Blog

On the Road Again with the StowAway Hitch Carrier

2020-05-05T18:31:00-05:00

For years, we shared the dream of traveling around the United States and living on the road full-time. One day we decided it was time to stop dreaming and start living. We chose to leave on the spring equinox of 2018 and begin our road trip adventure of a lifetime. This would give us nine months to plan and research. It didn’t take long to realize the wide range of gear we would need to outfit ourselves properly. There was no way that two of us were going to fit in our Jeep Cherokee along with all of our gear, so we had to come up with a solution. Quality and durability are a necessity when it comes to gear, so I knew this wouldn’t be an easy task. That was when I learned about StowAway Hitch Box. My research made it an easy choice to get the StowAway Max Hitch Cargo Box on their swingaway hitch frame.

That was a game-changer for us. Suddenly, we were no longer concerned about where we were going to store all of our gear. We were able to store our solar panels, solar generator, all of our kitchen supplies, food, tools, tarp and tarp poles, camp chairs and table, shoes, and many other things. The size of the box and the amount it can hold really made it possible for us to enjoy life on the road while having space inside of our vehicle. It’s been over two years and more than 70,000 miles and we have no desire to stop traveling. We’ve explored the lower 48 states, as well as several excursions into Canada and Mexico. The StowAway cargo box has been with us and in use that entire time.

From coast to coast, we’ve had amazing adventures. Traversing mountains, deserts, forests, and marshes has become a common activity for us. We made it to the top of Pikes Peak and down to the Badwater Basin. We’ve had to opportunity to swim in two oceans, five Great Lakes, and countless rivers and streams. Our minds were blown by the beauty of places like Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta, Canada, and the Redwood Forests in California. We’ve been baked by the summer sun in Arizona and tested our cold-weather gear during a New Hampshire winter. No matter where we’ve been, the StowAway hitch box has taken everything we’ve thrown at it. Not only has it kept our gear dry and safe, but also because it locks, it’s kept everything secure.

Outside of storage the StowAway box has come in handy in various ways. The top of the lid is pretty flat and we use that to our advantage. We use it frequently as a counter/tabletop to eat meals. We enjoy finding a scenic location and having a “box picnic”. Believe me, there have been many of them along the way. The swingaway hitch frame has also come in handy on numerous occasions. We love to lay inside of our rig with the back hatch open, looking out at the sunset. This is only possible because of the swingaway frame. The frame has also been helpful during windy days at camp. One day while camping on the edge of the Badlands we were faced with an impressive windstorm. We figured out that we can lock the box in the 90° position and with our backs against our Jeep we used the StowAway as a wind block.

We love our lifestyle so much that we’ve decided to continue living on the road full-time. It has been educational, exhilarating, and we couldn’t imagine living any other way. Moving forward we plan to move at a slower pace and dive deeper into each location. It’s such a beautiful and interesting land that we live in and it constantly calls to us. The reliability and durability of our StowAway Cargo Box enables us to live the lifestyle we want and we plan to continue taking full advantage of that. Knowing it can handle just about anything we throw at it, really opens up the places we can go and the adventures we can have. I can’t wait to see where we will go next and the experiences that it will bring.

Written by: Jasper Springfield of Roving Motion

How the StowAway Hitch Carrier can help during the Coronavirus

2020-04-15T17:17:00-05:00

First a Little History. I grew up in the age before SUVs. We had cars and trucks--mostly cars. We always relied on the trunk of the car to haul stuff and to keep it out of the way of passengers. And now, everything is about SUVs (and small RV’s). The problem is that the backend of an SUV is sort of like a truck bed, but it’s not a separate trunk. Loading stuff into the back of your SUV could mean that it encroaches on the passenger space. Your stuff sometimes rolls around, and heaven forbid trying to get a single item from the back when fully loaded, you may find lots of other things spilling out.

Missing My Trunk. Several years ago, I had an expanded version of the SUV problem. We bought a cool Class B motorhome. It has many smaller cupboards, drawers, and a closet inside with several medium-size storage bins on the outside. However, there was no place for my metal tool chest, the camp stove, a box of firewood, our camp chairs, long trekking poles, a five-gallon water container, and the bag of trash that we accumulate when camping. I couldn’t just stash this bulky stuff inside the motorhome anymore than you would want to stash all this stuff in the back of your SUV. One day out of desperation, I exclaimed to my wife, “We need a trunk.”

Aha, the Stowaway! I went online to search for “cargo carriers” and found the Stowaway Hitch Boxes. I was so impressed with the product’s size, durability, construction, swing-out hitch frame, taillights, drain hole, and locking latch that I bought myself a StowAway hitch-mounted “trunk” for my motorhome. Hooray, I now had an exterior, safe, out-of-way place for bulky gear and even some stuff that was occasionally greasy (think camp stove), smelly (think trash bag), or just messy (think firewood, paint cans, rags, balls, BB guns, bedrolls, etc.).

