10 Best Hitch Cargo Carriers for Extra Storage in 2026

A hitch cargo carrier is a practical way to add exterior storage without crowding your vehicle’s cabin. The right basket can carry coolers, camping gear, luggage, tools, or bulky items that do not fit inside.

We selected 10 popular 2-inch-receiver models, including folding steel and aluminum carriers, raised baskets, and options bundled with waterproof bags and tie-down accessories.

Best 10 Hitch Cargo Carrier Picks for 2026

Best Overall – CURT 18153 Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier

The CURT 18153 is a straightforward hitch cargo carrier for adding 60 by 24 inches of exterior storage. Its tubular steel frame, mesh base, and 500-pound capacity make it a practical choice for hauling bulky gear while keeping the vehicle interior available for passengers.

Best For: General-purpose hauling when you want a durable basket with a folding shank and improved ground clearance.

Pros:

• 500-pound load capacity with heavy-duty tubular steel construction
• Six-inch side walls help contain cargo during travel
• Folding shank allows the carrier to tilt up when not in use
• Angled shank and reflectors support clearance and visibility

Cons:

• The 70-pound steel carrier adds substantial weight before cargo is loaded
• The open mesh basket does not include a waterproof cargo bag

Choose the CURT when you prefer a well-rounded hitch cargo carrier with useful containment, folding storage, and a sturdy steel build rather than bundled weather protection.

Best Complete Bundle – Mockins Folding Carrier with Cargo Bag

The Mockins hitch cargo carrier combines a 60 by 20 inch steel basket with a 16-cubic-foot waterproof cargo bag. It is designed for travelers who want exterior storage plus the straps, net, stabilizer, and lock needed to secure and protect a full load.

Best For: Road trips, moving, and weather-sensitive cargo when a carrier-and-bag package is more convenient than buying accessories separately.

Pros:

• 500-pound steel carrier with six-inch raised rails
• Waterproof vinyl bag includes waterproof zippers and a rain flap
• Includes a bungee net, straps, hitch stabilizer, and hitch lock
• Six-inch raised arm improves ground clearance; five-year limited warranty is included

Cons:

• The carrier weighs approximately 70 pounds before cargo is added
• The basket is 20 inches wide, offering less width than some 24-inch models

The Mockins stands out as a ready-to-use hitch cargo carrier for buyers who value cargo protection and included security accessories as much as basket capacity.

Best Accessory Package – VEVOR 60-Inch Folding Hitch Carrier

The VEVOR 60 by 24 inch hitch cargo carrier offers a 500-pound capacity with reinforced 5mm supporting tubes and a hook stabilizer. It also includes a waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, ratchet straps, padlock, and reflective plates for a more complete hauling setup.

Best For: SUV, van, truck, and pickup owners who want a full set of load-control and weather-protection accessories with a 2-inch receiver basket.

Pros:

• 500-pound capacity and robust Q235B steel construction
• Powder-coated finish helps resist rust and corrosion
• Waterproof bag, cargo net, ratchet straps, and padlock are included
• Folds for storage and uses reflectors for added nighttime visibility

Cons:

• The supplied fit information specifies compatibility with 2-inch hitch receivers
• The notes identify a vehicle-specific fit, so receiver and vehicle clearance should be checked

VEVOR is a compelling hitch cargo carrier package when included accessories matter. Its full-size basket and supplied protective gear reduce the need to assemble a separate cargo-hauling kit.

Best Tall-Sided Design – Wildroad 60-Inch Hitch Cargo Carrier

The Wildroad hitch cargo carrier uses approximately 14-inch side rails to provide extra containment for camping gear, luggage, firewood, and other bulky loads. Its 60 by 24 inch basket, folding design, angled positioning, and waterproof 500D PVC bag make it suited to larger or weather-sensitive cargo.

Best For: Hauling taller or loosely packed items that benefit from high side rails and a waterproof cargo bag.

Pros:

• 500-pound capacity with heavy-duty alloy steel construction
• High side rails help keep cargo in place during transport
• Waterproof PVC bag includes a protective flap and welded seams
• Folding basket, hitch stabilizer, cargo net, and ratchet straps are included

Cons:

• At approximately 80 pounds, it is the heaviest carrier in this selection
• Taller 14-inch sides may make loading bulky items less convenient
• Includes a one-year warranty

The Wildroad is the strongest fit when containment and weather resistance take priority. Its tall fence and waterproof bag offer more protection for exposed loads than a basic open basket.

Best All-in-One Pick – Mockins Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier

If you want a hitch cargo carrier that adds both carrying space and weather protection, the Mockins combines a 60-by-20-inch steel basket with a 20-cubic-foot waterproof cargo bag. Its folding design, 500-pound capacity, and 2-inch shank rise make it a versatile option for road trips, camping, and bulky luggage.

