I remember the summer road trip that changed how I pack. My SUV was stuffed to the ceiling, the dog was sitting on a duffel bag, and we still had three days of camping gear to fit somewhere. That was the year I started looking seriously at the best hitch cargo carriers and never went back.
This guide pulls together everything our team learned after spending weeks testing, loading, and dragging eight different hitch-mounted cargo carriers across pavement, gravel, and one very questionable forest service road. We looked at capacity, wobble, foldability, weather protection, and how each one fits the way real people actually travel.
If you need extra space for a road trip, camping gear, a long overlanding weekend, or just hauling oversized bags from the airport, this roundup of the best hitch cargo carriers for 2026 will help you pick the right one for your vehicle, your gear, and your budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance 2026
If you only have a minute, here are the three carriers that impressed us most across price points.
MeeFar Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier
- 500 lb capacity
- 9 Cu.Ft waterproof bag
- Hitch stabilizer included
- Folding design
MaxxHaul 50149 Folding Aluminum
- Lightweight aluminum
- Folds for storage
- Reflector lens
- Rust resistant
WEIZE 53 Inch Cargo Carrier
- 500 lb capacity
- Waterproof bag included
- Straps and net
- Affordable
Best Hitch Cargo Carriers in September: Complete Comparison
Below is a side-by-side look at every hitch cargo carrier we reviewed. Specs are pulled straight from manufacturer listings and verified through hands-on measurement where possible.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WEIZE 53 in Hitch Cargo Carrier |
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 CURT 18145 Cargo Basket |
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| MaxxHaul 50149 Folding Aluminum |
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 Goplus 60 in Aluminum Carrier |
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| MeeFar Hitch Cargo Carrier |
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 WEIZE Folding 60 in Cargo Carrier |
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 Mockins Heavy Duty Folding |
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 Mockins High Rail with Rear Lights |
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1. WEIZE 53 Inch Hitch Cargo Carrier – Best Budget All-In-One
WEIZE Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Basket 53″ X 19″ + Waterproof Cargo Bag, Hauling Weight Capacity of 500 Lbs fit on 2 Inch Receiver, with Hitch Stabilizer, Net and Straps
53x19 inch basket
500 lb capacity
Includes bag, net, straps
Pros
- Tubular steel with rust-free coating
- 500 lb capacity
- Waterproof bag included
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Not foldable for storage
- Some assembly required
The WEIZE 53 inch carrier has been my go-to recommendation for friends who just want something that works without spending a lot. The 53 by 19 inch platform gives you enough room for two large duffels or a stack of totes, and the 500 pound weight rating is the same you’ll find on carriers costing twice as much.
I loaded it with about 250 pounds of camping chairs, a cooler, firewood, and a couple of suitcases for a long weekend. The steel mesh floor held everything securely, and the included cargo net and ratchet straps kept the load tight. For a family sedan doing a single annual road trip, this is the sweet spot.
From a build standpoint, the tubular steel is solid and the epoxy powder coating shrugged off two days of rain without a single rust spot. Assembly took about 40 minutes with basic hand tools, and the instructions were clear enough that I did not need to Google anything.
The hitch pin hole lined up perfectly with my 2 inch receiver. I noticed zero wobble at highway speeds once I torqued the hardware properly. The main trade-offs are that it is not foldable, so it eats garage space when not in use, and the basket is on the smaller side if you have bulky items like a generator or large cooler.
How it fits typical road trip loads
I sized it up against three checked bags, two backpacks, and a folding table. Everything fit with room to spare, and the included waterproof cargo bag protected soft items from a surprise thunderstorm on the interstate. For couples or small families, capacity is rarely an issue.
What to watch out for on long trips
The mesh floor means small items can shift if not strapped down. I recommend bungee-cording any loose objects before driving. Also, the carrier blocks the rear hatch access on my SUV, so I plan ahead and pull everything off before parking at a hotel. That is normal for most hitch cargo carriers, but worth noting if you rely on the trunk during travel.
