Best RV Generator Carriers and Racks for Safe Outdoor Storage
Discover the best generator carrier options for RVs that balance durability, capacity, and easy access. This guide highlights five top choices, with clear reasons who each product is best for. If you’re outfitting an RV for boondocking, full-timing, or weekend road trips, these carriers and trays help secure bulky gear like generators, tools, and camping essentials.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier | RV owners needing high rails and light weight | Corrosion-resistant aluminum with a steel under frame and high side rails |
| Stromberg Carlson CC-255 Trailer Tray | RVers needing A-frame compatibility | Fits most travel trailers via A-frame mount, supports bulky gear |
| Nilight 32”×26”×4” Cargo Rack | Rear bumper mounting needs | Heavy-duty bumper mount with included net for secure cargo |
| ARKSEN 32 x 26 x 4 Inch Cargo Rack | Budget-friendly bumper rack with solid build | 350 lbs capacity, powder-coated finish for weather resistance |
| Versatile bumper-mounted cargo space | 350 lbs capacity, clear bumper compatibility guidance |
MaxxHaul 70108 Aluminum Cargo Carrier With High Side Rails
Best for RV owners who want a lightweight yet sturdy cargo option with extra tie-down points. The MaxxHaul 70108 is built from extruded aluminum for durability and rust resistance, paired with a heavy-duty steel under support frame and a 2″ x 2″ hitch shaft that fits standard Class III and IV receivers. The high side rails help secure items and offer multiple tie-down points. This carrier is especially suitable for light-to-moderate loads like camping gear, coolers, and tools. A potential limitation is weight distribution when loaded toward the end of the carrier, so plan loads accordingly to maintain stability on rough roads.
Who this is best for: RVers who need a reliable, corrosion-resistant basket with strong support and easy maintenance. Why selected: ideal balance of light weight and strength for generator transport or bulky gear behind the RV.
Stromberg Carlson CC-255 Trailer Tray
The CC-255 Trailer Tray is designed to mount on the A-frame of an RV, placing gear toward the trailer’s softer ride area. It’s built to handle up to 300 lbs and can serve as both a trailer cargo rack and an A-frame mount cargo carrier. The universal fit and curved-leg design make installation straightforward across many travel trailers. Consider this model if your RV already uses or plans to use A-frame storage. Limitation: capacity is 300 lbs, which may require careful budgeting for heavier generators or multiple items.
Who this is best for: RV owners with A-frame setups seeking a stable, high-compatibility tray. Why selected: flexible mounting options and practical weight capacity for generator boxes, tool kits, and travel gear.
Nilight 32”×26”×4” Bumper Mounted Cargo Rack
This bumper-mounted rack delivers a practical behind-the-RV storage solution with a 350-lb capacity and a included cargo net for added cargo security. Its 32″ x 26″ footprint fits standard bumper configurations and helps RVers transport generators, luggage, and camping gear without sacrificing interior space. A caution is to verify bumper width and mounting clearance on your specific model to ensure a proper fit, as bumper dimensions vary widely among RVs.
Who this is best for: RV travelers needing a straightforward, rear bumper storage solution. Why selected: strong load capacity and net included for securing items behind the RV.
ARKSEN 32 x 26 x 4 Inch Cargo Rack Carrier
ARKSEN’s bumper-mounted rack offers a sturdy steel build with a durable powder-coated finish to resist rust and the elements. It supports up to 350 lbs, making it suitable for generators, luggage, or camping gear. The installation is described as user-friendly, with no professional tools required. Best for budget-conscious buyers who still want a robust rack behind their RV. Limitation: some users may require additional hardware for specific bumper configurations.
Who this is best for: RV owners who want a rugged, affordable bumper rack that can handle heavy loads. Why selected: solid steel construction with weather protection and ample capacity for generators or equipment.
Panoyu RV Bumper Mounted Cargo Rack Carrier
Panoyu’s bumper-mounted cargo rack measures 32″ x 26″ x 4″ and is designed for 4″–5″ bumper widths. It supports up to 350 lbs, making it suitable for luggage, camping gear, and generator-related storage. This model provides a clear compatibility guide by bumper width, helping buyers avoid fit issues. Caution: verify bumper compatibility on your specific RV to ensure a secure installation.
Who this is best for: RV owners needing reliable, bumper-based storage with clear compatibility guidance. Why selected: good capacity and straightforward mounting with helpful sizing notes.
Buying Guide
What should I consider before buying a generator carrier for an RV?
- Vehicle compatibility: Check hitch size (2″ receivers vs. bumper-mounted options) and bumper width to ensure a secure fit.
- Load capacity: Determine the total weight you’ll carry behind the RV, including a generator and gear, to avoid exceeding the rack’s limits.
- Mounting style: Choose between hitch-mounted baskets, A-frame trays, or bumper-mounted racks based on your RV design and preferred load distribution.
- Weather protection: Powder-coated or aluminum options resist rust; consider additional weatherproof enclosures for generators.
- Security: Look for racks with tie-down points and included nets or consider adding a lockable enclosure for generators.
Quick comparison by scenario
- Best for lightweight, versatile hitch-hung needs: MaxxHaul 70108
- Best for A-frame RVs requiring over-the-trailer mounting: Stromberg Carlson CC-255
- Best budget bumper option with net: Nilight
- Best all-around bumper rack with weather resistance: ARKSEN
- Best clear bumper compatibility guidance and solid capacity: Panoyu
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the typical weight capacity for RV generator racks? The capacity varies by model but is commonly in the 300–350 lbs range for many bumper and tray racks, with some hitch baskets offering up to 500 lbs depending on the setup.
- Do I need professional installation for these racks? Most bumper and A-frame racks are designed for DIY installation with common tools, but always follow manufacturer instructions for your specific RV model.
- Can I store a generator behind my RV year-round? Yes, but consider a weatherproof enclosure and ensure proper ventilation to avoid overheating or condensation buildup.
- How do I determine compatibility with my bumper or hitch? Measure bumper width, bumper height, and hitch receiver type, then compare with the rack’s listed fitment and mounting options.
- Should I use a locking enclosure for a generator? A lockable enclosure adds theft deterrence and weather protection, especially in campgrounds or public areas.
- Is it better to mount on the bumper or on the hitch? Hitch-mounted racks can offer better weight distribution and larger capacity; bumper-mounted racks save interior space and are often easier to install on many RVs.