Imagine packing for a road trip. You’ve got your gear, your snacks, and your excitement for adventure. But then you look at your car, and realize there’s just not enough space! This is where an aluminum cargo carrier can be a total game-changer. It’s like adding extra trunk space to your vehicle, giving you more room for all your essentials.
Choosing the right aluminum cargo carrier might seem tricky. There are so many different sizes, shapes, and brands out there. You want one that’s strong, lightweight, and fits your car perfectly. You might worry about how much weight it can hold, or if it will be easy to install. It’s easy to feel a little lost when you’re trying to figure out which one is the best for your needs.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the important features, discuss what makes a good carrier, and help you understand how to pick the perfect one for your next adventure. Get ready to say goodbye to packing stress and hello to more room for fun!
Our Top 5 Aluminum Cargo Carrier Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Aluminum Cargo Carrier Detailed Reviews
1. MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails- Trailer Hitch Mount For RV’s
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of stuffing your car, truck, or RV to the brim? The MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier is your answer! This hitch-mounted carrier gives you extra space for all your gear, whether you’re heading out for a weekend camping trip or a cross-country adventure. It easily attaches to your vehicle’s 2-inch hitch receiver, making it a convenient way to haul everything from coolers and tents to sports equipment and luggage.
What We Like:
- The carrier is made of strong aluminum that won’t rust.
- It’s lightweight, making it easy to install and handle.
- A tough steel frame under the basket adds extra support.
- High side rails keep your items safe and offer places to tie things down.
- Reflector lenses and red corner pieces make it more visible at night.
- It offers a lot of space for your gear with its generous basket size.
- It’s simple to clean and take care of.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the aluminum is strong, some might prefer a heavier-duty steel for extreme loads, though the 500-lb capacity is ample for most uses.
- The basket’s interior depth could be a bit more for very tall items, though the exterior dimensions are quite large.
This cargo carrier is a fantastic way to add more hauling capacity to your vehicle without taking up valuable interior space. It’s a practical and reliable solution for anyone who needs to carry more.
2. MaxxHaul Aluminum Cargo Carrier with Hitch Tightener Trailer Hitch Mount for RV Truck SUV Van Car with 2″ Receiver – 500 lb. Load Cap. 47.25″ x 20.25 x 6 Inner Dims. 49″ x 22″ x 6″ Outer Dims.
Rating: 9.1/10
Hitting the road for an adventure? Need more space for all your gear? The MaxxHaul Aluminum Cargo Carrier is your new best friend! This tough carrier attaches right to your vehicle’s hitch, giving you lots of extra room for everything you need to bring along. It’s built to last and designed to make hauling easy.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong aluminum that won’t rust and is easy to clean.
- The steel frame under the basket makes it super sturdy.
- It has reflectors and red corners to help other drivers see you.
- The high sides keep your stuff from falling out, and you can tie things down easily.
- It gives you lots of extra space for camping gear, sports equipment, or anything else you can’t fit inside your car.
- The hitch tightener keeps the carrier from wobbling while you drive.
- It fits most 2-inch hitch receivers on RVs, trucks, SUVs, and vans.
What Could Be Improved:
- The basket’s outer dimensions are a bit large, which might make it tricky to store when not in use for some.
- While it’s aluminum, it’s still a sturdy piece of equipment, so it does add some weight to the back of your vehicle.
This cargo carrier is a fantastic way to expand your vehicle’s storage. Get ready for your next trip with this reliable and spacious hauling solution.
3. MaxxHaul 60″ x 22″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack Basket for Luggage for SUV Truck Car Van – 500 lbs. Capacity
Rating: 9.1/10
Need more space for your gear? The MaxxHaul 60″ x 22″ Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack Basket is a fantastic solution for SUVs, trucks, cars, and vans. This sturdy rack attaches to your vehicle’s hitch, giving you instant extra room for luggage, camping equipment, or anything else you need to haul.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong, light aluminum that won’t rust and is easy to clean.
- The steel frame underneath adds extra strength and has a tough, protective coating.
- It fits standard hitches (Class III and IV) with its 2″ x 2″ hitch shaft.
