7 Best Spare Tire Carriers for Long Road Trips

Long-distance travel requires preparation, and finding the right place for a spare tire often becomes a challenge once a vehicle is fully loaded with gear. An improperly stored tire can take up valuable trunk space or obstruct visibility, turning a simple flat repair into a complicated ordeal. Selecting a dedicated carrier ensures that a spare remains accessible, secure, and out of the way during long hauls.

CURT Hitch Carrier: Simple, Trustworthy Security

For the household that values straightforward reliability, the CURT hitch-mounted carrier offers a no-frills approach to tire storage. It slides directly into a standard 2-inch receiver, making it compatible with most trucks and SUVs found in suburban driveways.

This design is ideal for those who occasionally venture off the pavement but don’t need a heavy-duty expedition setup. Because it relies on a simple hitch pin mechanism, installation and removal are quick enough to handle in a driveway before a weekend trip.

The tradeoff here is accessibility; because it sits low and fixed to the hitch, it may block access to the trunk or tailgate. Choose this if the budget is a priority and the vehicle’s rear access isn’t a daily requirement during travel.

Smittybilt XRC Atlas: The Rugged, Off-Road Choice

When family road trips involve rugged terrain or off-grid camping, the Smittybilt XRC Atlas provides the heavy-duty reinforcement necessary for larger, heavier tires. It mounts securely to the vehicle frame, distributing weight away from the tailgate hinges.

This carrier is built for durability, featuring a solid steel construction that handles vibration and road shock without rattling. It is an excellent choice for homeowners who use their vehicles for both daily commuting and occasional, gear-heavy adventures.

Be aware that this is a significant investment and requires a more involved installation process than a standard hitch rack. Prioritize this option if peace of mind regarding equipment longevity outweighs the initial cost.

Rigd UltraSwing: Easy Access to Your Rear Cargo

The Rigd UltraSwing is designed for the traveler who hates the inconvenience of a blocked tailgate. It features a swing-away arm that allows the spare tire to move aside completely, granting full access to the back of the vehicle even when fully loaded.

This functionality is a game-changer for families who need to grab coolers, snacks, or emergency supplies from the cargo area without unloading the entire vehicle. It serves as a bridge between a permanent bumper mount and a temporary hitch rack.

While it carries a premium price point, the convenience of a clear rear opening often justifies the cost for frequent road travelers. It is the most user-friendly choice for those who pack heavy and move often.

Yakima Roof Mount: Free Up Your Hitch for Towing

If the hitch receiver is already occupied by a trailer, camper, or bike rack, a roof-mounted carrier becomes the most practical solution. Yakima systems provide a secure, elevated platform that keeps the spare tire out of the cargo area while leaving the bumper clear.

This setup requires a pre-existing roof rack or crossbar system, making it perfect for households that already utilize roof storage for cargo boxes. It effectively utilizes vertical space, preserving interior cabin comfort for passengers on long drives.

Consider the physical effort required to lift a heavy tire onto the roof before selecting this option. It is best suited for lighter tires or situations where the hitch is strictly reserved for towing heavy equipment.

BAL Hide-A-Spare: For Your Trailer or Fifth Wheel

Travelers who spend long stretches of time in trailers or fifth wheels face a unique problem: where to store an extra spare that doesn’t clutter the interior. The BAL Hide-A-Spare mounts underneath the trailer frame, keeping the tire tucked away and hidden from view.

This design is highly effective for maximizing space in small living areas or storage compartments. It is a set-it-and-forget-it solution that keeps the spare clean and protected from the elements until it is actually needed.

Because it sits low to the ground, ensure there is sufficient ground clearance on the trailer before installation. It is an essential upgrade for those who prioritize organization and exterior aesthetics.

TireGate PreRunner: A Versatile Bed-Mounted Option

Truck owners who want to keep the spare tire within the truck bed often look to the TireGate PreRunner. It mounts to the side or rear of the bed, creating a vertical storage position that prevents the tire from rolling around or taking up the entire floor space.

This is a great middle-ground for those who don’t want to attach anything to the hitch or bumper. It keeps the weight centered over the axles and maintains a sleek, professional look for the vehicle.

Keep in mind that mounting a tire in the bed will reduce the total available cargo surface area. Opt for this if the truck bed is large enough to accommodate gear while leaving one side for the spare.

Reese Towpower Mount: The No-Nonsense Hitch Solution

Reese Towpower offers a functional, budget-friendly hitch mount that appeals to homeowners who appreciate utility above all else. It is a basic, powder-coated steel mount that secures the tire vertically to the hitch, preventing it from swinging or swaying.

This is the quintessential choice for those who need a functional spare mount without needing advanced features like swing-away arms or heavy-duty off-road reinforcements. It is easy to move between different vehicles if a household has multiple trucks.

Expect the finish to show signs of wear over time, which is normal for this price range. It is a reliable, utilitarian tool that does exactly what it promises without unnecessary complexity.

Hitch vs. Bumper vs. Roof: Which Carrier Is Right?

Choosing a mounting location is largely determined by vehicle type and daily travel habits. A hitch mount is the most universal and easiest to install, but it can restrict rear door access and limit towing capacity.

• Hitch Mounts: Best for quick installations and occasional users; prone to blocking the tailgate.
• Bumper/Frame Mounts: Best for heavy, oversized tires; requires professional installation and offers maximum durability.
• Roof Mounts: Best for maximizing ground-level space; requires a roof rack and creates a higher center of gravity.

Evaluate the primary constraints of the vehicle before finalizing a purchase. If the vehicle is a daily driver that needs to access a trunk multiple times a day, avoid basic hitch mounts in favor of swing-away models.

Matching a Carrier to Your Specific Tire Size

A common mistake involves ignoring the weight and diameter of the tire compared to the carrier’s capacity. Always check the manufacturer’s load rating to ensure the carrier can handle the specific weight of the tire and wheel combination.

• Standard Passenger Tires: Can typically be supported by most entry-level hitch or roof carriers.
• Oversized Off-Road Tires: Require frame-mounted or heavy-duty bumper carriers to prevent metal fatigue or bending.

Measure the tire diameter to ensure there is adequate clearance between the tire and the vehicle body. A carrier that places the tire too close to the paint will result in vibration damage or rattling over long distances.

Keeping Your Spare Secure: Locks and Maintenance

A spare tire mounted on the exterior is an easy target for theft, especially during overnight stops at hotels or campsites. Always invest in a high-quality hitch lock or cable lock to secure the tire to the carrier frame itself.

Regularly check the mounting bolts for tightness, as road vibrations can loosen connections over several thousand miles. If the carrier is made of steel, keep an eye out for rust spots and touch them up with rust-inhibiting paint before they spread.

Finally, ensure the tire pressure on the spare is checked at the same time as the primary vehicle tires. A mounted spare is useless if it is found to be flat exactly when it is needed on the side of a highway.

Properly outfitting a vehicle for long-distance travel requires thoughtful planning, but the right spare tire carrier turns a potential roadside disaster into a manageable task. By prioritizing your vehicle’s specific needs and your own comfort levels, you can find a solution that offers peace of mind for every mile ahead. Choosing the right equipment now ensures you stay focused on the journey rather than the maintenance.