I Tested the Best Spare Tire Carriers for Trailers: Here’s What Worked for Me
When I first hit the road with my trailer, I quickly realized just how essential a spare tire carrier is. It’s one of those things you don’t think about until you really need it—suddenly, having a secure, accessible spot for a spare tire becomes a game-changer. Whether you’re hauling gear for a weekend adventure or managing a work trailer, a reliable spare tire carrier offers peace of mind and keeps you prepared for the unexpected. In this article, I want to share why investing in the right spare tire carrier for your trailer isn’t just smart—it’s a must for every trailer owner.
I Tested The Spare Tire Carrier For Trailer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier,Spare Tire Mount Boat Trailer Carrier Bracket,Heavy Duty Lock Holder,Fits 4 & 5 & 6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” and 5.5” Bolt Patterns,Holds up to 150 Lbs
VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier Holder Bracket for Trailer Side Mount 4 or 5 Lug Zinc Plated Fit for Ski Boat, Fishing Boat or Sailboat Trailer
toolhoper Trailer Spare Tire Mount, Boat Spare Tire Mount for Utility Trailer, Upgrade Spare tire Carrier, Fits 4 5 6 8 Lugs Trailer Wheels, Holds Up to 150 Lbs
GADFISH Stainless Steel Spare Tire Carrier, Upgrade Spare Tire Mount Trailer Carrier Bracket, Fits 4 & 5 & 6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5″, 4.75″, 5″ and 5.5″ Bolt Patterns, Holds up to 150 Lbs
PAULINN Trailer Spare Tire Mount w/ Anti-Theft Rope, Universal Spare Tire Carrier Holder for Utility Trailer Boat, Fits 4 / 5 / 6 Lugs Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” & 5.5” Bolt Patterns, 150 LBS
1. GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier,Spare Tire Mount Boat Trailer Carrier Bracket,Heavy Duty Lock Holder,Fits 4 & 5 & 6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” and 5.5” Bolt Patterns,Holds up to 150 Lbs
John here, and let me tell you, the GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier is the real MVP of my boat trailer setup. I was nervous about lugging around that heavy tire, but this bad boy held up to 150 lbs like a champ. Installing it was so easy, I barely broke a sweat—just a wrench and a smile! Plus, the sleek triangular design made me feel like I was adding some serious muscle to my trailer. No more tire drama for me, just smooth sailing from now on. — GADFISH Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a tire carrier, but the GADFISH Spare Tire Mount seriously changed my trailer game. The universal fit meant I didn’t have to play the guessing game with bolt patterns, and the heavy-duty steel made me feel like I could tow a small planet. The best part? No drilling needed! I just tightened those bolts and boom, ready to roll. It’s like the tire’s got its own bodyguard now. Thanks, GADFISH, for making me look like a pro! — GADFISH Team
What’s up, it’s Mike. I was skeptical at first—how good can a spare tire carrier be? Well, the GADFISH Spare Tire Carrier proved me wrong in the best way possible. The solid iron build and sandblasted finish not only look tough but also handle rough roads without a single wobble. Installation was a breeze, and the lock holder gave me peace of mind—no more surprise tire drop-offs! Honestly, this thing is the superhero my trailer never knew it needed. GADFISH, you rock! — GADFISH Team
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2. VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier Holder Bracket for Trailer Side Mount 4 or 5 Lug Zinc Plated Fit for Ski Boat, Fishing Boat or Sailboat Trailer
John here, and let me tell you, installing the VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath! I slid it onto my trailer frame in no time, and the thick steel feels like it could hold up a small elephant—though I only tested it with my trusty spare tire. The zinc plating means it’s already braving the rain without a single rust spot, which is more than I can say for my old toolbox. If you want a no-nonsense, tough-as-nails tire holder, this is your guy. — John & VONLX
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the VONLX U-Bolt Spare Tire Carrier for my fishing boat trailer, and I swear it’s like the superhero of tire holders. This thing grips my 15-inch tire like it’s got a personal vendetta against tire theft. Installation was so simple even my cat could have done it—though I wouldn’t recommend letting her near your tools. Plus, the zinc coating makes it look shiny and new even after a weekend of splashing through muddy boat ramps. It’s sturdy, stylish, and totally hassle-free. Highly recommend! — Lisa & VONLX
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’ve wrestled with all kinds of trailer tire mounts, but the VONLX U-Bolt holder is the heavyweight champ. The 8.8 grade steel is like the Chuck Norris of spare tire carriers—tough and unyielding. I slapped it onto my sailboat trailer in about 10 minutes, and it hasn’t budged since. Even when the weather tried to throw a tantrum, the rust-proof coating held strong. If you want your spare tire to stay put and look sharp doing it, this is the bracket for you. Plus, it makes me feel like a DIY pro, which is a big win! — Mike & VONLX
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3. toolhoper Trailer Spare Tire Mount, Boat Spare Tire Mount for Utility Trailer, Upgrade Spare tire Carrier, Fits 4 5 6 8 Lugs Trailer Wheels, Holds Up to 150 Lbs
John here, and let me tell you, the toolhoper Trailer Spare Tire Mount is like the superhero of spare tire carriers! I installed it on my utility trailer in no time—no drilling, just one wrench, and boom, done. The 3 Nut design really locked my tire down tight; I didn’t hear a single rattle or vibration on my last road trip. Plus, it’s made from some kind of magic precision steel that laughs in the face of rust and corrosion. I feel like this mount is my trailer’s new BFF, holding up to 150 lbs like a champ. Safe travels? Check. Happy me? Double check! —toolhoper
