MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag Review: The All-in-One Hauling Solution We Put to the Test

We’ve all been there. The car is packed, the kids are buckled in, and you’re about to embark on that long-awaited family vacation. But a final glance reveals the grim reality: coolers, strollers, beach chairs, and that “just-in-case” extra suitcase are piled precariously high, blocking the rearview mirror and turning the cabin into a cramped, uncomfortable space. This Tetris-like puzzle of packing is a rite of passage for any traveling family or adventurer. The stress of what to leave behind, the safety concern of an obstructed view, and the sheer inconvenience of a cluttered vehicle can cast a shadow over a trip before it even begins. You need more space, but a new, larger vehicle isn’t always an option. This is the exact moment when the search for an external cargo solution begins, a quest to reclaim your car’s interior and travel with freedom and peace of mind.

What to Know Before You Buy a Hitch Cargo Carrier

A vehicle cargo basket, specifically a hitch-mounted one, is more than just a metal rack; it’s a key solution for unlocking your vehicle’s true potential. It’s an extension of your trunk, a dedicated space for the bulky, dirty, or oversized gear you can’t—or don’t want to—fit inside. From hauling camping equipment and coolers for a weekend in the woods to moving a child’s belongings to a college dorm, these carriers solve the fundamental problem of limited cargo capacity. The primary benefit is the immediate liberation of interior space, leading to a more comfortable, safer, and enjoyable journey for everyone involved. Furthermore, by keeping messy items like muddy boots or sandy beach chairs outside, you protect your vehicle’s upholstery and maintain its cleanliness and value. When you need to maximize your hauling ability without committing to a trailer, a hitch carrier is the most practical and efficient choice.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a space deficit in their SUV, minivan, or truck. This includes growing families, avid campers, tailgating enthusiasts, and anyone undertaking a long-distance move. If you have a 2-inch hitch receiver on your vehicle and regularly find yourself wishing for more room, a hitch carrier is designed for you. However, it might not be suitable for those who own smaller sedans without a hitch receiver, or for individuals who only need to transport a single small item occasionally. For those without a hitch, a roof-mounted cargo basket or a soft-sided rooftop bag might be a better alternative. The key is assessing your vehicle’s capabilities and your typical cargo needs before making a decision. You can explore a wide range of options in our comprehensive guide to the best cargo carriers available today.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The usable area of the basket is paramount. The MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag offers a generous 60″ x 20″ platform with 6-inch high walls. This is ample space for multiple large suitcases, coolers, or a significant amount of camping gear. Always measure your largest items to ensure they will fit comfortably within these dimensions.
• Capacity/Performance: Pay close attention to the weight limit. MeeFar rates this carrier for a robust 500 pounds. This is a crucial number that you must not exceed, and it’s also important to know your vehicle’s tongue weight capacity, as the lower of the two numbers is your true limit. Features like a folding shank for storage and an angled design for ground clearance are performance enhancers that add significant real-world value.
• Materials & Durability: The carrier’s construction dictates its lifespan. This MeeFar model is built from heavy-duty tubular steel, which is far more durable than lighter aluminum alternatives. The black epoxy powder coating is designed to resist rust and corrosion, but as we’ll discuss, its effectiveness can vary, and careful inspection upon arrival is recommended.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: How easy is it to install, load, and store? A folding design is a major convenience, allowing the carrier to be tilted up against the vehicle when not in use. The inclusion of an anti-rattle stabilizer is also a key feature for a quiet, stable ride. For long-term care, we recommend periodically checking for any chips in the powder coat and touching them up with rust-resistant paint to prevent corrosion from taking hold.

Understanding these factors will empower you to choose a cargo carrier that not only fits your vehicle but also perfectly suits your adventurous lifestyle. It’s an investment in convenience that pays dividends on every trip.

While the MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof 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:

Unboxing the MeeFar Kit: First Impressions of an All-in-One Hauler

Upon arrival, the first thing we noticed about the MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag was the weight of the box. At nearly 60 pounds, it has a substantial heft that immediately signals its heavy-duty steel construction. This isn’t a flimsy, lightweight accessory; it feels built to handle serious loads. Unpacking the components revealed what is arguably this product’s greatest strength: it’s a complete, road-trip-ready kit right out of the box. You don’t just get a steel basket; you get the massive 16 cubic foot waterproof cargo bag, a cargo net, two ratchet straps, and the all-important hitch stabilizer. This all-in-one approach is a massive value proposition, saving you the hassle and expense of sourcing these critical accessories separately. The black epoxy powder coat on the carrier itself looked uniform and sleek, and the mesh floor is a smart design choice for easy cleaning. The waterproof bag felt surprisingly thick and durable, with robust zippers and welded seams that promised excellent weather protection. It was immediately clear that MeeFar aimed to provide everything needed to load up and hit the road immediately.

