pressure on the other side with a crane scale until we saw a noticeable deformation or reached 150 pounds of pressure. This test was performed vertically and then at an angle to see how side loads were handled.
Next, we evaluated water resistance. We used a standard hose with a spray nozzle to simulate heavy rains at highway speeds. Each case was sprayed in upright, side, and upside-down orientations and checked for leaks. Those which allowed water incursion were then dried, and a second test was repeated while it was positioned upright with water spraying from the sides to gauge water resistance under ideal conditions.
Dust resistance was tested in two ways. First, we strapped all the cases to an open flatbed trailer and hauled them down dusty washes and backroads. We then brought the cases home and used a leaf blower on low to swirl dust around them. Afterward, each was opened and wiped with a white cloth to detect dirt and dust on the interior.
Because many cases are removed and set around camp, we’ve found that use as a chair or a step is common. To ensure they’re durable enough for use as a step, I placed each one onto the ground and stepped on and off of the center of the lid with my size-15 boot. We looked for deformation and damage due to rocks and mud from the boot.
Finally, we subjected each model to a loaded drop from a tailgate. They were packed with 56 pounds of sandbags and then dropped handles first onto their front corner onto cement from several feet up. We then looked for signs of cracking, difficulty opening or closing the latches, and whether or not they retained their seal.
Front Runner Wolf Pack Pro (Value Award)
External Dimensions: 20.1 x 15.7 x 9.1 inches
Weight: 8.1 pounds
Space Efficiency: 64.35 percent
Weather Rating: Water and dust resistant
Front Runner’s Wolf Pack is one of the most well-known options in the overland space. Like the brand’s other offerings, it was made to thrive in the harsh environment of the African bush. The Wolf Pack Pro is an improvement from the original, with more durable and easier-to-operate components and additional weatherproofing.
The Pro is available in just one size and is constructed from black polypropylene. It’s designed to be lashed securely to a roof with integrated strap channels, with a nesting lid and base that feel solid even when stacking several cases high. Unfortunately, the Pro does not stack with the original Wolf Pack, so you won’t be able to mix and match. We noted that the base is prone to pick up dirt when set on the ground; you’ll want to be careful setting it down in mud.
The first change any Wolf Pack aficionado will notice on the Pro is the latches. Gone are the plastic press-fit clasps that became the bane of many travelers’ existence, substituted by larger metal replacements, making opening and closing the box more manageable but not struggle-free. You still need to open all four latches and remove the lid to access gear, where other boxes hinge open for easier access. The new weather seal can cause the lid to pressurize against the latches when changing elevations, making them difficult to open, so you’ll need to press on the middle of the box to relieve pressure.
The tradeoff for this is its weather resistance, which proved capable of withstanding light exposure to water and dust during testing. It is not waterproof, though, as the box did leak under the hose; we’d recommend caution if looking to store sensitive items like electronics.
Durability was excellent, surviving both the drop and step tests with ease, showing little sign of damage and no functional issues after the fact. Front Runner achieved this durability while keeping the box at just 8.1 pounds, the lightest option in our test. To be fair, it was also the smallest, so the interior volume per pound comes out as average. We’re okay with that, though, because the size makes it exceptionally easy to move when loaded, and it ranks third in space efficiency. If storage capacity is a priority, you can add a 2.3-inch-taller Hi-Lid, which retains the ability to stack with other Wolf-Pack Pro boxes.
The biggest selling point of the Wolf Pack Pro is its value, which means you can likely buy enough boxes to organize all of your gear for the price of just one of the more expensive cases. If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, look no further than the Wolf Pack Pro.
$80 | Front Runner Wolf Pack Pro
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Light yet sturdy
- Improved heavy-duty latches
- Compatible with a range of Front Runner accessories
Cons
- Need to open all four latches to remove lid
- No lock channels
- Can’t open lid when strapped down
- Not fully waterproof
- One size only
Dometic Go Hard Storage 50L
External Dimensions: 23.08 x 17.57 x 12.29 inches
Weight: 9.92 pounds
Space Efficiency: 62.19 percent
Weather Rating: Water and dust resistant
Dometic’s offerings have expanded dramatically over the years and now include everything from awnings to camp chairs. But what has made them stand out recently is the quality and features they’ve offered at a reasonable price point, a tactic embodied by the Go 50-liter hard storage case (Go HSC).
