10 Best Lightweight Tow Hitch Cargo Carriers for Easier Hauling in 2026

Need extra cargo space without adding a full trailer? The best lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers make it easier to haul coolers, camping equipment, luggage, tools, and bulky outdoor gear behind an SUV, truck, van, or RV.

This roundup compares 10 popular options with an emphasis on usable capacity, receiver fit, construction, storage convenience, and included weather protection. Use the guide below to narrow the choices based on your vehicle and hauling needs.

Best 10 Lightweight Tow Hitch Cargo Carriers Picks for 2026

Best Lightweight Aluminum Pick – MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Carrier

If you want lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers for camping trips, road travel, or everyday hauling, the MaxxHaul 70108 combines a rust-resistant aluminum basket with a sturdy steel support frame. Its 500-pound capacity, high rails, and 2-inch hitch shaft provide practical exterior storage for compatible vehicles.

Best For: RVs, trucks, SUVs, vans, and cars with a 2-inch Class III or IV hitch receiver.

Pros:

• Lightweight, rust-resistant extruded aluminum construction.
• 500-pound load capacity with a heavy-duty steel under-support frame.
• High side rails and tie-down points help secure cargo.
• Reflector lenses and red corner accents improve visibility.

Cons:

• Its 49-1/4-inch outer length is smaller than some 60-inch carriers.
• The stated manufacturer warranty is limited to 90 days.

At 21.4 pounds, this is one of the more manageable options in the group. Choose it when reduced carrier weight and corrosion resistance matter more than folding storage or maximum basket length.

Best Folding Steel Carrier – CURT 18153 Folding Hitch Basket

The CURT 18153 is a practical choice among lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers when you want a large 60-by-24-inch basket and a folding shank. Its tubular steel frame, 6-inch sides, and angled shank are designed for secure loading and improved ground clearance.

Best For: Drivers who need a spacious 500-pound carrier that can fold upward when not in use.

Pros:

• Folding shank allows the carrier to tilt up for storage or travel.
• Six-inch side walls help contain cargo.
• Angled shank elevates the basket for additional ground clearance.
• Mesh base, reflectors, and carbide black powder coat add practical features.

Cons:

• At 70 pounds, it is substantially heavier than the aluminum carriers listed here.
• The supplied notes specify compatibility with 2-inch receivers but do not list included tie-down accessories.

This carrier prioritizes basket size and folding convenience over low weight. It is a strong fit for users who can handle a heavier steel unit and want a full-size cargo platform.

Best Lightweight Steel Value – MaxxHaul 70107 Steel Carrier

For shoppers comparing lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers, the MaxxHaul 70107 offers a relatively low listed weight while retaining a heavy-duty steel build. Its 53-by-19-inch basket, high side rails, powder-coated finish, and 500-pound capacity suit common hauling needs.

Best For: SUV, van, and truck owners seeking a straightforward steel carrier for a 2-inch receiver.

Pros:

• 22.3-pound steel carrier is relatively easy to handle.
• Supports up to 500 pounds of distributed cargo.
• High side rails help contain items during transport.
• Powder-coated alloy steel finish is designed for demanding conditions.

Cons:

• The 19-inch basket width is narrower than the 24-inch options in this roundup.
• The supplied information does not mention a folding feature or included cargo accessories.
• Warranty coverage is listed as 90 days.

This model balances steel durability and manageable handling without adding the weight of the larger CURT carrier. It is a sensible option for buyers who want a simple, non-folding cargo basket.

Best Accessory Package – VEVOR 60-Inch Folding Carrier

The VEVOR 60 x 24-inch carrier stands out among lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers for its folding design and included travel accessories. Along with a 500-pound steel basket, it supplies a waterproof cargo bag, net, ratchet straps, stabilizer, lock, and reflective plates.

Best For: Travelers who want a large folding carrier with cargo-securing and weather-protection accessories included.

Pros:

• 60-by-24-inch basket supports up to 500 pounds.
• Folding design improves storage and appearance when not in use.
• Includes a waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, ratchet straps, and padlock.
• 5mm supporting tubes and a hook stabilizer are intended to improve stability.

Cons:

• Its Q235B steel construction may be less convenient to handle than aluminum options.
• The supplied details identify vehicle-specific fit while also describing 2-inch receiver compatibility, so buyers should verify fit before purchase.

Choose this carrier when a complete accessory bundle is more valuable than having the lightest possible basket. Its folding feature and included weather-protection gear make it particularly useful for road trips and outdoor travel.