And Now There’s a Pandemic. I recently heard a news report indicating that the coronavirus can live for 1-3 days on the packaging of the food and other purchases we make or have delivered. There are invisible handprints all over the packages. Yuck. One expert recommended setting up a “staging table” in your garage on which to place packaged items when you get home from the store--to let them “air out.” I’ve got my table. Then, it occurred to me that a Stowaway cargo box would be the ideal “package safety” accessory for the back of your SUV or RV to keep contaminated packages temporarily away from kids and pets and to prevent those nasty little germs from embedding themselves in your vehicle's carpet, upholstery, or leather seats. Now, I don’t mean to be paranoid. I further understand that the probability of contacting a virus from packaging is maybe just 1-3%. 97% of the contagions we’ll encounter come from the expired droplets from the mouths of others who cough, sneeze, or talk to us in too-close proximity. There is NO substitute for “Social Distancing,” which my daughter now calls “Physical Distancing” to sound less “anti-social.”

The message of this article is to recommend the StowAway Cargo Carrier for Your SUV or Motorhome. Save the back of your SUV for family, pets, golf clubs, gym bags, kids daypacks, and your personalized picnic basket with home-prepared snacks for on-the-road. And use the StowAway for groceries and things that you buy that may have coronavirus residue. And wash and rinse the inside of the StowAway regularly by removing the drain plug and grabbing the hose.

My wife and I now have a new motto whenever we pull out of the driveway: “Never go without the StowAway.”

Darby Checketts is a retired business consultant, outdoor enthusiast, camping expert, and the author of seventeen books. He has traveled throughout 47 of the 50 United States and 27 foreign countries.

Emergency Preparedness: StowAway Can Help

2020-03-23T20:45:00-05:00

Anyone else using this social distancing time to reflect on your emergency preparedness? The current health situation requires most of us to shelter in place, but what if you had to leave your home? Is your vehicle also well equipped?

We wanted to share an example vehicle emergency supply list to get you thinking about what to stock in your vehicle if you have not already. Needs and quantities will vary with different households, capacity of vehicle, climate, type of emergency, and duration of time you wish to prepare for.

Needless to say, a StowAway Hitch Cargo Box is a great asset during any emergency situation as it can increase your vehicle's carrying capacity, leaving room for the kids, your essential gear and your pets.

FOOD/WATER/HEAT

water purifier or purification tablets
non-perishable / dehydrated food / MREs (meals ready to eat)
can opener
spork or utensils
moisture-proof matches / lighter / long burning emergency candles
tinder

COMMUNICATION / NAVIGATION

hand cranks flashlight with radio & USB port
solar power cell phone charger
laminated card with emergency numbers (auto insurance provider and a towing company) and medical information
GPS satellite tracker
maps
analog compass
one- or two-way radio
USB charging cable and wall plug

TOOLS / UTILITY

field knife
multi-tool
50 feet of cordage
tarp
duct tape
extra light sources (head lamps, glow sticks, candles, LED lanterns)
spare batteries
basic cleaning supplies (dish soap, all-purpose cleaner, laundry detergent, broom, garbage bags, bucket, and cleaning rags)
storage ziploc bags
heavy-duty, large or contractor trash bags
wet wipes
nail clippers

AUTO

toolkit (plain and Phillips screwdrivers, hammer, pliers, adjustable wrench, locking jaw pliers, saw, etc.)
warning triangles
high visibility vest or reflective tape
tire chains or traction aid
spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod jack
tow strap
seatbelt cutter and window breaker tool
jumper cables
for cold weather: ice scraper, snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, warm clothing, cat litter for traction and blankets

FIRST AID / SAFETY

respirator and filters
first aid kit (gauze, tape, bandages, antibiotic ointment, aspirin, a blanket, non-latex gloves, scissors, hydrocortisone, thermometer, tweezers and instant cold compress)
medication (Tylenol, ibuprofen, other)
fire extinguisher
loud whistle or air horn

SLEEP / CLOTHING / HYGIENE

sleeping bags or heat blanket (consider mylar space blanket that takes up very little space)
layering clothing (consider microfiber for warmth and dryness)
toiletries, grooming, and personal supplies
travel toothbrush and toothpaste
washcloths, towels, and extra toilet paper
2 changes of clothing for each family member (clean, comfortable, and respectable)
rain poncho
toilet paper

DOCUMENTS / MISC

waterproof paper and pen
documents (USB and paper)
photos of everyone you're traveling with
cash

FOR KIDS

games / activities
if you have babies, diapers, bottles, formula, and stuffed animals or comfort toys

We found these websites to be excellent resources as well. Please check them out:

The Prepared: Emergency kit / Bug out bag list
Uncharted Supply Co: Bug Out Bag Checklist
Bug Out Bag Academy: 25 Car Emergency Kit “Must Haves”
RV Life & Travel: Stock Your RV for Emergencies

Please comment below if you have any additional emergency item ideas that you keep in your StowAway...