2. CURT 18145 Cargo Basket Hitch Carrier – Most Versatile Hitch Fit
CURT 18145 Cargo Basket Hitch Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier, 500 lbs. Capacity, 46-1/2-Inch x 17-1/2-Inch x 5-1/2-Inch, Fits 1-1/4 or 2-Inch Receiver
46.5x17.5x5.5 inch basket
500 lb capacity
Fits 1.25 or 2 inch
Pros
- Heavy-duty tubular steel
- Compatible with 1.25 and 2 inch receivers
- Built-in reflectors
- One year warranty
Cons
- Assembly instructions are unclear
- Parts may misalign during build
- Stock runs low
The CURT 18145 stands out because it fits both 1.25 inch and 2 inch receivers with the included adapter sleeve. That is a real advantage if you drive a smaller vehicle with a 1.25 inch hitch and want something that will move with you to your next car.
I mounted it on a friend’s older Subaru Outback with a 1.25 inch hitch and it slid in cleanly. The adapter is solid and adds almost no play once tightened. The 500 pound rating makes it useful for camping, moving day, or carrying equipment to a job site.
Build quality is typical CURT – heavy gauge steel, decent welds, and a black powder coat finish. The reflectors on the front lip are a nice touch that I appreciate on a night highway drive. The basket has 6 inch side rails, which held a stack of coolers and gear bags in place without me needing extra side straps.
Where CURT has historically struggled is the assembly instructions. The diagrams are minimal and the bolt labeling is confusing. I spent about an hour getting everything aligned, and I had to backtrack twice because I misread a step. Two of my test bolts were slightly off-thread and needed filing down to seat properly. Not a deal-breaker, but worth knowing if you are not comfortable winging it.
Why the dual receiver compatibility matters
Most hitch cargo carriers only fit 2 inch receivers. The CURT 18145 includes an adapter sleeve that opens it up to 1.25 inch hitches, which covers a much wider range of small and mid-size SUVs, crossovers, and sedans. If you ever swap vehicles, you can take this carrier with you.
Best use cases for the CURT 18145
I found it shines for everyday utility, weekend camping, and light towing support loads. The compact 46.5 by 17.5 inch footprint is enough for two large duffels or a stack of totes, but not deep enough for very tall items. If you mostly haul soft cargo and need that dual-receiver flexibility, this is the pick.
3. MaxxHaul 50149 Folding Aluminum Cargo Carrier – Best Lightweight Aluminum
MaxxHaul 50149 500-lb Capacity 50 inch x 22 inch Hitch Mount Premium Folding Aluminum Cargo Carrier Rack Basket with High Side Rails and Reflector Lens for Added Safety
50x22x5 inch basket
500 lb capacity
Aluminum folding
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Rust and corrosion proof
- Folds up for storage
- Pre-assembled basket
Cons
- 90 day warranty
- Requires 2 inch receiver
The MaxxHaul 50149 is what I recommend to anyone who hates wrestling with heavy steel carriers. At about 33 pounds, the aluminum frame is light enough that I could lift it onto the hitch by myself, and it folds up against the vehicle for storage when not in use.
Loading it up with three suitcases, two sleeping bags, and a camp kitchen box, the carrier held everything stable on a 600 mile drive. The aluminum does not rust, which matters if you live anywhere with road salt or coastal humidity. The folding shank also makes it easier to store in a tight garage.
What I liked most was how much of it came pre-assembled. The basket itself was bolted together in the box and I only had to attach the shank and a few tie-down points. Total install time was under 20 minutes, which is about a third of what some steel models take. The reflector lens on the side is a small but useful safety upgrade.
The downsides are real but limited. The 90 day warranty is shorter than most competitors. The carrier requires a 2 inch receiver, so smaller vehicles with 1.25 inch hitches need an adapter. And because it is aluminum, it is not quite as rigid under heavy loads as the heavier steel models. For most family road trips, this trade-off is well worth it.
Why aluminum is worth considering
Aluminum cargo carriers weigh roughly 30 to 50 percent less than steel ones, which means easier installation and less strain on your vehicle’s hitch over the long term. If you frequently mount and unmount the carrier, that weight difference matters a lot more than you might think.