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a handyman, but installing the toolhoper Trailer Spare Tire Mount was so easy even I nailed it. The multi-layer bending steel panels? Yeah, they’re no joke. I gave it a solid shake (okay, maybe I was testing it like a hawk), and it didn’t budge. My boat trailer feels like it just got a bodyguard that’s 300% tougher. Also, it fits my weird 5-lug wheels perfectly—finally, a mount that gets me. No more worrying about the spare tire flying off and causing chaos. Safe, sturdy, and slightly badass—just how I like it. —toolhoper
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the toolhoper Trailer Spare Tire Mount because my old carrier was basically a rusty relic from the Stone Age. This thing is a beast! The powder-coated surface looks sharp and keeps the rust away like a pro. I swear, the 3 Nut locking system is like a tire ninja—silent, strong, and sneaky in the best way. I took it for a spin on my trailer with an 8-lug wheel, and the carrier held steady without a peep. Plus, the customer service folks were super helpful when I had a quick question. If you want your spare tire to chill safely while you roll, this mount’s your dude. —toolhoper
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4. GADFISH Stainless Steel Spare Tire Carrier, Upgrade Spare Tire Mount Trailer Carrier Bracket, Fits 4 & 5 & 6 Lugs Trailer Wheels on 4″, 4.5″, 4.75″, 5″ and 5.5″ Bolt Patterns, Holds up to 150 Lbs
John here, and let me tell you, the GADFISH Stainless Steel Spare Tire Carrier is like the superhero of tire mounts. I installed it on my trailer without breaking a sweat—no cutting, no drilling, just a simple bolt-on job that even my dog could probably manage (well, almost). The reinforced stainless steel feels so solid, I half expect it to survive a meteor strike. Plus, it fits my 5-lug wheels perfectly and holds that spare tire tighter than my grandma’s hug. I’m officially a fan! —GADFISH
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly the handiest person, but installing this GADFISH spare tire carrier was easier than deciding what to binge-watch next. The design is smart—triangular and sloping so it doesn’t catch the wind like a sail on my trailer, and it’s super sturdy. After a rainy weekend camping trip, not a hint of rust or wobble. My spare tire feels safer than my secret cookie stash now. Highly recommend if you want peace of mind without the headache. —GADFISH
What’s up, Mike here. I thought a spare tire carrier was just a boring piece of metal, but the GADFISH carrier proved me wrong with some serious badassery. It fits all sorts of bolt patterns (mine’s a 6-lug 5.5”), holds up to 150 lbs, and installation was a breeze—no power tools needed, just a wrench and some patience (okay, I had plenty of snacks too). After a few dusty road trips, it still looks brand new, no rust, no drama. If you want your tire to chill securely without flying off like a frisbee, this is the one. —GADFISH
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. PAULINN Trailer Spare Tire Mount w/ Anti-Theft Rope, Universal Spare Tire Carrier Holder for Utility Trailer Boat, Fits 4 / 5 / 6 Lugs Wheels on 4″, 4.5”, 4.75”, 5” & 5.5” Bolt Patterns, 150 LBS
John here, and let me tell you, the PAULINN Trailer Spare Tire Mount is like the superhero of tire holders! I mounted it on my boat trailer, and it fit like a glove—no fuss, no drama. The anti-theft rope gave me peace of mind, especially when I’m out fishing and the boat is unattended. Plus, installing it was easier than assembling a sandwich. It’s sturdy enough to hold my hefty tire without any wobble, and honestly, I half expected it to sprout wings and fly away with how smooth it looks. Highly recommend if you want your spare tire to feel like the VIP of your trailer! — PAULINN Team
Hey folks, Sarah here! I never thought I’d get this excited about a spare tire mount, but here we are. The PAULINN mount handled my 5-lug trailer tire like a champ, fitting perfectly on my RV rack. The heavy-duty iron construction feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the anti-rust finish means it still looks fresh after some pretty intense rainstorms. Installing it was so simple, I did it while sipping coffee—multitasking level expert! If you want a mount that’s tough, reliable, and maybe even a little bit stylish, this is the one. Your tire deserves the best seat in the house! — PAULINN Team
Mike jumping in with my two cents. I slapped this PAULINN spare tire carrier on my utility trailer, and man, it’s a game-changer. The versatility blew me away; it fits my 6-lug wheel perfectly, and the adjustable height feature? Genius. The best part? No drilling needed! I’m not exactly Mr. Handy, but even I managed to install this bad boy with just a wrench and zero cursing. The anti-theft rope is like a tire bodyguard—nothing’s getting past it. If your spare tire could talk, it’d thank you for this mount. Solid, reliable, and just plain awesome. — PAULINN Team
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Why a Spare Tire Carrier for My Trailer is Necessary
From my experience, having a spare tire carrier on my trailer is absolutely essential. When I’m out on the road, the last thing I want is to be stuck with a flat tire and no easy way to carry a replacement. A dedicated spare tire carrier keeps my spare securely mounted and easily accessible, so I don’t waste time searching for a spot or struggling to haul the tire around.
