The Best Cargo Carriers for Jeep Wrangler in 2023

Owning a Jeep Wrangler opens a lot of possibilities, especially in maximizing the vehicle’s off-roading capabilities. The Jeep can also be used to do a number of outdoor activities together with your family, friends, and your inner circle. The only issue with the vehicle should be the storage space if it is enough for all the essentials you need in doing those activities. But this issue can be compensated by using the cargo carrier for Jeep to give additional space to your vehicle.

But what are the best cargo carrier for Jeep Wrangler? Our team tried to test several products, including cargo racks, rooftop cargo carrier, cargo box for Jeep Wrangler, and many more. From there, we pick five products that stand out whom we think can help and add maximum space to the vehicle. These recommendations are our way of helping Jeep owners look for a suitable cargo carrier for their vehicle.

Best Cargo Carrier for Jeep Wrangler Reviews

1. EAG Rear Cargo Carrier Basket

In my years of owning a Jeep Wrangler, I have known other Jeep owners who do not know how to maximize their storage space. They do not have any idea of the rear portion of the vehicle that can be converted into storage space as well. All they know is the rooftop which is considered as a possible space for storage conversion. With that said, this rear hitch cargo carrier for Jeep Wrangler is an excellent option for your vehicle with its durability and toughness.

One of the outstanding features of this product is the ability to provide additional space for storage in your Jeep Wrangler. This cargo carrier will open the possibility of carrying more cargo once installed in your vehicle. It will also increase the functionality of the Jeep as it will carry you up to 35 lbs with and a height feature that can be adjusted quickly depending on your needs.

Another excellent feature it brings is the superior construction that provides sturdiness and toughness to this cargo carrier. This product is built with premium round steel tubing, which is known for its strength and sturdiness. The surface also comes with a black powder coat finish which shows a unique and stylish matte texture. Also, installing this Jeep Wrangler hitch cargo carrier provides excellent performance with its functionalities and style as it adds a rugged look to your vehicle’s off-road appearance.

This product is relatively easy to install as you will need it to be attached to the tailgate. There will be no drilling required as it comes with a complete bolt-on installation. If you are using a manual socket wrench, it will probably take you about an hour or two. But, if you will use it with a drill, then the installation will be a lot faster, in my opinion.

Overall, this is a beautiful product that provides excellent functionalities and enhances your vehicle’s look. The only issue I have with this product is the user manual which is very difficult to understand. I wish that the manufacturer could come up with a more complete and clear instructional guide; otherwise, the user will always be relying on this skill and instinct during the installation.

2. MaxxHaul 70107 Compact Cargo Carrier

The upside of having a Jeep trailer hitch cargo carrier or other similar carrier is that it will not only give extra storage space but also is more economical in every sense of the word. As a Jeep owner, you and your family can enjoy your space-demanding outdoor activities without having to spend the extra dollars for a larger truck or a conversion van. One of these products is this cargo carrier from MaxxHaul, which is known for producing high-quality value products.

One of the upsides of using this Jeep receiver hitch cargo carrier is its ability to provide extra storage space once installed in the vehicle. This product will give instant cargo space for essentials you feel are better to be kept outside the vehicle during transport. As a bonus, this cargo carrier is built with reflectors that give additional safety and enhancing your presence on the road.

Another upside of using this product is its excellent construction which provides durability and longevity of the product. This product is built with an all-steel tubular construction that includes high side rails, which help secure even taller cargo. In addition, this cargo carrier is also made with heavy-duty steel and a durable powder-coated finish that provides rust resistance property to ensure that this carrier will carry heavier loads and last longer as expected.

I was also impressed by the versatility of this product in terms of its usage. In fact, this is probably the most convenient way of transporting those cargoes which you do not like to keep inside your Jeep Wrangler. So, whether you are doing camping, snorkeling, or other forms of outdoor activities, this cargo carrier will be an excellent addition to your storage space.

Lastly, this cargo carrier is easy to mount in the Jeep Wrangler in terms of its installation. Using the proper tool will probably take you around ten minutes to do the job completely. I suggest using a 16 mm socket wrench to tighten the larger hex nuts, while a 12 mm wrench is enough to secure the smaller top bars.