Enjoy Thanksgiving Travel (and not just the pie!)

2019-11-20T15:14:00-06:00

There's nothing quite so satisfying as a Thanksgiving meal spent with family and loved ones. On the flip side there can be nothing so wearisome as holiday travel to get to those family and loved ones.

The Thanksgiving road trip is an American classic, over the river and all that. If you are one of the approximate 54 million travelers and have chosen to hit the road instead of flying the friendly skies, it's not always a piece of cake (or pumpkin pie). Here's a few tips to help make the drive one of ease and enjoyment.

Let's face it, there's going to be traffic. If possible, try to avoid the peak rush hours such as Wednesday afternoon and evening. If you can leave a day or two early, go for it. If you don't have too long of a drive ahead of you, get up early and leave on Thanksgiving morning. The traffic is usually light and can make for a mellow drive.

Comfort is key. Too many people and possessions crammed in a limited space can cause not only physical discomfort but emotional flareups. A solution to alleviate crowding is the addition of a hitch mounted cargo carrier, like the StowAway MAX Hitch Cargo Box. With its 16 cubic feet of storage space and 200 lbs of gear capacity, the StowAway can handle whatever you throw at it, or in it. The Max Box comes complete with taillights, hitch tightener, a lighted license plate bracket and is mounted on either a fixed frame or a rugged swingaway frame that allows clear access to the back of your vehicle.

Route choice can also be a factor. Try an alternate route like a state or county road. It may take a little longer, but the scenery is lovely and you'll probably find it much less stressful than being on the Interstate. This is also a good back-up plan in case of freeway traffic jams or closures.

Rest breaks rejuvenate. The simple act of walking, even if it's just to use the facilities or to stretch out will significantly reduce stiffness in muscles and joints, especially with the "chronologically gifted". Children and pets along for the ride also enjoy a good frolic.

Here's to a happy, relaxing, gratitude filled Thanksgiving holiday!

Game Time Means Grill Time: the StowAway Hitch Grill Station

2019-10-24T13:06:00-05:00

Fall means college football. College football means tailgating. The story goes that tailgating began over a hundred years ago during a football game between Rutgers and Princeton. Modern tailgating has evolved from casual get-togethers in the team parking lot to full-blown parties complete with food, seating and games.

Whatever vibe of tailgating you prefer, our StowAway Hitch Grill Station will enhance your experience as it delivers ease and functionality. Gone are the days of hauling the grill from the garage to the back of your vehicle and then out to the tailgating parking lot. The grill station simply slides into your hitch receiver, and includes all your tailgating necessities – a grill, cutting board, cargo rack for your cooler and food, all mounted to a SwingAway frame.

The SwingAway frame is designed to swing out and lock at 90 degrees for grilling safely away from the car, and to give you clear access to the back of your vehicle. The grill is a high-performance Cuisinart Grill with 240-sq. inch of grilling area, plenty of space to keep your fellow fans full.

The StowAway Hitch Grill Station offers models for both 2-inch and 1.25-inch trailer hitches, and with a capacity of up to 200 pounds of gear. (The frame and rack come with a 10-year limited warranty!) Think of the benefits – more room in your vehicle, simple setup and operation, and you can remove the grill and cutting board and use the cargo rack year-round.

Here’s to fall, football, family, friends and tailgating!

The StowAway Cargo Box for your Summer Road Trip

2019-05-23T16:08:00-05:00

The StowAway Cargo Box For Your Summer Road Trip.

With the warmer weather settling in, it's finally time to head out on that summer road trip you've been planning for so long.

But with your family occupying the seats and your camping gear stuffed in the back, you may find that room for the dog and your backpack is limited.

Instead of renting a trailer or roof top carrier is there an cargo carrier option available that will allow for easy loading and access to all that gear (or the dog) in the back of your vehicle. One that will also allow the dog to jump in and out at a rest stop.

Yes, there is - the Stowaway Hitch Cargo Box.

What is a Hitch Cargo Box?

A hitch cargo box is a box that mounts to a frame that slides into the hitch receiver on your vehicle. Unlike a trailer a hitch cargo box does not have any wheels and unlike a roof carrier is easily loaded from ground level.

The fact that they have no wheels also means that you do not need to worry about adjusting your turning radius to accommodate for the extra length and extra set of wheels behind you, which of course means reduced chances of getting into an accident.

Cargo boxes are mounted onto a frame which then attaches to the hitch of the vehicle. There are two types of frames available - the swingaway frame and a standard fixed frame.

Your choice of frame will depend upon your need to easily access the back of your vehicle over the course of your road trip.

