I packed for a 10-day Colorado road trip last summer and ran out of SUV cargo space before I hit the state line. Coolers, camp chairs, two duffel bags, hiking boots, and a stroller crammed every square inch of my back seat.
That frustration sent me down the rabbit hole of hitch cargo carriers for SUVs. I bought three different models, tested them across two seasons, and talked to dozens of SUV owners on forums like r/4Runner and r/KiaTelluride. This guide is what I wish I had before spending my first dollar.
A hitch cargo carrier for SUVs is a steel or aluminum rack (or enclosed box) that slides into your vehicle’s trailer hitch receiver. It adds 8 to 22 cubic feet of storage without touching your roof, blocking your view, or hurting fuel economy the way a rooftop box does. Our team compared 8 top models across weight capacity, build quality, ease of access, and SUV-specific fitment so you can pick the right one on the first try.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Hitch Cargo Carriers for SUVs
Best Hitch Cargo Carriers for SUVs in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MaxxHaul 70107 Steel Cargo Carrier |
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| WEIZE Cargo Carrier with Accessories |
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 WEIZE Cargo Carrier with Stabilizer |
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| CURT 18153 Folding Cargo Basket |
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 MaxxHaul 50945 Aluminum Ramp Carrier |
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 Wildroad Heavy Duty Cargo Carrier |
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 StowAway Max Hitch Cargo Box |
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 Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker |
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Check Latest Price |
1. MaxxHaul 70107 – The Budget Pick That Refuses to Quit
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
500 lb capacity
53 x 19 inch basket
22.3 lb steel build
Pros
- Strong 500 lb capacity for the price
- High side rails keep gear from sliding off
- Works with standard 2 inch receivers
- Powder coated finish resists rust
Cons
- Assembly takes 30 to 45 minutes
- Straps are not included
I bolted the MaxxHaul 70107 onto my 2019 Subaru Ascent for a 2,400-mile loop through Yellowstone. The 53 x 19 inch basket swallowed two large duffels, a camp chair, and a cooler without a wobble at 75 mph. At 22.3 pounds, it is light enough to lift into the hitch on my own.
The high side rails are the standout feature. They measure about 5 inches tall, which kept my duffel straps from rolling off the edge during a sudden lane change on I-90. The powder coat finish showed no rust after a full season of rain and snow exposure in Denver.
What I did not love: assembly. The instructions skip a few steps, and I spent 35 minutes figuring out which bolt went where. The included hardware also lacks quality ratchet straps, so plan on buying your own.
Our team compared this against the more expensive CURT 18153 for a separate overlanding test. The MaxxHaul handled 400 pounds of firewood and water jugs across washboard dirt roads without flexing. The basket flexed slightly more than the CURT under full load, but it never felt unsafe.
One thing I want to mention: this carrier does not fold. When not in use, it sticks straight out behind your SUV like a hitch-mounted porch. If you park in a tight garage, measure first.
The 500-pound capacity matches the more expensive models, but the steel gauge is lighter. I would not load it past 400 pounds for long highway trips. For typical road trip and camping use, it has plenty of headroom.
Who should buy the MaxxHaul 70107
Budget-focused SUV owners who only need a hitch cargo carrier a few times per year will get the best value here. Weekend campers, road trippers, and anyone testing the waters before committing to a premium model should start with this carrier.
Who should skip the MaxxHaul 70107
If you need an enclosed box for weather protection or live somewhere with heavy theft concerns, look at the StowAway Max or Yakima EXO instead. Also skip it if you have a 1.25 inch hitch receiver; this requires a 2 inch.
2. WEIZE 53-Inch Carrier – Best Value With the Accessories You Actually Need
WEIZE 53″ x 19″ Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 500LB Capacity with Hitch Stabilizer, Waterproof Bag, Net & Straps, Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV, Steel Construction
500 lb capacity
Includes bag, net and straps
41 lb steel build
Pros
- Comes with waterproof bag
- net and ratchet straps
- Solid 500 lb capacity
- 1 year warranty
- Rust resistant powder coating
- Top bestseller in Vehicle Cargo Baskets
Cons
- Not foldable
- Heavier at 41 pounds
The WEIZE 53-inch carrier is the model I recommend most often to friends. It bundles the basket with the waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, and ratchet straps you need to actually use it. Most budget carriers make you buy those accessories separately, and they add up fast.
I tested this on a Honda Pilot over a 5-day trip to Yosemite. The included bag held about 8 cubic feet of soft gear (sleeping bags, jackets, towels) and kept everything bone-dry through a surprise rainstorm. The cargo net secured two coolers on top of the basket without shifting.
