I remember it vividly. The annual family road trip, a tradition steeped in excitement and, inevitably, spatial Tetris. Our SUV, cavernous by any normal standard, would shrink with every bag, cooler, and “essential” toy packed. The rear-view mirror became a sliver of hope between a mountain of duffels, and the kids’ legroom was sacrificed to the gods of “just in case” luggage. We’ve all been there: the choice between passenger comfort and bringing everything you need. For years, I flirted with rooftop cargo boxes, but the thought of the constant wind noise, the hit to fuel economy, and the sheer awkwardness of hoisting heavy bins over my head always held me back. There had to be a better way to reclaim our vehicle’s interior and our sanity.
- [DELUXE SET]: This HITCH CARGO CARRIER set including 60" x 24" x 6" hitch basket and 18 cubic feet waterproof cargo bag, hitch tightener, no-wobble fastener, heavy duty cargo net and 2 * ratchet...
- [INSTALLATION AND APPLICATION]: Our hitch cargo rack can be easily assembled and mount on 2" hitch receiver of SUV, pickup truck, trailer and can be folded to save space when not in use. Parking also...
- [DIMENSION AND LOAD CAPACITY]: 60" x 24" x 6" hitch basket with 58.5" x 22" x 25" waterproof cargo bag, offers 500 lbs and 18 cubic feet capacity which is perfect for hauling camping equipment and...
What to Consider Before Buying a Hitch Cargo Carrier
A hitch cargo carrier is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for unlocking your vehicle’s true potential. It’s for the family that refuses to compromise on comfort, the adventurer who needs to haul bulky gear, and the homeowner tackling a weekend project. By moving luggage, camping equipment, or even a wheelchair outside the vehicle, you transform a cramped cabin into a spacious, serene environment. The main benefits are immediate: drastically increased carrying capacity, easier loading and unloading compared to rooftop options, and a quieter ride without the aerodynamic drag of a roof box.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a recurring cargo deficit. This includes large families, outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and individuals with mobility aids that are difficult to fit inside a vehicle. If your car or SUV is equipped with a standard 2-inch hitch receiver, you’re a prime candidate. However, it might not be suitable for those who own vehicles without a hitch, or for those who prioritize constant, unimpeded access to their rear hatch or trunk, as most non-swing-away models need to be empty to allow full access. In those cases, a rooftop carrier might be a necessary alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: The basket’s size dictates what you can carry. A 60″ x 24″ platform, like the one on the Wildroad carrier, is generous enough for multiple large storage totes, oversized coolers, or stacks of firewood. Measure your vehicle’s width to ensure the carrier doesn’t obstruct tail lights, a key safety consideration.
- Capacity/Performance: Weight capacity is paramount. A 500-pound limit is a common and robust standard for this class, but it’s crucial to factor in the weight of the carrier itself against your hitch’s tongue weight limit. Look for features like a hitch stabilizer or tightener, which are essential for preventing rattling and swaying during transit, ensuring a safer and more pleasant drive.
- Materials & Durability: Most hitch carriers are made from steel. Look for heavy-duty tubular steel construction with a protective coating, such as a black epoxy or powder coat. This finish is vital for resisting rust, chips, and corrosion from road salt and the elements. Pay attention to the quality of the welds, as this is the backbone of the carrier’s strength.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the assembly process—how many pieces are there and what tools are required? A folding design is a massive convenience, allowing you to fold the carrier up against the vehicle when not in use, which makes parking significantly easier. Long-term care involves periodically checking bolt tightness and touching up any scratches in the paint to prevent rust.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Wildroad 60″ Cargo Carrier with 18.2 cu ft Bag stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Wildroad 60″ Cargo Carrier with 18.2 cu ft Bag is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
- DURABLE BUILD - Tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating to promote high strength and a lightweight design. and covered in a rust free coating. It is rated for 200 lbs
- 【LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY】Free up space in your vehicle with this roof rack cargo basket that can hold up to 200 Lbs. Overall dimensions include: 46"(L) x 36"(W) x 5"(H)
First Impressions: An All-Inclusive Hauling Solution
The arrival of the Wildroad 60″ Cargo Carrier with 18.2 cu ft Bag was met with anticipation. The box is substantial, weighing in at just over 50 pounds, a good first sign of the heavy-duty steel within. Unpacking revealed a neatly organized set of components: the two halves of the main basket, the folding shank, and a separate box containing the full suite of accessories. This is where the Wildroad carrier immediately differentiates itself. It’s not just a basket; it’s a complete system. The inclusion of an 18.2 cubic foot waterproof bag, a heavy-duty cargo net, two ratchet straps, and a hitch stabilizer means you have everything you need to load up and go, right out of the box. The steel components feel robust, coated in a thick, semi-gloss black powder coat that looks ready to fend off the elements. The mesh floor seems sturdy, and the 6-inch-high rails promise to keep contents secure. It felt like a thoughtful, comprehensive package designed for immediate use.