Why Is a Cargo Box Better Than A Trailer?

The main issue with trailers is that they greatly limit your parking options since you are always accommodating that extra length behind you. This makes emergency pit stops much more difficult.

The other issue with trailers is that they make maneuvering your vehicle on narrow roads difficult - your summer road trip should be stress-free without the anxiety of possibly having your trailer run into another vehicle.

Fuel economy is another reason for choosing a hitched cargo box over a trailer. Hitch cargo boxes are not as heavy as trailers and do not have the wind drag that most trailers do, which means less drag and less fuel consumption.

Swingaway Hitch Frame

StowAway Swingaway Hitch Frame

As the name suggests, this frame swings open for ease of access to the rear cargo like so:

Your dog can make a rapid and clear exit for those urgent toilet breaks.

StowAway SwingAway Frame open with Dog in Trunk

You can access the cargo or food in the back of your vehicle during those rest breaks.

If you spot the perfect fishing lake during your road trip, simply swing your cargo box to the side, grab a rod for each family member from the back and start fishing!

The great thing about having extra space for cargo in the cargo box means that all your luggage in the back is much less cluttered, so quickly locating items becomes a breeze!

Fixed Hitch Frame

The fixed hitch frame does not swing open but rather stays statically attached to the hitch of the vehicle.

Swingaway Frame Clearance

If exiting out the back door, or accessing the rear cargo is not required, this hitch frame is a perfect option

What is more irritating than stopping for a food break during a summer road trip and then having to painfully reach over the back seat to access the specific food items each family member is requesting?

With the hitch frame, you can simply walk around to the back of the car and have clear access to all the food from within the cargo box - your back will love you for it

Why You Need A Hitch Cargo Box

There are many benefits to having a hitch cargo box.

The most obvious reason is that it allows you to have more room in the back of the car for family, pets or fragile luggage that might get damaged in an over-cluttered back end on a road trip.

But the primary reason for investing in a hitch cargo box is that it allows you to load and unload items at waist level which is perfect for your back. Though the extra storage space on your roof may seem like a convenient option during a road trip, unloading these items places a lot of strain on your back. With a hitch cargo box, not only will you preserve your back from damage, but you will also eliminate the lingering worry that you may have under-tightened your rooftop load.

All StowAway cargo boxes are secured with a locking latch so there is little risk of your items being stolen when stopped overnight.

All StowAway hitch cargo boxes also come with an optional buffet board which provides you and your family with a convenient table to eat from during those snack breaks!

Choosing The Best Hitch Cargo Box For Your Summertime Trip

We offer two box sizes to choose from. Both are molded with LLDPE which is designed to absorb impacts and take years of heavy usage. Each box includes a locking latch for security, tail-lights for visibility and a drain plug for easy cleaning. Both boxes come in either black or ivory.

The main difference between the two boxes is size, the Max Carrier can carry 16 cubic feet, the Standard Carrier can carry 12.5 cubic feet of gear. Both can support up to 200 lbs.

StowAway Carriers

StowAway Max Box in Black and Standard Box in White

Conclusion

Our hitch cargo boxes offer a convenient and simple storage solution for any summer road trip.

Contact our friendly team today to discuss the best hitch cargo box for your vehicle.

Ford Transit Van + StowAway Hitch Cargo Box - Ideal Partners

2019-05-22T11:06:00-05:00

Pairing a StowAway hitch cargo box with the Ford Transit Van provides an incredibly flexible option for commercial applications such as carrying gear, transporting passengers and just plain getting the job done. The built-in features of the StowAway cargo box provide value in such a way that you'll soon wonder how you ever got through your jobs without one. So what exactly is the StowAway cargo box and how can you best use one for your Ford Transit van? Find the answers to all these questions -- and more --- below.

Ford Transit Van – Why a StowAway Hitch Cargo Box?

The Ford Transit Van is designed for commercial applications, whether it be carrying tools, equipment and supplies for your trade or transporting passengers from one location to another.

Ford Transit Van with StowAway Standard Cargo Carrier in Ivory.

By itself, the Transit van offers considerable carrying capacity, but when fully equipped with tools, equipment or passenger seats it is not uncommon to need more room for gear or luggage. This is where the StowAway Cargo Box can fill the void. The StowAway Hitch Cargo Box is a rugged outdoor box designed to carry luggage, gear, tools or equipment with your Ford Transit Van. When inserted into the Transit’s hitch receiver, the StowAway will swing out for clear access to your rear van doors for loading and unloading, and swing closed for transporting that gear on the roads and highways. The StowAway box wire harness connects to the Transit van electrical system for lighting, braking and turn signals, and the box itself provides up to 16 cubic feet and 200 lbs of luggage or gear capacity. The StowAway Cargo Box comes in two sizes, the larger Max box with 16 cubic feet capacity and the Standard box with 12.5 cubic feet capacity. The StowAway swingaway frame is the most popular frame choice, but a fixed frame is also available.