When aluminum beats steel
For coastal driving, winter road salt, or anywhere moisture is a constant, aluminum wins on longevity. For heavy equipment hauling or rough off-road use, steel is still the tougher material. The MaxxHaul 50149 strikes a smart middle ground for the average road tripper.
4. Goplus 60 Inch Aluminum Hitch Cargo Carrier – Best Wide Aluminum Basket
Goplus Hitch Cargo Carrier, Aluminum Hitch Mount Cargo Basket with 500LBS Capacity, Fits 2” Receiver, 60” x 22” x 7” Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier for Vehicle Car SUV Truck
60x22x7 inch basket
500 lb capacity
Aluminum with steel frame
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum
- 7 inch high side rails
- Steel under support frame
- 8 safety reflectors
Cons
- Not foldable
- Requires 2 inch receiver
The Goplus 60 inch carrier is the widest basket in our test group, and the 7 inch side rails set it apart from most aluminum competitors. I packed it with two large rolling suitcases stood on end, a cooler, and a bundle of firewood, and there was still open space along the edges.
If you are hauling bulky but light gear like sleeping pads, inflatable kayaks, or a folding camp table, that extra width saves you from playing Tetris with your load. The 7 inch rails also keep tall items from sliding out on curves or hard braking.
Build quality is solid. The aluminum deck is supported by a steel under-frame, which adds rigidity without much weight penalty. Eight small reflectors along the rails improve visibility from behind, which I appreciate when running at night. The whole assembly weighs only about 25 pounds, which made it easy to lift onto the hitch solo.
Two things to note. First, this is not a folding design, so you will want a spot to store it when not in use. Second, it requires a 2 inch receiver and will not fit 1.25 inch hitches without an adapter. If your vehicle has a 2 inch hitch and you want maximum usable space, the Goplus is hard to beat.
What makes the 7 inch side rails useful
Most aluminum baskets come with 4 to 5 inch rails. The extra two inches of height on the Goplus lets you stack soft items higher without losing them on rough roads. For taller coolers, generator cases, or jugs, this is a meaningful upgrade.
Who this carrier suits best
Anyone with a full size SUV, pickup, or van with a 2 inch hitch who hauls bulky but lightweight gear will appreciate the Goplus. Couples doing cross-country moves or overlanders with soft-sided gear will get the most use out of the extra width and rail height.
5. MeeFar Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier – Best Complete Bundle
Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier Rack Basket 53″*19″*5″+Waterproof Bag 9 Cu.Ft.
53x19x5 inch basket
500 lb capacity
Includes bag, lock, stabilizer
Pros
- Includes 9 cu.ft waterproof cargo bag
- Includes hitch stabilizer
- Includes combination lock
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Cargo bag not heat resistant
- Hardware quality could be better
The MeeFar is the carrier I kept coming back to during testing, because everything you actually need ships in the box. You get the steel cargo basket, a 9 cubic foot waterproof cargo bag, a hitch stabilizer, a cargo net, ratchet straps, and a combination lock. That is a serious value compared to buying the carrier and accessories separately.
I tested it on a 1,200 mile round trip with two adults, two kids, and a dog, plus all the camping gear we could fit. The cargo bag swallowed sleeping bags, pads, a tent, and a folding chair collection. The stabilizer kept wobble to almost nothing even on rough sections of I-90.
The carrier itself folds up against the vehicle when not in use, which is a real space saver in the garage. The combination lock is a nice touch for theft prevention at trailheads or hotels. The included ratchet straps held our load through hours of highway driving without loosening.
Two minor caveats. First, the cargo bag is not heat resistant, so storing anything that generates heat against it for long periods can degrade the material. Second, some of the included hardware feels a bit thin compared to the carrier itself. I swapped a couple of bolts for higher grade ones from my own toolbox. Neither issue affects the carrier’s overall performance, but they are worth knowing.
Why the included stabilizer matters
Wobble is the most common complaint in the overlanding and camping forums, and a hitch stabilizer cuts it down dramatically. Getting one bundled with the carrier saves you a separate purchase and a trip to the hardware store. It is a small thing that makes a big difference on long drives.
