Not all cargo carriers are built the same — especially when you’re driving an SUV. Here’s how to figure out which style fits your gear, your hitch, and your lifestyle.
The best hitch cargo carrier for your SUV depends on what you plan to haul. Open baskets are ideal for bulky or rugged gear, enclosed boxes offer full weather protection and security, soft-sided bags provide affordable coverage when paired with a basket, and ramp-style carriers are designed for wheeled items like scooters or medical equipment. Your hitch size, weight limits, and tailgate access should all factor into the decision.
Key Takeaways:
- The best carrier depends on your cargo type: open baskets, enclosed boxes, soft bags, or ramp-style platforms.
- Most SUVs require a Class III (2″) hitch to use a cargo carrier safely.
- Open baskets are versatile and affordable, but offer no weather protection.
- Enclosed carriers provide security and weatherproofing, but add weight and bulk.
- Some carriers may block your tail lights or license plate — light or plate relocation kits may be required.
The Problem With “Best” (Before You Know What You Need)
If you’re here looking for the best hitch cargo carrier for your SUV, chances are you’ve already run out of room inside. Whether you’re packing for a road trip, loading up gear for work, or just trying to avoid stuffing camping bins under the kids’ feet, a hitch-mounted carrier can be a game-changer.
But here’s the catch: “Best” depends entirely on what you’re hauling.
Are you trying to protect delicate electronics from rain? Transport a cooler and two duffel bags? Carry a wheelchair up a ramp? Those are very different needs — and the best carrier for one scenario could be a frustrating mistake for another.
This guide breaks down the four main styles of hitch cargo carriers, their pros and cons, and how to choose the right one for your SUV.
The 4 Main Types of Hitch Cargo Carriers for SUVs
1. Basket-Style Cargo Carriers
Best for: Coolers, bins, camping gear, totes, bulky boxes
Basket-style carriers are open metal platforms with side rails. They’re by far the most popular — and for good reason.
They offer great visibility while driving, are relatively lightweight, and can carry a wide range of awkward or oversized gear. This makes them ideal for messy or rugged cargo like firewood, toolboxes, or camping supplies. You’ll need to strap everything down manually — but you’ll get fast access and plenty of flexibility.
The downside? There’s zero protection from the weather. If you’re hauling items that need to stay clean or dry, you’ll need to add a cargo bag or move to an enclosed carrier.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to mount
- Versatile for many gear shapes
- Affordable and widely available
Cons:
- No protection from rain or dust
- Requires tie-downs or nets
- Items are exposed to theft and weather
2. Enclosed Hard-Shell Carriers
Best for: Electronics, valuables, luggage, long-haul storage
These are the hitch-mounted equivalent of a roof box — fully enclosed, sealed against rain and dust, and typically lockable.
They’re perfect for gear that shouldn’t get wet or stolen, like duffel bags, electronics, or expensive equipment. If you’re going on a long road trip and don’t want to unpack your carrier at every stop, this is the safest and most convenient option.
But you’ll pay for that peace of mind. Enclosed boxes are significantly heavier, often harder to install solo, and more expensive than baskets or bags. They can also block tail lights or backup sensors, especially on smaller SUVs.
Pros:
- Full weather protection
- Lockable and secure
- Great for long trips and valuables
Cons:
- Bulky and heavy
- More expensive than other types
- May obstruct lights or tailgate access
3. Soft-Sided Hitch Bags (Often with Baskets)
Best for: Light gear, occasional travelers, budget-conscious setups
These cargo bags are designed to sit inside a metal basket and offer semi-waterproof coverage using zippered flaps and reinforced seams.
They’re light, foldable, and affordable — making them a good entry point for people who don’t need permanent extra storage. They’re also modular: if you already own a basket-style carrier, adding a soft bag is a low-cost way to get some weather protection.
That said, these bags aren’t airtight, and during heavy rain, water can still seep through zippers or seams. They’re best for gear that’s water-resistant, or for short trips where full protection isn’t essential.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Budget-friendly weather protection
- Pairs well with existing baskets
Cons:
- Can leak in heavy rain
- Offers limited security
- Requires additional strapping and adjustment
4. Carriers with Integrated Ramps
Best for: Wheelchairs, mobility scooters, rolling toolboxes
Ramp-style carriers are heavy-duty platforms designed to carry wheeled cargo. Instead of lifting items into place, you can simply roll them up a ramp and secure them with tie-downs.
They’re popular with people hauling mobility devices, medical equipment, or heavy items that would be hard to lift. Many models include built-in rails, anti-tilt mechanisms, and high weight capacities.