The Dometic comes in just one size, 50 liters, with a main aluminum structure surrounded by a gray high-impact polymer base and lid. This gives it an elegant look we’d be proud to have on a vehicle while keeping the case light and durable. The total weight comes in at 9.92 pounds, one of the lightest tested, and it passed both the step and drop tests without issue, attesting to its durability.
Using the Dometic Go on a daily basis, the flexible latches were amongst the easiest to operate, requiring little effort and giving you one-handed access to your gear. What surprised us more was how effective they were at keeping the lid securely closed when the case impacted the ground during the drop test and their ability to retain a firm seal to prevent dust and water ingress during weather-resistance evaluations. While the Dometic had a minor leak during testing, we suspect it came through a joint or rivet rather than the seal.
The base and lid nest together, and the contact points are deep enough that multiple cases can be stacked on top of one another without worrying about shifting during use. On the sides of the Go HSC, you’ll find integrated lashing points for straps that run separately from the lid itself. This allows for uninhibited access to cargo inside the box even when lashed down, so you won’t have to resecure it to open it.
Dometic got creative by integrating tie-down channels with holes for security locks and the carry handles in this same space. Each of these things worked well individually, but there could be hiccups when used together. If you need to lash a box down and lock it at the same time, the space can be very crowded. The bigger drawback was that integrating all of this into the same location left something to be desired in structural integrity, as during the lashing test, the tie-down points were prone to flexing and bending. This had no impact during testing but would give me pause if selecting this case for prolonged exterior use.
On shorter trips or trips where the box won’t be lashed permanently to the roof, the Dometic is a solid choice. It’s easy to use, can be paired with an array of interior organizers and soft bags, and retails for half the price of the more expensive ones in the test. It’s a great middle-of-the-road option for those looking to balance features and budget.
$150 | Dometic Go Hard Storage 50L
Pros
- Easy-to-operate latches
- Lower price point
- Accessible cargo when tied down
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Integrated plastic lashing points are prone to bend
- Not fully waterproof
- One size only
Yeti LoadOut GoBox 60 Gear Case (Editor’s Choice)
External Dimensions: 30.0 x 14.8 x 13.4 inches
Weight: 17.2 pounds
Space Efficiency: 56.92 percent
Weather Rating: IP67
The Yeti name has become synonymous with quality to customers all over the world, but it shares an equal association with expensive price tags. That has left a lot of us wondering, are their LoadOut boxes worth the hype, or are they coasting on the reputation of their coolers? I’ll be the first to admit I wasn’t sure, but after testing it, I can say without hesitation that they’re worth every penny.
The LoadOut is made from their proprietary Defender material, which they won’t say is unbreakable, but it seems to be darn close based on the lack of damage it received during the drop test. Structurally, we saw no impact, and the robust hinge system and handles continued to operate smoothly. This durability does come at a cost, and that’s weight and space efficiency. The Yeti tips the scales at 17.2 pounds for the 60-liter size and ranks sixth for space efficiency in the evaluation, but that’s where the bad news ends.
Years of producing industry-leading coolers means that Yeti knows a thing or two about seals, which is likely why the LoadOut carries the best rating of the test, an IP67 fully waterproof, dustproof, and even submersible rating. If you need gear to stay 100 percent dry, this is your best bet.
Despite this amazing seal, the Lockdown Latches are some of the easiest to operate in the test and can be utilized one-handed. Their mid-hinge design must be used to be appreciated, and it allows them to open with a light pull and lock back down securely with equal ease. We were additionally impressed by the LipGrip handles which were by far the most comfortable to hold in the test and left us rarely using the included soft straps.
Organization comes standard with the Yeti, with an included Pack Attic zipper pocket organizer on the lid, a removable storage caddy, and a divider that can be pulled out to double as a cutting board. The 60-liter model can fit up to three caddies total and two dividers, the 30-liter can fit one divider and two caddies, and the 15-liter can fit a single caddy. Importantly, all three sizes can still stack together, as the 30- and 15-liter sizes occupy the same footprint as the 60-liter size, and the rubber feet keep the boxes planted without shifting.
