Ever feel like your car is just too small for all your adventures? Imagine packing for a camping trip, a move, or just a big shopping spree. Suddenly, your trunk is overflowing, and you’re wondering where everything will fit. It’s a common problem for many of us who love to travel or just need a little extra space.
That’s where a hitch cargo carrier comes in handy. But with so many different types, sizes, and features, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle. You want something strong, easy to use, and that won’t break the bank. It’s easy to get confused by all the choices and worry about making the wrong pick.
This post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a great hitch cargo carrier. You’ll learn about the different kinds available, what to look for, and how to choose the one that best fits your needs. By the end, you’ll feel confident about finding a carrier that makes your life easier and your trips more enjoyable.
Our Top 5 Hitch Cargo Carrier Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Hitch Cargo Carrier Detailed Reviews
1. MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails- Trailer Hitch Mount For RV’s
Rating: 8.7/10
The MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier is a smart solution for anyone needing extra storage. It attaches to your vehicle’s hitch. This means you can easily carry more gear without filling up your car’s interior. It’s great for road trips or camping.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong aluminum. This makes it tough but also light. It won’t rust easily.
- Putting it on your vehicle is simple. Cleaning and taking care of it is easy too.
- The steel frame underneath is very strong. It connects securely to your hitch.
- It has reflectors and red corners. This helps other drivers see you better at night.
- The high sides keep your stuff from falling out. You can also tie things down easily.
- It gives you more space right away. You can take more things on your adventures.
- The basket is big. It can hold lots of different items.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s strong, some users might want an even larger capacity for very heavy loads.
- The grey color is nice, but a few more color options could appeal to more people.
This cargo carrier is a fantastic way to expand your vehicle’s carrying ability. It offers a secure and convenient storage option for your travels.
2. MeeFar Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 53″ x19″ x 5″+Waterproof Cargo Bag (51″ x17″x 18″)
Rating: 9.0/10
Hit the road with extra gear thanks to the MeeFar Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket! This sturdy carrier easily attaches to your vehicle’s 2-inch hitch receiver, giving you loads of extra space for camping trips, moving, or just hauling bulky items. It comes with everything you need, including a waterproof bag to keep your stuff dry and a special tightener to stop annoying rattles.
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What We Like:
- The carrier is made of strong steel with a tough black coating. It can hold up to 500 pounds, which is a lot of stuff!
- It’s a good size at 53 inches long and 19 inches wide, giving you plenty of room.
- The included waterproof bag is great for protecting your items from rain and dirt.
- The hitch stabilizer is a real winner; it keeps the carrier steady and quiet while you drive.
- Assembly is straightforward with the included manual.
- It comes with a cargo net and straps, making it easy to secure your load.
- It fits most trucks, SUVs, and cars with a Class III or IV hitch receiver.
- While the steel is strong, some users might wish for an even lighter material for easier handling.
- The 5.5-inch height of the basket itself might limit very tall items without extra securing.
What Could Be Improved:
Overall, this cargo carrier is a solid choice for anyone needing more hauling capacity. It’s built tough and comes with helpful accessories to make your journey smoother.
3. Garvee Foldable Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier with Wheels & Handle
Rating: 9.5/10
Tired of cramming all your gear into your car? The Garvee Foldable Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier is your ultimate solution for hauling extra stuff. This heavy-duty steel rack attaches to your vehicle’s 2-inch hitch receiver and gives you a massive 60″x26″x13.8″ platform to carry everything from suitcases and coolers to camping equipment. It’s built tough to handle up to 750 pounds and resists rust, so it can handle any weather. Plus, it folds up for easy storage and has wheels and a handle to make moving it around a breeze when it’s not on your vehicle.
What We Like:
- It offers a huge amount of space, so you can bring all your adventure gear.
- The strong steel construction and rust-resistant coating mean it will last a long time.
- The wheels and handle make it super easy to move when it’s off your car.
- It folds up neatly, saving you space in your garage or driveway.
- Setting it up is quick and simple with the included hardware.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for rough use, some users might want even more robust wheel construction for extremely uneven terrain.
- The folding mechanism, while convenient, could be slightly more intuitive for first-time users.
This cargo carrier is a game-changer for anyone who needs more space for their adventures. It’s a durable, convenient, and smart way to carry your gear.
4. KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″x24″x14.4″ Folding Rear Luggage Rack Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling with Stablizer Waterproof Bag Net Ratchet Straps Lock
Rating: 8.8/10
The KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier is a fantastic addition for anyone who needs more space for their adventures. This sturdy rack attaches to your car’s 2-inch hitch receiver, giving you a generous 60″x24″x14.4″ space to carry all your gear. Whether you’re heading out camping, traveling, or just need to haul extra luggage, this carrier has you covered. It even folds up when not in use, making it convenient for storage.
What We Like:
- It’s built tough with heavy-duty steel and a special coating that fights off rust and scratches.
- The mesh surface keeps smaller items from falling out.
- Raised side rails stop your cargo from sliding around.
- Safety reflectors help you be seen at night or in bad weather.
- It’s super easy to install on any 2-inch hitch.
- It can hold up to 500 pounds of weight, so you can pack a lot!
- The large size is perfect for camping gear, bags, and more.
- It comes with a waterproof bag, net, and ratchet straps to secure your load.
What Could Be Improved:
- The side rails are only 3.2 inches high when folded, which might not be enough for very tall items without extra securing.
- You need to make sure the weight is spread out evenly for the best performance and balance.
This KAIRAY cargo carrier offers a robust and practical solution for expanding your vehicle’s carrying capacity. It’s a reliable choice for making your next trip more comfortable and spacious.
5. CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier
Rating: 8.8/10
The CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier is a sturdy and smart solution for anyone who needs extra hauling space. Its generous size and strong build make it ideal for everything from camping gear to sports equipment. Keep your vehicle’s interior clean and free up valuable space with this versatile cargo carrier.
What We Like:
- The 6-inch high walls keep your cargo safe and secure. You can easily tie down a net or bag.
- The carrier folds up when not in use, saving space. The angled shank gives you extra room to drive without scraping the ground.
- Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the mesh base. Messy items stay outside your car.
- Built-in reflectors make your carrier and vehicle more visible, which is great for safety.
- It’s made of strong steel but is still lightweight. It can hold up to 500 lbs. The tough black finish looks good and lasts a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the steel construction can add some weight to your vehicle’s hitch.
- The folding mechanism, while convenient, could potentially be a point of wear over time with heavy use.
This CURT cargo carrier offers a practical and robust way to expand your vehicle’s carrying capacity. It’s a solid investment for adventure-seekers and families alike.
Your Hitch Cargo Carrier Buying Guide: Pack More, Worry Less!
So, you need more space for your gear? A hitch cargo carrier is a fantastic solution! It attaches to the back of your vehicle and gives you extra room for camping equipment, sports gear, groceries, or anything else you need to haul. Let’s figure out the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a hitch cargo carrier, keep these important features in mind:
- Weight Capacity: This is super important! Check how much weight the carrier can safely hold. Don’t overload it. You don’t want your stuff falling out.
- Size and Shape: Carriers come in different sizes. Some are flat platforms, others have raised sides (like a basket). Think about what you’ll be carrying. A basket is great for loose items. A platform works well for larger, flatter things.
- Hitch Size Compatibility: Carriers fit into your vehicle’s hitch receiver. Most are for 2-inch hitches, but some smaller ones are for 1.25-inch hitches. Make sure it matches your car.
- Folding or Tilting Design: Some carriers can fold up against your car when not in use, or tilt down. This makes parking and accessing your trunk much easier.
- Reflectors: Safety first! Look for carriers with built-in reflectors. They help other drivers see you, especially at night.
Important Materials
The materials used in a hitch cargo carrier affect how strong and long-lasting it is.
- Steel: This is a common and strong material. Steel carriers are usually very durable. They are often coated to prevent rust.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is lighter than steel. This makes the carrier easier to handle and can help with your vehicle’s gas mileage. It’s also naturally rust-resistant.
- Plastic: Some carriers use sturdy plastic for parts of the construction. Plastic is lightweight and won’t rust. Make sure it’s heavy-duty plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a carrier great? What makes one not so great?
- Build Quality: Look for solid welds and strong connections. A well-built carrier feels sturdy and doesn’t wobble. Poorly made carriers might feel flimsy.
- Finish: A good powder coating or paint job protects the metal from rust and scratches. If the finish is chipping or looks uneven, it might not last long.
- Ease of Assembly: Some carriers are easy to put together right out of the box. Others can be a bit tricky. Read reviews to see what others say.
- Attachment System: How the carrier attaches to your hitch matters. A secure, lockable system is best. Some carriers can rattle or shift if not attached tightly.
User Experience and Use Cases
People use hitch cargo carriers for all sorts of adventures!
- Camping Trips: Pack tents, sleeping bags, coolers, and camp chairs. You’ll have more room inside your car for passengers.
- Road Trips: Bring extra luggage, beach gear, or souvenirs. It keeps your car cleaner and more comfortable.
- Sporting Events: Haul bikes, skis, snowboards, or other sports equipment.
- Home Improvement Projects: Transport lumber, gardening supplies, or tools.
- Grocery Shopping: Great for large shopping trips, especially if you have pets that take up space.
A hitch cargo carrier is a practical tool that can make your life a lot easier. Choose wisely, and happy hauling!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hitch Cargo Carriers
Q: What is the main purpose of a hitch cargo carrier?
A: The main purpose is to give you extra storage space for your vehicle. It helps you carry more gear without filling up your car.
Q: How do I know if a hitch cargo carrier will fit my vehicle?
A: You need to check your vehicle’s hitch receiver size. Most carriers are for 2-inch hitches, but some are for 1.25-inch hitches. Your vehicle’s manual or a quick look at the hitch will tell you the size.
Q: Can I leave a hitch cargo carrier on my car all the time?
A: Some people do, but it’s generally better to take it off when you’re not using it. It can affect your gas mileage and might get damaged.
Q: How much weight can a hitch cargo carrier hold?
A: This varies a lot by model. Always check the product’s weight capacity before you load it up. Never go over the limit.
Q: What’s the difference between a hitch cargo carrier and a roof rack?
A: A hitch cargo carrier attaches to the back of your vehicle, while a roof rack attaches to the top. Hitch carriers are often easier to load and unload.
Q: Are hitch cargo carriers waterproof?
A: Most are not completely waterproof. If you’re carrying things that can get wet, you should use waterproof bags or tarps to protect your items.
Q: Will a hitch cargo carrier affect my car’s handling?
A: Yes, especially if you load it heavily. It can change how your car brakes and steers. Drive more carefully with a loaded carrier.
Q: What are the best materials for a hitch cargo carrier?
A: Steel and aluminum are generally considered the best for strength and durability. Sturdy plastic can also be good for lighter-duty carriers.
Q: How do I clean my hitch cargo carrier?
A: You can usually clean them with soap and water. For metal carriers, check for rust and touch up any damaged paint.
Q: Can I use a hitch cargo carrier with a spare tire mounted on the back of my SUV?
A: Sometimes. It depends on the size of the spare tire and the design of the cargo carrier. You might need a special adapter or a carrier that can work around the tire.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.