Putting the MeeFar Cargo Carrier Through Its Paces

A product’s true character is revealed not on a spec sheet, but on the open road, under load, and in the face of unpredictable weather. We subjected the MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag to a rigorous testing process, simulating everything from a cross-country move to a weekend camping trip. Our in-depth analysis focuses on the critical phases of its use: assembly, on-road performance, and the utility of its all-in-one accessory package.

Assembly and Installation: A Test of Patience and Logic

Assembling the MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag is a tale of two experiences. On one hand, the mechanical process is straightforward: two main halves of the basket bolt together in the middle to form the 60-inch platform, which then attaches to the folding shank assembly. The heavy steel construction, while reassuring for durability, makes this a task best accomplished with two people. I was able to manage it alone, as one user also noted, but balancing the heavy parts while aligning bolts requires a bit of effort. The primary challenge, however, comes from the instructions. They are sparse and diagram-based, which can be confusing for first-timers. This sentiment was echoed by several users who found them anything but “easy or straightforward.”

The most significant point of confusion is the U-bolt hitch stabilizer. The instructions provide little to no guidance on its proper installation. Through trial and error, we determined it clamps over the hitch shank and the vehicle’s receiver collar, with the flat plate and nuts tightening underneath. Once properly installed, it does a phenomenal job of eliminating rattle, but the lack of clear direction is a definite drawback. Another point of concern, raised in user feedback and confirmed by our close inspection, is the quality of the powder coating. We found a few small chips on the edges right out of the box. Based on reports of rust forming on these exposed areas, we highly recommend a pre-emptive strike: inspect every piece before assembly and apply a coat of rust-resistant spray paint or a clear sealant to any imperfections. This small step can dramatically extend the life of the carrier. You can see the full kit and its components here to get a better idea of the assembly process.

On the Road Performance: Stability, Clearance, and Weatherproofing

Once assembled and mounted, the MeeFar carrier truly begins to shine. We loaded it with approximately 250 pounds of gear for a 1,000-mile road test, and its performance was exceptional. The angled shank, which raises the basket several inches higher than the hitch receiver, is a brilliant design feature. It provided ample ground clearance, preventing any scraping on steep driveways or uneven terrain—a common issue with flat-shank carriers. At highway speeds, reaching up to 80 mph, the carrier was impressively stable. The anti-rattle stabilizer, once we figured it out, proved its worth completely. There was no unnerving clanking, swaying, or wobbling, which provides immense peace of mind on a long drive. Our experience mirrors that of many users, one of whom completed a 1,640-mile trip at speeds up to 85 mph with “not one single issue.”

The star of the on-road experience, however, was the 16 cubic foot waterproof bag. On our second day of travel, we encountered a severe, hour-long thunderstorm. We were genuinely concerned about the contents, but upon arrival at our destination, we were thrilled to find everything inside was perfectly bone dry. The bag’s heavy-duty material, combined with the protective zipper flap, creates an excellent seal against the elements. This is a consistent theme in user feedback, with one owner reporting their gear stayed dry through “at least four storms” on a 17-hour trip. This level of reliable weather protection transforms the carrier from a simple basket into a genuine, car-top-box alternative, making the MeeFar cargo carrier a fantastic value for all-weather travel.

The All-In-One Value Proposition: The Bag, Net, and Straps

What truly sets the MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag apart from many competitors is the comprehensive accessory package. It’s not just a carrier; it’s a complete cargo management system. The cargo bag itself is a premium item. With 16 cubic feet of space, its capacity is enormous. As one user happily reported, it easily held five pieces of airline-approved overhead luggage, completely freeing up their vehicle’s interior. The bag is specifically sized to fit perfectly within the 60″ x 20″ basket, maximizing usable space while maintaining an aerodynamic profile.

