StowAway Max Hitch Cargo Box Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How these alternatives compare to StowAway

Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker Cargo Box

The Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker also features a swing-away design for rear access, similar to the StowAway Max. However, it offers a smaller 10 cubic feet capacity and a lower 100-pound load limit. You give up volume and weight tolerance for a premium, modular system that installs without tools. The hard shell is lockable and weather-resistant. This option suits those who prioritize easy installation and brand prestige over maximum storage space. If you need to carry heavy gear, the StowAway’s 200-pound rating is superior. Choose Yakima if your load is light and you value quick, tool-free setup on the road.

Thule Motion 3 XXL Roof Box

The Thule Motion 3 XXL is a roof-mounted box, not a hitch carrier. It provides massive 95 by 40 inch dimensions for aerodynamic efficiency and high volume. You lose the convenience of hitch mounting and the swingaway rear access feature entirely. This product is designed for drivers who prioritize maximum storage volume and aerodynamic performance over easy loading from the ground. It fits on roof racks rather than a receiver hitch. If you have a roof rack system and need extensive space for long items, this is a strong alternative. It lacks the ground-level accessibility of the StowAway Max but offers superior wind resistance and capacity for large loads.

HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket

The HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket offers a similar 16 cubic feet capacity but uses a soft waterproof bag and an open basket design. You lose the enclosed, weather-resistant hard shell protection of the StowAway Max. The shallow basket limits security and height capacity. This option is for budget-conscious buyers who need a complete set with a bag. It lacks the rigidity and secure locking mechanisms of a hard box. If you are willing to trade weather protection and security for a lower price and modular bag system, this pick works. It is less stable on the road than the molded polymer construction of the StowAway.

Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

The Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag provides double the storage volume of the StowAway Max with 30 cubic feet of capacity. It is a soft-shell, waterproof option with included packing cubes. You give up the rigid hard shell structure and the swingaway frame for rear access. This bag requires a separate carrier base and lacks the integrated security features of a hard box. It is ideal for those who need maximum volume and do not mind using a soft container. The 20-pound weight is manageable, but the lack of rigidity means gear is less protected. Choose Mockins if volume is your primary concern over secure, enclosed storage.

ARKSEN 16.4 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

The ARKSEN 16.4 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag offers 16.4 cubic feet of capacity, slightly more than the StowAway Max. It is a lockable, waterproof soft-sided bag with a steel frame and included net. You lose the hard shell rigidity and the convenient swingaway frame for rear hatch access. This option suits truck and SUV owners who need waterproof storage and security features in a soft package. The 15-pound weight is light, but the soft shell offers less protection against impacts. If you prefer a lockable bag over a hard box and do not need the swingaway feature, this is a practical alternative. It lacks the premium feel of the molded polymer construction.

ENROAD XL Slim Roof Box with Solar Panel

The ENROAD XL Slim Roof Box is a roof-mounted hard shell with dual-side opening and integrated solar panel charging. It is not a hitch carrier, so you lose the ground-level access and swingaway feature. This product is for travelers who need device charging and keyless access while driving. It offers unique power features but requires a roof rack installation. If you need roof-mounted storage with smart features, this is a distinct alternative. It lacks the hitch mounting convenience and the specific rear access benefits of the StowAway Max. Choose ENROAD if you prioritize solar charging and roof mounting over hitch-based cargo solutions.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

StowAway Max 16 cu ft Hitch Cargo Box

Best for: hitch cargo storage with full rear access

Capacity

16 cubic feet

Load Capacity

200 lb

Water Resistance

weather-resistant

Security

keyed locking latch

Dimensions

26 x 23 x 51 in

Mount Type

Hitch Mount

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

The StowAway Max is a 16-cubic-foot hitch cargo box with a 200-pound load rating. Its Swingaway frame pivots aside for full rear access without removing the carrier. Made from impact-resistant polymer with a keyed locking latch, reflectors, and LED taillights, it suits anyone who needs secure, weather-resistant storage and easy access to their vehicle's rear.

Pros

• 16 cubic feet of enclosed cargo space
• 200-pound load capacity
• Swingaway frame provides full rear access without removing the carrier
• Keyed locking latch for security
• Includes reflectors and LED taillights for visibility

Cons

• Available only in Ivory or Black, no other color options
• Requires assembly of the Swingaway frame to the cargo box
• No integrated remote or smart lock listed

Good fit if

• You need a hitch cargo box that lets you open your rear doors or tailgate without removing the carrier
• You want a weather-resistant box with a 200-pound capacity for camping gear or luggage
• You prefer a product made in the USA with impact-resistant polymer construction

Skip if

• You need a cargo carrier with a higher load capacity than 200 pounds
• You want a roof-mounted box instead of a hitch-mounted one
• You need a carrier that folds flat for storage when not in use

Verdict: StowAway Max 16 cu ft Hitch Cargo Box offers a generous 16 cubic feet of enclosed storage, a 200-pound load rating, and a convenient Swingaway frame for full rear access, making it a solid choice for secure, weather-resistant hitch cargo transport.

