2013 Toyota Highlander Cargo Carrier and Cargo Bag Recommendation  

Question:

Expert Reply:

After checking our records I found that you have a Class III rated hitch that has a maximum tongue weight of 500 pounds, and has a 2 inch by 2 inch receiver opening.

I recommend the MaxxTow cargo carrier, part # MT70209. This swing-away enclosed cargo carrier will allow you access to the rear cargo area of your vehicle. It offers a 250 pound weight capacity. You can use this is as a complete enclosed cargo box or or as an open cargo tray. This enclosed carrier that will be more weather resistant than an open cargo carrier used with a bag. The latches that connect the cargo carrier to the cargo tray are lockable, and the lid locks using the same key. It also has integrated lights that do hook up to a 4-pole wiring system. If you do not already have a 4 pole wiring system installed on your Highlander I recommend # 118449. Additionally this product has a location for mounting your license plate, and by using the # 753-2026you can illuminate your license plate. This will plug into the existing wiring harness already incorporated into the cargo carrier.

If you would like to use an open cargo basket in conjunction with a cargo bag I would suggest the Draw-Tite 20 x 48 inch Folding Cargo Carrier # 6502. This carrier offers a higher weight capacity than the enclosed Rola carriers. Since the carrier itself only weighs 50 pounds you have plenty of weight capacity available for carrying your luggage and gear, and still within compliance with your tongue weight capacity.

To complete the carrying system with the preferences you listed I recommend the etrailer Cargo Bag # e98990. This bag can hold up to 9 cubic feet of luggage or gear.

Whichever cargo carrier you decide is suitable for your needs I would recommend using a locking hitch pin to secure the carrier to your vehicle, such as part # e98880.

If you were looking for only a hitch mounted cargo carrier and an independent cargo bag that can be mounted on your roof rack system I suggest the Pro Series Turtle Expandable Cargo Bag # PS63605. Also if you will be carrying a roof mounted cargo bag it is strongly recommended that a roof protection pad be used like the Rightline Non-Skid Roof Protection Pad # RL100650. Before installing a roof pad make sure that the roof is clean and free of dirt and debris to avoid scratching or damaging the paint. Also please verify with your owners manual the roof weight capacity of your 2013 Toyota Highlander.

Please check your owners manual to make sure that your vehicle is capable and determine the limitations of you vehicle, especially tongue weight if you intend to use a rear hitch mounted cargo carrier. You do not want to exceed the lowest rated component of your towing system. From my research I have found that your 2013 Toyota Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, and a tongue weight of approximately 350 pounds. But please check your owners manual to confirm that this information is correct for your specific vehicle.

I have included links to the products listed above as well as some videos for you.

expert reply by: Rachael H

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