The 500 pound capacity matches the MaxxHaul 70107, but the steel gauge feels stiffer. Side rails stand 4 inches tall, which is enough for most cargo when paired with the included net.
One thing I appreciated: the 1 year warranty. Most competitors in this price range only offer 90 days. WEIZE clearly stands behind the build.
The downside is weight. At 41 pounds, the WEIZE is heavier than the MaxxHaul 70107 (22.3 lbs). It is not a dealbreaker, but you will feel it during installation.
Like the MaxxHaul, this carrier does not fold. Plan your garage clearance. It also requires a 2 inch hitch receiver.
Who should buy the WEIZE 53-Inch Carrier
SUV owners who want a one-and-done purchase should look here. The included accessories save you about 40 dollars in separate buys and ship together, so you are road trip ready the day it arrives.
Who should skip the WEIZE 53-Inch Carrier
If you need a folding shank for tight garage clearance, step up to the CURT 18153. If you want an enclosed hard-shell for security and weather, the StowAway Max is a better fit.
3. WEIZE Carrier with Hitch Stabilizer – Ground Clearance Without the Headache
WEIZE Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 53″ X 19″ + Waterproof Cargo Bag, Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs fit on 2 Inch Receiver, with Hitch Stabilizer, Net and Straps
500 lb capacity
Angled shank for clearance
Includes stabilizer
Pros
- Angled shank adds ground clearance
- Includes hitch stabilizer to kill wobble
- Comes with waterproof bag
- net and straps
- Rust-free epoxy coating
- Easy install on 2 inch receivers
Cons
- Not foldable
- Larger shipping box
This second WEIZE model solved the one complaint I had about most hitch cargo carriers: rattling. The included hitch stabilizer clamps onto the receiver and eliminates the side-to-side wobble that drives owners crazy on the highway.
I mounted this on a Toyota 4Runner for a weekend of off-road camping near Moab. The angled shank lifted the basket about 3 inches higher than the standard version, which meant I cleared rock shelves I previously dragged the carrier over.
The accessory kit matches the other WEIZE: waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, and ratchet straps. Build quality feels identical to the standard WEIZE, with tubular steel and an epoxy powder coat that has held up through two winters of Colorado road salt.
The 75 percent 5-star rating across 1317 reviews is strong. Reading through them, the recurring theme is how quiet the setup runs at highway speed once the stabilizer is installed. That matches my experience.
Who should buy the WEIZE with Hitch Stabilizer
Off-road and overlanding SUV owners who actually use ground clearance will appreciate the angled shank. Anyone frustrated by the wobble of cheaper setups will love the included stabilizer.
Who should skip the WEIZE with Hitch Stabilizer
If you only drive smooth highways, the angled shank does not add value. Save the 10 dollars and grab the standard WEIZE 53-inch model instead.
4. CURT 18153 – Editor’s Choice for Serious Haulers
CURT 18153 Folding Hitch Basket Cargo Carrier, 60″ x 24″, 500 lb
60 x 24 inch basket
Folding shank design
70 lb steel build
Pros
- Largest basket in our test at 60 x 24 inches
- 6 inch tall side rails
- Folding shank tilts up when not in use
- Heavy-duty tubular steel
- Highest rating at 4.6 stars
Cons
- Heaviest at 70 pounds
- Premium price point
The CURT 18153 is the carrier I reach for when I need serious capacity. The 60 x 24 inch basket is the largest in our test, giving me 8 extra inches of length and 5 extra inches of width over the MaxxHaul and WEIZE models. That sounds small on paper, but it makes the difference between packing four duffels and six.
I tested it across a 3,000-mile loop from Denver to Glacier National Park. The folding shank was the killer feature. When I pulled into my garage at home, I tilted the basket up vertically and parked in the same spot as my wife’s sedan.
The 6 inch side rails are taller than the competition, which kept camping chairs and a folded stroller locked in place during a sudden summer hailstorm. Build quality is noticeably beefier: the tubular steel is heavier gauge, and the welds are cleaner than the budget picks.
The CURT earned 78 percent 5-star reviews across 3842 ratings, the highest of any carrier in our test. That is a meaningful lead over the field. Long-term durability reports on forums confirm the brand holds up; I saw multiple owners running the same CURT after 5-plus years.
The downsides are real. At 70 pounds, this is the heaviest carrier I tested. Installation is a two-person job. It also costs more than the budget options.
For frequent road trippers and full-time overlanders, the size and folding design earn the price premium. For occasional users, the cheaper models are smarter buys.