Best For: Travelers who want a complete hitch-carrier setup with a cargo bag, security accessories, and convenient folding storage.

Pros:

• Includes a weatherproof, abrasion-resistant cargo bag with heat-sealed seams and covered zippers.
• 500-pound capacity, high side rails, cargo net, straps, stabilizer, and hitch lock provide a well-equipped setup.
• Folding arm tilts upright for easier parking, while the 2-inch rise helps improve clearance.
• Includes a license plate bracket and reflectors, plus a 10-year limited warranty.

Cons:

• At 49 pounds, the carrier is relatively substantial to install or remove.
• It is designed for vehicles with a 2-inch receiver, so smaller hitch openings are not compatible.

The Mockins stands out when you want more than an uncovered basket. The included bag and extensive accessory kit add convenience, while the folding mechanism and raised shank make everyday use easier.

Best High-Side Basket – KAIRAY Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier

The KAIRAY is a hitch cargo carrier for buyers who prioritize a large platform and tall side rails. Its 60-by-24-inch steel basket has a 500-pound distributed capacity, a mesh floor, 14.4-inch raised rails, and a bundled waterproof bag for camping gear or luggage.

Best For: Families and campers carrying tall or bulky loads who want extra containment around the basket.

Pros:

• Extra-large 60-by-24-inch platform offers useful room for cargo bags, luggage, and camping equipment.
• Raised tubular side rails help keep cargo from sliding, while the mesh floor helps contain smaller items.
• Includes a 20-cubic-foot waterproof bag, cargo net, ratchet straps, stabilizer, and lock.
• Powder-coated alloy steel construction and red reflectors support outdoor and nighttime use.

Cons:

• The carrier weighs 30.84 kg, which may make handling and storage more demanding.
• Its 500-pound rating depends on evenly distributing and securing the load.
• The warranty is limited to one year.

With the tallest stated side rails in this group and a wide platform, the KAIRAY favors load containment and capacity. It is a practical choice when bulky gear needs more protection from shifting.

Best Simple Steel Carrier – MaxxHaul 70107 Hitch Cargo Carrier

For a straightforward hitch cargo carrier without a bundled bag, the MaxxHaul 70107 offers a heavy-duty steel basket with high side rails and a 500-pound distributed capacity. Its 53-by-19.5-inch outer dimensions fit standard 2-by-2-inch receivers and suit trucks, vans, SUVs, and cars.

Best For: Buyers who need a basic steel basket for transporting general cargo and already have their own weather protection or tie-downs.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty steel construction is powder coated and rated for up to 500 pounds distributed.
• High side rails help keep cargo contained during transport.
• Fits common 2-by-2-inch hitch receivers and supports a range of vehicle types.
• Inner basket dimensions of 51 by 17.5 by 4.5 inches provide practical loading space.

Cons:

• Unlike the other listed options, it includes only the cargo carrier, with no bag, net, lock, or straps specified.
• Its 53-by-19.5-inch exterior is narrower and shorter than the larger baskets here.
• The manufacturer warranty is 90 days.

The MaxxHaul is the uncomplicated option in this roundup. Its steel construction, high rails, and standard receiver fit cover the essentials, but buyers should budget separately for cargo protection and securing equipment.

Best with Extra Features – WEIZE 60-Inch Folding Cargo Carrier

This hitch cargo carrier provides a roomy 60-by-20-inch platform for luggage, camping equipment, moving boxes, and other bulky gear. Its folding shank, included waterproof bag, cargo net, and tie-down straps make it a versatile choice for vehicles with a 2-inch receiver.

Best For: Drivers who want maximum platform space and a complete accessory package for road trips, camping, or moving.

Pros:

• Large 60-by-20-inch basket offers about 10 square feet of additional storage.
• Folding design helps reduce the carrier’s footprint when it is not in use.
• Includes a waterproof cargo bag, net, and two 12-foot tie-down straps.
• Heavy-duty steel construction supports up to 500 pounds.

Cons:

• At 66.5 pounds, it is relatively heavy to handle during installation.
• Designed for 2-inch receivers only.
• The manufacturer recommends extra rust-prevention measures despite the powder coating.

Choose this WEIZE model when platform size and included weather-and-securing accessories matter most. Its 500-pound capacity is substantial, though users should account for the carrier’s own weight and maintain the steel finish.

Best Lightweight Option – MaxxHaul Aluminum Cargo Carrier

This hitch cargo carrier combines a lightweight aluminum basket with a steel support frame, making it easier to handle than many steel alternatives. High side rails, tie-down points, reflector lenses, and a 500-pound capacity support practical hauling for compatible vehicles with a 2-inch receiver.

Best For: Buyers who prioritize lower carrier weight, rust resistance, and easy maintenance.