- Reflector strips and red corners make your vehicle more visible, especially at night.
- It can hold up to 500 pounds, perfect for big trips or moving bulky items.
- It’s a great way to keep the inside of your car clean and free of clutter.
What Could Be Improved:
- You’ll need to put it together before you can use it.
This cargo carrier is a game-changer for anyone who needs more cargo space. It’s a reliable and practical addition to your vehicle for all your adventures.
4. Rockland Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier
Rating: 8.5/10
Need more space for your gear? The Rockland Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier is a great solution. This sturdy carrier easily attaches to your vehicle’s hitch, giving you extra room for all your essentials. It’s perfect for everything from camping gear to sports equipment.
What We Like:
- This carrier is made of strong aluminum, which means it’s tough but also lightweight. It won’t rust, making it a reliable choice for years.
- The steel frame under the basket adds extra strength. High side guards keep your items safe and prevent them from falling out.
- Safety is a priority with this carrier. It has reflective mirrors and red trim so other drivers can see you better. The high rails also offer many places to tie down your cargo securely.
- Setting up this carrier is a breeze. It fits into any 2-inch hitch receiver and only has three main parts to assemble. It’s a quick and easy way to get more cargo space when you need it.
- This carrier can hold up to 500 pounds of gear, giving you plenty of room for your adventures.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the aluminum is great for preventing rust, some users might prefer a heavier-duty material for extreme conditions.
- The silver color, while classic, might show dirt and scuffs more easily than darker options.
This cargo carrier offers a fantastic way to expand your vehicle’s storage capacity. Its strong build and user-friendly design make it a top pick for anyone needing extra room.
5. MaxxHaul Towing Products MaxxHaul 70422 48″ x 21″ Hitch Mount Compact Aluminum Cargo Carrier – 500-lb Load Capacity
Rating: 9.2/10
The MaxxHaul 70422 48″ x 21″ Hitch Mount Compact Aluminum Cargo Carrier is a fantastic addition for anyone who needs extra space for their gear. This carrier easily attaches to your vehicle’s hitch, giving you more room for camping equipment, sports gear, or anything else you need to transport. Its aluminum construction means it’s tough and won’t rust, making it a reliable choice for all sorts of weather.
What We Like:
- The high-grade extruded aluminum basket is built to last and won’t rust. It’s also super easy to clean after a trip.
- Raised side rails are a smart feature. They help keep your cargo secure and give you many places to tie things down.
- The heavy-duty powder-coated steel hitch bar and basket support are strong and durable.
- Built-in reflectors are a great safety addition, making you more visible to other drivers.
- It can hold a good amount of weight, up to 500 lbs. when the weight is spread out evenly.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the aluminum is great, the steel parts could also benefit from a rust-resistant coating for even longer life in harsh conditions.
- The “compact” size is good for many vehicles, but larger SUVs or trucks might benefit from a slightly bigger option.
This cargo carrier is a solid choice for adding convenient and secure storage to your vehicle. It offers a great balance of durability, safety, and practical features for your adventures.
Your Guide to the Perfect Aluminum Cargo Carrier
Heading out on an adventure? Need more space for your gear? An aluminum cargo carrier is a fantastic way to add extra storage to your car, truck, or SUV. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Why Choose Aluminum?
Aluminum is a great material for cargo carriers. It’s lightweight, so it won’t add much extra weight to your vehicle. This can help with gas mileage. Aluminum also won’t rust, so it can handle all kinds of weather. It’s strong enough to hold a lot of gear.
Key Features to Look For
Size and Capacity
Cargo carriers come in different sizes. Think about how much stuff you usually carry. Do you need space for camping gear, sports equipment, or luggage for a family trip? Measure the space on your vehicle where the carrier will go. Check the weight limit of the carrier. Make sure it can hold what you plan to put in it.
Mounting System
Most carriers attach to a roof rack or a hitch receiver. Roof rack carriers sit on top of your car. Hitch carriers slide into the back of your vehicle. Make sure the carrier you choose fits your vehicle’s existing setup. Some are easier to install than others. Look for systems that feel secure.
