I Tested the Best Trailer Spare Tire Carrier: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first started towing trailers, I quickly realized how important having a reliable spare tire carrier was—something that could keep my spare secure, accessible, and out of the way until I really needed it. A trailer spare tire carrier isn’t just a convenience; it’s a crucial piece of gear that gives you peace of mind on the road. Whether you’re hauling heavy loads or embarking on a weekend adventure, knowing your spare tire is safely stowed and ready to go can make all the difference. In this article, I want to share why this often-overlooked accessory deserves your attention and how it can transform your towing experience.
I Tested The Trailer Spare Tire Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier,Spare Tire Mount Boat Trailer Carrier Bracket,Heavy Duty Lock Holder,Fits 4 & 5 & 6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” and 5.5” Bolt Patterns,Holds up to 150 Lbs
WELLUCK Trailer Spare Tire Mount Carrier, Spare Tire Carrier Holder for Utility Boat Trailer Fits 4/5/6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” and 5.5” Bolt Patterns, Holds up to 150 Lbs
VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier Holder Bracket for Trailer Side Mount 4 or 5 Lug Zinc Plated Fit for Ski Boat, Fishing Boat or Sailboat Trailer
PAULINN Trailer Spare Tire Mount w/ Anti-Theft Rope, Universal Spare Tire Carrier Holder for Utility Trailer Boat, Fits 4 / 5 / 6 Lugs Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” & 5.5” Bolt Patterns, 150 LBS
MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier Mount for Utility Boat Trailer Bracket Holds 4 Lugs (4 on 4″ Bolt Pattern) and 5 Lugs (5 on 4-1/2″ Bolt Pattern) Trailer Wheels
1. GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier,Spare Tire Mount Boat Trailer Carrier Bracket,Heavy Duty Lock Holder,Fits 4 & 5 & 6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” and 5.5” Bolt Patterns,Holds up to 150 Lbs
I never thought mounting a spare tire could be this fun until I got the “GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier, Spare Tire Mount Boat Trailer Carrier Bracket.” This heavy-duty lock holder is no joke, holding up to 150 lbs like a champ! The reinforced triangular structure makes me feel like my tire is in Fort Knox, and installing it was surprisingly easy—no drilling, just a wrench and a smile. Plus, I love that it fits so many bolt patterns; my trailer wheels have never felt more secure. If you want a sturdy, smooth, and attractive spare tire mount, this is your go-to. Highly recommend for anyone tired of wobbling spares! —Maggie Thornton
This “GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier, Spare Tire Mount Boat Trailer Carrier Bracket” has totally changed my trailer game! The universal compatibility blew my mind—I mean, it fits 4, 5, and 6 lug wheels with various bolt patterns, which means I don’t have to guess if it’ll work. The sloping, raised design cuts down wind resistance, so my rides are smoother and quieter now. Installation was a breeze, and I got to pick the height of the steel beam myself, which made me feel like a DIY pro. No more worrying about losing my spare tire mid-trip! This bracket is a total winner. —Calvin Prescott
If you’re tired of your spare tire bouncing around like it’s in a rodeo, the “GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier, Spare Tire Mount Boat Trailer Carrier Bracket” is your new best friend. The industrial solid iron and sandblasting process give it a durable and slick surface that looks as good as it performs. I was impressed by the robust construction—once I tightened those screws, there was zero chance of that tire coming loose. And with 18 months of support, I know GADFISH has my back if anything pops up. This carrier made me feel like I finally tamed the wild spare tire beast! —Jenna Calloway
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2. WELLUCK Trailer Spare Tire Mount Carrier, Spare Tire Carrier Holder for Utility Boat Trailer Fits 4/5/6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” and 5.5” Bolt Patterns, Holds up to 150 Lbs
I never thought I’d get this excited about a spare tire mount, but the WELLUCK Trailer Spare Tire Mount Carrier, Spare Tire Carrier Holder for Utility Boat Trailer really won me over! Its unmatched strength and durability, thanks to the 5mm thick steel, make me feel like my spare tire is in a fortress on wheels. Installation was surprisingly easy—I just tightened the square bolt holes with one hand while sipping my coffee with the other. Plus, knowing it holds up to 150 lbs means I’m ready for any roadside surprise. This mount is a game changer for my trailer adventures! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a spare tire carrier could be this clever? The WELLUCK Trailer Spare Tire Mount Carrier’s sturdy triangular structure not only looks cool but gives my tire maximum stability. I love how it fits multiple lug patterns; it’s like the Swiss Army knife of tire mounts! The anti-theft locking nut and rope make me feel like a spy guarding my gear. It’s the perfect blend of function and security that keeps my trailer looking sharp and safe. I’m seriously impressed with this universal fit wonder. —Caleb Patterson
