The best travel trailer rear cargo carrier options expand your vehicle’s storage capacity, helping you bring more gear for camping, road trips, or family adventures. These picks emphasize sturdy construction, weather resistance, and practical features like higher side rails, reflectors, and locking or securing options. Ideal buyers include outdoor families needing extra luggage space, RV owners seeking attic-like exterior storage, and campers who frequently travel with bulky gear. Below, you’ll find five top options, with a quick comparison table to guide your choice.
| Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty | 500 lbs | 60″×24″×14.4″ | 2″ |
| ARKSEN 60″ × 23″ | 500 lbs | 60″×23″×5.5″ | 2″ |
| WEIZE 53″ × 19″ | 500 lbs | 53″×19″×(varies) | 2″ |
| Mockins 60″×24″ | 500 lbs | 60″×24″×14″ | 2″ |
| CURT 18153 | 500 lbs | 60″×23.5″×5.5″ | 2″ |
Choosing the right exterior cargo carrier involves evaluating weight capacity, size, weather resistance, and added accessories like bags, straps, or lighting. The following sections highlight each option with practical guidance to help you decide which carrier best fits your vehicle, travel plans, and cargo needs.
KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Carrier
Best for rugged, budget-conscious buyers who need robust steel construction and a secure mesh surface. KAIRAY offers 500 lb capacity with a 60″×24″ footprint and 14.4″ raised rails to prevent cargo from shifting. Safety reflectors improve nighttime visibility. The included waterproof bag and ratchet straps add value for camping trips and wet-weather use.
Who it’s best for: families or solo travelers who frequently carry heavy gear and want a straightforward, durable carrier without extra frills.)
Caution: Ensure your hitch is a standard 2″ receiver and verify that your vehicle’s tail clearance accommodates the height, especially when folded for storage.
ARKSEN 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket
Best for versatility and universal compatibility. ARKSEN delivers a 60″×23″×5.5″ basket with up to 500 lbs capacity and a heavy-duty black epoxy coating for rust resistance. Its folding design makes it easier to store when not in use and broad cargo support helps keep bulky items secure on long trips.
Who it’s best for: road-trippers who want a strong, universal carrier that folds for storage and supports a wide range of gear from luggage to camping equipment.
Caution: The carrier’s tall profile may affect clearance on some vehicles; measure ground clearance and tailgate height before purchase.
WEIZE 53″ × 19″ Cargo Carrier With Stabilizer
Best for compact builds where space is tight but extra storage is needed. WEIZE emphasizes a 2″ receiver, a 500 lb capacity, and a stabilizer system along with a waterproof bag and straps. The design prioritizes rust resistance with a powder-coated finish for long outdoor use.
Who it’s best for: travelers who require a reliable, mid-sized carrier with included accessories and manageable installation for smaller SUVs or crossovers.
Caution: The product notes emphasize confirming a 2″ hitch; using the wrong size can lead to unsafe mounting.
Mockins 60×24 High Rail Carrier With Bag
Best for maximum cargo enclosure. The Mockins carrier features high side rails and a 500 lb capacity, plus a rear-light kit and plate bracket. It comes with a large 30 cu ft waterproof bag and an expandable net to secure uneven loads. The design emphasizes weatherproof performance for longer trips.
Who it’s best for: buyers needing maximum exterior cargo capacity with protective weatherproofing and integrated lighting components for road safety compliance.
Caution: The bag is weatherproof, but extra care is needed to manage heat and exhaust proximity; keep the bag mounted away from exhaust pipes and hot components.
CURT 18153 Cargo Basket
Best for secure travel with tall sides. CURT offers a 60″ × 23.5″ × 5.5″ cargo basket built from heavy-duty tubular steel. The 6″ tall sides help keep items in place during travel, freeing interior space for passengers and cargo alike.
Who it’s best for: drivers who prioritize security and a solid, simple design for standard luggage, camping gear, and other mid-size loads.
Caution: Tall sides increase overall height; check clearance for garages and carports before active use in tight spaces.
Buying Guide: Practical Considerations For Exterior Cargo Carriers
What capacity do you need? If you routinely transport bulky gear, prioritize 500 lb or more. For light camping trips, a 250–400 lb carrier may suffice. Weight limits affect how you load heavy items and the need for a stabilizing system.
How much space will you have on the vehicle? Measure tailgate height, ground clearance, and hitch-to-ground distance to ensure the carrier fits without obstructing exhausts or license plates. Consider models with tall rails or foldable designs if space is a concern.
Which accessories are essential? Look for included bags, nets, straps, reflectors, and a stabilizer. Weatherproof bags extend usability in rain or snow. Lighting and a license plate bracket help with safety and compliance on the road.
Is installation compatibility important? Ensure the carrier fits a standard 2″ hitch (unless you have a different hitch size). Check the attachment hardware and whether your vehicle requires anti-rattle or locking mechanisms for security.
What maintenance is required? Powder-coated finishes resist rust but still benefit from rinsing after off-road use. Regularly inspect rails and joints for signs of wear or bending, especially after long trips or heavy loads.
FAQ
- What is a typical load capacity for these cargo carriers? Most options shown support around 500 lbs, which suits luggage, camping gear, and medium-sized equipment.
- Do these carriers require a special hitch? All listed products are designed for standard 2″ hitch receivers, except where noted otherwise.
- Are weatherproof bags included? Some models include a waterproof bag; others offer it as an optional accessory. Check product details for specific inclusions.
- Can I fold the carrier for storage? Several models feature foldable designs to reduce height and help with garage storage.
- Will these carriers block the license plate or taillights? Some come with a plate bracket and lighting; always verify local regulations and mount additional lighting if needed.
- What should I consider for security? Look for reflectors, locking devices, and sturdy construction to prevent theft or shifting cargo during travel.