2 Best premium

Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker Cargo Box

Best for: swing-away access and modular hitch cargo

Capacity

10 cu ft

Load Capacity

100 lbs

Security

HitchLock and SKS locks

Installation

Tool-Free

Mount Type

Hitch Mount

View on Amazon: Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker Cargo Box

This Yakima EXO system turns your 2-inch hitch into a cargo platform with a 10-cubic-foot GearLocker. It swings away from the vehicle for rear access. The locker holds up to 100 pounds. Installation is tool-free. It suits you if you want a premium, expandable hitch cargo system.

Pros

• Swings away from the vehicle for easy trunk access without unloading gear
• 10 cu ft GearLocker with 100 lb load capacity
• Tool-free installation with locking SpeedKnobs
• Includes HitchLock and SKS locks for security

Cons

• 10 cu ft capacity is smaller than many fixed hitch boxes
• 100 lb load limit may be lower than some cargo carriers
• Requires a 2-inch hitch receiver (no 1.25-inch option listed)

Good fit if

• You need to open your trunk or hatch while the rack is installed
• You want a modular hitch system with a lockable cargo box
• You prefer tool-free installation and removal

Skip if

• You need more than 10 cu ft of cargo volume
• You plan to carry more than 100 lbs on the hitch
• You have a 1.25-inch hitch receiver

Verdict: Yakima EXO SwingBase with GearLocker is a premium hitch cargo box that swings out of the way, offers tool-free install, and gives you a lockable 10 cu ft box with a 100 lb load limit.

3 Also great

Thule Motion 3 XXL Roof Box

Best for: Maximum roof storage volume and aerodynamics

Security

SlideLock system

Installation

PowerClick quick-mount

Dimensions

95 x 40 x 20 in

View on Amazon: Thule Motion 3 XXL Roof Box

The Thule Motion 3 XXL is an XX-Large roof cargo box measuring 95 inches long, 40 inches wide, and 20 inches high. It features a wing-shaped profile for reduced drag and a PowerClick quick-mount system with a torque indicator. The SlideLock system handles locking and opening separately. This box suits you if you need maximum volume for large loads while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency on the road.

Pros

• Wing-shaped profile reduces drag for better fuel efficiency
• PowerClick system with torque indicator ensures secure mounting
• SlideLock separates locking and opening functions for safety
• Wide handle allows one-handed operation

Cons

• 20-inch height may exceed clearance for some garages
• 95-inch length is very long for smaller vehicles
• No integrated lock cylinder mentioned in specifications

Good fit if

• You need maximum storage volume for bulky gear
• You want aerodynamic design to save fuel
• You prefer quick and secure mounting systems

Skip if

• You have low garage clearance under 20 inches
• Your vehicle roof cannot support a 95-inch load
• You need a hitch-mounted carrier instead of roof

Verdict: Thule Motion 3 XXL offers substantial 95 by 40 inch capacity with aerodynamic efficiency. It fits drivers who prioritize volume and secure mounting over compact storage.

4 Best budget

HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket

Best for: budget-conscious buyers needing a complete hitch cargo set

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

Vehicle Compatibility

SUVs, trucks, vans with 2" receiver

View on Amazon: HubPax Hitch Mount Folding Cargo Carrier Basket

The HubPax hitch cargo carrier combines a 60" x 20" steel basket with a 16 cu. ft. waterproof soft-shell bag. It supports up to 500 lbs and folds up when not in use. This set includes a cargo net, ratchet straps, and a hitch stabilizer. It is a budget-friendly solution for adding rear storage to SUVs, trucks, and vans with a 2" receiver.

Pros

• 500 lbs load capacity for heavy gear
• Includes 16 cu. ft. waterproof cargo bag
• Folding basket saves space when not in use
• Comes with cargo net, straps, and hitch stabilizer
• Fits 2" hitch receivers on most SUVs, trucks, and vans

Cons

• Soft-shell bag offers less security than a hard shell
• Basket depth is only 6 inches, limiting tall items
• No swing-away feature for rear hatch access

Good fit if

• You want a complete hitch cargo kit with a waterproof bag included
• You need a 500 lb capacity for heavy camping or moving gear
• You prefer a folding basket for easy storage when not in use

Skip if

• You need a hard-shell cargo box for lockable security
• You require a swing-away design to access your trunk without removing the carrier
• You plan to carry tall items that exceed 6 inches in the basket

Verdict: HubPax 60" Hitch Basket with Waterproof Bag is a practical budget pick that gives you a sturdy basket and a large waterproof bag in one package, though the soft shell and shallow basket limit security and height.