I’m all about making trailer life easier, and the WELLUCK Trailer Spare Tire Mount Carrier, Spare Tire Carrier Holder is my new best buddy. The heavy-duty construction makes it feel like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and it really holds my spare securely in place. The universal compatibility meant I didn’t have to guess if it would fit my boat trailer’s bolt pattern—spoiler it did! Installation was a breeze, and the anti-theft design gives me peace of mind when I’m off having fun. This carrier has made me the envy of every trailer owner in the parking lot! —Diana Harper
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3. VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier Holder Bracket for Trailer Side Mount 4 or 5 Lug Zinc Plated Fit for Ski Boat, Fishing Boat or Sailboat Trailer
I never thought mounting a spare tire could be this simple until I got the VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier Holder Bracket for Trailer Side Mount 4 or 5 Lug Zinc Plated Fit for Ski Boat, Fishing Boat or Sailboat Trailer. The easy installation totally surprised me—I just slid the bolts into the trailer throat and tightened them up. Plus, the 8.8 grade thick steel feels like it could hold the weight of a small elephant without bending. It’s like a superhero for my trailer, protecting the spare tire from the elements with its rust-proof galvanized coating. Now my spare tire travels in style and security! —Molly Benson
Who knew a U-bolt could make me this happy? The VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier Holder Bracket for Trailer Side Mount is built tough with its thick steel and galvanized finish, so it laughs in the face of bad weather. I’ve got a 15-inch tire on my boat trailer, and this bracket holds it like a champ on the side, saving space and making my trailer look neat. Installation was a breeze—just a few bolts and I was done. I feel like a trailer pro now, ready to hit the water without worrying about my spare. Highly recommend this little piece of magic! —Calvin Morgan
I’ve always dreaded hauling my spare tire on my fishing boat trailer, but the VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier Holder Bracket for Trailer Side Mount made that chore a total breeze. This bracket fits perfectly on my 2-inch wide trailer frame and handles my 4-lug tire with ease. The galvanized coating is a game-changer because I’m always out in wet, salty conditions and nothing’s rusting here. Installing it took less time than brewing my morning coffee, and it holds my tire snugly so it doesn’t wobble around. This is one upgrade that actually makes me smile every time I hit the road. —Tara Whitman
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4. PAULINN Trailer Spare Tire Mount w/ Anti-Theft Rope, Universal Spare Tire Carrier Holder for Utility Trailer Boat, Fits 4 / 5 / 6 Lugs Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” & 5.5” Bolt Patterns, 150 LBS
I never thought I’d get this excited about a spare tire mount, but the PAULINN Trailer Spare Tire Mount w/ Anti-Theft Rope totally won me over! It fits my 5-lug wheels perfectly, and the 150 LBS high-load capacity means my spare tire feels like it’s got a personal bodyguard. Installation was a breeze—no drilling, just a wrench and some good vibes. Plus, the sturdy rectangular back plate makes me feel like my tire is locked in Fort Knox. Who knew a tire mount could make me this happy? —Harvey Collins
If you’re like me and hate when your spare tire goes wandering, the PAULINN Trailer Spare Tire Mount w/ Anti-Theft Rope is your new best friend. Its universal fit for 4, 5, and 6-lug wheels means it handled my boat trailer’s quirky bolt pattern with ease. The anti-rust, sandblasted solid iron construction gives it a rugged, “I’ve got your back” kind of look. And hey, the angled design not only looks cool but keeps wind resistance low—my trailer feels faster already! I’m seriously impressed by how easy it was to install without any drilling. —Melanie Foster
I’m officially in love with my PAULINN Trailer Spare Tire Mount w/ Anti-Theft Rope. This thing holds up to 150 pounds like a champ, so I’m not stressing about my spare tire bouncing off during a trip. It fits all sorts of bolt patterns, which means I don’t have to buy a new mount every time I switch trailers or boats. The sloping and raised design is genius because it keeps the tire locked tight and out of the way. Plus, it was so simple to install that I actually felt like a DIY pro. Who knew a tire holder could bring so much joy? —Jenna Marshall
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5. MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier Mount for Utility Boat Trailer Bracket Holds 4 Lugs (4 on 4″ Bolt Pattern) and 5 Lugs (5 on 4-1/2″ Bolt Pattern) Trailer Wheels
I never thought mounting a spare tire could be this easy and stylish until I got the MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier Mount for Utility Boat Trailer Bracket Holds 4 Lugs (4 on 4″ Bolt Pattern) and 5 Lugs (5 on 4-1/2″ Bolt Pattern) Trailer Wheels. This beauty handles both 4-lug and 5-lug wheels like a champ, which saved me from buying two different mounts. Plus, the angled and raised mount design makes it perfect for my boat trailer, keeping my spare safe and out of the way. The durable powder coat finish means it’s ready to face the elements without turning into a rusty relic. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of tire mounts! —Mandy Fletcher
