If you’re a Jeep Wrangler owner, you probably love the thrill of off-roading and adventure. But with adventure comes the need for extra storage, especially for longer trips. Fortunately, Jeep Wranglers are incredibly versatile when it comes to luggage mounting. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer road trip, there are plenty of ways to secure your gear while keeping it safe and accessible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to mount luggage on your Jeep Wrangler and explore some of the best mounting options available.
Why You Need Extra Luggage Mounting for a Jeep Wrangler
Before diving into the how-tos, it’s important to understand why additional luggage mounting solutions are often necessary for a Jeep Wrangler. While Wranglers are known for their ruggedness and capability, they don’t always offer ample interior storage. The compact cabin, especially in two-door models, can quickly fill up with gear, leaving little room for luggage.
When you’re heading out for a trip, having a reliable system to mount your luggage on the exterior of your Jeep can make all the difference. You can maximize your storage space without sacrificing passenger comfort or cramming everything inside the vehicle.
Different Ways to Mount Luggage on a Jeep Wrangler
Mounting luggage on a Jeep Wrangler can be done in several ways, depending on your needs, the type of trip, and the amount of gear you’re carrying. Here are some of the most popular methods:
1. Roof Racks
Roof racks are a classic and popular way to mount luggage on a Jeep Wrangler. They give you the ability to load up your roof with cargo, making it an ideal option for larger or bulkier items.
How to Install a Roof Rack:
- Step 1: Choose the right roof rack for your Jeep Wrangler. Make sure it’s compatible with your specific model year and roof type (hardtop or soft top).
- Step 2: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Most roof racks are easy to install with simple tools like wrenches and screwdrivers.
- Step 3: Once installed, use cargo straps or bungee cords to secure your luggage to the roof rack.
Roof racks are great for items like tents, kayaks, or larger bags that won’t fit inside the cabin.
2. Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carriers
Hitch-mounted cargo carriers are a solid option for Jeep Wrangler owners who want to carry more luggage without adding weight to the roof. These carriers attach to the hitch receiver at the back of the vehicle and can accommodate a significant amount of gear.
How to Use a Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carrier:
- Step 1: Ensure your Jeep has a compatible hitch receiver (either factory-installed or aftermarket).
- Step 2: Attach the cargo carrier to the hitch receiver following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Step 3: Secure your luggage with tie-downs or cargo nets to prevent movement during travel.
Hitch-mounted carriers keep your gear easily accessible and are perfect for items like coolers, camping equipment, or suitcases.
3. Spare Tire Cargo Bags
The spare tire on the back of your Jeep Wrangler is more than just a backup for emergencies – it can also serve as a great place to mount extra luggage. Specially designed spare tire cargo bags fit over the spare tire and give you additional storage space.
Steps to Mount a Spare Tire Cargo Bag:
- Step 1: Find a spare tire cargo bag designed for Jeep Wranglers.
- Step 2: Simply slip the bag over your spare tire and secure it in place with straps.
- Step 3: Load your luggage into the bag and zip it up.
Spare tire bags are ideal for storing lighter items that don’t take up much space but still need to be easily accessible.
4. Overhead Cargo Nets
If you’re looking for a lightweight and easy-to-install option, overhead cargo nets might be the solution. These nets stretch across the interior roof of your Jeep Wrangler, allowing you to store soft luggage or gear overhead.
How to Use Overhead Cargo Nets:
- Step 1: Purchase an overhead cargo net compatible with your Wrangler’s interior.
- Step 2: Attach the net to the roll bars inside your vehicle using the provided hooks or straps.
- Step 3: Place soft luggage or items like jackets, blankets, or duffel bags into the net.
While overhead cargo nets won’t hold heavy items, they’re great for freeing up cabin space and keeping lightweight gear secure.
5. Rear Cargo Basket
A rear cargo basket is another excellent option for expanding your storage capacity. Similar to a hitch-mounted carrier, a cargo basket sits at the rear of your vehicle but often offers a lower-profile and more compact design.
Mounting a Rear Cargo Basket:
- Step 1: Install the rear cargo basket to your Jeep’s hitch receiver.
- Step 2: Place your luggage in the basket and secure it with tie-downs or a cargo net.
- Step 3: Make sure the load doesn’t obstruct your rear view or block access to the spare tire.
Rear cargo baskets are ideal for gear that you don’t need to access often but want to keep outside the main cabin.
Best Luggage Mounting Options for Jeep Wranglers
Now that you know how to mount luggage on your Jeep Wrangler, let’s explore some of the best products available for each method:
1. Thule Canyon XT Roof Rack
Thule is a well-known brand for outdoor gear, and the Canyon XT Roof Rack is one of the best options for Jeep Wrangler owners. It’s durable, easy to install, and has a sleek design that doesn’t add too much bulk to your vehicle’s profile.
Key Benefits:
- Spacious and sturdy
- Aerodynamic design to reduce wind noise
- Can be combined with other Thule accessories for bikes or kayaks
2. Curt 18153 Basket-Style Cargo Carrier
The Curt 18153 is a hitch-mounted cargo carrier that offers a sturdy, basket-style design for carrying a variety of luggage. With a 500-pound capacity, it can handle almost anything you throw at it.
Key Benefits:
- Heavy-duty construction
- High sides for added security
- Easy to install and remove
3. Smittybilt 5662424 Overhead Cargo Net
For an interior storage solution, the Smittybilt overhead cargo net is a great pick. It attaches to the roll bars of your Jeep and provides a convenient way to store soft items like jackets, bags, and blankets.
Key Benefits:
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Keeps gear from cluttering the cabin
- Sturdy enough to hold a good amount of soft gear
4. Overland Vehicle Systems Spare Tire Trash Bag/Cargo Carrier
This dual-purpose bag fits over your spare tire and is perfect for storing gear or even using as a trash bag while camping. It’s durable, water-resistant, and easy to install.
Key Benefits:
- Fits most spare tires
- Weather-resistant fabric
- Versatile use for gear or waste
5. Rola 59502 V-Tex Rooftop Cargo Basket
The Rola 59502 is a premium roof basket that provides ample storage space for luggage and outdoor gear. Its aerodynamic design and high-quality construction make it a top choice for Jeep owners.
Key Benefits:
- Durable steel construction
- Powder-coated finish to resist rust
- Easy installation with universal mounting hardware
Tips for Safely Mounting Luggage on a Jeep Wrangler
When mounting luggage on your Jeep Wrangler, safety should always come first. Here are a few key tips to ensure your gear stays secure and your vehicle handles well on the road:
- Distribute Weight Evenly: Whether using a roof rack, cargo carrier, or spare tire bag, ensure that weight is evenly distributed to avoid affecting the handling of your Jeep.
- Secure Your Luggage: Always use high-quality straps, tie-downs, or cargo nets to prevent your gear from shifting during travel.
- Follow Weight Limits: Be mindful of your Jeep’s weight capacity for both roof and hitch-mounted carriers. Overloading your vehicle can affect performance and fuel efficiency.
- Check for Obstructions: Before hitting the road, make sure that any mounted gear doesn’t block your view, cover your license plate, or interfere with access to essential parts like the spare tire.
Conclusion
Mounting luggage on a Jeep Wrangler is all about finding the right balance between practicality and convenience. Whether you’re going for a roof rack, hitch-mounted carrier, or spare tire cargo bag, there are plenty of options to help you expand your storage space and keep your adventures running smoothly. Just make sure to follow the installation instructions carefully and secure your gear properly for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Now that you know how to mount luggage on your Jeep Wrangler, you can confidently pack up and head out on your next adventure without worrying about space!