To make lashing even more manageable, these boxes can be strapped down using Yeti’s AnchorPoint tie-down channels, which provide a sturdy lashing point but also run beneath the lid retaining the ability to open the box for cargo access even when the case is secured. Speaking of security, they include multiple lock channels on the exterior that are stout enough to prevent theft.
The bottom line is that if you want no-compromise durability to protect your gear from anything you throw at it, the Yeti is going to be hard to beat.
$300| Yeti LoadOut GoBox 60 Gear Case
Pros
- IP67 rated, dustproof, fully submersible
- Easy-to-use latches and grips
- Standard interior organizers and caddies
- Available in multiples sizes that still stack together
Cons
- Price
- Weight
Pelican Cargo 80
External Dimensions: 25 x 12.25 x 13.25 inches
Weight: 19.3 pounds
Space Efficiency: 48.45 percent
Weather Rating: Water and dust resistant
Pelican needs no introduction in the category of storage space. They’ve defined it for decades, producing some of the world’s leading gear protection choices for equipment ranging from cameras and firearms to military computers. However, they’ve recently pushed further into the off-road space with their line of Cargo products, and there’s a lot to love.
Pelican designed the Cargo series as a purpose-built solution for vehicle applications. Everything from the materials to the mounting options is crafted for a life spent on the road. They’re based on a roto-molded, UV-resistant, polyethylene body that is impact resistant and equipped for temperatures ranging from -20° to 140°. Weather resistance proved excellent, passing the water and dust tests without ingress and breezing through the drop test like it was nothing more than an inconvenience, barely registering any cosmetic damage.
The hardware is equally durable, including heavy-duty E-Coated steel latches that are smooth and easy to operate one-handed in various types of weather. These latches feature integrated steel lock channels to keep contents secure no matter where you wander. Matching the latches, the sides of the case are equipped with E-coated steel tie-down plates riveted into the body’s structure. These can be used with a standard ratchet strap or interface with Pelican’s quick-release vehicle mounts, which are crafted for a variety of applications, including vertical tie-downs for roof racks, side mounts for truck beds, and interior lashing kits for cargo areas. This keeps your box firmly in place on even the roughest trails while allowing you to access contents or remove the case entirely in under 30 seconds. It’s worth noting that these mounts can interface with the case’s locks, meaning you can not only secure the case but lock it down to the mount itself.
Of course, we have to mention its looks. The Cargo 80 has a presence, and its rugged lines and features would be equally at home on the set of an action movie as they are on a vehicle. While that shouldn’t be a deciding factor, if you’re planning on strapping something to your four-wheel-drive vehicle, it might as well look good, right?
Our list of grievances for the 80 is short but no less relevant. First, all of the durability we mentioned comes at the cost of weight and space efficiency. The Pelican is the heaviest box in the test by nearly 4.5 pounds, and it’s the second to least space efficient with a ratio of 48.5 percent. If space or weight is limited in your vehicle, that will be worth considering. The carry handles feel undersized for the bulk of the box, so if you’re regularly carrying the case around, keep in mind that this one will be a bit more challenging.
Overall though, the Pelican Cargo 80, and the Cargo line as a whole, are phenomenal storage boxes made to withstand a lifetime of use on the exterior of a vehicle. We wouldn’t hesitate to choose one for our next adventure.
$320 | Pelican Cargo 80
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel handles and tie-down plates
- Solid water and dustproofing
- Available in many sizes and shapes
- Quick disconnect tie-down kits available for racks, truck beds, and interiors
Cons
- Price
- Heavy and lacks space efficiency
- Undersized integrated handles
- Not stackable
AluBox ABA42
External Dimensions: 21.5 x 13.5 x 8.65 inches
Weight: 10 pounds
Space Efficiency: 77.49 percent
Weather Rating: IP54
If you’ve been around overlanding long, you’ll likely have heard of AluBox. This privately owned family company from Denmark has been producing quality aluminum cases for 25 years. Our team has been using them for the last decade, resulting in long-term insights along with new findings to bring to the table.
Let’s start with a big headline; the 42-liter AluBox is tied as the most space-efficient box in the entire test with the Zarges. At just 10 pounds with 77.5 percent space efficiency, it is one of your best bets for making the most out of limited storage space and payload. In itself, that’s enough of a reason to buy this case, but there are plenty more.