3. CURT 18153 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier

There are two ways that a cargo carrier can be installed in the vehicle: through the roof or the car’s rear. Both methods can have some benefits and drawbacks. The rooftop cargo carrier for Jeep Wrangler may provide ideal space but can affect the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Meanwhile, rear-mounted cargo carriers such as this product from Curt are also helpful as they provide extra space without affecting the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

The primary purpose of this product is to provide a simple but effective solution when it comes to maximizing the storage space of your vehicle. The upside of having a hitch-mounted cargo carrier is that it can be mounted on the rear or at the vehicle’s front as long as it comes with a right receiver hitch. You can have the option to install it at the front of the vehicle and mount a trailer at the rear to maximize storage space if you need it to.

Another purpose of this cargo carrier for Jeep Wrangler is to provide a solid and durable cargo carrier for your vehicle. This trailer hitch cargo carrier for Jeep Wrangler is built with tubular steel, which ensures strength and durability and provides lightness in weight. The surface also comes with carbide black powder coating, and E-coat finished.

I am also impressed by the security that this cargo carrier brings to your cargo. It will help keep your essential items secure outside during travel as it features 6-inch high walls around the cargo basket. You can use a cargo net or a cargo bag to fasten all the items securely using the walls. Meanwhile, this product also enhances the vehicle’s security with its built-in reflectors located on the frame. This unique feature improves the visibility of the vehicle while increasing its overall safety.

Meanwhile, assembly and installation with this product are quick and smooth. All the bolt holes should match, and no trouble in fitting it to your vehicle. Once it is assembled, you just need to slide it into the receiver on the car and put the pin in since everything fits well. You can even put a stabilizer on the hitch to prevent any unnecessary movement.

4. KING BIRD Folding Cargo Carrier

If you intend to travel with your family while doing some outdoor activities for a few days, you will need to bring all the essentials you need for those activities. However, the issue is the space to load all those belongings. But for all bulky stuff, a cargo carrier can be installed at the back of your vehicle apart from the cargo rack at the top. This folding cargo carrier from King Bird is an excellent option with its superb storage space and reliability.

If I compare it to the first three products I reviewed earlier, more or less, they share similar features and functionalities. But what makes this cargo carrier different is the extra accessories you will get, which are included in the package. All of these accessories will be very helpful to secure all the essentials you put on the carrier. For example, the elastic net and the packing straps will be used to secure all the things on the carrier. Meanwhile, the hitch lock will lock the carrier to prevent theft while the hitch tightener reduces noise and movement while driving.

What is impressive about this Jeep wrangler trailer hitch cargo carrier is its ultra-large capacity. The measurement is enough to have a space to carry your bike with an ability to carry up to 500 lbs of load. For me, this feature is impressive, and you can put many items out there with its allowable capacity. Not only that, this product is built with an angled shank which adds more clearance which adds safety to the vehicle once it is installed at the back.

This product is also built to last with its excellent construction. This vehicle accessory is actually an upgraded cargo rack made with heavy-duty full tubular steel, which is known for its durability and toughness. This cargo carrier is also manufactured with a carbide black powder coat which improves the rust resistance on the surface.

Apart from the inclusion of additional accessories, there are also other features that make this cargo carrier special. One of which are the two large reflectors on the rear side and the three reflectors at the bottom of the folding frame. All of these reflectors enhance the visibility of the Jeep Wrangler during the night.

5. Mockins Steel Cargo Basket

There is no denying that having a cargo carrier on your Jeep Wrangler is a smart investment on your end. This vehicle accessory will allow you to safely and securely keep your luggage in an extra storage space outside without sacrificing the valuable space inside the Jeep Wrangler. There are many types of cargo carriers available and one of which is this particular product from Mockins. This product will impress you with its outstanding functionalities and features and the space it provides to your vehicle.

This cargo racks for Jeep Wrangler is solid as it gets. I was impressed by how it is made, the ultra-large capacity particularly. Once it is installed in your Jeep Wrangler, the actual size of this product is 60 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 6 inches tall. This measure makes this cargo carrier carry all the essentials you need during your travel. This product also provides easy access tie-down points and is excellent for different occasions such as camping, road trips, and other activities.