5 Best 30 cubic feet

Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

Best for: hitch cargo bag with large waterproof storage and packing cubes

Capacity

30 cu ft

Shell Type

Soft shell

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Security

Combo lock

Installation

3 heavy-duty buckle straps

Dimensions

60 x 24 x 36 inches

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

The Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Bag is a soft-shell cargo carrier that mounts to your hitch using three heavy-duty buckle straps. It offers 30 cubic feet of storage and comes with six packing cubes and a combo lock. This bag suits you if you want a waterproof, weatherproof cargo solution that folds away when not in use.

Pros

• 30 cu ft capacity provides ample storage for road trips and camping gear
• Waterproof vinyl shell with waterproof zipper and protective flap keeps contents dry
• Includes six packing cubes for organized packing and a combo lock for security
• Folds compactly for storage when not in use

Cons

• Soft shell offers less protection against impacts than a hard cargo box
• Requires a hitch-mounted cargo carrier base (not included) to attach the bag
• No integrated lighting or reflectors for visibility at night

Good fit if

• You need a large, weatherproof cargo bag that can be stored flat when empty
• You already own a hitch cargo carrier and want a waterproof bag to protect your gear

Skip if

• You prefer a hard-shell cargo box for maximum security and impact resistance
• You want a hitch-mounted carrier that includes the platform or basket

Verdict: Mockins 30 cu ft Hitch Cargo Bag is a practical, weatherproof soft-shell option for hitch hauling, offering generous capacity and included packing cubes, but it requires a separate carrier base and lacks the rigidity of a hard box.

6 Best lockable

ARKSEN 16.4 Cu Ft Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag

Best for: truck owners wanting a waterproof, lockable hitch bag

Capacity

16.4 Cu Ft

Shell Type

500D PVC

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Security

Combination lock

Dimensions

58 x 20.5 x 24 in

Vehicle Type

SUV, Truck

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

This ARKSEN hitch cargo carrier bag is a soft-sided alternative to a hard cargo box, made from waterproof 500D PVC. It offers 16.4 cubic feet of storage space, measures 58 x 20.5 x 24 inches, and includes a combination lock, cargo net, tie-down straps, and an anti-rattle stabilizer. It suits truck and SUV owners who want a waterproof, lockable bag for bulky gear.

Pros

• Waterproof 500D PVC shell protects gear from weather
• Includes a combination lock for security
• Comes with a cargo net, tie-down straps, and anti-rattle stabilizer
• 16.4 cu ft capacity fits 4-7 suitcases or camping gear

Cons

• Soft-sided bag offers less impact protection than a hard shell
• No swing-away frame listed, so access to rear hatch may be blocked
• Assembly requires attaching straps and net; not a one-piece unit

Good fit if

• You want a lightweight, waterproof cargo bag instead of a hard box
• You need a lockable hitch carrier that includes security and anti-rattle hardware
• You have a truck or SUV and carry bulky items like tents or luggage

Skip if

• You need a rigid, hard-shell cargo box for maximum protection
• You want a hitch carrier with a swing-away feature for rear hatch access
• You prefer a carrier that comes fully assembled out of the box

Verdict: ARKSEN Waterproof Hitch Cargo Carrier Bag is a practical soft-sided alternative for truck and SUV owners who need waterproof storage and included security features, but it lacks the rigidity and hatch access of a hard-shell box.

7 Best hard shell

ENROAD XL Slim Roof Box with Solar Panel

Best for: roof-mounted storage with charging

Shell Type

Hard shell

Opening

Dual-side

Water Resistance

Waterproof

Installation

ClickHold Mounting System

Vehicle Type

SUV, Truck, Van

Mount Type

Roof Mount

View on Amazon: ENROAD XL Slim Roof Box with Solar Panel

This is a hard shell roof cargo box with dual-side opening. It features a fingerprint sensor with a 0.5-second response time and supports 20 fingerprints. The unit includes a 30W solar panel and a 24,000mAh power bank. It uses a ClickHold mounting system for quick installation. The design won the Red Dot Award for aerodynamics. It is waterproof and suitable for SUVs, trucks, and vans.

Pros

• Capacitive fingerprint sensor with 99% recognition rate
• Includes 30W solar panel and 24,000mAh power bank
• Dual-side opening for easy access
• ClickHold mounting system for two-step installation
• Waterproof hard shell construction

Cons

• No hitch mount option; requires roof bars
• No remote control for locking
• No app connectivity for status checks

Good fit if

• You want quick access from both sides
• You need to charge devices on the go
• You prefer keyless entry via fingerprint

Skip if

• You need a hitch-mounted carrier
• You do not have roof bars
• You want a folding design

Verdict: ENROAD Slim Roof Cargo Box offers unique power and security features for roof-mounted storage. It suits travelers who need device charging and keyless access while driving.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions