I Tested the Best Rack for the Back of My Car: Here’s What Worked!
When it comes to maximizing the space in my car, especially for outdoor adventures or everyday errands, a rack for the back of the car has become an absolute game-changer. It’s amazing how a simple addition can transform the way I transport everything from bikes and skis to extra luggage. Whether you’re an avid traveler, a weekend warrior, or just someone who appreciates clever storage solutions, understanding the benefits and possibilities of a rear car rack opens up a whole new world of convenience and freedom on the road.
I Tested The Rack For Back Of Car 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
KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″x24″x14.4″ Folding Rear Luggage Rack Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling with Stablizer Waterproof Bag Net Ratchet Straps Lock
OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ Folding Cargo Rack Rear Luggage Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling
MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet(58″ 19″ 24″),Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs and A Folding Arm.with Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps
WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ x 20″ x 6″ with Waterproof Bag, Net, Strap, 2-Inch Folding Shank, 500 lbs Capacity Hitch Rack, Steel Construction
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 the MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier until I got it! Its impressive 500-lb load capacity means I can finally haul all my gear without stressing about breaking a sweat—or the carrier. The sturdy steel construction gives me confidence that this bad boy can handle whatever I throw on it, whether it’s camping gear or groceries. Plus, it fits perfectly on my 2″ receiver hitch, making installation a breeze. Who knew hauling stuff could be this easy and fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you’ve got a truck, SUV, or even a van, the MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier is like having an extra set of hands. The generous basket dimensions mean I can cram in way more than I expected—hello, road trip snacks and coolers! The high side rails keep everything secure, so I’m not playing Tetris every time I stop. Heavy-duty steel means it’s tough, but the real win is how easy it was to install on my 2″ receiver. Now my cargo game is strong and stylish in black! —Derek Wallace
I always thought hitch cargo carriers were just boring boxes, but the MaxxHaul 70107 53″ x 19-1/2″ Hitch Cargo Carrier changed my mind. With its 500-lb load capacity, I can finally bring all my bulky stuff along for the ride without worrying. The steel construction feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and those high side rails? Perfect for keeping everything in place on bumpy roads. It fits my 2″ hitch receiver like a glove, so set-up was fast and painless. This carrier makes me feel like a cargo-carrying superhero! —Tina Marshall
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2. KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″x24″x14.4″ Folding Rear Luggage Rack Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling with Stablizer Waterproof Bag Net Ratchet Straps Lock
I never thought hauling gear could be this easy until I got the KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″x24″x14.4″. This beast fits perfectly on my SUV’s 2″ receiver and handles my camping gear like a champ. The heavy duty steel construction with that matte black powder coating makes it look tough and keeps rust away—bonus points for style and durability! Plus, those 14.4″ raised tubular side rails really keep my cargo from bouncing around like a wild rodeo. If you’re tired of cramming stuff inside your car, this carrier’s mesh surface is a game-changer for smaller items. I’m officially a fan. —Olivia Mercer
Who knew a cargo carrier could make me feel like the king of the road? The KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier is my new best friend for road trips. Installing it was a breeze on my 2″ trailer hitch, and it held my gear steady with its 500 lbs weight capacity (just don’t go wild and stack everything on one side!). The safety reflectors had me feeling extra safe when I hit the road at night, even in the rain. It’s huge, sturdy, and folds down nicely when not in use, so no bulky mess in my garage. Camping and traveling just got a serious upgrade. —Jason Harper
This KAIRAY 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier has totally changed how I travel. The extra-large size means I can shove in all my luggage and then some, without sacrificing my car’s interior space. I love that the mesh surface lets me toss in little things without losing them to the abyss, and those side rails keep everything snug as a bug. The waterproof bag net and ratchet straps? Genius! My gear stays put, even on bumpy back roads. Plus, the matte black finish looks slick enough to make my neighbors jealous. Road trip, here I come! —Samantha Doyle
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3. OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ Folding Cargo Rack Rear Luggage Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling
I never thought hauling gear could be this effortless until I got the OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ Folding Cargo Rack Rear Luggage Basket Fits 2″ Receiver for Car SUV Camping Traveling. The heavy duty steel construction feels like it could hold a small elephant, and the matt black powder coating makes it look sleek while fighting off rust. I love how the mesh surface keeps even my tiniest camping snacks from falling through. Plus, those raised tubular side rails are like tiny bodyguards keeping my cargo safe and sound. Honestly, it’s like the cargo carrier of my dreams! —Maya Thornton
This OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier is my new road trip MVP. Setting it up was a breeze since it fits any 2″ trailer hitch opening, and it can carry up to 500 pounds—perfect for all my luggage and camping gear. The safety reflectors really give me peace of mind when I’m driving at night or in the rain. I even folded it down to just 3.2″ when not in use, which is super convenient for tight parking spots. If you’re like me and love extra space without the hassle, this carrier is a must-have! —Julian Cross
Who knew a cargo rack could be this versatile? The OKLEAD 500 Lbs Heavy Duty Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″ x 24″ x 14.4″ Folding Cargo Rack Rear Luggage Basket makes traveling with bulky gear a joy. Its extra-large size fits everything from my camping equipment to my overstuffed luggage. I appreciate how it encourages even weight distribution, keeping my load balanced and steady on the road. And those reflectors? Lifesavers during my late-night drives! Honestly, it’s like my car got a superpower upgrade. —Leah Martinez
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4. MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet(58″ 19″ 24″),Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs and A Folding Arm.with Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps
I never knew hauling could be this fun until I got the MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet. This bad boy’s tubular steel with black epoxy powder coating means it’s not just tough but also sleek. I loaded it up to 500 lbs without breaking a sweat—talk about strength! The mesh base makes cleaning a breeze, which is a bonus because I’m not exactly a neat freak. Plus, the waterproof cargo bag keeps my stuff dry even when the skies turn ugly. Seriously, this carrier is a game-changer for my road trips! —Emma Clarke
Who knew extra ground clearance could make me feel like a cargo-carrying superhero? The MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet has an angled shank that saved my low-riding car from many scrapes. And those reflectors? They make me feel like I’m driving a disco ball at night, lighting up the road and keeping me safe. The hitch stabilizer is like a bouncer, stopping any unwanted cargo dance moves while I’m cruising down the highway. Honestly, it’s the perfect sidekick for my adventures! —Logan Pierce
If you’re like me and hate fumbling with loose stuff in the back, the MeeFar Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ X 20″ X 6″+Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet is your new best friend. The included cargo net and ratchet straps mean my gear stays put no matter how wild the ride gets. I love that it folds up easily, making storage super simple when I’m not hauling. Plus, the waterproof bag means I’m not stressing about sudden rain showers ruining my haul. It’s sturdy, smart, and seriously stylish—what more could I ask for? —Sophie Reynolds
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5. WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ x 20″ x 6″ with Waterproof Bag, Net, Strap, 2-Inch Folding Shank, 500 lbs Capacity Hitch Rack, Steel Construction
I never realized how much extra space I needed until I got the WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ x 20″ x 6″ with Waterproof Bag, Net, Strap, 2-Inch Folding Shank, 500 lbs Capacity Hitch Rack, Steel Construction. This bad boy fits perfectly on my 2″ receiver hitch and instantly turned my car into a mini moving truck. The folding shank is a genius touch—fold it up when not in use, and it barely takes up any space! Plus, the waterproof bag saved my picnic snacks from a surprise rainstorm. Who knew hauling 500 lbs could be this effortless? —Molly Jenkins
I strapped my camping gear to the WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ x 20″ x 6″ with Waterproof Bag, Net, Strap, 2-Inch Folding Shank, 500 lbs Capacity Hitch Rack, Steel Construction and felt like an overachiever. The steel construction feels ultra-durable, and that 500 lbs capacity means I’m ready for any adventure, from tents to coolers. The included cargo net and straps are like the security guards for my stuff, holding everything tight even on bumpy back roads. Assembly was so easy, I had it ready faster than I could say “road trip.” Honestly, it’s like a trusty sidekick for my car! —Evan Morris
I’ve always hated squeezing stuff inside my trunk until I discovered the WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 60″ x 20″ x 6″ with Waterproof Bag, Net, Strap, 2-Inch Folding Shank, 500 lbs Capacity Hitch Rack, Steel Construction. It’s basically a magic shelf that attaches right to my car’s 2″ receiver hitch. The waterproof bag means I’m never worried about soggy gear, and the powder-coated steel has survived every weather throwdown with zero rust. Plus, folding it up when I’m not hauling makes me feel like a cargo-carrying ninja. This thing changed my travel game! —Tina Wallace
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Why a Rack for the Back of My Car Is Necessary
From my experience, having a rack on the back of my car has been a game-changer for convenience and practicality. I often find myself needing extra space for gear, whether it’s bikes, camping equipment, or luggage for road trips. The rear rack gives me that much-needed storage without cramming the inside of my car, keeping the cabin comfortable and clutter-free.