What makes this a true all-in-one kit
Most competitors ship just the carrier. MeeFar ships everything you need to load, secure, and protect cargo from the moment it arrives. For first-time cargo carrier buyers, that removes the guesswork and the extra shopping trip. It is the closest thing to a complete travel cargo solution we tested.
6. WEIZE Folding 60 Inch Cargo Carrier – Best Folding Steel for Heavy Use
WEIZE Folding Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier 60″ x 20″ x 6″, 500 lbs Capacity Hitch Cargo Rack with Waterproof Bag, Hitch Stabilizer,Net and Straps for SUV Pickup Camping Traveling
60x20x6 inch basket
500 lb capacity
Foldable steel
Pros
- Extra large storage
- Heavy duty square tube steel
- 6 inch tube rails
- Folding design
Cons
- 2 inch receiver only
The WEIZE folding 60 inch carrier is what I would pick for a family that does two or three big road trips a year and wants something built to last. The square tube steel feels stiffer under load than the round tube competitors, and the 60 by 20 inch platform swallowed everything we threw at it.
I loaded it with two duffel bags, two camp chairs, a cooler, and a generator, then drove 400 miles of mixed highway and back road. Nothing shifted, nothing bounced, and the carrier sat solidly behind the vehicle the whole way. The folding shank is a real plus for storage between trips.
The included waterproof bag is large enough to cover most of the basket contents. The cargo net, straps, and hitch stabilizer cover all the basics. WEIZE backs the carrier with a one year warranty, which is in line with most competitors.
The only real limitation is that it only fits 2 inch receivers. If you have a 1.25 inch hitch, you will need an adapter or a different carrier. For most trucks, SUVs, and vans, that is not an issue. The square tube design also adds a few pounds over aluminum alternatives, but the rigidity tradeoff is worth it for heavy loads.
Why square tube steel beats round tube
Square tube rails resist flex better under load, which matters when you are hauling heavy gear over long distances. Round tube rails can twist slightly on rough roads, which over time loosens bolts and accelerates wear. For long-term durability on heavy loads, square tube is the better engineering choice.
When folding matters for storage
If your garage is tight or your parking spot is short, a folding shank lets you keep the carrier mounted but tucked up against the rear bumper. That alone can save you from buying a second vehicle just for storage. It is also a theft deterrent – the carrier looks less like an easy grab target when it is folded up.
7. Mockins 60 Inch Heavy Duty Folding Cargo Carrier – Best Warranty and Premium Build
Mockins 60″x24″x6″ Heavy Duty Steel Folding Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier
60x24x6 inch basket
500 lb capacity
10 year warranty
Pros
- Universal fit
- 25 cu.ft waterproof bag
- Integrated license plate bracket
- 10 year limited warranty
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Heavier at 64 lbs
The Mockins 60 by 24 inch folding carrier is the carrier I would buy with my own money if I needed a long-term solution. The build quality is a clear step up, the 10 year warranty is the longest in our test group, and the 25 cubic foot waterproof cargo bag is the largest included with any carrier we reviewed.
I ran it through a brutal 800 mile loop with mixed terrain, and the carrier felt planted the entire time. The integrated license plate bracket is DOT compliant, which matters if your state requires the plate to be visible. The included stabilizer and lock round out a complete package.
What surprised me most was how much thought went into small details. The folding mechanism is smooth, the hardware is solid, and the bag cinches down tightly over the load without bunching. It is the kind of carrier that earns its higher price through long-term reliability.
The downsides are price and weight. At 64 pounds, this is not a casual lift. And the higher price puts it out of reach for buyers on a strict budget. If you do two or more major trips a year, the cost difference amortizes quickly. For occasional users, a budget carrier is a smarter buy.
Why the 10 year warranty is a big deal
Most cargo carriers come with a 90 day to 1 year warranty. A decade of coverage tells you the manufacturer expects the product to last. For buyers who keep gear for a long time, that warranty alone justifies paying more upfront.
What the integrated license plate bracket solves
Many hitch cargo carriers block the factory license plate, which can get you ticketed in some states. Mockins includes a built-in bracket that relocates the plate to the rear of the carrier, keeping you legal without any extra purchases or modifications.
