Cargo storage apparatus (24) is provided that attaches to a tailgate door (16) of an open air styled vehicle (12) and includes a housing (26) having an upper wall (26a), a lower wall (26b), a front wall (26c), opposed side walls (26e), and a hollow interior portion that serves as a compartment (30) for receiving articles therein. An opening (28) is formed in the housing (26) that allows user access to the compartment (30). An access door (329 is hingedly (34) coupled to the housing (26) and is moveable between a closed position covering the opening and an open position allowing access to the compartment via the opening.