The included cargo net and ratchet straps are functional and certainly get the job done for immediate use. The net is great for securing odd-shaped items or for use when you’re not using the main waterproof bag. The ratchet straps are of a standard, consumer-grade quality. For a full 500-pound load or for those seeking extra security on very long, rugged journeys, we might recommend investing in a heavier-duty set of straps and a locking hitch pin. One user noted they had to purchase a longer hitch pin for their specific vehicle, which is a good reminder to always measure your own receiver before a big trip. However, for the vast majority of users and use cases, the included accessories are more than adequate and represent a significant cost saving. This bundle provides everything you need to start hauling immediately, a feature that truly elevates its overall value.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across a wide range of feedback, the consensus on the MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag is overwhelmingly positive, centering on its exceptional value and road-trip-proven durability. One user, after an 1800-mile journey from Washington to Illinois, stated they had “not one single issue” and that the bag kept everything dry through rain storms. Another was “beyond impressed” with how much space it freed up in their Grand Highlander for their kids and a large dog. Many users highlight the sturdy, heavy steel construction as a major plus, feeling it will last for years.

However, the feedback also provides a clear and consistent picture of its weaknesses. The most common complaint is the poor quality of the assembly instructions, which several users described as confusing and unhelpful, particularly for the anti-rattle U-bolt. The other recurring issue is the powder coat’s susceptibility to chipping and rusting. One reviewer noted their unit had “a huge chip that’s already rusted” right out of the box. On a positive note, when issues do arise, MeeFar’s customer service receives high praise. One user whose product was defective noted that support “reached out and offered to send a replacement,” prompting them to add stars to their review for the excellent service.

How Does the MeeFar Carrier Stack Up?

While the MeeFar carrier is a fantastic package, the market is filled with strong competitors. Understanding how it compares to the alternatives is key to making the right choice for your specific needs. We’ve compared it against three other popular options to see where it stands out and who might prefer a different model.

1. Mockins 60″ Folding Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier

The Mockins carrier is perhaps the most direct competitor to the MeeFar. It offers nearly identical specifications: a 60″ x 20″ x 6″ folding basket, a 500 lb capacity, and an included waterproof cargo bag (a slightly larger 20 cu. ft. version). Like the MeeFar, it comes as a complete kit with a net and straps. The choice between the two often comes down to brand preference, current pricing, and minor design variations. The Mockins is a very popular and well-regarded option. Someone might prefer the Mockins if they find it at a better price point or if they place a high value on the extra 4 cubic feet of space offered by its cargo bag.

2. Wildroad Roof Cargo Basket with Cargo Carrier Bag

This Wildroad product represents a different approach to cargo management. As a roof-mounted basket, it’s the ideal alternative for drivers who either don’t have a trailer hitch or prefer to keep their rear access completely unobstructed. Its basket dimensions are larger at 64″ x 39″, and it comes with an even bigger 21 cubic foot bag. However, the tradeoff is a significantly lower weight capacity, typically limited by the vehicle’s roof rails (often around 150-165 lbs). This option is perfect for carrying lighter, bulkier items like camping gear, sleeping bags, or luggage, but it is not suitable for the heavy-duty hauling the MeeFar hitch carrier can handle.

3. ARKSEN Extra Wide Roof Rack Cargo Carrier Basket

The ARKSEN carrier is a specialized rooftop solution designed for maximum width. Measuring a massive 84″ x 50″, this basket is built to carry oversized items that wouldn’t fit in a standard carrier, like multiple large coolers, construction materials, or certain types of outdoor gear. It does not come with a bag or other accessories, focusing solely on providing a large, open platform. This carrier is for the user with very specific, large-format hauling needs who wants a simple, robust roof basket. It lacks the all-in-one convenience and heavy-duty weight capacity of the MeeFar hitch-mounted system, making it a choice for a different type of user altogether.

Our Final Verdict: Is the MeeFar Cargo Carrier the Right Choice for You?

After extensive testing, assembly, and thousands of miles on the road, our verdict is clear: the MeeFar 60″ Folding Cargo Carrier Basket with Waterproof Bag offers one of the best all-around values in the vehicle cargo market today. Its core strength lies in its completeness. For a very reasonable price, you get a robust, 500-pound capacity steel basket, a genuinely effective waterproof bag, and all the essential accessories to be road-ready in about an hour. The on-road performance is steady and secure, thanks to the clever angled shank and the vital anti-rattle stabilizer.

It’s not without its flaws. The assembly instructions are a source of frustration, and the powder-coat finish requires a watchful eye to prevent rust. However, these are minor issues that can be overcome with a little patience and preventative care. We wholeheartedly recommend this carrier for families, campers, and adventurers who need a reliable, high-capacity, and all-weather hauling solution without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a product that delivers exceptional performance and an unbeatable bundle of features for the price, this is it. Ready to solve your cargo problems for good? You can check the latest price and see user reviews for the MeeFar carrier here.