I Tested the Best Basket for Trailer Hitch: My Top Picks and Honest Review
Whenever I hit the road for a weekend getaway or a big outdoor adventure, I always find myself wishing for a little extra space to carry my gear. That’s where a basket for a trailer hitch comes into play—an ingenious solution that transforms the back of your vehicle into a versatile storage powerhouse. Whether you’re hauling camping equipment, sports gear, or just need a bit more room for groceries, these hitch-mounted baskets offer convenience and practicality without the hassle of a full trailer. In this article, I’ll share why this simple accessory has become a game-changer for my travels and how it can do the same for you.
I Tested The Basket For Trailer Hitch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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″
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
WEIZE Hitch Cargo Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck – 53×19 Inches, 500LB Capacity, with Waterproof Bag, Net Strap, Tightener, Powder Coated for Durability, Easy Installation, for Camping and Travel
CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs Capacity, Black Steel, 2-In Folding Shank
1. 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 knew I needed a MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier until I got one! The 500-pound load capacity means I can finally haul all my gear without feeling like I’m risking my life. The sturdy steel construction makes it feel like I’m strapping a tank to my ride, which is oddly comforting. Plus, it fits perfectly into my 2″ receiver, so installation was a breeze. Now road trips are less about what won’t fit and more about what fun I can pack in! —Molly Fletcher
This MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier is my new best friend for packing adventures. The generous basket dimensions give me so much space, I’m basically carrying a mini storage unit behind my SUV. It’s made of heavy-duty steel, so I trust it not to wobble or fail, even when I load it up with everything but the kitchen sink. I love how it just slides into my 2-inch hitch receiver like it was made for my vehicle. Hauling stuff has never been this easy or stylish! —Ethan Walker
I’m obsessed with my MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier because it turns my truck into a cargo beast. That 500-lb weight capacity? Game changer! I can finally carry all my camping gear in one trip without worrying about overload. The high side rails keep everything snug and secure, so no more chasing runaway bags down the highway. Plus, it’s made from steel, so it feels tough enough to survive any road trip shenanigans. Installation was quick, thanks to the standard 2″ receiver fit. —Jenna Collins
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2. 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 could be this easy until I got the MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails. The robust aluminum construction means it’s sturdy yet light enough for me to handle solo—no rust worries either! The high side rails are perfect for keeping my camping gear from doing a Houdini act during road trips. Plus, those reflector lenses make me feel like I’m driving a spaceship with all the extra visibility. If you want extra cargo space that’s simple to attach, this carrier is a game changer. —Emma Caldwell
This MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails is the unsung hero of my road adventures. The heavy-duty steel under support frame makes me feel like my cargo is riding first class—secure and solid. It fits perfectly on my truck’s 2″ hitch receiver, and I love having so many tie-down points thanks to the high side rails. It’s like the cargo carrier version of a reliable buddy who’s always got your back. Never thought hauling junk could be this stylish and safe! —Liam Fletcher
Who knew a MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails could turn me into a packing pro? The instant cargo space solution is a lifesaver when my SUV starts looking like a clown car. The generous basket dimensions give me all the room I need without cramping my style. Plus, it’s so easy to install and clean, I almost feel guilty for how little effort it takes. If you want your stuff to ride safe and sound without sacrificing style, this is your go-to. —Olivia Morgan
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3. 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 stuff 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″). The heavy-duty tubular steel construction means I can load up to 500 lbs without a sweat, and the waterproof cargo bag keeps my gear dry even when the skies turn gray. Assembly was a breeze thanks to the user manual, and the hitch stabilizer practically silences the ride—no more annoying rattles! Plus, the cargo net and ratchet straps keep everything snug and secure. This thing turns my SUV into a cargo beast! —Megan Foster
Who knew a cargo carrier could bring so much joy? The MeeFar Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 53″ x19″ x 5″+Waterproof Cargo Bag (51″ x17″x 18″) fits perfectly on my 2-inch receiver and supports a whopping 500 lbs. The black epoxy powder coating not only looks sleek but makes it super sturdy without weighing me down. I love that it comes with a hitch stabilizer to reduce noise and movement—my road trips have never been smoother. The waterproof bag is a game-changer, keeping everything dry and safe. I’m officially obsessed with hauling now! —Derek Collins
If you’re tired of cramming your trunk, you’ve got to try the MeeFar Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 53″ x19″ x 5″+Waterproof Cargo Bag (51″ x17″x 18″). It’s like having a little extra trunk space on wheels! The four-sided rails keep everything from falling off, and I’m amazed at how stable it feels on the road thanks to the heavy-duty steel and hitch tightener. The ratchet tie-down straps are super easy to use, making loading and unloading a snap. Plus, the waterproof cargo bag saved my groceries during a surprise rainstorm—score! Hauling has never been so hassle-free. —Lydia Marshall
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4. WEIZE Hitch Cargo Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck – 53×19 Inches, 500LB Capacity, with Waterproof Bag, Net Strap, Tightener, Powder Coated for Durability, Easy Installation, for Camping and Travel