Best Value Kit – 60-Inch Steel Carrier with Waterproof Bag

For shoppers comparing lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers, this steel basket offers a useful balance of capacity and included accessories. Its tubular-steel frame is rated for 500 pounds, while the angled shank adds ground clearance for low-riding or off-road vehicles.

Best For: Drivers who want a full cargo-hauling kit with a weather-resistant bag, tie-down accessories, and added clearance.

Pros:

• 500-pound load rating with a lightweight tubular-steel design
• Includes a 16-cubic-foot waterproof cargo bag, net, ratchet straps, and hitch stabilizer
• Angled shank and reflectors improve practical usability and visibility

Cons:

• Steel construction may be heavier than an aluminum alternative
• The listed manufacturer warranty is only 60 days

With its generous 60-by-20-inch platform and bundled cargo-management accessories, this carrier is convenient for road trips and bulky gear. Consider it when package contents matter as much as the rack itself.

Lightest Pick – CURT Aluminum 49-Inch Cargo Carrier

Among lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers, the CURT 18113 stands out for its welded aluminum construction and 25-pound listed product weight. It still supports up to 500 pounds and fits a standard 2-by-2-inch receiver, making installation and removal easier than with many steel baskets.

Best For: Buyers prioritizing easy handling, corrosion resistance, and a strong capacity-to-weight balance.

Pros:

• Lightweight aluminum construction is easy to carry and install
• 500-pound capacity despite the low 25-pound listed weight
• Four-inch walls help contain cargo, while the powder coat resists corrosion

Cons:

• Uses a fixed shank rather than a folding design
• Does not include a cargo bag or tie-down accessory kit

This is a straightforward rack for shoppers who already have their own cargo cover and securing gear. Its aluminum build and limited-lifetime warranty make it a particularly appealing option for frequent handling and outdoor exposure.

Best All-Inclusive Option – Mockins Folding Carrier with 20-Cubic-Foot Bag

The Mockins combines a 500-pound steel cargo basket with a large weatherproof bag and a broad accessory kit. For lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers, it is less focused on minimum rack weight—the carrier is listed at 49 pounds—but adds folding storage, a 2-inch shank rise, and equipment for securing and marking the load.

Best For: Road trips, overlanding, and bulky cargo loads that benefit from weather protection and a comprehensive setup.

Pros:

• 20-cubic-foot bag has abrasion-resistant vinyl, heat-sealed seams, and covered waterproof zippers
• Folding arm tilts upright for parking and storage
• Includes license plate bracket, reflectors, hitch lock, stabilizer, net, and straps
• Backed by a 10-year limited warranty

Cons:

• Listed carrier weight of 49 pounds is heavier than the aluminum option
• Steel construction can require more effort to install or remove

This package is designed for buyers who want more than a bare basket. The folding mechanism, raised shank, weatherproof storage bag, and included security accessories make it a practical choice for extended travel.

Best with Extra Features – MaxxHaul 50149 Folding Cargo Carrier

For shoppers comparing lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers, the MaxxHaul 50149 stands out for its extruded aluminum basket and folding design. It provides a 500-pound distributed capacity, high side rails, and a 50-by-22-inch loading area for adding cargo space to vehicles with a standard 2-inch Class III or IV receiver.

Best For: Drivers who want a corrosion-resistant aluminum carrier with folding storage and a roomy basket.

Pros:

• Lightweight aluminum construction resists rust and corrosion.
• 500-pound distributed load capacity with high side rails for cargo security.
• Folds up when not in use and includes multiple tie-down points and reflector lenses.

Cons:

• Fits standard 2-inch receivers, so it is not intended for smaller hitch sizes.
• The listed 90-day manufacturer warranty is relatively limited.
• The 32.7-pound carrier is lighter than many steel options but still adds noticeable rear weight.

Its preassembled basket simplifies setup, while the aluminum build helps keep overall carrier weight down. Choose it when corrosion resistance and convenient folding matter more than included cargo-containment accessories.

All-in-One Steel Pick – WEIZE 53-Inch Carrier with Waterproof Bag

The WEIZE 53-inch carrier is a practical option among lightweight tow hitch cargo carriers for road trips, camping, and moving. Its tubular steel frame supports up to 500 pounds and comes with a waterproof bag, cargo net, and ratchet straps for securing and protecting gear.

Best For: SUV and truck owners who want a carrier bundle with included cargo-protection and tie-down accessories.