These are large and often require two people to install. They’re also more expensive and don’t fold up easily — but if your use case involves rolling items on and off, there’s no better option.
Pros:
- Ideal for heavy or wheeled cargo
- No lifting required
- High weight capacity
Cons:
- Bulky and heavy to mount
- Limited folding/storage options
- Often the most expensive style
What to Consider Before You Buy
Hitch Class Compatibility
Before anything else, check what kind of hitch your SUV actually has. Hitch cargo carriers are typically built for Class III receivers, which use a 2-inch opening and support around 500 pounds of tongue weight. Some lighter-duty carriers can work with Class II hitches, but you’ll be more limited in both load and durability.
Here’s a quick reference:
| Hitch Class | Receiver Size | Typical Max Load |
|---|---|---|
| Class I | 1.25” | ~200 lbs |
| Class II | 1.25” | ~300 lbs |
| Class III | 2” | ~500 lbs |
| Class IV | 2” | 500+ lbs |
For SUVs, Class III is the most common — especially if it came with a factory towing package.
Weight Ratings: Vehicle + Carrier
It’s easy to focus on how much your carrier can hold, but don’t forget your vehicle’s own weight limits. Hitch carriers contribute to your tongue weight — the downward force on the hitch — and that includes both the empty carrier and your cargo.
Let’s say your SUV has a 500 lb tongue weight limit. If your carrier weighs 60 lbs empty, and your gear adds another 450 lbs, you’re suddenly over spec. That can damage the hitch, overload your suspension, and affect vehicle handling — especially on rough roads or inclines. Always check both your hitch specs and your SUV’s tongue weight rating before you load up.
Clearance, Foldability, and Rear Access
Not all hitch carriers play nice with SUV tailgates. If you need regular access to the trunk or rear cargo area, look for a platform that either swings away or tilts down. Standard fixed racks may require you to unload before you can open the liftgate — which can get old fast.
You should also think about garage clearance. Some baskets or boxes extend pretty far out and can prevent you from parking indoors unless they fold upright. If you plan to leave the carrier mounted when not in use, foldability is a must-have. Also, keep in mind that taller SUVs may make it harder to see your carrier from the driver’s seat — especially when reversing — so features like reflectors or flags aren’t just for show.
Weather Protection
If you’re hauling anything that can’t get wet, open baskets won’t cut it. While they’re ideal for coolers, firewood, or rugged gear, they offer zero protection from the elements. A soft-sided cargo bag can be added to help keep things dry, but even the best of these may leak in heavy rain or during high-speed driving. Water tends to pool around zippers, and if the bag isn’t seated properly in the basket, spray can sneak in from underneath.
For true protection, enclosed hard-shell boxes are the clear winners. They’re designed to seal out rain, snow, dust, and even pests — and they’re often lockable too. Just be aware that they’re heavier, bulkier, and usually more expensive than other options. But if your cargo includes clothes, electronics, or anything fragile, that price is well worth it.
Legal Considerations: Lights and License Plates
Depending on the size and design of your hitch carrier — especially enclosed ones — you may end up blocking your SUV’s tail lights, brake lights, or license plate. This is more than just a visibility issue: in many states, it’s illegal to obstruct any of these elements, even partially.
Some high-end carriers come with built-in lighting hookups or license plate holders, but most don’t. In that case, you may need to buy a light bar kit or plate relocation bracket separately. This is especially important if you’re traveling across state lines, where enforcement can vary. As a rule of thumb, if you can’t clearly see your lights and plate from 30 feet behind the vehicle, assume you’ll need an add-on to stay legal.
Which Hitch Carrier Is Best for Your SUV?
| Use Case | Best Type |
|---|---|
| Extra luggage on a family road trip | Enclosed box |
| Hauling bins and coolers | Open basket |
| Occasional gear transport | Folding platform |
| Mobility scooter or heavy wheeled item | Ramp-style carrier |
| Urban driving with parking concerns | Basket with fold-up design |
| Rain protection on a budget | Soft bag + basket combo |
In Summary
SUV drivers looking for extra cargo space have four primary hitch carrier options: basket platforms for flexible hauling, enclosed boxes for weather-sensitive gear, soft bags for occasional use, and ramp-style carriers for mobility equipment. Choosing the right style depends on your cargo type, how often you’ll use it, your hitch class, and how much rear access or security you need.
Final Thoughts
The best hitch cargo carrier for your SUV isn’t a single product — it’s the style that fits your cargo, your vehicle, and how you actually use it.
Whether you’re hauling camping gear, adding storage for a family vacation, or rolling a wheelchair up a ramp, there’s a carrier style built for your use case. Once you know what type you need, choosing the right product becomes a whole lot easier.