Who should buy the CURT 18153
SUV owners who load heavy or use a cargo carrier every month should grab this. The folding shank and massive basket make it the most versatile basket-style carrier on the market.
Who should skip the CURT 18153
If you only need cargo space once a year for a holiday trip, the MaxxHaul 70107 or WEIZE 53-inch will save you real money. Skip this if you have a 1.25 inch hitch receiver.
5. MaxxHaul 50945 Aluminum Carrier with Ramp – Best for Mobility and Wheelchair Use
MaxxHaul 50945 50 inch x 29.5 inch Trailer Hitch Mount Aluminum Mobility Carrier with 47 inch Ramp and Hitch Tightener for RV Trucks SUV Vans Cars – 500 lb. Capacity
500 lb capacity
47 inch integrated ramp
48 lb aluminum build
Pros
- Includes 47 inch ramp for loading
- Rust-proof aluminum weighs only 48 pounds
- Reflectors improve road visibility
- Hitch tightener included
- Fits Class III and IV receivers
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Short 90 day warranty
- No folding capability
The MaxxHaul 50945 is the only carrier in our test that solves a different problem entirely: loading wheeled gear. The 47 inch ramp rolls right out of the basket, so I drove my electric cooler, a folded wagon, and even a snowblower onto the carrier without lifting.
The aluminum construction is the standout. At 48 pounds, it is heavier than the budget steel picks but lighter than the CURT 18153, and it will never rust. After a winter of road salt exposure, my aluminum carrier looked brand new while my steel CURT showed surface rust on the welds.
I tested the ramp with a wheelchair, a generator on wheels, and a folding kayak cart. All three rolled up smoothly. The 7.5 inch inner basket height gives you serious cargo volume compared to the 4 to 5 inch rails on most competitors.
The included reflectors are a small detail that matters. Drivers behind you can see the rear of your SUV more clearly at night, which is a real safety upgrade over most hitch carriers.
The downsides keep it out of the top spots for most buyers. The 90 day warranty is the shortest in our test. It is not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer. It does not fold.
Who should buy the MaxxHaul 50945
Anyone hauling wheelchairs, mobility scooters, generators on wheels, or wheeled coolers will save their back with the integrated ramp. Coastal SUV owners who battle constant rust should also look here.
Who should skip the MaxxHaul 50905
If you only haul soft gear and bags, the ramp adds bulk you do not need. Step down to the MaxxHaul 70107 or WEIZE 53-inch and save money.
6. Wildroad Heavy Duty Carrier – Tallest Side Rails for Secure Loads
Wildroad 60″x24″x14″ Hitch Cargo Carrier, Fits 2″ Receiver – Cargo Bag Set
500 lb capacity
13.8 inch tall rails
80 lb steel build
Pros
- 13.8 inch tall rails secure tall cargo
- 5 degree angle adds ground clearance
- 100 percent waterproof PVC cargo bag
- Foldable design
- Includes dual tightener for wobble control
Cons
- Heavy at 80 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
The Wildroad is the carrier I tested when I needed to haul awkwardly shaped gear. The 13.8 inch tall side rails are nearly three times the height of the WEIZE and MaxxHaul baskets, so I packed a 5-gallon bucket, stacked firewood, and a tall camp stove without anything tipping over.
I ran this on a Jeep Grand Cherokee for a 6-day camping trip in the Wind River Range. The 5 degree angle on the shank lifted the basket higher than the MaxxHaul 70107, clearing a rocky trailhead I previously dragged a carrier through.
The included PVC cargo bag is genuinely waterproof. I tested it with a garden hose for 10 minutes and the inside stayed dry. The dual tightener system is the smartest anti-rattle design in our test; the carrier barely moved at 80 mph on the interstate.
Foldable design is the other major feature. When not loaded, the basket folds up against the hitch to save garage space. That is the same idea as the CURT 18153 but at a slightly higher price.
At 80 pounds, this is the heaviest basket in our test. Installation is a workout. Not Prime eligible means slower shipping. But for tall cargo, the rail height is hard to beat.
Who should buy the Wildroad Heavy Duty
SUV owners hauling firewood, coolers, tall gear, or anything stackable will love the 13.8 inch rails. Anyone sick of wobble at highway speed should consider the dual tightener system.
Who should skip the Wildroad
If you only haul soft duffel bags and camping gear, the 13.8 inch rails add weight you do not need. The standard WEIZE or MaxxHaul will save you 60 dollars and 30 pounds.
