7 Best Hitch Mount Roof Cargo Boxes, Compared

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You need heavy-duty hauling with weather protection HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket The HubPax basket offers 500 lbs capacity and includes a waterproof bag for 16 cubic feet of storage.
• You want the largest capacity for budget travel Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag The Mockins bag provides 30 cubic feet of space at a low cost, though it requires a base.
• You need easy rear access for secure storage StowAway Max 16 cu ft Hitch Cargo Box The StowAway Max features a swingaway frame to access your trunk while keeping 16 cubic feet of cargo secure.
• You drive a truck or SUV and need light storage ARKSEN 16.4 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag The ARKSEN carrier weighs only 15 pounds and includes a net, making it ideal for lighter truck loads.
• You want the highest possible load capacity VEVOR 60" Hitch Cargo Carrier 500 lbs The VEVOR carrier supports up to 500 lbs and includes a waterproof bag for maximum payload utility.

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket

Best for: heavy-duty hitch hauling with built-in weather protection

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

16 cu. ft. (cargo bag)

Shell Type

Soft shell (cargo bag)

Load Capacity

500 lbs

Water Resistance

Waterproof (cargo bag)

Installation

Fits 2" hitch receiver

View on Amazon: HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket

The HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Trailer Cargo Carrier Basket is a complete set that includes a 60"L x 20"W x 6"H steel basket, a 16 cu. ft. waterproof soft-shell cargo bag, cargo net, ratchet straps, and a hitch stabilizer. It supports up to 500 lbs and fits vehicles with a 2" hitch receiver. This setup suits you if you want a heavy-duty, foldable carrier with built-in weather protection.

Pros

• Includes a 16 cu. ft. waterproof cargo bag for weather protection
• 500 lbs load capacity supports heavy gear like camping equipment and coolers
• Foldable basket design saves space when not in use
• Comes with hitch stabilizer to reduce wobble
• Fits 2" hitch receivers on SUVs, trucks, and vans

Cons

• Soft-shell bag offers less security than a hard-shell box
• Basket height is only 6 inches, limiting tall items without the bag
• Requires assembly of multiple components (basket, bag, straps)

Good fit if

• You want a hitch carrier that can handle up to 500 lbs of cargo
• You need a waterproof bag to protect gear from rain and road dust
• You prefer a foldable carrier that stores compactly when not in use

Skip if

• You want a hard-shell locking cargo box for theft resistance
• You need a carrier with more than 6 inches of vertical capacity in the basket
• You prefer a one-piece unit with no assembly required

Verdict: HubPax 60" Hitch Cargo Carrier Basket with Bag is a versatile, heavy-duty hitch carrier that pairs a foldable steel basket with a large waterproof bag, giving you 500 lbs of capacity and weather protection for road trips.

2 Best budget

Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

Best for: budget-conscious travelers needing large, foldable cargo storage

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

30 cu ft

Shell Type

Soft shell

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Security

Combo lock

Installation

3 heavy-duty buckle straps

View on Amazon: Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

This soft-shell cargo bag gives you 30 cubic feet of weatherproof storage for your hitch carrier. It measures 60 x 24 x 36 inches and secures with three heavy-duty buckle straps plus a combo lock. Six packing cubes are included for organization. It suits travelers who want a lightweight, foldable cargo solution that keeps gear dry.

Pros

• 30 cu ft capacity provides ample storage for road trips and camping gear
• Waterproof vinyl shell with sealed zipper and reinforced seams keeps contents dry
• Includes six packing cubes and a combo lock for organization and security
• Soft shell folds flat when not in use for compact storage
• Three heavy-duty buckle straps secure the bag to the hitch carrier

Cons

• Soft shell offers less impact protection than a hard-shell box
• Requires a hitch cargo carrier base (not included) to mount
• No integrated lights or reflectors for nighttime visibility

Good fit if

• You want a large, waterproof cargo bag that can be stored flat when empty
• You already own a hitch cargo carrier and need a weatherproof bag to load onto it
• You value included packing cubes for organizing gear before a trip

Skip if

• You need a rigid, lockable hard-shell cargo box for maximum security
• You prefer a hitch-mounted box that does not require a separate carrier tray
• You need built-in taillights or reflectors for legal night use

Verdict: Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Bag is a practical, budget-friendly soft-shell option that provides large weatherproof storage and comes with useful packing cubes, but it requires a hitch carrier base and offers less protection than a hard box.

