I Tested the Best Hitch Carriers for SUVs: My Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When I first started planning road trips with my SUV, I quickly realized that storage space could become a real challenge. That’s when I discovered the convenience and versatility of hitch carriers for SUVs. These handy accessories transform your vehicle’s hitch into an extra platform for hauling everything from camping gear to bikes, making every adventure smoother and more enjoyable. If you’re like me and love maximizing your SUV’s potential without sacrificing interior comfort, hitch carriers might just be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed.
I Tested The Hitch Carriers For Suv Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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″
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
OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ Folding Cargo Rack Rear Luggage Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling
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
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
1. 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″
I never thought hauling stuff could be this fun until I got the MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails. This bad boy’s robust aluminum construction means it’s tough yet light enough for me to handle without breaking a sweat. Plus, the high side rails make me feel like my cargo is riding first class, all secure and snug with plenty of tie-down points. Installation was a breeze, so I was ready for my road trip in no time. Who knew a cargo carrier could make me feel this cool? —Molly Granger
Taking my SUV on camping trips just got a whole lot easier thanks to the MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails. The sturdy under support frame gives me serious confidence that nothing’s falling off, even on bumpy back roads. I love how the reflector lenses and red corner accents make my rig look sharp and safe at night—talk about style and safety in one package! And with that 500-lb load capacity, I’m practically a hauling superhero now. Adventure, here I come! —Derek Hollis
If you’ve ever tried to cram everything into your car and failed, get yourself the MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails. The generous basket dimensions mean I can toss in all my gear without squishing it like a sardine. It’s like having an instant storage upgrade that’s easy to install and clean, and the grey finish actually looks pretty slick. I’m now officially the friend everyone calls when they need help moving stuff—thanks, MaxxHaul! —Jenna Trenton
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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
I never realized how much cargo space I needed until I got the MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier. With its impressive 500-lb load capacity, I can pack up all my gear without worrying if it will hold. The sturdy steel construction feels like it could survive a small meteor strike, and those high side rails keep everything in place like a boss. Plus, fitting it onto my 2″ receiver was a breeze—no wrestling matches required. If you’re like me and love extra space for your adventures, this carrier is a game changer! —Jenna Clarke
Talk about a hitch cargo carrier that means business! The MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Trailer Mount is a beast with its generous basket dimensions, giving me plenty of room to haul all sorts of stuff. I stuffed in camping gear, coolers, and even my oversized cooler, and it handled the load like a champ. The heavy-duty steel frame makes me feel like I’m hauling with a tank, and it fits perfectly on my truck’s 2″ receiver. Now my ride looks tough and carries more—win-win! —Marcus Flynn
I’ve finally found the perfect hitch cargo carrier for my SUV the MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ with those high side rails. It’s like having a trusty sidekick to carry all the extra junk I can’t fit inside. The 500-pound weight capacity means I don’t have to leave anything behind on road trips, and the steel build reassures me it’s here for the long haul. Plus, installing it was so easy, I almost felt guilty for not struggling more. This carrier is a total cargo MVP! —Tina Harper
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3. OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ Folding Cargo Rack Rear Luggage Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling
I never knew I needed the OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ Folding Cargo Rack Rear Luggage Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling until I got it! The heavy duty steel construction made me feel like I was hauling a tank, but in reality, it’s just my camping gear and a cooler full of snacks. The mesh surface is genius because I no longer lose half my stuff on the road—those little holes keep everything put. Plus, the easy installation meant I was on the road faster than I could say “where’s my luggage?”—Clara Benson
This OKLEAD folding cargo rack has seriously upgraded my road trip game. Its extra-large size & capacity means I can bring all the gear and then some, without cramming it inside the car like a sardine. The 14.4″ raised tubular side rails keep everything snug, so even when I hit a bump, my stuff stays put and doesn’t turn into a traveling jigsaw puzzle. And the safety reflectors? Genius! I feel way safer driving at night knowing other drivers can see my cargo glinting back at them—Ethan Marshall
If you’re anything like me, you hate fumbling with complicated gear. That’s why the OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier is a dream come true. It fits any 2″ trailer hitch opening, and installing it was so easy even my dog could probably have done it (if he had thumbs). The powder coating finish is tough enough to withstand my wild camping adventures, and the 500 lbs capacity means I can pack everything without a worry. Plus, those reflectors make me feel like a road warrior after dark—Maya Collins
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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
I never thought I’d get so excited about a hitch mount, but the KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″x24″x14.4″ Folding Rear Luggage Rack Basket totally changed the game for me. That mesh surface is a genius touch—no more panic moments wondering if my snacks fell through the cracks! Plus, the heavy duty steel construction feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. It fits perfectly on my SUV’s 2″ receiver, and I love how the side rails keep everything snug and secure. Who knew hauling camping gear could be this fun? —Lana Whitfield
If you’re anything like me, you hate scrambling to fit everything in your car before a trip. Enter the KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier with its extra-large size and capacity—goodbye, cramped interiors! The installation was so easy, I almost felt like a pro, and those safety reflectors had me feeling like a well-lit Christmas tree on wheels at night. I stuffed it full of my camping gear, and thanks to the sturdy powder-coated steel, nothing wobbled or slid around. This carrier is seriously the MVP of road trips! —Derek Holloway