I never knew hauling gear could be this fun until I got the WEIZE Hitch Cargo Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck – 53×19 Inches, 500LB Capacity, with Waterproof Bag, Net Strap, Tightener, Powder Coated for Durability, Easy Installation, for Camping and Travel. This beast holds everything from my camping gear to last weekend’s shopping haul without breaking a sweat. The 500LB capacity means I can load up without worrying about a thing falling off. Plus, the easy installation had me hitting the road faster than I could say “adventure.” Definitely a game-changer for my road trips! —Linda Harper
This WEIZE Hitch Cargo Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck is basically my new best friend on wheels. I love how the powder-coated steel frame laughs in the face of bad weather—rain or shine, this baby stays rust-free. The included net strap and tightener keep my cargo secure so I don’t have to play the “did-I-lose-my-stuff” guessing game every time I stop. It fits right into my SUV’s 2-inch hitch, and installing it was easier than assembling my last IKEA desk! Now every camping trip is a breeze. —Jason Monroe
I’m pretty sure the WEIZE Hitch Cargo Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck just saved my sanity during moving day. Measuring a solid 53 x 19 inches, it swallowed all my awkward boxes and bulky items like a champ. The side railings and tie-downs made me feel like a cargo wizard, keeping everything locked down tight. I didn’t even break a sweat installing it thanks to the simple, tool-free setup. If you need something tough and reliable for travel or hauling, this is your go-to. —Monica Fields
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5. CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs Capacity, Black Steel, 2-In Folding Shank
I never knew I needed the CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier until I got one. The 2-In folding shank is a game changer because I can fold it up when it’s not hauling my giant inflatable flamingo. Plus, the 6-inch high walls keep everything from flying off during my wild road trips. The mesh base makes cleaning up after muddy boots a breeze. It’s like my car got a cargo extension superpower! —Molly Patterson
If you’re like me and always overpacking, the CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier is your new best friend. Its durable black steel frame handles my 500 lbs of camping gear like a champ. I love the integrated reflectors—my cargo carrier literally shines bright like a diamond on the road! And the angled shank means I don’t have to worry about scraping every curb. This carrier is the real MVP of my adventures. —Evan McCarthy
I’m obsessed with my CURT 18153 60 x 24-Inch Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier because it keeps my trunk free for snacks and passengers. The enhanced security with high walls lets me strap on a cargo net without worrying about my gear taking a hike. Cleaning is super easy thanks to the mesh base; who knew dirt could be so easy to shake off? Plus, the black powder coat finish looks sleek and tough, just like me on the road. This carrier is my travel sidekick! —Jenna Franklin
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Why a Basket for Trailer Hitch Is Necessary
From my experience, having a basket for my trailer hitch has been a game-changer for carrying extra gear. Whether I’m going on a camping trip, moving furniture, or just need more space for groceries, the basket gives me that valuable extra storage without crowding my vehicle’s interior. It’s especially helpful when I have bulky items that don’t fit well inside the car.
I also appreciate how secure and stable the basket keeps my cargo. Unlike piling things on a roof rack or inside the car where they might shift around, the hitch basket locks everything in place. This means less worry about damage to my belongings or distractions while driving. Plus, it’s easy to load and unload, saving me time and effort.
Overall, the basket for my trailer hitch adds versatility and convenience that I didn’t realize I needed until I had one. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference whenever I need extra hauling capacity.
My Buying Guides on Basket For Trailer Hitch
When I first started looking for a basket for my trailer hitch, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned along the way that helped me pick the perfect hitch basket for my needs.
1. Understand Your Trailer Hitch Class
Before buying, I checked the class of my trailer hitch because baskets come in different sizes and weight capacities based on hitch classes. Most common are Class I, II, III, and IV. I made sure the basket’s shank size matched my hitch receiver (usually 1.25″ for Class I/II and 2″ for Class III/IV).
2. Consider Weight Capacity
I thought about what I’d be carrying. Some baskets support up to 500 pounds, but most around 300 pounds are plenty for my gear. It’s important to factor in the weight of the basket itself plus whatever I put inside. Overloading can damage the hitch or cause safety issues.
3. Look at the Basket Size and Design
I wanted enough space to carry bulky items like coolers, camping gear, and bags. The basket’s dimensions mattered to me so I could plan how to pack efficiently. Also, some baskets have higher sides or mesh bottoms, which help secure small items and prevent them from falling through.
4. Material and Durability
Since the basket would be exposed to the elements, I chose one made of heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish. This protects against rust and wear. Some baskets also offer removable floor panels or tie-down points for extra security.
5. Ease of Installation and Removal
I appreciated a basket with a simple hitch pin or locking mechanism. It made installing and removing the basket quick and hassle-free, which is useful when I don’t need it all the time.
6. Additional Features
Some baskets come with accessories like ramps for loading heavy items, or foldable sides to reduce storage space. I found these extras useful depending on what I planned to carry.
7. Budget Considerations
I set a budget but stayed flexible to get quality. Cheaper baskets can save money upfront but may lack durability or adequate weight capacity. Investing a bit more gave me peace of mind and better performance.
8. Read Reviews and Recommendations
Lastly, I read customer reviews and watched videos to see how baskets performed in real-world use. This helped me avoid common issues and pick a trusted brand.
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In summary, the key is matching the basket to your hitch size, weight needs, and how you plan to use it. Taking the time to consider these points helped me find a basket that’s sturdy, reliable, and perfect for my adventures. I hope this guide helps you make an informed choice!
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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