The AluBox was designed for shipping and industrial use and, accordingly, is available in just about every shape and size you can think of. It features a precision-bent aluminum-ribbed wall, extruded base and upper rim, and a lid protected by heavy-duty aluminum corners, giving it some of the most durable and stable stacking hardware in the test and enabling it to withstand the step and drop evaluations. The aluminum construction prevents corrosion, and it carries an IGBC certification for bear resistance.
Weather resistance is good, but the AluBox is not waterproof. During testing, limited dust particles were able to make it into the case, and while it’s rated to protect against “splashes,” exposure to a hose resulted in the ABA42 taking on a good deal of fluid. These simulated conditions are rarely an issue in the real world, but it’s worth noting because the AluBox did tend to allow more water ingress than the Zarges.
One downside is that as the contents rub and shift against the aluminum, it wears down, leaving black dust and marks on your gear stored inside the box. We’d recommend padding or a spray liner inside to eliminate this issue or one of the many optional interior organizers available from Equipt Expedition Outfitters. Additionally, because aluminum is a soft metal, it tends to scratch easily; choose a bed liner or wrap for the exterior to protect it if you find that bothersome.
Otherwise, the AluBox is truly a joy to use on a daily basis. The tie-down points grant you access to the interior even when it’s lashed down, and the latches are straightforward to open in any circumstance. Walking around with the case using the two side handles is easy, but the third front handle for toting it around as a briefcase is a great touch and usually my preferred method.
The ABA42 is one of the best choices in the test for those looking to maximize storage space while minimizing weight, which is why it has become a crowd favorite among overlanders the world over.
$355 | AluBox ABA42
Pros
- Light and space efficient
- Weather and bear resistant
- Durable and secure stacking hardware
- Array of sizes and accessories available
Cons
- Price
- Scratches are more apparent
- Black marks and grit on cargo without foam liner
- Not entirely dust or waterproof
Zarges K470 #40568
External Dimensions: 22.95 x 15.28 x 9.72 inches
Weight: 10.5 pounds
Space Efficiency: 77.49 percent
Weather Rating: IP54-IP65 optional
For over 90 years, Zarges has been producing aluminum products intended to “make everyday life easier.” What started as a two-person business in Stuttgart, Germany, rapidly expanded to one of the best-known storage case manufacturers in the world. For decades, Zarges K470s have been used by military forces, meeting stringent standards for extreme temperatures and drop tests.
We tested the K470 #40568, designed for shipping where every pound and inch of space counts. It comes as no surprise then that this case is tied as the most space-efficient option with the AluBox. The K470 weighs just over 10 pounds with a 77.5 percent space efficiency ratio, so when you’re limited on room and payload, the Zarges is a superior option.
The Zarges cases are available in a wide array of sizes and can be ordered custom to meet special requirements you may have. They come standard in a raw aluminum finish but are also offered in matte black, which looks great and can hide scratches that are more apparent on the standard aluminum. Accessories abound, including interior and lid organizers, bamboo and vinyl toppers, along with locks, cables, and mounts to keep them secured to your vehicle.
For daily life, Zarges cases are extremely user-friendly to operate. The latches are stout but open and close with minimal effort, and the lid is secured with two retaining straps to hold it open when accessing cargo. The inclusion of the front handle that permits the case to be carried like a briefcase is a great benefit and further increases the effectiveness of transportation. All three handles can be used with gloves on in cold weather.
The Zarges comes standard with an IP54 rating, meaning it is protected against splashing water and dust. While it leaked during the hose test, it is worth mentioning that for an extra cost, cases can be upgraded to IP65 for protection against water jets and to be dust tight.
As with all aluminum models, Zarges cases are not impervious to the black dust that can transfer onto contents inside the box as they rub and shift against the aluminum. Foam liners are available online to protect gear within the Zarges case, and matte-black models may be a solution—both factors to address in a future evaluation.
Durability proved exceptional, as the K470 soaked up our step and drop tests without sustaining damage, thanks to its cast-aluminum stacking corners and aluminum ribbed wall structure. The cast corners make Zarges cases one of the most secure stacking options in the market by eliminating the shifting that occurs to many others when latched together.
The Zarges case is a leading performer in this evaluation, and it is easy to understand why the K470 line has been highly successful. If you can afford the price tag, it will serve you well for countless adventures to come.