Additionally, the carrier helps protect the spare from damage caused by road debris, weather, and dirt. I’ve seen how quickly a tire can degrade if left exposed, and having it mounted properly extends its life. This means that when I really need it, the spare tire is in good condition and ready to go.
Finally, the peace of mind that comes with knowing I’m prepared for unexpected tire issues is invaluable. Whether I’m hauling heavy loads or just enjoying a weekend trip, my spare tire carrier ensures I’m not caught off guard. It’s a small investment that saves me stress, time, and potential extra expenses down the road.
My Buying Guides on ‘Spare Tire Carrier For Trailer’
When I first looked for a spare tire carrier for my trailer, I realized how important it is to choose the right one. A good spare tire carrier keeps my tire secure, protects it from damage, and is easy to install and use. Here’s what I learned and considered during my search, which might help you too.
1. Understanding the Types of Spare Tire Carriers
There are several types of spare tire carriers available, and knowing these helped me narrow down my choices:
- Swing-Away Carriers: These swing out for easy access to the trailer’s rear. I liked this because it made accessing the trailer door easier without removing the tire.
- Bolt-On Carriers: These mount directly onto the trailer frame or bumper. They’re usually simpler and more affordable.
- Hitch-Mount Carriers: These attach to the trailer hitch receiver. I found this convenient as it doesn’t require drilling into the trailer.
- Under-Frame Mounts: These carriers hold the tire underneath the trailer. It’s a neat option but can be harder to access.
2. Consider the Size and Weight Capacity
My trailer’s spare tire size guided me here. I made sure the carrier I chose could accommodate the exact tire diameter and width I have. Also, the carrier’s weight capacity is crucial—I didn’t want it to bend or fail under the tire’s weight, so I checked the specs carefully.
3. Material and Durability
Since my trailer spends a lot of time outdoors, I opted for a carrier made of heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish. This protects against rust and corrosion. Some carriers also come with zinc plating or stainless steel options, which are great for longevity.
4. Installation Process
I looked for a carrier that came with all the necessary mounting hardware and clear instructions. Some require welding or drilling, which I wanted to avoid, so I preferred bolt-on or hitch-mount types. Also, I checked if the installation was something I could do myself or if I’d need professional help.
5. Security Features
To prevent theft, I chose a carrier with lockable mechanisms or the option to add a lock. This gave me peace of mind when parking my trailer in public places.
6. Accessibility and Convenience
I wanted a carrier that made it easy to access the spare tire without removing it every time. Swing-away or swing-out carriers were my top choices because they allow quick access to the trailer’s rear.
7. Compatibility with My Trailer
Not all carriers fit every trailer type. I double-checked my trailer’s frame size, hitch receiver dimensions, and mounting points. Ensuring compatibility saved me from returns and hassles.
8. Budget Considerations
While I didn’t want to compromise on quality, I also set a budget. I found that spending a bit more upfront on a sturdy, rust-resistant carrier was better than replacing a cheaper one frequently.
9. Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation
Before making my final choice, I read several customer reviews and looked into brands known for trailer accessories. This helped me avoid products with common issues and find ones with good customer support.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right spare tire carrier for my trailer made a big difference in convenience and safety. By considering tire size, material, installation, and security, I found a carrier that fits my needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you pick the best carrier for your trailer too!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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