Best Ways to Use a StowAway Cargo Box

What and how to use the StowAway cargo box with the Ford Transit van is wide open. Passenger shuttle vans use the box for luggage and gear, largely because the box is easily loaded from ground level and swings out for clear access to the back of the van. This means one quick stop at each shuttle stop, with easy unloading for the passengers. The StowAway box is just the right length for golf clubs and can typically carry 3 to 4 bags per trip.

For the tradesperson the StowAway offers secure space for commonly used tools and equipment, whether in transit or at the job site. For supplies and equipment that are best kept out of the van, like pest control implements, the StowAway offers a secure option that will offer a safer alternative for their drivers. All StowAway cargo boxes include a locking latch for security and a drain plug for easy cleaning of the box.

How does the StowAway Cargo Box compare to other Cargo Options for the Transit Van

The most common cargo box for just about any vehicle is a rooftop box. Rooftop boxes are difficult to load with the luggage having to be lifted overhead, and their shape and the roof capacity of vehicles limit what you can pack. On the Ford Transit van this overhead challenge is amplified with the Transit’s tall design, so a hitch mounted cargo box offers a much more attractive option, particularly one that swings out to access the back of the van.

A second option for the Transit Van is a tow behind trailer. While trailers can offer lots of capacity they are more difficult to drive with and are particularly difficult to park. Some job sites or shuttle stops simply don’t have a spot for a Transit Van with a trailer.

And finally there are other hitch mounted cargo box options. But none of these offer what the StowAway Cargo Box can offer – the rugged box design, a heavy duty frame that will swing out for easy access to the rear of the vehicle, and a range of choices like a ski box, cargo rack and bike rack that can enhance the box and frame utility for other activities.

So if you are looking for the best cargo box choice for your Ford Transit Van nothing can compare with the overall performance, features, durability and value offered by the StowAway Cargo Box.

Choosing the right hitch carrier for your vehicle

2019-03-12T11:15:00-05:00

Comparing the StowAway Hitch Carrier Options

Whether you’re heading off on a cross-country road trip or preparing for another day on the job site, a hitch carrier provides a versatile solution for carrying your gear. If you’re running out of room in your SUV, RV or truck, discover how a StowAway hitch cargo carrier can help you pack the essentials into an easy-to-access cargo box or rack.

Why Choose a Hitch Carrier?

A key advantage of a hitch cargo carrier is ground level access. You don’t have to be tall, use a stool, or lift items over your head to pack away your gear into a rooftop carrier. Items can be loaded, unloaded and accessed from the ground by just about anyone in your group. Like roof carriers, hitch cargo carriers may include an enclosed box or an open rack for your gear. Some hitch carriers are mounted to a fixed frame, others to a swingaway frame that swings out for easy access to the back of the vehicle.

Hitch Carriers are most suitable for vehicles designed and rated for a hitch with a tongue weight capacity of at least 200 lbs. Always check that your vehicle and hitch are rated for the amount of weight you’re attempting to carry.

The StowAway Difference

When it comes to the best hitch carrier, few can compare with the StowAway Cargo Carriers. Here are some of the advantages for choosing a StowAway as your hitch carrier:

Accessible
Versatile
Durable
Spacious
Made in the USA

Take a look at three of the most popular StowAway Cargo Carrier options for your travel or work needs. The large StowAway Max cargo box, the mid-size StowAway Standard cargo box and the open rack StowAway Cargo Rack.

Before making a choice, be sure to review your vehicle and hitch tongue weight capacities. Not all vehicles can support a hitch mounted carrier option. Vehicle manufacturers typically rate their vehicles for tongue weight capacity with the lower the capacity the less it can carry on a hitch. Smaller vehicles may not be designed or rated for a hitch at all whereas larger SUV’s or vans are comfortably rated for at least 300 lbs or more. You’ll need to know your hitch size and minimum tongue weight capacity, and whether your vehicle has a rear door, liftgate, rear-mounted spare tire or rear ladder.

StowAway MAX Hitch Cargo Box

There’s a reason why the StowAway MAX is our most popular cargo box. The Max offers 16 cubic feet capacity on a heavy duty swingaway frame. You can load your gear at ground level and swing out the carrier to access the back of your vehicle or to let the dog out. The Max is perfect for mid-size and larger SUV’s, van’s, RV’s or trucks as it does require a 2” hitch and 300 lbs tongue weight capacity. The rugged molded box and convenient swingaway frame help.

The StowAway Max can hold up to 200 pounds of gear and like all of our cargo boxes comes with a locking latch, taillights, fixed or swingaway frame, hitch tightener and a drain plug for cleaning the unit. To make the most of your Max Box several accessories are available - wheels for maneuvering your carrier when off the vehicle; a lid rack for bulky items you don’t want in the box or buffet boards for preparing food are some of them.

The MAX Cargo Box is ideal for weekend getaways or long road trips. Easy to install you simply slide it into your receiver hitch (best done with two people), insert the hitch pin or lock, and plug in the wire harness. Move your license plate to the back of the box if necessary and you’re on your way.

Pros:

Ample capacity
Ideal for mid-size and up SUV’s, van’s, truck and RV’s.

Cons:

Not advised for smaller vehicles

StowAway Standard Hitch Cargo Box

Sometimes the best option is the middle choice. The StowAway Standard Cargo Box is not too large or too small. While it doesn’t have the impressive capacity of the MAX Cargo Box, it does offer a lower price and does offer a version for Class II 1.25” hitches.

As long as your vehicle has a minimum tongue weight capacity of 200 pounds, you’ll enjoy loading up this 12.5 cubic foot box with all your gear for a weekend camping trip or to transport your gear to a job site.

Unlike the MAX Cargo Box, the Standard Box offers a frame that will fit either a 1.25-inch or 2-inch hitch. It still comes with plenty of options to customize your hitch carrier to fit your needs.

Pros:

More suited for some mid-size to smaller SUV’s with a vehicle and hitch tongue weight capacity of at least 200 lbs.
Models available for either a 1.25” or 2” hitch

Cons:

Lower capacity than the Max Box

Cargo Rack

Would you prefer an open rack for your gear? Check out the StowAway Hitch Cargo Rack for an open rack design that can accommodate your luggage, gear, cooler or even your own box. The rack will hold up to 250 lbs and swings out to give you clear access to the back of your vehicle.

A number of options and accessories are offered for the StowAway Cargo Rack. You can add a bike rack so you can carry up to four bikes along with your gear. Rod holders are available for surf fishermen to transport six surf rods in addition to your cooler and tackle box. A fan of tailgating? Select our Hitch Grill combination for a grill and cutting board added to the cargo rack. In addition to providing room for the cooler and food it becomes the perfect grilling station when swung out and locked at 90 degrees. And last, but not least a cargo net is available to hold your gear firmly in place while underway.

Pros:

Room for bulky items that won’t fit into a cargo box
Offers lots of addons to broaden the range of applications

Cons:

Less secure than the cargo box options
Gear more exposed to the elements

The Verdict

In the end, it all comes down to your cargo carrying needs. Are you planning a surf fishing trip and need to bring your surf rods along? Or are you planning a long road trip and want to have your luggage and gear secure and protected from the elements? Either way your travel plans will help you determine the best hitch carrier option.

When making your final choice you’ll also want to take into account your vehicle and hitch capacities. If your vehicle and hitch have a tongue weight rating of at least 300 lbs, any of the StowAway options will work for you. If you have a smaller vehicle, a 1.25” hitch and at least a 200 lb tongue weight capacity the Standard Cargo Box and the Cargo Rack are the only options for you.

If you’re ready to hit the road and leave nothing behind, give us a call at 800.943.5377 to learn more about the StowAway hitch carrier options.

Ski Carrier Options for Ski Resort Shuttle Vans

2019-02-19T10:27:00-06:00

Transporting skiers to, from and around ski resorts in North America is a task often performed by ski shuttle services. Sometimes with a designated route the shuttles may take skiers from their hotel to the lifts, to the airport, to a neighboring resort and back again at the end of the day. While there is always room in the shuttle for the skiers themselves, where to put the skis, poles and ski gear can be a bit more challenging. The roof of the shuttle is always an option, but getting it up there can be a bit tricky, particularly on taller vans like the Ford Transit or Sprinter van. And carrying your skis inside the van can take up precious passenger space.

StowAway Carriers offers a couple of hitch mounted options that address these concerns. Made in the USA, the StowAway Ski Box for Ski Shuttles and the StowAway Max for Ski Limousines are designed for rugged use season after season. The StowAway Ski Box provides easy access to the skis, ski bags and associated ski gear like boots. The Ski Box's swingaway frame is designed to allow the right rear door of the shuttle to open without opening the frame, and both doors to open when the frame is swung open. The hitch-mount design also means that the shuttle driver can access everything from ground level, a far safer option than climbing to the top of the van.

StowAway Hitch-Mount Ski Carrier with Swingaway Frame

For ski shuttle vans like the Ford Transit or Mercedes Sprinter van, StowAway offers a hitch-mounted ski carrier. The carrier holds up to 200 pounds of skis or snowboards and is mounted to our swingaway frame for easy access to the back of the van. The swingaway frame is offset for quick access to the passenger-side rear door and the ski gear inside. The frame swings out for easy access to the driver’s side door and any other gear that might be in the van.