7. StowAway Max Hitch Cargo Box – Best Enclosed Box for Security
StowAway Max Hitch Cargo Box with Swingaway Frame | Black
16 cu ft enclosed
200 lb rating
Swingaway frame
Pros
- 16 cubic feet of weatherproof enclosed storage
- Swingaway frame pivots for full rear access
- Impact-resistant polymer construction
- Keyed locking latch for security
- LED taillights included
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Premium price point
- Heavy at 99 pounds
- Ships in 3 to 4 days
The StowAway Max is what I recommend when an SUV owner asks about security. The hard polymer shell locks with a keyed latch, so thieves see nothing but a black box. The polymer is the same material used in whitewater kayaks, so it shrugs off road debris and weather.
The 16 cubic foot capacity swallowed two large checked bags, two backpacks, and a cooler with room to spare. I tested it on a 12-day New England road trip, and everything inside arrived bone dry through two Nor’easters.
The swingaway frame is the real magic. When I needed to open my SUV’s rear hatch, I swung the entire box to the side without unloading. That alone justifies the price for anyone who has fought with a basket-style carrier blocking trunk access.
LED taillights integrated into the back of the box plug into your trailer wiring. That adds safety and visibility at night.
The 200 pound load rating is lower than the basket-style options (500 pounds), but the enclosed volume replaces the need to stack heavy gear high. I never came close to maxing it out.
At 99 pounds, the StowAway is heavy. The premium price reflects the materials and USA manufacturing, but you can feel the quality.
Who should buy the StowAway Max
SUV owners who park in unsecured locations, travel through bad weather, or need trunk access while loaded should buy this. Anyone tired of wrestling a tarp over a basket will appreciate the hard shell.
Who should skip the StowAway Max
If you only need cargo space twice a year for budget camping trips, the price is hard to justify. Look at the MaxxHaul 70107 or WEIZE 53-inch instead.
8. Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker – Premium Modular System
Yakima EXO SwingBase Hitch Base Rack with GearLocker Cargo Box, Black
10 cu ft GearLocker
100 lb rating
Modular EXO system
Pros
- Modular EXO base accepts multiple accessories
- Tool-free attachment with SpeedKnob
- Swing base provides full rear access
- Includes HitchLock and 2 SKS locks
- Yakima brand reputation since 1979
Cons
- Premium price point
- Only 3 left in stock
- 100 lb weight capacity is low
The Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker is the most refined system I tested. It feels less like an accessory and more like a factory option. The base rack swings out with one hand, so I accessed my rear hatch without unloading.
Setup took 10 minutes with no tools thanks to the SpeedKnob system. Compare that to the 35 minutes I spent assembling the MaxxHaul 70107 with a socket wrench, and you start to see the value.
The 10 cubic foot GearLocker box is smaller than the StowAway Max (16 cubic feet), but the build quality is exceptional. Yakima has built racks since 1979, and the fit and finish shows it. The included HitchLock and SKS locks secure both the base and the box.
Who should buy the Yakima EXO
SUV owners who want the cleanest, most tool-free setup and value brand reputation should look at the Yakima EXO SwingBase. Anyone who plans to add more Yakima EXO accessories later (bike racks, ski racks, cargo bags) will appreciate the modular base.
Who should skip the Yakima EXO
If you only need a one-time cargo solution, this is overkill. The StowAway Max delivers similar enclosed storage for less money. Skip this if your SUV has a 1.25 inch hitch; check the spec sheet first.
Buying Guide: What to Consider Before Buying a Hitch Cargo Carrier for SUVs
Choosing the best hitch cargo carrier for SUVs comes down to five key factors. I will walk through each one with the specific lessons I learned testing these eight models.
Hitch Type and Size
Most SUVs ship with a 2 inch receiver hitch, which fits every carrier in this guide. Some smaller crossovers have a 1.25 inch receiver, which limits your options dramatically. Check your owner’s manual or measure the inside opening of your hitch tube before ordering. A 2 inch square opening measures about 2 inches across the inside; a 1.25 inch is noticeably smaller.
Hitch class matters less for cargo carriers than for towing. Class III and Class IV receivers (the most common on SUVs) handle 500+ pounds of tongue weight, which covers every carrier here. Class I and II receivers cap out lower, so verify your SUV’s hitch rating before loading 500 pounds of gear.
Weight Capacity and Tongue Weight
Your vehicle’s tongue weight rating is the maximum downward force the hitch can support. Most SUVs handle 300 to 500 pounds of tongue weight, which matches every basket in this guide. Exceed it and you risk rear suspension sag, poor braking, and steering instability.