8. Mockins 60 Inch High Rail Cargo Carrier with Rear Lights – Best for Tall Cargo
Mockins 60″x24″x14″ High Rail Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier with Rear Lights
60x24x14 inch basket
500 lb capacity
Rear lights, high rails
Pros
- 14 inch high rail for tall cargo
- Integrated rear lights
- 30 cu.ft waterproof bag
- Universal fit
Cons
- Highest price point
- Heaviest at 87 lbs
- Lower rating of 4.2
The Mockins high rail carrier is a specialty product. If you haul tall cargo like generator cases, propane tanks, stacked totes, or a dog crate, the 14 inch side rails are a game changer. Nothing tips, nothing falls, nothing shifts on curves.
I tested it with a full-size dog crate, a generator, and a stack of plastic storage bins. The 14 inch walls kept everything contained even on rough forest service roads. The integrated rear lights are wired into your trailer harness and add real visibility at night, which I appreciated during a dusk arrival at a state park.
The 30 cubic foot cargo bag is the largest in this roundup. It is fully waterproof and covers the entire load. The 10 year warranty matches the standard Mockins carrier. Build quality is on par with the rest of the Mockins line, with solid welds and a durable finish.
The trade-offs are real. At 87 pounds, this is the heaviest carrier we tested. It also carries the highest price tag in the roundup. And with a 4.2 star rating compared to 4.5 or higher for most competitors, some users have run into quality control issues. For specialty cargo hauling where the high rail matters, none of the competitors come close.
When 14 inch rails are worth the premium
Standard 4 to 6 inch rails lose items above their height on hard braking or sharp turns. The Mockins high rail design eliminates that problem entirely. If you regularly haul tall items that cannot be laid down, the upgrade is worth every dollar.
Who should consider this over a standard carrier
Contractors, RV owners, hunters, and anyone running tall gear on a regular basis should look at this carrier. Casual road trippers carrying soft bags do not need the extra rail height and are better served by a lighter, less expensive option.
How to Choose the Best Hitch Cargo Carrier for Your Vehicle?
Buying a hitch cargo carrier is not just about picking the biggest one. After testing eight carriers and talking to dozens of overlanding and camping forum users, here are the factors that actually matter when you shop.
Hitch Size and Class
Most vehicles come with either a 1.25 inch or 2 inch receiver. Check your owner’s manual or look at the hitch itself before shopping. The CURT 18145 fits both sizes with the included adapter, which is rare. Most other carriers require a 2 inch receiver, so smaller vehicles with 1.25 inch hitches need an adapter or a different model.
You will also see hitch classes mentioned. Class I hitches are rated up to 2,000 pounds towing and 200 pounds tongue weight. Class III hitches are rated up to 8,000 pounds towing and 800 pounds tongue weight. Most 500 pound cargo carriers require at least a Class III hitch for safe operation.
Weight Capacity and Tongue Weight
Every carrier in this roundup is rated for 500 pounds of cargo, which is the industry standard for the size class. But the rating on the carrier is only half the story. Your vehicle’s hitch has its own tongue weight limit, and you need to stay under whichever number is lower.
Tongue weight is the downward force the carrier places on the hitch. A fully loaded 500 pound carrier creates roughly 500 pounds of tongue weight. If your vehicle is rated for 500 pounds tongue weight, you are at the limit. For most SUVs and pickups, this is not an issue. For smaller crossovers and sedans, check the owner’s manual carefully.
Material: Aluminum vs Steel
Steel carriers are heavier, stronger under load, and usually less expensive. Aluminum carriers are lighter, rust-proof, and easier to handle. For coastal driving, snowy winters, or anyone who mounts and unmounts the carrier frequently, aluminum wins on convenience. For maximum load capacity and long-term rigidity, steel is the tougher choice.
Folding vs Fixed Designs
Folding carriers save garage space and look less obtrusive when not in use. Fixed carriers are simpler, often less expensive, and have fewer moving parts to wear out. If you have a tight garage or apartment parking, folding is the way to go. If you have room to store a fixed carrier mounted up, that works fine too.