The ski carrier itself measures 18” x 24” in size and includes elastic bands for holding the skis while in transit. Being hitch-mounted rather than door-mounted, the StowAway ski carrier does not expose shuttle owners to the annual expense of replacing van doors due to structural damage from a door mounted ski carrier.

The StowAway SB SwingAway frame is fabricated with heavy duty steel tube designed for rigorous use. It includes a spring-loaded latch for releasing the frame, augmented by dual safety pins to prevent unintended release. Designed for 2” hitch receivers, the frame can lock at 90 degrees for easy loading and unloading of the van. The SB SwingAway frame comes complete with a hitch tightener to prevent hitch wobble.

StowAway Cargo Carrier for Ski Limousines

Picking skiers up at the airport is the role of a ski limousine. Typically a Chevy Suburban or similar vehicle the limousine offers comfortable seating to its passengers, but may run out of room for the luggage and gear for a larger group. With ski limousines the skis and poles are often put in a roof box, but what about the rest of the luggage and gear. This is where the StowAway Max Cargo Box can play a valuable role. Hitch mounted for ground level access the StowAway Max swings out for clear access to the rear liftgate and ski gear.

With the MAX Cargo Box from StowAway, you will have plenty of room for luggage, ski gear, and more. It’s hitch-mounted, which means all of your gear is accessible from the ground, and the SwingAway frame still allows you to access the limo’s rear liftgate or the rear doors of a shuttle van.

This heavy duty molded cargo box adds 16 cubic feet to your overall capacity, and the Max can handle up to 200 pounds of gear. In total, users can transport up to four carryon bags and up to three additional duffle bags, while still allowing easy access to the rear of the vehicle with the swingaway frame. The box is designed to perform effectively in cold (and warm) temperatures and has been used in locations as cold as Antarctica.

To ensure security and safety, the StowAway Max Cargo Box includes a locking latch, license plate bracket, full function taillights, and wraparound reflectors. To prevent hitch wobble, the carrier includes a hitch tightener that is simple to install and easy to use. The Max Box can be removed from the SwingAway frame and replaced by one of our cargo or bike rack products, adding to its versatility in the off season.

Hitch-Mounted SB Swingaway Frame for Ski Boxes

For ski shuttles that already have a ski box or carrier, our SB Swingaway frame may be the right choice. The frame is designed with a mounting platform for fabricated ski boxes or carriers, while offering the accessibility benefit of a swingaway frame. Designed for a 2-inch hitch receiver, the frame has the capacity for a ski box and up to 200 pounds gear, making it an ideal platform your ski or utility carrier. You can even use it for transporting surf boards, kayaks or as a generator carrier in the spring and summer seasons.

With an offset design the SB frame allows the passenger side door to open for fast loading and unloading, with the driver’s side door being accessible when the frame is swung out.

The frame comes to you with four holes that are located for mounting ski boxes with a 24-inch by 18-inch footprint, and the compact design and intuitive engineering limits potential contact points, which means users have less chance of denting their vehicle or bumping their legs when using the frame.

Weighing 47 pounds, the frame can be attached to a hitch by most able-bodied users. From Sprinter vans to limousines to shuttle vans, this frame adds convenience and utility to ski trips.

Learn More About our Ski-Carrier Options for Shuttle Buses

If you want more information about our ski-carrier options, including swingaway frames, boxes, and ski carriers, contact our team at any time. Our knowledgeable staff will help you get the right answers to your questions in a prompt and timely fashion.

Whether you have a fleet of shuttle vans or simply want a cargo box for your ski limousine, StowAway can make your travels more comfortable and more convenient.

Horseshoeing — Anvil and All — Goes Mobile with the StowAway SwingAway Hitch Frame

2018-04-27T12:23:00-05:00

We’ve seen StowAway hitch-mounted frames come in handy for camping enthusiasts, business owners, bike race competitors, world travelers… the list goes on and on and on. Now, we can add farriers to that list. (You know, farriers, the people that take care of and shoe horses.)

One StowAway customer, a mobile farrier working in Oregon, ordered the SwingAway hitch frame for his vehicle and is using it in a very creative way: he mounted his anvil on it. While many people keep their anvils and other farrier supplies in a stall near the stables or on a work bench (or even in the trunk of their car), this customer’s solution allows for increased convenience and unlimited mobility when horseshoeing.

Tired of making horseshoes using an anvil in the bed of his pickup, this creative customer mounted a steel platform onto the SwingAway frame — putting his anvil at the exact right height. After adding a trailer wheel jack for shock absorption, he was ready to hit the hay (which of course has a different meaning in this context).

Now when he shoes horses, there’s no need to go back and forth between a work bench and the stable, or a need to set up a horseshoeing station for every job. With the anvil mounted to the versatile SwingAway frame, it’s a mobile shoeing station that maximizes the cargo space of his vehicle at the same time.