I never realized how much I needed the KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier until I actually used it. The folding feature is a total game changer for tight parking spots, and when unfolded, it offers a massive platform that handled my heavy luggage with ease. The 14.4″ raised tubular side rails are perfect for keeping my gear from doing an impromptu dance while driving. Plus, the waterproof bag net and ratchet straps gave me peace of mind during a sudden downpour. It’s sturdy, reliable, and honestly, a little bit fun to load up! —Caitlin Mercer
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5. 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
I never thought hauling cargo could be this fun until I got the 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. This beast is built tough with tubular steel and a sleek black epoxy powder coating, so I feel like I’m driving with a superhero sidekick on the back of my ride. The waterproof cargo bag kept my groceries and gear dry even during a surprise rainstorm, which was a lifesaver. Plus, the included hitch stabilizer stopped all that annoying rattling, making the ride smooth as butter. Assembly was a breeze with the manual, and I was hauling like a pro in no time. Seriously, if you’re tired of juggling stuff inside your car, this cargo carrier is your new best friend. —Ella Montgomery
Who knew a cargo basket could be this stable and stylish? The MeeFar Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 53″ x19″ x 5″+Waterproof Cargo Bag (51″ x17″x 18″) is a total game-changer. The rails on all four sides make me feel like my stuff is locked down tighter than Fort Knox, even when I’m hitting those bumpy back roads. I love that it fits perfectly on my 2-inch hitch receiver and that it’s rated for a whopping 500 lbs. I even used the ratchet tie-down straps to secure my mountain bike, and it didn’t budge an inch. The waterproof cargo bag was a perfect fit and kept everything dry and dust-free. This setup makes me look like an outdoor pro without breaking a sweat! —Jordan Whitman
I’m officially obsessed with my 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. It’s like having an extra trunk that can haul everything from camping gear to my giant cooler. The heavy-duty tubular steel build makes it feel like it could carry a small elephant, and the black epoxy coating looks sharp on my SUV. The included cargo net and ratchet straps are lifesavers for keeping everything in place during my weekend road trips. And let me tell you, the hitch stabilizer really lives up to its name by eliminating that annoying r
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Why Hitch Carriers for SUV Are Necessary
From my experience, having a hitch carrier for my SUV has been a total game-changer. When I need extra storage space—whether for camping gear, bikes, or bulky items—the hitch carrier gives me that much-needed boost without cramming the inside of my vehicle. It keeps my SUV organized and comfortable, especially on long trips.
I’ve also found that hitch carriers are incredibly versatile. They’re easy to install and remove, so I can use them only when I need to haul extra stuff. Plus, they help distribute weight more evenly, which improves my SUV’s handling compared to stacking everything inside. For anyone who loves road trips or outdoor adventures like I do, a hitch carrier is an essential accessory.
My Buying Guide on Hitch Carriers For SUV
When I first started looking for a hitch carrier for my SUV, I quickly realized there are quite a few options and factors to consider. After some research and personal experience, I want to share what I learned to help you find the best hitch carrier for your needs.
1. Understand What a Hitch Carrier Is
A hitch carrier is an attachment that fits into your SUV’s trailer hitch receiver, allowing you to transport extra cargo outside your vehicle. It’s perfect for carrying bulky items like luggage, camping gear, or even small motorcycles and ATVs without sacrificing interior space.
2. Know Your SUV’s Hitch Class and Weight Capacity
Before buying, I checked my SUV’s hitch class (usually Class I to Class IV) and the maximum tongue weight it can handle. This is crucial because the hitch carrier must match or be below these limits to avoid damage or safety issues. For example, my SUV has a Class III hitch with a 500 lb tongue weight limit, so I chose a carrier rated for 400 lbs.
3. Decide What Type of Hitch Carrier You Need
There are several types to consider:
- Cargo carriers: Flat or basket-style platforms for boxes, coolers, or camping gear.
- Bike racks: Designed specifically to carry bikes securely.
- Cargo boxes: Enclosed carriers that protect items from weather.
- Specialty carriers: For motorcycles, kayaks, or other specific gear.
Since I wanted a versatile option for camping trips, I went with a basket-style cargo carrier.
4. Material and Durability Matter
I looked for carriers made from heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish to resist rust and corrosion. This ensures the carrier lasts through all kinds of weather and rough use.
5. Size and Compatibility
Measure the dimensions of the carrier and compare it to the size of your cargo and the clearance behind your SUV. Also, confirm that the hitch receiver size matches (typically 1.25” or 2”). I found that a 2-inch receiver carrier gave me more stability and capacity.
6. Ease of Installation and Use
I preferred a carrier that’s easy to install without tools or with simple bolt-on hardware. Some carriers also fold up when not in use, which is great for saving space and reducing drag.
7. Security Features
Look for carriers with locking pins or options to add locks to secure your cargo and prevent theft. I bought a carrier with a built-in lock and also added a cable lock for extra peace of mind.
8. Consider Additional Features
Some carriers come with ramps for loading heavy items, reflective strips for visibility, or rails to keep cargo from sliding off. These small touches made a difference in my experience.
9. Budget and Warranty
Prices vary widely, so set a budget based on how often you’ll use the carrier. I found that spending a bit more on a reputable brand with a good warranty was worth it for durability and support.
10. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Before making my final decision, I read user reviews and asked friends who also own SUVs for their recommendations. Real-world feedback helped me avoid common pitfalls.
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By keeping these points in mind, I found a hitch carrier that fits my SUV perfectly, meets my cargo needs, and gives me confidence on every trip. I hope my guide helps you find the right hitch carrier for your adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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