Spare Tire Carriers
Why Every Trailer and RV Owner Needs a Spare Tire Carrier
A flat tire on the open road is one of the most frustrating — and potentially dangerous — situations any driver can face. For RV owners, motorhome travelers, and trailer haulers, the problem is even more acute: most motorhomes and trailers don't come equipped with a spare tire or any place to stow one. A spare tire carrier solves this problem by giving you a secure, accessible mounting solution so you're never caught unprepared miles from the nearest tire shop.
Spare tire carriers are purpose-built brackets, mounts, or receiver-hitch assemblies designed to hold a full-size wheel and tire assembly on the outside of your vehicle, RV, or trailer. Rather than sacrificing precious interior cargo space or simply hoping roadside assistance can track down your specialized tire size, a quality carrier keeps your own matching spare within arm's reach at all times. Whether you're crossing the Nevada desert in a Class A motorhome, hauling a boat trailer to the coast, or overlanding in a pickup truck, having the right spare carrier is a fundamental part of responsible trip planning.
What to Look for in a Spare Tire Carrier
- Receiver Size Compatibility: Most hitch-mounted carriers fit standard 2" receivers, but heavy-duty RVs and buses often use 2.5" receivers. Always confirm your hitch size before purchasing.
- Wheel and Lug Pattern Fit: Carriers are typically designed for either standard automotive wheels or dually-style wheels common on motorhomes. Check your bolt circle and lug pattern against the carrier's specifications.
- Weight Capacity: RV and heavy trailer spare tires can be substantial. Look for a carrier rated for your wheel and tire assembly weight, with adequate tongue weight ratings to match your vehicle's limits.
- Ease of Use: A spare tire does you no good if you can't manage it alone roadside. Look for lever-assisted raise/lower mechanisms, auto-latching designs, and the ability to swing the carrier aside without fully removing it.
- Corrosion Resistance: Carriers are constantly exposed to road debris, weather, and UV. Powder-coated steel construction is the standard benchmark for long-term durability.
- Mounting Type: Beyond receiver-hitch styles, some carriers mount directly to trailer tongues or frames — ideal for tow dollies where a hitch-mounted solution isn't practical.
Top Spare Tire Carrier Brands
Roadmaster is the dominant name in this category, and for good reason. Roadmaster is a family-owned American manufacturer that has been building towing and trailering products for more than 50 years. Their spare tire carriers feature a patented design that allows the carrier to pivot down to the ground — making it easy to load a heavy wheel solo — then lever the assembly back up where it automatically latches into position. They offer models covering vans, trucks, SUVs, Class B and C motorhomes, and heavy-duty Class A rigs with 2" or 2.5" receivers.
C.E. Smith brings decades of marine and trailer hardware expertise to the spare tire carrier market. Known throughout the trailering and boating community for rugged, corrosion-resistant hardware, C.E. Smith's spare tire carriers are a practical choice for trailer owners who need a reliable, no-frills solution that holds up in wet and harsh environments.
Don't Wait for a Flat to Find Out You're Unprepared
A spare tire carrier is one of those investments that pays for itself the first time you need it. Whether you're an RV full-timer, a weekend boat tower, or a long-haul truck driver, the peace of mind that comes with having a matched spare tire secured and ready is invaluable. Browse the full selection of spare tire carriers to find the right fit for your vehicle, hitch size, and tire type.