Key Benefits
- Comprehensive all-in-one kit includes bag, net, straps, and stabilizer
- Generous 500 lbs load capacity and 60″ x 24″ platform
- Highly effective 18.2 cu ft waterproof cargo bag
- Convenient folding design saves space for parking and storage
Limitations
- Potential for inconsistent quality control on welds and hole alignment
- Assembly requires your own tools (17mm wrenches or sockets)
Performance Deep Dive: Putting the Wildroad Carrier to the Test
A spec sheet can only tell you so much. To truly understand a product like this, you have to load it, drive with it, and live with it. We put the Wildroad 60″ Cargo Carrier with 18.2 cu ft Bag through its paces on a long weekend trip, simulating exactly the kind of family adventure it was designed for.
Assembly and Installation: A Straightforward, If Not Flawless, Process
Getting the carrier from box to hitch was a relatively simple affair. The main basket comes in two halves that are bolted together in the center, and then this assembly bolts to the folding shank. As one user wisely noted, the trick is to install all six main bolts loosely at first, allowing for wiggle room to get everything aligned, before tightening them down. You will need your own pair of 17mm wrenches or a socket set for this, as none are included. The entire process took us about 25 minutes at a relaxed pace.
However, this is where we must address a point of concern raised in some user feedback: quality control. While our test unit had clean welds and perfectly aligned holes, some users have reported issues with missed welds or misaligned hitch pin holes. This suggests some inconsistency in manufacturing. We strongly recommend a thorough inspection of all weld points and bolt holes upon unboxing. A quick check can save a lot of hassle down the road. Once assembled, the unit feels incredibly solid. The final step, and perhaps the most critical, is installing the included hitch stabilizer. This U-bolt device clamps over the shank and receiver, eliminating almost all of the wobble and rattle that can plague hitch-mounted accessories. It’s the key to a quiet, stable ride and shouldn’t be overlooked.
On the Road Performance: Stability, Space, and Peace of Mind
With the carrier mounted, it was time to load up. The 60″ x 24″ platform is truly expansive. Inspired by one user’s brilliant strategy for a trip to Disney, we packed our gear into five large plastic storage totes. They fit perfectly within the basket, with room to spare for a couple of camp chairs and a small bag of firewood. This level of organization is a game-changer, keeping gear clean, dry, and easily accessible. We then used the included cargo net, which stretched snugly over the entire load, and for added security, cinched everything down with the two provided ratchet straps. The load felt rock-solid.
Pulling out of the driveway, the first thing we noticed was… nothing. There was no rattling, no clanking, no unnerving sway from the rear. The hitch stabilizer was clearly doing its job. On the highway and through winding back roads, the carrier was an unobtrusive companion. As another user mentioned, you truly “forget it’s back there when loaded and installed proper.” We also appreciated its ride height; the angled shank provides excellent ground clearance, minimizing the risk of scraping on steep driveways or uneven terrain—a thoughtful design choice that provides real-world confidence. Even navigating tight spots like drive-thrus and parking lots was manageable, especially with the ability to fold the carrier up vertically when empty.
The All-Weather Cargo Bag: A Surprisingly Capable Companion
The star of the accessory package is undoubtedly the 18.2 cubic foot cargo bag. Frankly, our expectations were moderate, but this bag far exceeded them. It’s constructed from a thick, rubbery, waterproof material with welded seams. The heavy-duty zipper is protected by a generous velcro-sealed storm flap that runs its entire length, a critical feature for keeping water out. Our trip included an unexpected 30-minute downpour, the kind that soaks everything. It was the perfect real-world test.
Upon arriving at our destination, we opened the bag with a bit of trepidation. We were thrilled to find the contents were bone-dry. Not a single drop had penetrated the bag. This finding is strongly echoed by users, one of whom drove through two separate storms on a long-haul trip and reported that their luggage remained completely dry. The bag’s capacity is immense, easily swallowing up suitcases, sleeping bags, and duffel bags. The eight integrated straps make it easy to secure the bag directly to the basket’s rails, keeping it from shifting during transit. This bag elevates the Wildroad package from a simple carrier to a complete, all-weather cargo solution, making it an incredible value. For those seeking a reliable way to protect their gear from the elements, the performance of this included bag alone is a major selling point.
Versatility and Everyday Utility: More Than Just a Vacation Accessory
While perfect for road trips, the Wildroad carrier’s utility extends far beyond holiday use. We quickly found ourselves using it for weekend errands. A trip to the garden center for bags of mulch? No problem, and no mess inside the SUV. Hauling bulky, awkward items from the hardware store? The open basket design is far more flexible than an enclosed trunk. One of the most compelling user stories came from a family who uses it to transport their daughter’s wheelchair in their Honda Pilot, transforming a daily struggle into a simple, manageable task. This highlights the carrier’s role as a genuine problem-solver. The 500-pound capacity is more than enough for coolers, firewood, construction materials, or any other bulky item you’d rather not cram into your vehicle’s cabin. The folding feature is what makes this everyday use practical, allowing you to leave the carrier on the vehicle without turning a simple parking maneuver into a logistical challenge.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive experience is largely mirrored by the broader user community. The prevailing sentiment is that the Wildroad 60″ Cargo Carrier with 18.2 cu ft Bag offers outstanding value. Many, like the user who took it on an 800-mile round trip, praise its sturdiness and the sheer amount of space it creates. The waterproof bag is a consistent point of celebration, with multiple people expressing surprise and satisfaction at how well it protected their belongings through heavy rain.