$388 | Zarges K470 #40568
Pros
- Light and very space efficient
- Weather and bear resistant
- Durable and secure stacking hardware
- Array of sizes and accessories available
Cons
- Price
- Scratches are more apparent
- Black marks and grit on cargo without foam liner
- Not entirely dust or waterproof
Roam Rugged Case 55L
External Dimensions: 25.2 x 14.39 x 14.1 inches
Weight: 15 pounds
Space Efficiency: 45.28 percent
Weather Rating: Water and dust resistant
Roam is one of the newest manufacturers on the market, offering rugged and attractive cases in a myriad of sizes and colors. Most people are undoubtedly drawn in by their looks but wind up buying for their unique features and intuitive vehicle mounting solutions.
We put the 55-liter model to the test, which weighs in at 15 pounds with a space efficiency ratio of 45.3 percent. That makes it the least space efficient in this evaluation and one of the heaviest options, but at $249, Roam aims to balance those drawbacks with an abundance of features and performance at a price that customers can afford.
The structure is a roto-molded, linear, low-density polyethylene shell that can withstand a serious beating in all sorts of conditions. It breezed through step and drop testing without damage and cleaned up to look almost new despite mud and grit being dragged over the exterior surfaces. The latches are coated steel and recessed behind the edge to prevent them from rubbing against your vehicle’s interior or sustaining damage in a drop. They operated easily, and the integrated locks were durable and easy to access.
The box features integrated tie-down channels for straps, which sit beneath the lid so the contents can be accessed even when the case is lashed down. While there aren’t any designed for the 55L yet, Roam offers rugged quick disconnect mounts, making it easy to install and remove their cases from a vehicle in a matter of seconds.
On the downside, Roam’s 55-liter case is not fully watertight. It passed the dust and light water tests easily, but when exposed to a hose, it did leak a small amount. Again, this type of water exposure would not often occur in real-world scenarios, but it should be considered if you plan to transport anything sensitive such as electronics or cameras.
One of the more unique features of this case is the integrated gas strut on the lid, which powers it open and holds it for easy access to cargo. While this does take up some interior space, it’s fantastic if you plan to pair the box with one of their lid storage options like a MOLLE or zipper pouch organizer, which are optimal for keeping items separate but do add weight.
Roam doesn’t stop there, though. They pack a few more standard features like nylon rope handles to augment the integrated grab handles, a nesting top and bottom for stable stacking, and even a bottle opener built right into the side. The result feels more like a storage system instead of a single item, and it makes it an attractive choice for everything from kitchen and medical kits to a go-box ready to toss into your vehicle when you hit the road last minute. The Roam balances protection and features with value, making it a great choice for a wide array of applications.
$249 | Roam Rugged Case 55L
Pros
- Packed with features and elective accessories
- Lots of tie-down options, can be opened while secured
- Wide range of sizes and colors
- Balanced price
Cons
- Heavy
- Least space-efficient box in the test
- Not fully waterproof
Plano Sportsman’s Trunk
Exterior Dimensions: 37.25 x 14 x 18 inches
Weight: 10 Pounds
Space Efficiency: 52.8 percent
Weather Rating: Water and dust resistant
Selecting quality gear that’s intended for off-road use can be vital for many trips, but if you need to sacrifice the money required for the actual travel portion to buy that equipment, it’s time to look at different options. That’s where the Plano Sportsman’s trunk comes in.
At just $50, it’s by far the most affordable model evaluated and provides the largest storage volume at one of the lowest weights, 10 pounds. This gives it the distinct privilege of offering the most storage volume per pound in the evaluation. The case is only available in one size, and space efficiency isn’t great at 52.8 percent, but it’s not the worst in the test either. These factors make it an attractive choice for those looking to store goods that don’t need to be entirely protected from dust and water.
I place that caveat in there because this case offers the least protection in our test. It allowed dust and water ingress in both evaluations, and when exposed to the hose test, the interior started looking more like a lake than a storage case. Thanks to the tougher reinforced lid, it did pass the step test, albeit with some wobbling. But due to the thin-walled plastic structure, it was the only case to fail the drop test—a crack forming in the corner after impact. Cold temperatures would further increase its chances of breaking.
