Foldable Cargo Carriers for Family Cars: Top Picks
The Thule Gateway Pro is our top pick for family cars. It fits most vehicles with a 2-inch hitch. Owners report easy folding and a sturdy ramp. Its main limitation is the higher price compared to other models.
Family road trips need cargo space. Roof boxes are hard to load. Hitch cargo carriers are easier. Foldable models store compactly when not in use.
We compared top-selling foldable carriers. We looked at weight capacity, platform size, and foldability. We also considered customer feedback and build quality.
The best picks, ranked
Thule Gateway Pro 2
The Thule Gateway Pro 2 is a premium foldable carrier. It has a 150-pound capacity. The ramp folds out for easy loading. It fits 2-inch hitches. Owners praise its sturdy steel construction. The anti-rattle pin reduces movement. It folds up for vertical storage.
Pros
- Sturdy steel frame
- Folding ramp for easy loading
- Anti-rattle pin
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy at 55 lb
MaxxHaul 50715
The MaxxHaul 50715 offers a low-cost foldable option. It has a 500-pound capacity. The platform is 60 x 20 inches. It fits 2-inch hitches. Owners report it is easy to assemble. The steel mesh is welded. It folds flat for storage. Some users note that the included straps are basic.
Pros
- Very affordable
- High capacity for the price
- Folds flat
Cons
- No tilt access to trunk
- Basic straps
CURT 18162
The CURT 18162 is a heavy-duty carrier with a 500-pound capacity. Its platform is 60 x 24 inches. It has a non-slip expanded metal deck. The carrier tilts down for trunk access. It folds up for storage. Owners like the durable powder coat. It fits both 2-inch and 1.25-inch hitches with adapter.
Pros
- Tilts down for trunk access
- Non-slip surface
- Fits both hitch sizes
Cons
- Bulky when stored
- Heavy
ETrailer 60228
The eTrailer 60228 is a foldable carrier that folds in seconds. It has a 300-pound capacity. The platform is 48 x 20 inches. It fits 2-inch hitches. The foldable design uses a hinge and pin. Owners appreciate the compact storage. The included cargo net is useful. Some say the capacity is lower than expected.
Pros
- Easy fold mechanism
- Compact storage
- Includes cargo net
Cons
- Lower capacity
- Smaller platform
AA Products 40011
The AA Products 40011 is a compact foldable carrier. It has a 500-pound capacity. The platform is 60 x 20 inches. It folds down to a small size. It fits 2-inch hitches. Owners report it fits most SUVs and minivans. The all-welded steel is strong. It comes with a 3-inch rise for ground clearance.
Pros
- Compact folding
- High capacity
- Wheel chock included
Cons
- No tilt feature
- Straps not included
Tyger Auto TG-HC1B
The Tyger Auto TG-HC1B is a sturdy carrier for trucks and SUVs. It has a 500-pound capacity. The platform is 60 x 20 inches. It fits 2-inch hitches. The carrier has a black powder coat finish. It folds down for storage. Owners like the raised lip that keeps items secure. Some users wish it had a ramp.
Pros
- Raised lip for security
- Rust-resistant finish
- Easy to install
Cons
- No ramp
- Straps are thin
Keeper 85019
The Keeper 85019 is a lightweight foldable carrier. It has a 200-pound capacity. The platform is 48 x 20 inches. It fits 1.25-inch hitches. It folds up for easy storage. Owners report it is easy to handle. The included straps are strong. It is not for heavy loads but works for coolers and chairs.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Fits smaller hitches
- Affordable
Cons
- Low capacity
- Not for large families
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Capacity | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thule Gateway Pro 2 | 150 lb | Best Overall | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | MaxxHaul 50715 | 500 lb | Best Budget | 8.6 | Check price |
| 3 | CURT 18162 | 500 lb | Best for Large Families | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | ETrailer 60228 | 300 lb | Best for Quick Folding | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | AA Products 40011 | 500 lb | Best for Compact Storage | 8.4 | Check price |
| 6 | Tyger Auto TG-HC1B | 500 lb | Best for Pickup Trucks | 8.2 | Check price |
| 7 | Keeper 85019 | 200 lb | Best for Light Duty | 8.0 | Check price |
What to look for
Common questions
Are foldable cargo carriers safe for family cars?
Yes, when installed correctly. Make sure the carrier is rated for your vehicle’s hitch. Do not exceed the weight limit. Secure items with straps.
Will a cargo carrier block my rear view?
It can. Longer platforms may block visibility. Consider a carrier with a tilting feature. Or use a backup camera.
Can I use a cargo carrier with a sedan?
Some cars have hitches. Check your owner’s manual. Many carriers require a 2-inch hitch. Sedans often have 1.25-inch. Look for carriers that fit.
How do I install a foldable cargo carrier?
Slide the carrier into the hitch receiver. Secure with the pin and clip. Tighten any bolts. Most install in minutes.
What is the difference between a cargo carrier and a rooftop box?
Carriers attach to the hitch. They are easier to load. Rooftop boxes require lifting items. Carriers can reduce ground clearance.
Do cargo carriers affect fuel economy?
Yes. They add weight and drag. You may see a slight decrease in mpg. Remove the carrier when not in use.
Can I open my trunk with a cargo carrier installed?
Some carriers tilt down. Others do not. Check the product features. If not, you may need to unload first.
How much weight can a standard hitch carry?
It varies. Class I hitches carry 200 pounds. Class II carry 350. Class III and IV carry 500 or more. Check your vehicle’s rating.
Are there any legal restrictions on cargo carriers?
Laws vary by state. Ensure the carrier does not obstruct your license plate or lights. Some states require a flag on long loads.
How do I clean and maintain a cargo carrier?
Wash with soap and water. Apply a rust inhibitor. Tighten bolts periodically. Store in a dry place.
The bottom line
For most families, the Thule Gateway Pro 2 is worth the investment. It offers a perfect balance of capacity, ease of folding, and quality. If budget is a concern, the MaxxHaul 50715 provides great value. For larger families needing 500 pounds, the CURT 18162 is the best choice.