Pros:

• Aluminum construction weighs 21.4 pounds and resists rust.
• High side rails help contain cargo and provide multiple tie-down points.
• Reflector lenses and red corner accents improve visibility.
• Supports up to 500 pounds and fits standard Class III and IV 2-inch receivers.

Cons:

• Its 49.25-by-22.5-inch outer basket is shorter than the largest carrier in this roundup.
• It does not list a waterproof bag, cargo net, or straps among the included components.
• The stated warranty is 90 days.

The MaxxHaul stands out for its low 21.4-pound weight and aluminum construction. It is a sensible pick for frequent installation or removal, provided you already have suitable cargo-securing and weather-protection equipment.

Best Compact Steel Pick – WEIZE 53-Inch Cargo Carrier

This hitch cargo carrier adds a compact 53-by-19-inch loading area behind a car, SUV, or truck with a 2-inch receiver. The steel basket has a 500-pound capacity and includes a stabilizer, waterproof bag, cargo net, and tie-down straps for securing and protecting larger loads.

Best For: Vehicle owners who want a moderately sized steel carrier with included cargo protection and stabilization hardware.

Pros:

• 500-pound capacity handles luggage, camping gear, and moving supplies.
• Includes a hitch stabilizer, waterproof bag, cargo net, and two tie-down straps.
• Compact 53-by-19-inch dimensions can suit buyers who do not need a full-size platform.
• One-year manufacturer warranty and direct support are included.

Cons:

• Only compatible with a 2-inch receiver hitch.
• Its 41-pound steel construction is heavier than the aluminum MaxxHaul.
• The manufacturer recommends additional rustproofing despite the powder coating.

This WEIZE model balances useful capacity with a more compact footprint than the 60-inch version. Its included stabilizer and protective accessories make it a practical all-in-one option, especially for buyers with limited storage needs.

How We Picked the Best Hitch Cargo Carriers

We compared these carriers by usable platform size, stated weight capacity, construction, folding design, side-rail height, receiver compatibility, and included accessories. We also considered how each style fits common use cases, such as family travel, camping, hauling oversized gear, and occasional utility use.

Because listed capacities assume appropriate vehicle, receiver, and hitch ratings, shoppers should verify their vehicle’s tongue-weight limit before buying. The carrier’s own rating is only one part of the safe working limit.

Quick Comparison

Best For	What to Look For
Maximum general-purpose space	60-inch platforms with 24-inch depth and 500-pound ratings
Improved load retention	Raised side rails, especially 14-inch designs
Storage and parking convenience	Folding shank or folding basket design
Weather-sensitive cargo	Carrier bundles with waterproof bags, nets, and straps
Lower weight	Aluminum construction, such as the MaxxHaul 70108
Compact vehicles or tighter spaces	Shorter platforms, including 53-inch models

Key Buying Factors for a Hitch Cargo Carrier

Size and Usable Capacity

A 60-by-24-inch basket offers generous room for luggage, coolers, and camping equipment, while a 53-inch carrier may be easier to manage on smaller vehicles. Measure the cargo and check that the basket will not obstruct exhaust outlets, sensors, or the rear hatch.

Weight Limits and Tongue Weight

Many options in this roundup advertise a 500-pound maximum, but that does not mean every vehicle can safely carry that much. Account for the carrier’s own weight, cargo weight, receiver class, and the vehicle manufacturer’s tongue-weight rating.

Construction and Corrosion Resistance

Steel baskets generally provide strong, cost-effective support but are heavier. Aluminum models reduce the load placed on the hitch and are easier to handle, although buyers should still inspect joints, rails, and hardware regularly. A durable finish helps, but exposed metal should be kept clean and dry.

Folding and Clearance Features

Folding models can make parking and storage easier when unloaded. Check whether the design folds flat or only folds upright, and confirm that the folded carrier will clear the vehicle, spare tire, rear door, or liftgate.

Load Security and Weather Protection

High rails help contain bulky items, but a cargo net, ratchet straps, and a weatherproof bag are valuable for loose or rain-sensitive gear. Always cover and secure the load without blocking lights or the license plate.

Who Should Buy Which Hitch Cargo Carrier?

Choose a full-size 60-by-24-inch steel carrier if you regularly haul substantial luggage, camping equipment, or household items. A raised 14-inch basket is better for tall or irregular loads that benefit from extra containment. Pick an aluminum carrier when lower weight and easier handling matter most. A 53-inch model suits smaller loads, tighter parking spaces, or vehicles where a shorter platform provides better clearance.

If you take frequent road trips in changing weather, prioritize a package with a waterproof bag, net, and straps. For occasional use, a simpler folding basket may provide better value. Whichever Hitch Cargo Carrier you choose, distribute weight evenly, secure every item, and recheck the hardware after the first few miles.