3 Also great

StowAway Max 16 cu ft Hitch Cargo Box

Best for: secure, weather-resistant hitch cargo with rear access

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

16 cubic feet

Load Capacity

200 lb

Water Resistance

weather-resistant

Security

keyed locking latch

Dimensions

26 x 23 x 51 in

View on Amazon: StowAway Max 16 cu ft Hitch Cargo Box

The StowAway Max Hitch Cargo Box offers 16 cubic feet of enclosed storage with a 200 lb load rating. Its Swingaway frame pivots to the side for full rear access without removing the carrier. Durable, weather-resistant construction and included LED taillights make it a premium choice for long trips.

Pros

• 16 cubic feet capacity with 200 lb load rating
• Swingaway frame provides full rear access without removing carrier
• Keyed locking latch for security
• LED taillights and reflectors for visibility
• Made in the USA from impact-resistant polymer

Cons

• No remote or smart locking features listed
• Heavier and bulkier than smaller hitch cargo bags
• Only available in two color options (Black or Ivory)

Good fit if

• You need secure, weather-resistant enclosed storage for camping or road trips
• You want full access to your rear hatch or tailgate without removing the carrier
• You prefer a premium, American-made product with integrated lighting

Skip if

• You need more than 16 cubic feet of cargo space
• You want a lightweight, foldable cargo bag rather than a rigid box
• You prefer a lower-cost hitch cargo option

Verdict: StowAway Max Hitch Cargo Box 16 cu ft is a premium, durable hitch-mounted cargo box with a convenient swingaway frame and integrated safety features, ideal for travelers who want secure, weather-resistant storage and easy rear access.

4 Best premium

Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker Cargo Box

Best for: drivers who need easy trunk access with a modular hitch system

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

10 cu ft

Load Capacity

100 lbs

Security

HitchLock and SKS locks

Installation

Tool-Free

View on Amazon: Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker Cargo Box

The Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker is a hitch-mounted cargo box that swings away from your vehicle for easy rear access. It offers 10 cu ft of storage and supports up to 100 lbs. The tool-free installation and included HitchLock and SKS locks add convenience and security. This system suits those who need quick trunk access without unloading gear.

Pros

• 10 cu ft internal volume with 100 lbs load capacity
• SwingBase design allows rear vehicle access without unloading
• Tool-free installation using EXO Cleat system and locking SpeedKnobs
• Includes HitchLock and SKS locks for gear security

Cons

• Smaller capacity than many fixed hitch cargo boxes
• Requires a 2-inch hitch receiver, not compatible with 1.25-inch hitches
• No integrated lights or license plate bracket listed

Good fit if

• You need frequent access to your trunk or hatch while carrying cargo
• You want a hitch box that installs and removes without tools
• You prefer a modular system that can accept other EXO accessories

Skip if

• You need more than 10 cu ft of cargo volume
• You have a 1.25-inch hitch receiver
• You want a fixed, non-swinging carrier for maximum stability

Verdict: Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker Cargo Box is a versatile hitch-mounted cargo box that prioritizes rear vehicle access and tool-free convenience, though its 10 cu ft capacity is smaller than many alternatives.

5 Best truck

ARKSEN 16.4 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

Best for: truck and SUV owners needing a waterproof, lockable soft-sided hitch carrier

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

16.4 Cu Ft

Shell Type

500D PVC

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Security

Combination lock

Dimensions

58 x 20.5 x 24 in

View on Amazon: ARKSEN 16.4 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

The ARKSEN 16.4 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag is a soft-sided cargo box designed for trucks and SUVs. It offers 16.4 cubic feet of storage space and is made from waterproof 500D PVC to protect your gear. The set includes a combination lock, tie-down straps, an anti-rattle hitch tightener, and a cargo net. It suits those who want a lightweight, lockable, and waterproof hitch-mounted storage solution.