The same can be said for the plastic latches, which felt flimsy, and would likely wear and break with extended use. All four latches must be opened and the lid removed to access gear, an inconvenience compared to a hinged design.
The Sportsman was the only model to cause concern during the lashing test. The tie-down points on the sides really aren’t secure and would allow for the straps to slip off under a side load in an off-camber obstacle. They bend under load, which is why we’d recommend securing this case with straps over the top, too, if you plan to use it on the roof of a vehicle.
Still, the Sportsman does offer nice features. Due to its size, the trunk can accommodate a lot of gear which means additional weight, so the integrated wheels make it much easier to move around and slide into position. There are channels for locks next to the handles, and the structure of the box includes nesting elements on the lid and base for stacking.
All things considered, the Sportsman wouldn’t be the storage case we’d recommend to everyone. Still, if you just need affordable organization, especially if it will be inside a covered truck bed or interior space, this can be a solid solution for an unbeatable price.
Pros
- Affordable
- Roller wheels for ease of movement when loaded
- Highest storage-to-weight ratio of the test
Cons
- Materials allow for flex in the body, prone to breaking
- Thin hardware, prone to breaking
- Latches and lid must be removed to access cargo
- Not dust or waterproof
Expedition 134 Box
Exterior Dimensions: 22.76 x 17.32 x 13.58 inches
Weight: 10 Pounds
Space Efficiency: 60.04 percent
Weather Rating: Water and dust resistant
The Expedition 134 is a newer entry to the US marketplace. Like many of our most-beloved products, it’s designed and manufactured in Australia to survive the long dusty roads of the bush and salt-water-sprayed beaches of its coasts. The outcome is a no-frills storage box made to endure extreme conditions.
The 134 is made from a proprietary impact-resistant material that reminds me a lot of the legendary durability of MaxTrax. This allowed it to pass the step and impact tests without flinching while still weighing in as the second lightest option at 8.7 pounds. However, it does offer 73 percent more storage than the lightest case, giving it a far better storage volume per pound ratio.
To prevent corrosion, no metal components were used, and the lid and base are designed with nesting elements to make secure stacking a breeze. Unlike any other option in this test, it’s shaped to nest with other cases when empty. If you find yourself storing empty boxes between trips, that feature can save space at home. Unfortunately, the sloped lower half that enables nesting does cost it space efficiency, dropping the 134 down to a 60 percent ratio which is average.
When it comes to tie-down points, though, the Australians weren’t messing around. Each corner of the case has two integrated lashing points for a total of eight altogether. These sit below the lid, meaning you can still open and close the box without removing the straps, and quick disconnect straps are available. As a final feature, lock channels are built into the latches to keep gear safe on the road.
Weatherproofing is excellent, and the case endured every water and dust test we threw at it without even a drop of ingress. Expedition 134 hasn’t put the box through official IP testing yet, but they should. I feel confident putting just about anything in this case without worrying about it getting wet.
The disadvantage of this heavy-duty weather sealing is that it can make the latches harder to operate. Warm weather and repeated use softened the seal, making it easier to close. But upon initial delivery, a few team members struggled to close the case despite using two hands and their body weight. Buyers of the 134 should expect to break in the seals by cycling the latches repeatedly and, ideally, adding warmth.
The Expedition 134 can be summarized as a simple, tough-as-nails solution to storage with as few moving parts as possible for reliability. It’s one of the more affordable choices in the test, yet despite its stellar performance, it felt somewhat lackluster. Much like buying the practical sedan, it’s a smart choice, but somehow not the exciting one. Still, if you’re looking for premium durability and weatherproofing at an affordable price, the Expedition 134 offers it.
$198 | Expedition 134
Pros
- Water and dustproof
- Durable and corrosion resistant
- Ability to open the lid while secured to a vehicle
- Lightweight
Cons
- Latches are difficult to operate
- Sloped nesting design means lost space efficiency
- Uninspiring aesthetic and lack of accessories and features
Apache 9800 Rifle Case Sidebar
While the Apache 9800 didn’t fit the criteria for the main test, we felt it necessary to include it, given its popularity in the market and undeniable value. This rifle case is available through Harbor Freight and has become popular due to its durability, affordability, and slim profile for roof racks.