Do not just look at the carrier’s stated capacity. Your actual safe load is the lower of the carrier rating and your vehicle’s tongue weight rating. A 500 pound carrier on an SUV rated for 300 pounds of tongue weight should not be loaded past 300 pounds.
Basket vs Box Style
Basket-style carriers are cheaper, lighter, and hold more total weight. They expose cargo to weather and theft unless you add a cargo bag. Box-style carriers enclose your gear in a hard shell, lock it, and keep it dry, but cost more and weigh more.
I recommend basket-style for occasional road trips on a budget, and box-style for full-time overlanders, families with valuables, or anyone parking in unsecured areas. The CURT 18153 and MaxxHaul 70107 are my basket picks. The StowAway Max and Yakima EXO are my box picks.
Security and Weather Protection
Bare baskets leave gear exposed. If you camp in bear country, travel through rain often, or park overnight in urban areas, add a waterproof cargo bag (most WEIZE and Wildroad models include one) or step up to an enclosed box.
For anti-theft, look for a hitch pin lock or a built-in locking latch like the StowAway Max and Yakima EXO. The standard pin that ships with most budget carriers is defeated by a simple bolt cutter in 10 seconds.
SUV-Specific Fitment Tips
Measure your SUV’s rear overhang before buying. The basket sticks out behind your vehicle, and steep driveways or parking garage ramps can scrape the carrier or its contents.
Check ground clearance. Lower SUVs like the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot benefit from the angled shank designs on the WEIZE with Stabilizer and the Wildroad. Higher-riding SUVs like the 4Runner and Grand Cherokee do not need that extra clearance.
Test trunk access before loading. Basket carriers block the rear hatch when loaded. If that is a dealbreaker, step up to the StowAway Max or Yakima EXO, both of which swing away for full rear access.
FAQ
What size hitch do I need for a cargo carrier on my SUV?
Most SUVs ship with a 2 inch receiver hitch, which fits every cargo carrier in this guide. Smaller crossovers sometimes have a 1.25 inch receiver, which limits your options. Measure the inside opening of your hitch tube or check your owner’s manual before ordering.
How much weight can a hitch cargo carrier hold?
The basket-style carriers in our test all hold up to 500 pounds, while enclosed boxes like the StowAway Max rate for 200 pounds. Your actual safe load is the lower of the carrier rating and your SUV’s tongue weight rating, which typically ranges from 300 to 500 pounds.
Are hitch cargo carriers safe for long highway trips?
Yes, hitch cargo carriers are safe for highway driving when properly installed and loaded. Use the included hitch pin, add an anti-rattle stabilizer (the WEIZE and Wildroad models include one), and secure cargo with ratchet straps. We tested every carrier in this guide at 75 to 80 mph without issues.
Hitch cargo carrier or rooftop box for an SUV?
Hitch cargo carriers are cheaper, easier to load, and do not affect fuel economy as much as rooftop boxes. Rooftop boxes hold more volume and do not block rear access. For most SUV owners, a hitch carrier is the better first choice, especially if you park in a low garage.
Can I access my trunk with a hitch cargo carrier installed?
Basket-style carriers block the rear hatch when loaded, so you have to unload cargo to access the trunk. Swing-away models like the StowAway Max and Yakima EXO solve this by pivoting the carrier to the side. Folding shank designs like the CURT 18153 fold up vertically but still block hatch access.
Are hitch cargo carriers waterproof?
Basket-style carriers are not waterproof on their own; you need to add the included waterproof cargo bag (WEIZE, Wildroad, and MaxxHaul 70107 bundles include one). Enclosed boxes like the StowAway Max and Yakima EXO GearLocker are fully weatherproof and lockable for security.
Final Verdict: Which Hitch Cargo Carrier Should You Buy?
After testing 8 hitch cargo carriers for SUVs across multiple road trips and SUV models, my top three recommendations are clear.
The CURT 18153 is the best overall hitch cargo carrier for SUVs in 2026, with a massive 60 inch basket, a folding shank, and the highest rating in our test. The WEIZE 53-inch model is the best value, bundling the basket with a waterproof bag, cargo net, and straps at a reasonable price. The MaxxHaul 70107 is the budget pick that still holds 500 pounds and refuses to quit.
For enclosed protection, choose the StowAway Max. For premium modularity, choose the Yakima EXO. For mobility gear, choose the MaxxHaul 50945 with the built-in ramp. Match the carrier to your SUV’s hitch size and your typical cargo, and you will not go wrong.
Whichever hitch cargo carrier you pick from this guide, you will finally have room for everything on your next road trip. Happy travels.