Design and Shape
Some carriers are open baskets. These are good for bulky items you can strap down. Others are enclosed boxes. These offer more protection from the weather and keep your items hidden. Think about what kind of items you’ll be carrying most often.
Durability and Build Quality
Look for sturdy construction. The frame should be strong. The welds should be clean and solid. The finish should be smooth. A good carrier will last for many trips.
Security Features
Some carriers have locking mechanisms. This is a good idea if you’re worried about theft. You can also get cargo nets or straps to secure your items.
Important Materials
The main material is aluminum. This is usually an alloy, which means it’s mixed with other metals to make it stronger. The fasteners, like bolts and screws, should also be made of strong, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel. Some carriers might have plastic parts for end caps or covers. Good quality plastic is important so it doesn’t break easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Carrier Better?
- Thicker aluminum walls make the carrier stronger.
- Good welds mean the carrier won’t break apart.
- A smooth powder coating protects the aluminum and looks nice.
- Easy-to-use mounting hardware makes installation simple.
- Features like built-in locks add security.
What Makes a Carrier Worse?
- Thin, flimsy aluminum can bend or break.
- Poor welds are a sign of low quality.
- Rust or peeling paint shows the finish isn’t good.
- Difficult or insecure mounting systems are frustrating.
- Lack of security features can be a problem.
User Experience and Use Cases
Easy to Use
A good cargo carrier should be easy to load and unload. The mounting system should be straightforward. If it’s heavy, consider if you can lift it onto your roof rack. Some hitch carriers tilt down, making access to your trunk easier.
Common Uses
- Camping Trips: Pack extra tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear.
- Road Trips: Carry luggage for the whole family without cramming the car.
- Sports Equipment: Transport skis, bikes, or kayaks.
- Moving: Get extra space for items when you’re relocating.
- Beach Days: Bring chairs, umbrellas, and coolers.
An aluminum cargo carrier can make your travels much more comfortable and convenient. By considering these features, materials, and user experiences, you can find the perfect one for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in an aluminum cargo carrier?
A: You should look for the right size and capacity for your needs, a secure and compatible mounting system, a design that suits your cargo, and overall durability and build quality. Security features like locks are also important.
Q: What are the most important materials used in aluminum cargo carriers?
A: The primary material is aluminum alloy. Important fasteners are usually stainless steel for strength and rust resistance. Some parts may use durable, weather-resistant plastic.
Q: What factors improve the quality of an aluminum cargo carrier?
A: Thicker aluminum walls, strong welds, a good protective coating (like powder coating), easy-to-use mounting hardware, and added security features improve quality.
Q: What factors reduce the quality of an aluminum cargo carrier?
A: Thin aluminum, weak welds, poor finishes that rust or peel, difficult mounting systems, and a lack of security features reduce quality.
Q: How does the user experience differ between roof-mounted and hitch-mounted carriers?
A: Roof-mounted carriers are good for freeing up interior space but can be harder to load for shorter people. Hitch-mounted carriers are easier to load and unload, and some tilt for trunk access, but they can make the vehicle longer.
Q: Can I carry camping gear in an aluminum cargo carrier?
A: Yes, camping gear is a very common use for aluminum cargo carriers. They provide extra space for tents, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, and more.
Q: Will an aluminum cargo carrier affect my gas mileage?
A: Yes, adding any carrier will likely decrease your gas mileage slightly due to increased weight and aerodynamic drag. However, aluminum is lighter than steel, which helps minimize this impact.
Q: How do I secure my items in an open-basket cargo carrier?
A: You should use strong cargo nets, bungee cords, or ratchet straps to tie down your items securely. Ensure they are tightly fastened to prevent shifting during travel.
Q: Are aluminum cargo carriers weather-resistant?
A: Yes, aluminum itself is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion. A good powder coating further protects it from the elements, making it a great choice for all types of weather.
Q: How much weight can an aluminum cargo carrier typically hold?
A: The weight capacity varies greatly by model. Always check the product specifications for the specific weight limit of the carrier and your vehicle’s roof rack or hitch capacity.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.