Having a travel trailer is a great way to explore. But, an even better way to explore when you’ve parked up your trailer is by bike. However, you may be thinking what’s the best way to transport your bikes when you’re traveling with your travel trailer?
Of course, you can throw your bikes inside, but securing your bikes inside your trailer so they don’t move around can be tricky. Plus they’ll just be in the way if you plan on using your trailer during a short stop. Never mind the dirt after a wet ride!
This is where the best bike racks for travel trailers come in. The best travel trailer bike racks allow you to hitch up your bikes so that you can transport them safely and securely to your destination.
But with so many bike racks available, how do you choose the best bike rack for travel trailers? To help you on your way, we’ve put together a list of the best bike racks for travel trailers on the market today. So keep on reading for our top picks
Best Bike Racks for Travel Trailers This Year: Our Criteria and Results
The best bike racks for travel trailers come in 3 different types, hitch bike racks, bumper bike racks and, if your trailer has one, ladder bike racks. While there are many of each type available you need to make sure they are compatible with your trailer before you buy.
Most RV rated racks are compatible with travel trailers, but not all. So fortunately for you, the following list gives you some great options of the best bike racks for travel trailers.
| Brand | Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Link To Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Swagman | TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack | Compatible with a 2″ Class 3 hitch receiver or mounts to a 4.5″ steel welded bumper | Locking hitch pin and security cable sold separately | Click To Check Price |
| Best Value |   | Quick Products | QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack | Super affordable | Only carries 2 bikes weighing up to 30 lbs each | Click To Check Price |
| Honorable Mention |   | Let’s Go Aero | 429756 Jack-It Double Bike Carrier System | Attaches to the front of your trailer freeing up space in the rear | Bikes need lifting relatively high to load | Click To Check Price |
| 4 |   | Camco | RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack | Easily installs onto standard RV ladders | Reports that this rack feels flimsy | Click To Check Price |
| 5 |   | Swagman | RV Approved 2 Bike Bumper Bike Rack | Heavy duty steel construction, black paint finish and powder-coated to resist corrosion | Maximum load only 2 bikes weighing up to 60 lbs | Click To Check Price |
| 6 |   | Yakima | LongHaul Premium Hitch Bike Rack for RV and Travel-Trailer | Can carry up to 4 bikes | Can be tricky to load bikes | Click To Check Price |
| Avoid This One |   | SURCO | 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack | Pivoting arms allows use of the ladder even with the rack installed | Can only be used with a 1” tube ladder | Click To Check Price |
So there you have our top picks, but keep reading for all the details about how we made this selection.
How We Select The Best Bike Racks For Travel Trailers
While there are many different bike racks available today, if you are looking for the best bike rack for your travel trailer there are certain things to consider. The most important factors include, but are not limited to the following:
Type Of Bike Rack For Your Travel Trailer
Your trailer bounces around a lot more than the vehicle you drive, which creates extra stress on a bike rack. That’s why you need to use a bike rack that is specifically rated for RVs, travel trailers, or 5th wheel campers.
These include hitch bike racks, bumper bike racks and ladder bike racks, which work only if your trailer has a ladder installed. The best type for you will depend on your needs and the compatibility with your travel trailer.
Number Of Bikes You Plan To Carry
Each of the racks listed have a specific number of bikes they are designed to carry, from 1 up to 4 bikes. Having an idea of how many bikes you want to transport is a major factor when making your choice.
Overall Weight Capacity
Make sure you know the weight limit of each rack and the weight of the bikes you plan to carry. Each rack will have a specific weight limit – you really don’t want to overload your rack as an overloaded bike rack could fail, resulting in damage to both your bikes and your trailer.
Design & Ease Of Use
The different types and brands of bike racks for travel trailers have different ways to attach to your trailer and to load your bikes. Some are more simple than others. We look at the design and quality of each rack and its components, and how quick and easy it is to install.
Security
Ensure that the bike rack you select has a secure locking system to keep your bikes safe while traveling. Some brands and models include a locking system, whereas others you will need to buy your own cables and locks.
Customer Reviews
While the team here at Mudbike test most of the bike racks ourselves, we also take into account customer reviews across a number of the most popular cycling websites. Afterall, who better to get the dirt from than the very riders themselves.
