Direct answer: If you need extra rear storage for a travel trailer or vehicle with a 2-inch hitch, these five cargo carriers offer varying capacities, sizes, and folding designs to suit different trips. They’re best for: weekend campers needing lightweight, easy-to-store racks; family travelers with larger gear; and occasional RV users requiring elevated load options. Below is a quick side-by-side summary to help you decide which carrier to choose first.
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| WEIZE 53″ x 19″ Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier | Heavy gear and long trips; rugged steel build |
| WEIZE Folding 60″ x 20″ Carrier | Maximum space when needed; easy folding for storage |
| CURT 18153 Folding 60″ x 24″ | Secure, higher-profile loads; taller sides |
| Mockins XXL 72″ x 36″ | Oversized, heavy loads; added lighting options |
| KAIRAY 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ | Rugged, durable frame with safety reflectors |
WEIZE 53″ x 19″ Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier
Best for: Vehicles with a 2″ receiver hitch requiring strong, reliable cargo capacity. This carrier is built to haul up to 500 lbs in a steel frame with powder coating for rust resistance. It includes a waterproof bag and straps for immediate gear security. The design emphasizes durability for long road trips and camping gear.
Why selected: It offers robust load capacity and a straightforward, rugged setup suitable for camping, moving luggage, or bulky equipment behind a car, SUV, or truck. The 53″ x 19″ footprint fits many standard rear-hitch configurations.
Caution: Confirm your vehicle’s 2″ receiver hitch before purchase. The product is not compatible with other hitch sizes. Park indoors and consider rust-prevention steps for long-term outdoor storage.
WEIZE Folding 60″ x 20″ Cargo Carrier
Best for: Travelers who need large capacity but want the option to fold the rack up when not in use. The folding design helps with garage storage and reduces wind resistance when empty. It supports up to 500 lbs, making it suitable for tents, luggage, and camping gear.
Why selected: The included waterproof bag, net, and straps add convenience for weather protection and securing loose items on road trips. The 2″ shank is compatible with standard receivers on many SUVs and trucks.
Caution: As with any steel carrier, rust protection is important—consider indoor parking and rustproofing paint to extend life.
CURT 18153 Folding Hitch Basket Cargo Carrier
Best for: Those prioritizing built-in side walls for securing items and keeping cargo contained during travel. The 60″ x 24″ basket features six-inch tall sides and tubular steel construction for added resilience.
Why selected: Taller sides improve load security and help prevent items from shifting during motion, making it a good choice when carrying loose gear or multiple containers.
Caution: Taller sides may catch more air and slightly increase drag; ensure adequate clearance behind the vehicle and consider mounting height relative to exhaust and tail lights.
Mockins XXL Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier
Best for: Users needing an oversized rear cargo option with added lighting and plate bracket for visibility and legal compliance. The 72″L x 36″W platform accommodates large items and multiple bags or boxes.
Why selected: It includes rear lights and a plate bracket, which can improve visibility and compliance, especially for night driving and hitch-mounted setups requiring extra signaling. The heavy-duty steel frame supports up to 500 lbs.
Caution: The large footprint requires ample space for deployment and storage. Check local regulations for license plate lighting compatibility when loaded to full capacity.
KAIRAY 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ Cargo Carrier
Best for: Campers seeking a heavy-duty option with safety features. This carrier uses a 1-piece construction with a matte black powder coating for weather resistance and durability. A raised 14.4″ side rail helps contain cargo.
Why selected: The mesh surface reduces the risk of small items slipping through, and the included reflectors enhance safety in low-visibility conditions. It provides a solid balance of capacity and containment for travel gear.
Caution: Ensure the frame height and folded dimensions fit your vehicle’s hitch area and tailgate clearance. The product emphasizes element resistance but may require additional rust-preventive care for frequent outdoor use.
Buying Guide
What size and capacity do I need?
Capacity varies from 500 lbs to higher depending on design. Choose based on the heaviest items you plan to carry. If you exceed weight limits, you risk damage to the hitch and vehicle suspension.
Folding vs fixed designs
Folding racks save storage space when not in use and can reduce wind drag. Fixed baskets often provide more rigid load containment at the cost of storage footprint.
Durability and weather resistance
Look for powder-coated steel or rust-resistant finishes. If you store outdoors, consider additional rust-prevention steps and indoor parking when possible.
Security and containment
Raised side walls, mesh decking, and cargo nets help prevent items from shifting or falling. Reflectors or lights improve visibility for nighttime driving and compliance in some areas.
Compatibility and installation
Ensure the carrier matches a 2″ receiver hitch. Verify vehicle clearance behind the bumper and tail lights to avoid interference with the rack.
Ease of use and included accessories
Some carriers ship with waterproof bags, straps, and nets, which streamline packing and securing gear. Folding designs and easy-release mechanisms can save time during setup and breakdown.
Maintenance considerations
Regularly inspect mounting points, bolts, and hardware. Repaint or apply rust-protection as needed after heavy exposure to the elements.
FAQ
- Do these racks fit all 2″ hitch receivers? Most are designed for standard 2″ receivers; confirm your vehicle’s hitch size before purchase.
- Is 500 lbs the maximum load? Many models list up to 500 lbs; actual safe load depends on vehicle, hitch, and mounting hardware.
- Will a folding rack save space in my garage? Yes, folding designs can be stored more compactly when not in use.
- Do these include cargo nets or bags? Some bundles include waterproof bags, nets, and straps; check each product’s features for included accessories.
- Are there lighting options for hitch racks? Some models integrate lights or provide plate brackets for visibility; verify local requirements before driving with a loaded rack at night.
- What should I consider for rust prevention? Indoor parking and rustproof coatings help prolong life in outdoor use.