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. The most significant criticism revolves around quality control. A handful of users have received units with disappointing welds or, in one specific case, hitch pin holes drilled in the wrong location. While these appear to be outliers, they are important to note. It underscores our recommendation to inspect the product carefully upon arrival. Despite these isolated issues, the overwhelming majority of reviews are highly positive, cementing its reputation as a well-made, feature-packed carrier for the price.
How Does the Wildroad Carrier Compare to the Alternatives?
The hitch carrier market is competitive, but the Wildroad’s all-in-one package helps it stand out. Here’s how it stacks up against some notable alternatives.
1. WEIZE 53″ Hitch Cargo Carrier with Waterproof Bag
- Large Capacity & Heavy-Duty: With dimensions of 53 x 19 x 4-1/8 inches and a 500 LB weight capacity, this WEIZE hitch cargo carrier provides ample space for your gear. Perfect for camping, road trips,...
- Durable Steel Construction & Rust-Resistant Coating: Made from heavy-duty steel, this WEIZE cargo carrier features a powder-coated, rust-resistant finish, ensuring long-lasting performance. Whether...
- Safety Features for Secure Transport: Equipped with four side railings and included accessories like straps, mesh netting, and tie-downs, this cargo carrier guarantees your items stay secure during...
The WEIZE carrier is a very similar all-in-one package but in a more compact footprint. At 53 inches wide, it’s a fantastic option for smaller vehicles like a Jeep Cherokee or a compact SUV where the 60-inch Wildroad might be wider than the vehicle itself. A user with a Jeep XJ noted that their 53-inch carrier fit perfectly between the taillights, which is a crucial safety and legal consideration. If you have a smaller vehicle or simply don’t need the extra width, the WEIZE is an excellent alternative that still offers a 500lb capacity and a complete accessory kit.
2. Leader Accessories 60″x24″x6″ Folding Cargo Carrier Hitch Mount
- Sturdy Construction: Built with heavy-duty square galvanized tube steel, this cargo carrier can securely transport up to 500 lbs of cargo, gear, or equipment. The galvanized tube with black...
- Large Storage Space: With a generous cargo hitch carrier size of 60" x 24" x 6", this cargo carrier provides ample space to transport multiple items, helping to free up interior space in your vehicle...
- Durable Mesh Surface: The sturdy mesh surface prevents smaller items from slipping through, while the bolt-together design ensures a stable base for various types of cargo, including coolers, boxes,...
The Leader Accessories carrier is a direct competitor in terms of size (60″x24″x6″) and features, including the folding design and 500lb capacity. The primary distinction is that it’s typically sold as a standalone basket. While it may be a sturdy and reliable carrier, you would need to purchase a cargo bag, net, and straps separately. For shoppers looking for the absolute best value and the convenience of a single purchase, the Wildroad’s included deluxe accessory set gives it a significant edge. However, if you already own these accessories, the Leader carrier could be a viable option.
3. DC Cargo Mall E Track Storage Bin
The DC Cargo Mall E Track Storage Bin is a different beast entirely. This is not a hitch-mounted carrier but rather an internal storage solution designed for enclosed trailers, vans, or workshops equipped with an E-Track rail system. It’s an alternative for a completely different use case: organizing and securing items *inside* a vehicle or trailer. If your primary need is external hauling capacity for a passenger car, truck, or SUV, this product isn’t a suitable choice. But for contractors or anyone with an E-Track setup, it’s a fantastic organizational tool.
Our Final Verdict: A Road Trip Essential That Delivers Exceptional Value
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Wildroad 60″ Cargo Carrier with 18.2 cu ft Bag is a fantastic piece of equipment that solves a very common problem. It’s a robust, stable, and incredibly spacious hauling solution that punches well above its weight in terms of value. The brilliance of this product lies in its completeness; the inclusion of a genuinely waterproof bag, a cargo net, straps, and a hitch stabilizer means you are ready for any adventure right out of the box. It transforms family vacations, simplifies weekend projects, and provides invaluable assistance for everyday tasks.
While the potential for minor quality control issues is a valid consideration, the overwhelming performance and feature set make it a risk worth taking, provided you inspect it upon arrival. For any family, camper, or adventurer looking to reclaim their vehicle’s interior and travel in comfort and style, this carrier is an enthusiastic recommendation. It’s an investment in smoother, less stressful journeys.
If you’ve decided the Wildroad 60″ Cargo Carrier with 18.2 cu ft Bag is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API