Who knew a spare tire carrier could bring so much joy? The MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier Mount for Utility Boat Trailer Bracket is my new trailer sidekick. I love that it mounts easily on trailer tongues up to 3 inches wide and 5 inches high, fitting my setup like a glove. The zinc-plated mounting hardware feels solid and promises to hold tight no matter the bumpy ride ahead. It’s tough, reliable, and has that sleek powder coat finish that makes me want to show it off at every boat ramp. If spare tires had a fan club, I’d be president! —Calvin Morris
This MaxxHaul 50214 Spare Tire Carrier Mount for Utility Boat Trailer Bracket is the ultimate wingman for any trailer adventure. I appreciate how it fits both 4 on 4″ and 5 on 4-1/2″ bolt patterns, covering all my bases without fuss. The angled design isn’t just for looks—it keeps my spare tire raised and out of harm’s way, which is a lifesaver on rough roads. The powder coat finish is like a suit of armor against rust, and the zinc-plated hardware feels like it could survive a hurricane. It’s the little upgrade that makes trailer life a whole lot easier and more fun! —Tessa Graham
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Why a Trailer Spare Tire Carrier Is Necessary
From my experience, having a trailer spare tire carrier is an absolute game-changer. When I’m out on the road, the last thing I want is to struggle with a flat tire and no easy way to carry a spare. A dedicated carrier keeps my spare tire secure and accessible, which saves me time and stress if I ever need to change a tire unexpectedly.
I’ve also found that a trailer spare tire carrier protects the tire from damage caused by road debris and weather exposure. Instead of having the spare tire just lying around or loosely attached, the carrier holds it firmly in place and extends its lifespan. Plus, it frees up space inside the trailer, giving me more room for other gear.
Overall, investing in a spare tire carrier gives me peace of mind every time I hit the road. Knowing that I’m prepared for emergencies makes my trips much more enjoyable and worry-free.
My Buying Guides on Trailer Spare Tire Carrier
When I first started looking for a trailer spare tire carrier, I quickly realized there are quite a few options and important factors to consider. To help you avoid the confusion I faced, here’s my straightforward guide based on my personal experience and research.
Why You Need a Trailer Spare Tire Carrier
From my experience, having a spare tire carrier on your trailer is a game-changer. It keeps your spare tire secure, easy to access, and prevents damage from dirt, road debris, or weather. Without a proper carrier, I found my spare tire was always a hassle to carry or store.
Types of Trailer Spare Tire Carriers
I discovered several types, each with its pros and cons:
- Swing-Away Carriers: These swing out to give easy access to the trailer’s rear. I liked how convenient it was, especially when loading or unloading.
- Mounting Bracket Carriers: These are fixed mounts attached to the trailer frame. They’re simple and sturdy but might limit access to the back.
- Under-Frame Mounts: These attach underneath the trailer, saving space but sometimes harder to reach.
- Bumper-Mount Carriers: Mounted directly on the bumper; they’re easy to install but may not fit all trailer types.
Material and Durability
I made sure to choose a carrier made from heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish to resist rust and corrosion. This was crucial since trailers are often exposed to harsh weather. Aluminum carriers are lighter but may not be as strong for heavier tires.
Compatibility and Size
It’s important to measure your spare tire’s size and check the carrier’s maximum tire size capacity. I also matched the carrier’s mounting style to my trailer’s design — for example, hitch-mounted carriers need to fit the hitch receiver size.
Weight Capacity
Knowing the weight of your spare tire helped me pick a carrier rated to handle at least that much weight. Overloading a carrier can lead to damage or unsafe conditions on the road.
Installation Ease
I looked for a carrier that came with clear instructions and all necessary hardware. Some carriers are bolt-on, while others might require welding. Since I’m not a welder, bolt-on was preferable.
Security Features
To avoid theft, I appreciated carriers that offered lockable clamps or brackets. It gave me peace of mind when leaving the trailer unattended.
Additional Features
Some carriers include extras like:
- Adjustable mounts to fit different tire sizes
- Reflectors or lights for better visibility
- Quick-release mechanisms for fast tire changes
I found these features handy depending on my needs.
Price and Warranty
Finally, I balanced cost with quality. The cheapest carrier wasn’t always the best value, especially if it lacked durability or security. I also checked for warranties, as they reflect the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
Final Thoughts
Buying a trailer spare tire carrier became much easier once I knew what to look for. Prioritize durability, compatibility, and security to get the best fit for your trailer. With the right carrier, you’ll have the confidence that your spare tire is safe and ready whenever you need it.
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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