In terms of quality, this cargo carrier is heavy-duty and sturdy. Thanks to its excellent construction that uses heavy-duty steel, which is known for its durability and toughness and an anti-rust coating on the surface. This product also includes a 2 inches rise, hitch hauler, which provides excellent ground clearance. This cargo carrier can also be folded when not in use.

I also like the available accessories included in the product package. The accessories include a waterproof hitch rack bag, two pieces rainproof ratchet straps, thick cargo net, hitch stabilizer. These added accessories can help secure and protect all the things you will put on the cargo carrier during transport. Not only that, but this product also comes with reflectors at the back to enhance visibility.

In terms of assembly, this Jeep Wrangler cargo carrier is very easy to assemble and comes with clear instructions. Also, the installation will be easy as long as you have the right tools. Everything should be fine. Overall, this product is an excellent investment to you and your Jeep Wrangler should you need additional storage in your vehicle.

What to Look For When Buying a Cargo Carrier for Jeep Wrangler

If you want to add storage space to your vehicle, having a cargo carrier such as the Jeep rooftop cargo carrier is an excellent way to do it. The only problem is that there are too many available options to choose from, which makes it more difficult. However, there are things that you need to consider that will guide you in selecting the right one for your vehicle.

Construction Quality

This essential factor is essential when looking for a cargo carrier. The construction quality involves different factors, such as how the product is made and the materials used in the construction as it contributes to the quality of the cargo carrier. My suggestion is to look for cargo carriers that are made of solid tubular steel, which is known for its durability and toughness. You will also need to look for a powder coating finish on the surface because once applied to the product; it will enhance the anti-rust and water resistance properties of the cargo carrier.

Weight Capacity

Apart from quality, weight capacity is also an essential factor to consider when looking for a cargo carrier for your vehicle. Since installing a cargo carrier is all about the capacity of the vehicle to carry more items, I can see that you will need to look for a particular product that can carry more essentials you need during the travel. The more items it can carry, the better. This review features cargo carriers with a carrying capacity of about 500 lbs, which should be enough to hold all bulky items during your trip.

Size

The size of the cargo carrier is somehow related to the weight capacity since it can also contribute to the maximum capacity of the carrier. It is usual for you to look for a bigger cargo carrier if you feel that you need it. There are various sizes available, and what you will choose will all depend on the requirements and the additional space you need.

Extra Accessories

When it comes to using a cargo carrier, you will need additional accessories to secure and protect the items inside it. I suggest looking for cargo carriers that also include additional accessories in the product package. Accessories such as cargo net, straps, bags, reflectors, and hitch stabilizers are just accessories that can help protect and secure the cargo during travel. The more accessories in the product package, the more it is for you to consider it.

Ease of Assembly and Installation

The cargo carrier needs to be assembled then installed in your vehicle. The key is to follow the direction stated on the product manual if it is clear and available. You can also consider watching videos to follow the installation process. It is also essential to have complete tools during the installation to make it easy for you. Otherwise, you will need your mechanical skills during the installation if the instruction manual or video is not available. But most cargo carriers are o easy to install in general.

Frequently Ask Questions

How Fast can you Drive with a Hitch Cargo Carrier?

The most important thing in having a hitch cargo carrier is to be safe all the time. I suggest strictly follow the speed limit of about 90 MPH and never exceed that limit. This action is for the protection of your family to avoid any accident or other forms of inconvenience during the travel.

Are hitch Cargo Carriers Safe?

Generally, all hitch cargo carriers are safe. Safety involves the assembly and the installation of the cargo carrier in the vehicle. You will need to make sure that all are done perfectly. You will also need to stay within the limits of your vehicle and never put too much cargo that exceeds its weight limit.

Conclusion

Looking for the best cargo carrier for Jeep Wrangler is essential if you need additional space for your vehicle. There are many upsides to having a cargo carrier in your vehicle but maximizing the storage space is necessary if you bring a lot of stuff during the travel. The most important thing is to look for a suitable cargo carrier that fits well with your vehicle.