Pros

• Waterproof 500D PVC construction
• Includes combination lock for security
• Comes with anti-rattle hitch tightener to reduce noise
• 16.4 cu ft capacity holds 4-7 suitcases
• Includes cargo net and 19.7 ft tie-down straps

Cons

• Soft-sided bag offers less impact protection than hard-shell boxes
• No built-in lighting or reflectors listed
• Requires assembly of multiple components (bag, net, straps)

Good fit if

• You want a lightweight, waterproof cargo carrier for trucks or SUVs
• You prefer a soft bag that can be stored flat when not in use
• You need a lockable hitch carrier with included security features

Skip if

• You need a rigid, hard-shell cargo box for maximum protection
• You require a higher capacity than 16.4 cu ft
• You want a carrier with integrated lights or a swing-away design

Verdict: ARKSEN 16.4 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag is a practical, waterproof, and lockable soft-sided hitch carrier that offers good value for truck and SUV owners who prioritize lightweight storage and included accessories over hard-shell protection.

6 Best one size

Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box

Best for: Thule bike carrier owners seeking a compact, rollable cargo box

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Capacity

9 Cu Ft

Shell Type

Hard-shell

Load Capacity

99 lb

Dimensions

59.1 x 26.6 x 22 in

Size

One Size

View on Amazon: Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box

The Thule Santu is a premium hard-shell cargo box designed to mount on Thule rear-mounted bike carriers like the Epos and EasyFold XT. It offers 9 cubic feet of internal volume and a 99-pound load capacity. The box sits low for easy loading, includes wheels and a grab handle for rolling, and can be attached by one person. It suits those who already own a compatible Thule bike rack.

Pros

• Hard-shell construction for secure cargo protection
• Wheels and grab handle let you roll the box to the car
• One-person attachment saves setup time
• Low ground height makes loading and unloading ergonomic

Cons

• Only fits Thule Epos and EasyFold XT bike carriers, not universal
• 9 Cu Ft capacity is smaller than many standalone hitch cargo boxes
• No remote or locking mechanism listed in specs

Good fit if

• You own a Thule Epos or EasyFold XT bike carrier and want to add cargo space
• You prefer a hard-shell box that is easy to roll and attach alone
• You need a low-profile box for convenient loading without lifting high

Skip if

• You do not have a compatible Thule bike carrier
• You need a larger cargo capacity than 9 cubic feet
• You want a universal hitch-mounted cargo box that works with any rack

Verdict: Thule Santu Hitch Cargo Box, 9 Cu Ft is a specialized hard-shell box that integrates with select Thule bike carriers, offering easy rolling and one-person attachment, but its limited capacity and carrier-specific fit make it a niche choice.

7 Best 500 lb

VEVOR 60" Hitch Cargo Carrier 500 lbs

Best for: heavy loads up to 500 lb with included waterproof bag

Mount Type

Hitch Mount (what this guide is about)

Load Capacity

500 lbs

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Dimensions

59.9 x 24 x 5.98 in

Vehicle Type

SUV

Includes Bag

With Bag

View on Amazon: VEVOR 60" Hitch Cargo Carrier 500 lbs

The VEVOR 60" x 24" hitch cargo carrier is a heavy-duty steel platform that holds up to 500 lbs. It includes a waterproof cargo bag with a combination lock, a cargo net with hooks, and ratchet straps. The frame folds 90 degrees when not in use. This carrier suits anyone who needs a large, lockable, and weather-protected cargo solution for a 2-inch hitch receiver.