If you use our criteria as a reference then you should have no problems choosing the best bike rack for your travel trailer. So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the best travel trailer bike racks that made it onto our list.
Best Bike Racks for Travel Trailers [2023]
The first place to start when looking for the best bike racks for travel trailers is to consider the type of trailer you have and which type of rack will be compatible.
Bumper bike racks, as the name suggests, attach to the bumper of your travel trailer and are suitable for carrying one or two bikes. They are lightweight and easy to install but may not be as sturdy as other types of bike racks.
Hitch bike racks attach to the hitch receiver on your travel trailer (if it has one) and can carry 1, 2, 3 or more bikes. They are easy to install and remove and are suitable for most travel trailers. However, you will need to watch the weight distribution on your trailer.
Ladder bike racks attach to the ladder on your travel trailer and can carry one or two bikes. They are easy to install and remove and are a good and generally affordable option if you have a ladder on your travel trailer.
Best Bike Rack for Travel Trailer Option: Swagman TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack
The Swagman TRAVELER XC2 is a hitch-mounted bike rack specifically designed for RV and travel trailer use. It can carry up to two bikes and has a maximum weight capacity of 35 lbs per bike.
Advantages:
- Compatible with a 2″ Class 3 hitch receiver or mounts to a 4.5″ continuous steel welded RV Bumper
- Works with bike tires from 20” to 29” in size.
Disadvantages:
- Locking hitch pin and security cable sold separately
- Can be tricky to install
One of the key features of the TRAVELER XC2 is its RV and trailer approved design which is compatible with various sizes of trailers & campers. Plus it’s a hybrid bike rack that works with either a 2” hitch or it can also be secured to a 4.5” steel-welded bumper.
Another advantage of the TRAVELER XC2 is its adjustable wheel hoops, which can accommodate a variety of bike sizes and styles weighing up to 35 lbs each. The rack also features ratcheting arms that securely hold the bike frames in place.
Overall, the Swagman TRAVELER XC2 is a well-designed and durable bike rack that is ideal for RV or travel trailer use.
Like this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
But don’t jump in and buy the first one! Keep reading for some more options.
Best Value Bike Rack for Travel Trailer Option: Quick QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack
Quick Products might not be as well known as some of the other bike rack brands, but if you’re looking for a budget option then look no further. The Quick QPRBM2R is a bumper mounted bike rack designed for use on trailers and RVs and can carry up to two bikes.
Advantages:
- Super affordable
- Quick and easy to install
Disadvantages:
- Doesn’t fold away when not in use
- Only carries 2 bikes weighing up to 30 lbs each
One of the key features of the QPRBM2R is its lightweight and compact design. It is easy to install and remove, making it a convenient option for use with travel trailers with a 4″ to 4.5″ square bumper.
Other features include adjustable cradles that can accommodate wheels up to 29”, but please note, the weight limit is only 30 lbs per bike. However, it does allow you to adjust the tire slots so that it can accommodate bikes of many different lengths, even tandems!
The Quick QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack is an affordable option for those who want a lightweight and easy-to-use bike rack. However, its design may not be suitable for all types of bumpers, so make sure you check its compatibility with your trailer before you buy.
So if you’re looking for the best budget option, click on the link below for the latest price.
Or keep reading for some more options.
Honorable Mention Bike Rack for Travel Trailer: Let’s Go Aero – 429756 Jack-It Double Bike Carrier System
While Let’s Go Aero is another lesser known bike rack brand, the company has been coming up with all kinds of innovative travel carriers and accessories since 1998. Their unique Jack-It Bike Carrier System might just be the solution you are looking for.
Advantages:
- Attaches to the front of your trailer freeing up space in the rear
- SwayControl system protects your bikes
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Bikes need lifting relatively high to load
The beauty of this rack is that it doesn’t require a ladder, hitch, or bumper for secure installation. Instead, it secures to the tongue of your travel trailer in between the trailer and the vehicle you’re towing, freeing up space in the rear.