Exterior dimensions are 50.38 x 13.63 x 5.13 inches, and the case carries an IP65 rating for weatherproofing; it performed among the best in the water and dust ingress tests, passing with zero signs of leaks. The polypropylene shell is durable, withstanding impact testing without issue and only bowing slightly during the step test before returning to neutral with no damage.
This durability and weatherproofing came at the expense of weight, though. At 22.7 pounds, this case is substantially heavier than the others in the test, and the bulk is noticeable even when carrying it around empty. Fortunately, integrated wheels help when moving it between the vehicle and the house, but depending on the contents, the loaded weight can rise quickly due to the large overall volume.
Features include lock channels, carry handles on the top and side, and standard foam interior padding for custom-fit applications, making it a good value, but there are some downsides to look out for. For example, the metal hardware will start to rust and bind with time, a lesson learned from running two of these cases on my Sprinter van for a year. There are no lashing points, so you’ll need to strap across the top of the case or drill holes and bolt it down, and there’s no nesting design for stacking either—it’s a bit more work, all told. The Apache’s final drawback is how thin they are. There’s a lot of length, but the 5-inch interior height is extremely limiting once you start loading it, a real problem due to the large footprint it takes up in a vehicle.
$170 | Apache 9800 Rifle Case
Pros
- Affordable
- IP65 waterproof rating
- Wheels for rolling with heavy load
Cons
- Weight
- Impractical for many storage uses
- No lashing points
- Not stackable
Storage Cases: Conclusions
At the end of main gear reviews, we select just two products for the coveted Editor’s Choice and Value awards. The Editor’s Choice is the product we would choose for our own kit regardless of price, and the Value Award goes to the item we feel provides the best performance for the money. These decisions are always a challenge, but it was particularly difficult with this evaluation. An argument could be made for multiple storage cases to win either award, but in the end, here were our findings.
Value Award
When it came to balancing cost with performance, three models stood out: the Dometic Go, Front Runner Wolf Pack Pro, and Expedition 134. The Wolf Pack was the most affordable of the bunch, but the easy operation, stylish looks, and features of the Dometic make it an attractive option for the price. Similarly, the Expedition 134 box was the only case under $200 that offered full weather protection in every test we threw at it.
In the end, there was just no way around the fact that the Wolf Pack Pro had a solid performance, was half the price of its competitors, and was a quarter of the price of the most expensive models in the test. We love that it offers all of the durability and space efficiency that made the original Wolf Packs famous but with new latches that make daily use significantly more enjoyable. The weather-resistant seal does an admirable job of keeping gear dry and dust free, and the nesting design makes stacking multiple cases a worry-free ordeal. Our biggest complaints with this case are the lack of an integrated lock and that all four latches must be opened to access your items. These are small sacrifices to pay for such a superior storage option, making it the final choice for the Value Award.
Editor’s Choice
Editor’s Choice was the toughest decision of the test. So many of these storage cases won me over, and I would choose them for different applications. The organization systems in the Roam case, combined with its gas-strut lid, make it the perfect grab-and-go kit for my favorite activities like mountain biking and off-roading. On the other hand, the durability, weatherproofing, and looks of the Pelican Cargo series would likely make it a top choice if I wanted to permanently mount cases to my roof rack full time. And finally, both the AluBox and Zarges cases would be at the top of my list if selecting a case for an around-the-world trip or other applications where space and weight are critical.
The reality is that at this point in my life, I’m a weekend warrior, balancing multiple activities and moving them in and out of vehicles and the house. For that purpose, as a do-it-all versatile option, I chose the Yeti Loadout GoBox. This result took me entirely by surprise, as I went in with zero expectations, but the quality and ease of use woven into every aspect of the Yeti left nothing to be desired. Whether it’s the tie-down system, the latches, handles, hinge, or lock channels, every component feels built to last a lifetime. The interior storage solutions are the perfect balance of simple and effective, and careful thought was given to even the most basic aspects of the case’s construction, equating to an effortless experience each time you use it. Add in the Yeti’s ability to withstand impacts and the best-in-test weather-sealing, and you’ve got a recipe for a do-everything, go-anywhere cargo case.
Editor’s Note: This hard storage cases main gear review was originally published in Overland Journal’s Fall 2023 Issue.
Watch more: Editor’s Choice Video–Overland Hard Case Testing
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