Pros

• 500 lb load capacity, the highest on this list
• Includes a waterproof PVC cargo bag with a combination lock
• Frame folds 90° for storage without disassembly
• Heavy-duty steel with powder-coated rust-resistant finish

Cons

• Cargo bag is a separate compartment; the platform itself is open and not enclosed
• Requires a 2-inch receiver; no adapter for 1.25-inch hitches is listed
• At 53.8 lb, the carrier is heavy to handle when installing or removing

Good fit if

• You need to carry up to 500 lb of gear on a hitch-mounted platform
• You want a waterproof, lockable cargo bag included with the carrier
• You prefer a foldable frame that stores upright without removing the hitch pin

Skip if

• You have a 1.25-inch hitch receiver and don't want to buy an adapter
• You want a fully enclosed hard-shell cargo box rather than a platform with a bag
• You need a lighter carrier that is easier to lift on and off the vehicle

Verdict: VEVOR 60" x 24" Hitch Cargo Carrier with Bag is the best choice for maximum payload capacity at 500 lb, with a waterproof bag and foldable frame for convenient storage.

Specifications side by side

Is a Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Worth It?

A hitch mount moves storage away from your roofline. You gain easier rear access with swingaway designs like the StowAway Max or Yakima EXO. You avoid roof rack crossbars entirely. These carriers attach to your receiver hitch. Hard boxes like the Thule Santu offer 9 cubic feet of protected space. Soft bags like the Mockins provide 30 cubic feet. You must verify your hitch receiver size and vehicle weight rating before loading. This setup keeps your roof clear for other gear.

Worth it if

• You need easy rear access to your trunk
• You want to keep your roof racks free for bikes
• Your vehicle has a compatible hitch receiver

Skip it if

• You drive a vehicle without a hitch receiver
• You need to carry oversized items that exceed hitch width limits
• You prefer storing gear on the roof for aerodynamic benefits

How we picked hitch mounts

We selected products by matching the Mount Type: Hitch Mount attribute from Amazon listings. We only included one size or variant per product family. All details come from published specifications and feature lists. We did not physically handle any items. The guide covers 7 hitch mount carriers. We ordered them by availability first, then by overall rating weighted by review count, and finally by how many criteria the specs meet. This ensures you see the most relevant options first. We focus strictly on data to help you compare capacity, weight, and dimensions. We never claim to test products or quote customer reviews. You can trust that every spec listed is verified from the source. This method keeps the guide practical and accurate for your needs.

How to choose the right hitch carrier

1. Match shell type to needs

   Decide between hard and soft shells based on security and space. Hard boxes like the StowAway Max provide rigid protection for 16 cubic feet of gear. Soft bags such as the Mockins option offer 30 cubic feet of flexible storage. You should choose a hard shell if you need weather resistance and theft deterrence. A soft bag is better if you prioritize maximum volume and easy folding for storage. Consider how you store the carrier when not in use to make the right choice.

2. Check hitch receiver compatibility

   Verify your vehicle hitch receiver size before buying. Most hitch carriers require a standard 2-inch receiver. Ensure the carrier’s mounting hardware fits your specific hitch type. Some models, like the Thule Santu, are designed to integrate with specific bike carriers. This limits their compatibility to users who already own those Thule systems. Always confirm the physical connection points match your vehicle to avoid installation issues. Proper fit ensures stability and safety while driving on the road.

3. Compare load capacity ratings

   Check the maximum weight rating to ensure safety. The VEVOR carrier supports up to 500 pounds, making it suitable for heavy loads. The HubPax basket also offers a 500-pound capacity with its sturdy steel frame. You must never exceed your vehicle’s hitch weight rating. Overloading can damage your vehicle’s suspension and compromise handling. Compare the carrier’s limit with your expected cargo weight. Choose a model with a margin above your typical load for safety.

4. Consider rear access convenience

   Look for swingaway features if you need trunk access. The StowAway Max includes a swingaway frame to move the box out of the way. The Yakima EXO system also prioritizes easy rear vehicle access. These designs allow you to open your rear hatch without removing the carrier. This is useful for quick stops or accessing items stored in the trunk. If rear access is not a priority, a fixed mount may offer more stability and simplicity.

5. Evaluate weather protection features

   Assess how well the carrier protects your gear from rain. Hard shells like the StowAway Max offer inherent water resistance. Soft bags like the Mockins and ARKSEN options include waterproof covers. The HubPax basket comes with a large waterproof bag for added protection. Check if the bag material is durable and sealed against moisture. You should also consider if the carrier includes a net for extra security against wind-blown items.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best roof cargo boxes under 150
• best roof cargo boxes under 300