The Jack-It is designed to fit most A-frame travel and cargo trailers and is compatible with all bike frames. And by installing it on the tongue of your trailer, this rack will experience much less bounce than a rack installed on the back of your trailer.
Plus this carrier system can hold up to two bikes and offers a maximum weight capacity of 80 lbs or up to 40 lbs per bike. And it secures your bikes by the wheels so there is no risk of any damage to the frames.
Sound good? Then click on the link below for all the details.
Or keep reading for our next option.
Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack
Camco has been making quality outdoor products and accessories since 1966. Their Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack easily installs onto standard RV ladders and holds up to 2 bikes with a maximum combined weight of 60 lbs.
Advantages:
- Easily installs onto standard RV ladders
- Lightweight rack that folds for easy storage
Disadvantages:
- Reports that this rack feels flimsy
- Maximum weight limit only 60 lbs
The Camco RV Ladder Mount bike rack features “Form-Fit” cradles that securely hold your bikes in place, and the supplied straps provide added security. It also has soft grip handles and locking pins to keep it in place.
This bike rack will securely hold 2 bikes and there is enough distance between them to limit any contact. Another bonus feature is that it only weighs 8.2 lbs and it folds for easy storage. But please note that it may not be compatible with some smaller framed bikes.
The only downside we can see is if your ladder is on the side of your travel trailer, the bikes will stick too far out. But if your ladder is on the back of your trailer then there’s no problem at all.
But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below for all the details and the latest price.
Still not found what you’re looking for? Then keep reading, we’ve still got more to come.
Swagman RV Approved 2 Bike Bumper Bike Rack
The Swagman RV 2 Bike Bumper Rack is a popular choice for travel trailers and RVs due to its affordability and easy installation. The rack can hold up to two bikes and fits most 4” – 4.5” continuous welded steel bumpers.
Advantages:
- Heavy duty steel construction
- Specifically designed for use with travel trailers, 5th wheelers and RVs
Disadvantages:
- Maximum load only 2 bikes weighing up to 30 lbs each
- Some reviewers complain of poor quality
This rack is made from heavy duty steel and has a powder-coated finish to prevent rust and corrosion. Despite this, some reviews complain of the rack rusting after a few months. However, at less than 1 lb it’s a lightweight rack that is easy to install.
The Swagman RV Bumper Rack consists of 2 individual wheel holders that are installed separately and adjust to fit different bike frame sizes. It is installed with 6.5″ and 8″ long bolts around your travel trailer’s steel bumper, so it’s not going anywhere.
The wheel holders have 2 slots each so that you can carry 2 bikes, but the weight limit is a maximum of 60 lbs. It doesn’t come with any straps or locks so if you want to secure your bikes from theft you will need to purchase straps and a locking mechanism separately.
Like this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
Not your thing? Then keep reading for another good option.
YAKIMA LongHaul Premium Hitch Bike Rack for RV and Travel-Trailer
Yakima needs no introduction as a premier bike rack brand and their LongHaul Premium Hitch Bike Rack lives up to their reputation. The LongHaul is a bike rack designed, built, and tested to stand up to the long miles and rigorous demands of travel trailer use.
Advantages:
- Can carry up to 4 bikes
- Maximum weight capacity 37.5 lbs per bike
Disadvantages:
- At 32 lbs this rack is the heaviest on the list
- Expensive
The Yakima LongHaul is a hanging hitch mount rack that can carry up to 4 bikes. One of the standout features of the Yakima LongHaul is its adjustable cradles, which can be moved to accommodate different bike sizes, including kids’ bikes and fat tire bikes.
The SuperCush ZipStrip™ cradles also protect your bikes from any damage during transport and the anti-sway cradle design holds your bikes in place and minimizes any bike-to-bike contact.
Plus this rack comes with a full SKS (Same Key System) security package – a HitchLock locks the rack to your travel trailer and a LockDown cable secures your bikes to the rack giving you extra peace of mind.
The price is a bit on the high side, but click the link below to check – your budget might just stretch that far.
Or carry on reading for our final option.
SURCO 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack
Surco is a family-owned American company that makes all kinds of racks and accessories. Their SURCO 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack ticks all the boxes but unfortunately doesn’t get the best reviews.