Weather Protection and Cargo Bags
Open basket carriers are not waterproof. Water, dust, and road grime will reach anything inside. The MeeFar, WEIZE Folding, Mockins Heavy Duty, and Mockins High Rail all include waterproof cargo bags that solve this problem. If you travel in rain or snow, a carrier-bag bundle is worth the extra cost.
Bags also deter theft by hiding your cargo from view. For trailheads, hotels, or overnight stops, that is a meaningful upgrade.
Wobble Prevention and Stabilizers
Wobble is the number one complaint in the overlanding and camping forums. Every carrier wobbles to some degree, but anti-wobble hardware cuts it dramatically. The CURT, MaxxHaul, WEIZE, MeeFar, and Mockins models all support stabilizers, either included or available separately.
Proper pin installation is just as important. A poorly seated hitch pin is the most common cause of severe wobble. Tighten the pin fully and consider a locking pin for security and stability.
Trunk and Tailgate Access
Most hitch cargo carriers block access to the rear hatch or trunk. Plan ahead and unload the carrier before parking at hotels or campsites. The Mockins models with folding shanks make this easier by tilting the basket up and out of the way.
If rear access matters more than cargo space, consider a smaller carrier or a swing-out hitch system instead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hitch Cargo Carriers
What size hitch do I need for a cargo carrier?
Most hitch cargo carriers require a 2 inch receiver, which is standard on most trucks, SUVs, and vans built in the last 15 years. Smaller vehicles often come with 1.25 inch receivers, and only some carriers like the CURT 18145 fit that size with an included adapter. Check your vehicle’s hitch size before buying, and confirm your hitch class is rated for the tongue weight of a fully loaded carrier.
How much weight can a hitch cargo carrier hold?
The carriers in this roundup are all rated for 500 pounds of cargo. However, your vehicle’s hitch tongue weight limit may be lower, and you must stay under whichever limit is smaller. Most Class III hitches handle 500 pounds tongue weight easily, while smaller Class I and II hitches may be limited to 200 to 350 pounds. Always check your owner’s manual before loading a carrier to capacity.
Are hitch cargo carriers safe for long trips?
Yes, hitch cargo carriers are safe for long trips when properly installed and loaded. Use a quality hitch pin, add an anti-wobble stabilizer for highway speeds, distribute weight evenly across the basket, and secure the load with ratchet straps. Check the load at every fuel stop, especially on rough roads. Most carriers we tested ran flawlessly on multi-day drives when set up correctly.
Hitch cargo carrier or rooftop box – which is better?
Hitch cargo carriers are better for fuel efficiency, easier loading, and keeping gear out of the cabin. Rooftop boxes offer more weather protection and do not block rear hatch access. Hitch carriers typically reduce fuel economy by 2 to 5 percent, while rooftop boxes can drop it by 10 to 25 percent. For most road trippers, a hitch carrier is the more practical choice.
Are hitch cargo carriers waterproof?
Open basket hitch cargo carriers are not waterproof on their own. Water, dust, and road grime reach anything inside. To make them weatherproof, add a waterproof cargo bag like the ones included with the MeeFar, WEIZE Folding, Mockins Heavy Duty, or Mockins High Rail models. Enclosed hitch cargo boxes exist but are heavier, more expensive, and less common.
Final Verdict: Which Hitch Cargo Carrier Should You Buy?
After testing all eight carriers, our team agreed on a few clear winners. For most buyers looking for the best hitch cargo carriers in 2026, the MeeFar is the smartest all-around pick because it includes everything you need in the box and folds for storage. If you want a lighter aluminum option, the MaxxHaul 50149 is hard to beat. If you need heavy-duty steel with a long warranty, the Mockins 60 by 24 inch folding carrier is worth every penny.
Match the carrier to your vehicle’s hitch size, your typical cargo weight, and how often you want to mount and unmount the unit. Take a few minutes to load it up before your first long drive so you know exactly how everything fits. With the right hitch cargo carrier mounted up, every road trip gets a whole lot easier, and your back seat finally gets to breathe.