Does your trunk always feel too small for your adventures? Maybe you love camping, but your gear just won’t fit with the kids. Packing for a trip often feels like a frustrating game of Tetris. You need more space, but you don’t want to clutter the inside of your car.
Choosing the right hitch cargo carrier can feel overwhelming. Should you get a basket or a box? How much weight can it really hold? These decisions affect your safety and how much fun you can actually have on your trip. Getting it wrong means wobbly gear or wasted money.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most. You will learn how to pick a carrier that perfectly matches your vehicle and your lifestyle. By the end, you will confidently select the best hitch cargo carrier for your next big getaway.
Top Hitch Cargo Carriers Recommendations
SaleBestseller No. 1
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
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
- MESH SURFACE: Prevents smaller objects from falling through, 14.4" raised tubular side rails(3.2" only when folded) to make sure cargo do not jolt or slide randomly.
- SAFETY REFLECTORS: Driving at night, rainy days or other severe weather is very dangerous. Equipped with 2 red reflectors to help you safety at night.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Fits any 2" trailer hitch opening, 500 Lbs distributed weight capacity. Works well if you distribute the weight evenly on platform when hauling a load, keep it balance for the cargo load or fix in the middle position.
- EXTRA LARGE SIZE & CAPACITY: Perfect for hauling extra cargo bags, camping equipment, luggage and more.
$269.99
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Bestseller No. 2
MaxxHaul 70107 53" x 19-1/2" Hitch Cargo Carrier - Trailer Mount Steel With High Side Rails For RV's, Trucks, SUV's, Vans, Cars 2" Receiver 500-lb Load Capacity , Black
- Impressive Weight Capacity: With a maximum distributed weight capacity of 500 pounds, this hitch cargo carrier confidently supports your cargo needs, ensuring secure transportation
- Generous Basket Dimensions: The outer basket dimensions measure 53 x 19 x 5 inches, while the inner basket provides ample space at 51 x 17-1/2 x 4-1/2 inches. This spacious design accommodates various cargo types and sizes
- Sturdy Steel Construction: Crafted from heavy-duty steel, this cargo carrier is built to withstand demanding loads and rugged conditions, delivering reliable performance over time
- Fits Standard Hitch Receivers: Designed to fit 2 x 2 inch hitch receivers, this carrier is compatible with common hitch sizes, ensuring easy installation and a secure attachment to your vehicle
- Explore More: To delve into further details about this product, please scroll down and explore our A plus pages. There, you'll find comprehensive information to assist you in making an informed choice
$80.60
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Bestseller No. 3
MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails- Trailer Hitch Mount For RV's, Trucks, SUV's, Vans, Cars With 2" Hitch Receiver - 500-lb Load Capacity, Grey, 49" x 22.5"
- Robust Aluminum Construction: Crafted from extruded aluminum, this basket-style cargo carrier offers a blend of durability, lightweight design, and resistance to rust. Easy to install, clean, and maintain, it's a reliable choice for your hauling needs.
- Sturdy Under Support Frame: Boasting a heavy-duty steel under support frame, this carrier includes a 2" x 2" hitch shaft compatible with standard Class III and IV hitch receivers, ensuring secure attachment and dependable performance.
- Enhanced Safety Features: Equipped with reflector lenses and red corner accents, this carrier enhances visibility for safer journeys. The high side rails not only keep your cargo secure but also provide multiple tie-down points for added convenience.
- Instant Cargo Space Solution: Ideal for camping trips, long road adventures, or transporting items that you'd rather not place inside your vehicle, this cargo carrier offers instant and versatile storage space on demand.
- Generous Basket Dimensions: Outer basket dimensions measure 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 inches, while the inner basket dimensions are 47-1/4 x 20-1/4 x 6 inches, providing ample room for various cargo types and sizes.
$109.99
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Bestseller No. 4
MeeFar Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 53" x19" x 5"+Waterproof Cargo Bag (51" x17"x 18"), Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs fit on 2 Inch Receiver with Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps
- DURABLE BUILD - Tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating to promote high strength and a lightweight design. It is rated for 500 lbs.
- OVERALL DIMENSIONS - 53"(L) x 19"(W) x 5.5"(H). It also come with a waterproof cargo bag, cargo net and a pair of ratchet tie down strap, easy and safe to store and transport your cargo.
- STABLE ON THE ROAD - Heavy duty tubular steel construction and rails on all four sides provide maximum stability during travel. The hitch tightener emilinte the rattle while driving.
- EASY ASSEMBLY- Come with user manual, easy to assemble and use, it’s designed for vehicles with a Class III or IV 2-inch hitch receiver, including trucks, SUVs and cars.
- ACCESSORY INCLUDED - Basket, waterproof cargo bag, hitch stabilizer (Reduce noise and movement while driving), Cargo net with attachment hooks. A pair of ratchet straps.
$199.99
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Bestseller No. 5
VEVOR 60x24x6 Folding Hitch Carrier - 500lb Capacity Cargo Basket & Waterproof Bag, Fits 2" Hitch Receiver for SUV, Truck, Pickup
- Robust Steel Construction: VEVOR 60 x 24 x 6 inch heavy-duty steel hitch cargo carrier can support up to 500lbs of cargo, gear, or equipment. It features upgraded 5mm supporting tubes and a hook stabilizer, providing more stable transportation even on bumpy roads.
- Rustproof and Durable: The black powder coating on this trailer cargo basket protects it from rust, corrosion, and weather elements. This makes it durable enough to withstand harsh outdoor environments and remain functional for a long time.
- Rich Accessories: Comes with a cargo net and ratchet straps that securely hold your items in place and prevent slipping. The waterproof cargo bag provides peace of mind for travel in rainy weather, and the coded lock ensures the safety of your items. When not in use, you can quickly store the bag in the accompanying storage bag for easy storage.
- Universal Applications: This hitch mount cargo carrier is compatible with any vehicle that has a 2" hitch receiver, including cars, SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks.
- Enhanced Security: When not in use, fold the luggage carrier for safety and aesthetics. Attaching reflectors on the frame provides added security during nighttime travels, increasing safety and better protecting your cargo.
$183.59
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SaleBestseller No. 6
Mockins 70"x30"x6" XXL Folding Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier w/Plate Bracket | 500 Lbs Cap All-Weather Steel Luggage Rack for SUV Car & Truck w/ 40 CuFt Waterproof Cargo Hitch Carrier Bag & Accessories
- STURDY & SECURE CARGO HITCH RACK : Made for tough tasks, our cargo carrier hitch mount basket is ideal for hauling oversized items. The Mockins Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier features a 70"x30"x6" XXL cargo basket hitch frame that handles everything from camping gear to construction materials. Built from weatherproof steel, this universal 2" receiver hitch cargo carrier includes a license plate bracket for added safety on the road. Pack & go with these cargo racks for trailer hitch from Mockins.
- WATERPROOF CAR HITCH & TRUCK BED CARGO BAG : Our 70"x30"x33" XXL tow hitch cargo carrier bag is built with fully waterproof zippers for 40 cubic feet of reliably dry trailer hitch storage space. Crafted from durable, abrasion-resistant vinyl, the Mockins Waterproof Cargo Bag for Hitch Carrier stands up to harsh weather conditions. It features reinforced seams, a protective flap, & 5.5" Velcro strips for enhanced protection, making this bag for vehicle cargo carriers the ideal travel companion.
- CARGO RACK UPGRADED WITH LICENSE PLATE BRACKET: Engineered for rugged terrain, the folding hitch cargo carrier for SUV & car includes a 2" raised shank & stabilizer to reduce sway. With a built-in license plate bracket, your car trailer hitch rack cargo carrier stays compliant, even when loaded or folded. Reflectors on our vehicle cargo baskets enhance visibility in low light or fog. Stay safe with the Mockins Trailer Hitch Luggage Rack for car storage. Also suitable as a hitch hauler for RVs.
- SMOOTH TRAVELS, EVERY TIME: Equip yourself for effortless hauling with the 500 lbs. capacity car hitch cargo carrier , complete with stabilizer & reflectors. The rear hitch cargo carrier set also includes a waterproof luggage bag for truck bed & car hitch with combo lock & carry bag for added convenience. Secure your gear with a hitch lock, license plate bracket, 3 buckle straps & 3 ratchet straps. Transform the way you travel with the Mockins Car Rack Cargo Carrier & Hitch Cargo Bag bundle.
- CUSTOMER CARE COMES FIRST: At Mockins, we are committed to quality & stand behind our car luggage carrier trailer rack set. A 10-year warranty is included with every luggage rack for hitch attachment for added peace of mind. If you have any questions about your hitch mounted cargo carrier & cargo trailer bag, our customer service team is here to help. Whether you're heading to the mountains, beach, or anywhere in between, the Mockins Hitch Cargo Rack keeps your gear secure on every journey.
$299.99
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Bestseller No. 7
VEVOR 60x24x14 in Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500lbs Capacity Folding Trailer Hitch Mount Cargo Basket, Steel Luggage Carrier Rack Fits 2" Hitch Receiver for SUV Pickup Truck
- Universal Installation: Our hitch cargo carrier is applicable to all models with standard 2" hitch receiver, such as off-road vehicles, SUVs, trucks and pickups.
- 500lbs Extra Storage Space: Our hitch cargo carrier measures 60 x 24 x 14 in/1525 x 610 x 355 mm, which can be used to load different sizes of cargo. Save storage space for your car transport.
- Foldable: When you don't use our hitch cargo carrier,, the luggage frame can be completely flattened and folded 90°by adjusting the pins and latches, lowering the need for repeated disassembly and taking up no extra space.
- Anti-Rattle & Shake: Our hitch cargo carrier upgrades the hook-up stabilizer to strengthen the fixation, lower shaking and rattling. Fix it on the rear connector of the car for more stably.
- Heavy Duty Steel: This hitch cargo carrier is made of heavy duty steel. Powder coated is rust and corrosion-resistant. Thickened support rods and mesh base effectively carry heavy loads. It is not easy to deform and break.
$162.90
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Bestseller No. 8
CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs Capacity, Black Steel, 2-In Folding Shank
- ENHANCED SECURITY. This trailer hitch cargo carrier keeps your items secure during travel, featuring 6-inch high walls around the cargo basket. These walls can be used to fasten a cargo net or cargo bag
- ADAPTABLE. This cargo hitch carrier is equipped with a folding, angled shank. The folding feature allows the cargo carrier to be folded up when not in use, and the angled shank provides additional ground clearance
- EASY TO CLEAN. This hitch mounted cargo carrier frees up cargo space inside your vehicle and keeps messy items outside your vehicle. It also features a mesh base to easily clean up messes
- INTEGRATED SAFETY. With integrated reflectors on the frame, this hitch cargo rack promotes a safe ride. The reflectors add visibility to the cargo carrier and your vehicle
- DURABLE BUILD. This trailer hitch cargo carrier is constructed from tubular steel to promote high strength and a lightweight design. It is rated for 500 lbs. It is also finished with an E-coat and carbide black powder coat
$205.49
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The Ultimate Buying Guide for Hitch Cargo Carriers
A hitch cargo carrier is a fantastic tool. It lets you haul extra gear outside your vehicle. Think camping supplies, luggage, or dirty equipment. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these important features first. They make a big difference in how well the carrier works.
Weight Capacity
- This is how much weight the carrier can safely hold. Always match this to what you plan to carry. A small car needs less capacity than a big truck.
Platform Style vs. Basket Style
- Platform Carriers: These are flat trays. They are great for large, bulky items like coolers or toolboxes.
- Basket Carriers: These have high sides, like a shallow box. They keep smaller items from falling out.
Ground Clearance
- This measures how low the carrier sits to the ground. If you drive on bumpy roads or steep driveways, choose a carrier that sits higher. Low clearance carriers often scrape the ground.
Folding or Tilting Mechanism
- A tilting feature lets the carrier swing away from your vehicle. This is very useful. It allows you to open your trunk or tailgate without removing the whole carrier.
Important Materials and Quality Factors
The material determines how long your carrier lasts and how much it weighs.
Material Matters
- Steel: Strong and durable. Steel carriers hold heavy loads well. They are usually heavier and can rust if the paint chips. Look for powder-coated steel for better rust protection.
- Aluminum: Much lighter than steel. Aluminum will not rust, which is great for wet climates. It might cost more upfront.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Hitch Pin and Anti-Rattle Device: A high-quality carrier includes a strong hitch pin to lock it in place. An anti-rattle device stops the carrier from shaking and banging while you drive. This greatly improves the user experience.
- Finish Quality: Good paint or coating prevents rust. Poor finishing means you will see rust spots quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will actually use the carrier. This guides your final decision.
Ease of Installation
You want a carrier that installs quickly. Most carriers slide right into your vehicle’s receiver hitch. Look for simple locking mechanisms. Struggling with installation wastes time.
Securing Your Gear
How easily can you tie things down? Baskets with many tie-down points are better. If you choose a platform, you might need to buy extra bungee cords or straps separately. Always check that your cargo is secure before driving.
Common Use Cases
- Camping Trips: Carry extra fuel cans, firewood, or bulky tents.
- Moving or Errands: Transport dirty gardening supplies or items too messy for your car’s interior.
- Road Trips: Free up space inside for passengers by moving luggage outside.
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hitch Cargo Carriers
Q: What size hitch do I need?
A: Most passenger cars and SUVs use a 2-inch receiver hitch. Smaller carriers might fit a 1.25-inch hitch. Always check your vehicle’s hitch size first.
Q: Can I use a cargo carrier if I have a spare tire mounted on the back?
A: Sometimes. If the spare tire sticks out far, the carrier might hit it when you try to attach it. You may need an extension bar, but check the manufacturer’s recommendations first.
Q: Do I need a license plate light on the carrier?
A: Yes, in many states. If the carrier blocks your vehicle’s original taillights or license plate, you must add auxiliary lighting and a visible plate holder so other drivers can see you.
Q: How do I stop my carrier from wobbling?
A: Use the anti-rattle device that comes with the carrier, or purchase one separately. This tightens the connection between the carrier shaft and the receiver hitch.
Q: Are cargo carriers waterproof?
A: The metal carrier itself is weather-resistant. Your cargo is not protected from rain. You must use waterproof bags or a cargo bag designed to cover the carrier.
Q: What is the difference between a hitch rack and a hitch basket?
A: A rack is usually a flat platform. A basket has walls or sides built around the edges to contain items.
Q: Can I drive fast with a carrier attached?
A: Yes, but slower speeds are safer for very heavy or tall loads. Stick to the speed limits posted by the carrier manufacturer, usually around 65 mph.
Q: Do cargo carriers affect gas mileage?
A: Yes. Any extra weight and the added wind resistance (drag) will lower your fuel economy slightly.
Q: How often should I check the carrier while driving?
A: Check the tie-downs and the hitch connection after driving the first five miles. After that, check it briefly every time you stop for gas.
Q: Can I use a cargo carrier on a trailer hitch that is already being used for towing?
A: Generally, no. You need a special dual receiver adapter, but these are often not recommended for heavy loads because they stress the hitch receiver too much.