Another reason I appreciate my back-of-car rack is how it makes transporting bulky items so much easier. Without it, I’d struggle to fit things like kayaks or large boxes inside, risking damage or unsafe driving conditions. The rack provides a secure, stable platform that keeps everything in place during travel, giving me peace of mind.
Lastly, installing a rack has saved me money and time. Instead of renting a trailer or making multiple trips, I can load up everything at once. It’s simple, efficient, and has expanded what I can do with my vehicle—something I didn’t realize I needed until I had it.
My Buying Guides on Rack For Back Of Car
When I first decided to get a rack for the back of my car, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to make the right choice. Whether you want to carry bikes, luggage, or other gear, the right rack can make your trips so much easier. Here’s what I learned along the way:
1. Understand What You Need the Rack For
Before I started browsing, I asked myself what I would use the rack for most often. Is it for carrying bikes, extra cargo, or maybe a kayak? Different racks are designed for different purposes, so knowing your primary use helps narrow down the options.
2. Check Compatibility With Your Vehicle
Not every rack fits every car. I made sure to check if the rack was compatible with the make and model of my car. Some racks are universal, but many are specifically designed for certain vehicle shapes or rear door styles, like hatchbacks or SUVs.
3. Decide on the Type of Rack
There are several types of racks for the back of a car:
- Hitch-mounted racks: Great if your car has a trailer hitch. They’re sturdy and can carry heavier loads.
- Trunk-mounted racks: These attach to the trunk or rear hatch and are usually easier to install but may not hold as much weight.
- Spare tire racks: Perfect if you have a rear-mounted spare tire, common on some SUVs and Jeeps.
I weighed the pros and cons of each based on my vehicle and needs.
4. Consider Weight Capacity and Load Size
I checked how much weight the rack could safely carry. Overloading can damage the rack or your car. Also, consider the size of the items you want to carry. For example, bike racks specify how many bikes they can hold and the maximum weight per bike.
5. Look for Durability and Material Quality
Since the rack will be exposed to weather and road conditions, I looked for racks made from rust-resistant materials like aluminum or coated steel. A durable rack ensures longevity and safety.
6. Ease of Installation and Removal
I preferred a rack that I could install and remove without much hassle, especially since I don’t always need it. Some racks come with tool-free installation, which I found very convenient.
7. Security Features
If you leave your car unattended, it’s important that the rack has locking mechanisms to secure the rack itself and the items on it. I looked for racks with included locks or compatibility with aftermarket locks.
8. Budget Considerations
Racks come in a wide price range. I set a budget but kept in mind that sometimes spending a bit more upfront means better quality and longer life.
9. Read Reviews and Get Recommendations
I found it helpful to read user reviews to see real-world experiences with the racks I was considering. Recommendations from friends who use similar racks also helped me avoid common pitfalls.
10. Check Storage When Not in Use
Some racks fold or collapse for easier storage. Since I have limited space at home, I preferred a rack that wouldn’t take up too much room when not attached to my car.
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By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find a rack for the back of my car that fits my needs perfectly. Hopefully, my guide helps you make a confident choice too!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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