Advantages:
- Pivoting arms allows use of the ladder even with the rack installed
- Doesn’t need straps to install
Disadvantages:
- Can only be used with a 1” tube ladder
- At just under 4 lbs it’s a bit too lightweight
Overall, we were quite impressed with the SURCO 501BR Ladder Mounted Bike Rack. It’s a great solution for anyone who wants to take their bikes on the road without sacrificing precious cargo space inside your travel trailer.
It’s easy to install, feels pretty sturdy, and holds the bikes securely in place with rubber straps and padded cradles without the need for adding extra straps. Plus it’s advertised to fit on any RV or van ladder. Sounds good right?
Well, that’s where the buck stops. There are many complaints that this ladder bike rack does not fit any ladder, even a SURCO ladder which is the same brand! It’s advertised to fit any ladder, but the small print says it only fits ladders with 1” tubes, and that’s why we don’t recommend this one.
However, if you have a 1” tube ladder on your travel trailer then it’s worth a shot. So click on the link below for more details and the latest price.
So there you have our top picks. Still unsure which one to buy? Then keep reading for our final results.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Bike Racks for Travel Trailers Per Section
So, which is the best bike rack for your travel trailer? Only you can decide as per your needs. However, the following table lists our top picks.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link for Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Swagman | TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack | This versatile rack can be used as both a hitch mount and bumper mount bike rack | Click To Check Price |
| Runner Up | | Let’s Go Aero | 429756 Jack-It Double Bike Carrier System | Attaches to the front of your trailer freeing up space in the rear | Click To Check Price |
| Best Budget Option | | Quick Products | QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack | Super affordable | Click To Check Price |
There are clearly a lot of bike racks for travel trailers in the market today, but we’ve identified the best price points from each brand so you don’t have to.
Make sure you click on the link of the bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price because you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
People Also Ask
Can I put a bike rack on my travel trailer?
Yes, you can put a bike rack on your travel trailer. However, because of the extra forces involved, the bike rack you use needs to be designed to handle the increased stress.
So always make sure the bike rack you choose is designed, tested, and approved for use on a travel trailer.
Where do you store bikes in a travel trailer?
If you have the space, of course, you can store your bikes inside a travel trailer. These days some travel trailers and RVs even come with “gear garages” that are large enough to not only store your bikes, but to also work on them too.
However, if your travel trailer is on the small side, it will be difficult to store your bikes in a travel trailer as they will be difficult to secure, constantly in the way, and will bring all kinds of dirt and debris inside.
Can you put a bike rack on the back of a camper trailer?
Yes, you can put a bike rack on the back of a camper trailer, but the type of rack you use will depend on your travel trailer. If you have a hitch fitted then you can use a hitch mount bike rack, no problem.
Otherwise, you will need to check the strength and size of your bumper to see if a bumper rack will work and if you have a rear facing ladder then a ladder bike rack will also work.
Can you mount a bike rack to a camper bumper?
Yes, you can mount a bike rack to a camper bumper as there are specific bumper bike racks that are designed especially for this. These racks use U-bolts or mounting plates to clamp around your travel trailer’s bumper.
However, it’s important to make sure that your travel trailer’s bumper can handle the weight of a bumper bike rack. Typically, this means your bumper should be continuous welded steel that measures 4″ x 4″.
It’s good to note that aluminum or spot welded bumpers will not handle the extra weight of a bumper rack plus your bikes.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Bike Racks for Travel Trailers Per Section
So, which is the best bike rack for your travel trailer? Only you can decide as per your needs. However, the following table lists our top picks.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link for Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Swagman | TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack | This versatile rack can be used as both a hitch mount and bumper mount bike rack | Click To Check Price |
| Runner Up | | Let’s Go Aero | 429756 Jack-It Double Bike Carrier System | Attaches to the front of your trailer freeing up space in the rear | Click To Check Price |
| Best Budget Option | | Quick Products | QPRBM2R Bumper Mounted RV Bike Rack | Super affordable | Click To Check Price |
There are clearly a lot of bike racks for travel trailers in the market today, but we’ve identified the best price points from each brand so you don’t have to.
Make sure you click on the link of the bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price, because you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