Pros:

• 500-pound capacity with a 53-by-19-inch cargo area.
• Includes a waterproof bag, cargo net, and two ratchet tie-down straps.
• Angled shank provides added ground clearance and fits standard 2-by-2-inch receivers.

Cons:

• At 40 pounds, it is heavier than the aluminum MaxxHaul option.
• The steel construction is coated for rust resistance but is not aluminum.
• The supplied dimensions vary between the headline and item-detail listings, so verify fit and space before ordering.

This carrier focuses on convenience: the included accessories reduce the need to buy separate cargo covers and restraints. It is a strong choice for buyers who value a ready-to-use hauling package and extra ground clearance.

Maximum-Capacity Pick – WEIZE 60-Inch Folding Cargo Carrier

For shoppers prioritizing loading room, this WEIZE folding carrier offers a 60-by-20-by-6-inch basket with about 10 square feet of storage. It fits standard 2-inch receivers, folds when not in use, and includes a waterproof bag, cargo net, and heavy-duty tie-down straps.

Best For: Travelers and movers who need a wide, folding steel basket for bulky gear.

Pros:

• Large 60-by-20-inch basket provides approximately 10 square feet of cargo space.
• Folding shank helps reduce the carrier’s footprint when stored.
• Includes a waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, and two 12-foot tie-down straps.

Cons:

• Its 66.5-pound listed weight makes it the heaviest option in this selection.
• Heavy-duty steel adds strength but is less lightweight than aluminum construction.
• Assembly is required, and the manufacturer recommends additional rustproofing and indoor storage.

The generous basket and included restraints make this model useful for larger loads, but its weight should be considered before installation. Select it when cargo capacity is the priority and you have suitable storage for a full-size steel rack.

How We Picked These Lightweight Tow Hitch Cargo Carriers

We focused on carriers designed for vehicles with a 2-inch hitch receiver and compared the features that matter most in everyday use: platform dimensions, rated load capacity, construction, side-rail height, folding or fixed-shank design, and included accessories. Most models in this roundup are rated for up to 500 pounds, but the vehicle and hitch receiver may have lower limits.

We also considered practical differences between steel and aluminum. Steel baskets are generally less expensive and highly durable, while aluminum models are easier to lift, install, and store. Waterproof bags, cargo nets, and tie-down straps can add value when a carrier does not provide a fully enclosed load area.

Quick Comparison

Feature	What to look for
Platform size	About 49–60 inches long and 19–24 inches wide for general cargo
Capacity	Many options are rated up to 500 pounds; verify your vehicle’s limits
Material	Aluminum for lower weight; steel for value and ruggedness
Storage	Folding shanks help reduce the carrier’s footprint when unloaded
Protection	High rails, cargo nets, straps, and waterproof bags help secure gear

Key Buying Factors for Lightweight Tow Hitch Cargo Carriers

Check Hitch and Vehicle Limits First

A carrier’s advertised capacity is not the only limit. Check the vehicle’s tongue-weight rating, the hitch class, and the receiver size. Remember that the carrier itself counts toward the total tongue weight, and loads placed farther behind the vehicle can increase leverage on the hitch.

Match the Platform to Your Cargo

A larger 60-inch platform can accommodate bulky coolers, bins, or camping gear, while a narrower basket may be easier to use on smaller vehicles. Measure the cargo and consider whether the carrier will obstruct the license plate, backup sensors, exhaust, or rear hatch.

Choose the Right Construction

Aluminum is useful when one person needs to install or remove the rack frequently. Steel may be preferable for demanding use or when purchase price is the priority. Whichever material you choose, look for a corrosion-resistant finish and adequate side rails.

Consider Folding and Weather Protection

Folding models are convenient for parking and storage, but confirm that the folded position clears the vehicle. If your cargo will be exposed to rain, choose a model with a waterproof bag or plan to add a weatherproof container and reliable tie-downs.

Who Should Buy Which Lightweight Tow Hitch Cargo Carriers?

Choose an aluminum carrier if low lifting weight and easier installation matter most. Choose a steel basket if you want a budget-friendly option for frequent heavy or rough-duty hauling. Choose a folding model if you regularly park in tight spaces or need simpler storage. Choose a carrier with a waterproof bag for luggage, clothing, groceries, or camping supplies that need protection from rain and road spray.

Before driving, distribute weight evenly, keep the load below the rail height when possible, secure every item, and recheck the hardware after the first few miles. A properly matched carrier should add useful capacity without exceeding your vehicle’s hitch or tongue-weight rating.