The patented StowAway SwingAway frame is designed for 2” hitches and is able to hold up to 250 pounds of gear or equipment. It’s manufactured in the USA of heavy-duty steel tubing and swings out 180 degrees to allow quick and easy access to the cargo space in the rear of your vehicle. It also comes with a hitch tightener to prevent any rattling or hitch wobble.

For farriers, ranchers, and farmers of any sort, the SwingAway frame can provide you with the ability to maximize your cargo space by carrying machinery and other gear outside the vehicle. But, if you’re not a rancher, farrier, or farmer of any sort, the SwingAway frame can still be a solution to your cargo space needs — it’s also compatible with StowAway Hitch Cargo Carriers, Hitch Cargo and Bike Racks, Hitch Grill Stations and much more.

So, whether you’re a farrier looking to create a portable horseshoeing station, a small business owner trying to make some more room for equipment, or even a parent hoping to keep your kids’ muddy football gear out of the trunk — StowAway frames and cargo boxes for SUVs can be used in countless creative ways!

: The SwingAway frame

The Case for Extra Space: Cargo Options for the Ford Transit Connect

2018-04-20T13:27:00-05:00

The Ford Transit Connect is a great vehicle for business owners in need of a reliable and economical delivery vehicle. It offers ample room and is easily accessible from the side or from the back. But what happens if you need more cargo room than the Transit Connect allows? Or, what if you are transporting items that you don’t want inside the vehicle because of smells or contamination?

To meet this need for extra space, there are few options for the Transit Connect owner. One might be a rooftop carrier, but these can be difficult to access and offer limited weight capacity, which is not conducive to an efficient mobile business operation. A hitch-mounted carrier is a better alternative— ideally one that is enclosed, provides a locking latch and, if necessary, can swing out to allow access to the Transit’s rear cargo area.

One Transit Connect owner recently found the answer to all his spatial problems with the StowAway Hitch Cargo Carrier. The StowAway offered him just what he needed: easy to access, ample storage capacity, a locking latch for security, and taillights for safety. It simply slides into the Transit’s hitch receiver and—voila!—he was back in business. Once he saw the StowAway on his Connect, he knew it was the perfect working solution he needed: a professional and efficient way to maximize his business operations.

So, if you find yourself in need of more space in your Ford Transit Connect—because businesses grow and, unfortunately, vehicles don’t—the StowAway Hitch Cargo Carrier is guaranteed to solve that problem, whether you’re traveling around town or around the country.

StowAway vs. Rola vs. Thule

2018-04-13T13:30:00-05:00

See why the StowAway is the best choice for your cargo carrying needs!

Tracey and Sophia's Stow-ry | Cargo Carrier for Camping

2018-04-06T13:37:00-05:00

StowAway is lucky to have amazing customers that share their stories and adventures with us! This particular story arose when our customer, Tracey, was installing the StowAway with her granddaughter, Sophia...

Tracey loved camping and sleeping under the stars. She remembers playing outside as a kid and the excitement of outdoor adventures. Motivated to get Sophia outdoors, Tracey decided to take her on a camping trip!

It had been years since Tracey went camping, but she remembered how fun it was when she took her two daughters and was excited to share the experience with Sophia. However, Tracey had a smaller vehicle now and as the gear began to stack and the list of supplies grew longer, she realized her Nissan Versa would not carry everything. Especially since she was planning to bring her Yorkie and its kennel!

Tracey began looking for a solution to her cargo carrying problem. She didn’t want to have her gear on a hitch rack covered with a tarp and bungie cords – as she had seen other people do – because it didn’t seem secure or weather proof. And rooftop carriers were inconvenient and didn’t keep things very organized.

Tracey typed “cargo box” into a search engine and found an array of hitch mounted carriers. After browsing other options, she landed on StowAway Cargo Carriers. She discovered that our standard hitch cargo box was equipped with a SwingAway hitch frame that allowed full access to the back of her vehicle. The SwingAway frame made it convenient to load both her hatchback and the StowAway easily – maximizing accessibility and storage capacity.

Tracey contacted us via the live chat on the StowAway website when she was installing the cargo carrier. With only a few questions, she easily installed the StowAway - just her and her granddaughter. Tracey said the most difficult part was getting the StowAway out of the box it arrived in! Her friends and family were all impressed that she installed it with ease. Not too surprising when you meet Tracey though. She is a hardworking, single mom that is used to accomplishing a lot on her own. So if you are single and concerned you can’t install the StowAway by yourself, Tracey wants you to know, YOU CAN!

So what did Tracey fit inside the StowAway standard cargo carrier for their camping trip?

Tent (6-person capacity)
2 sleeping bags
Full size inflatable mattress
Camp stove
Table lantern & tent lamp
2 large folding mesh chairs
7-piece pot & pan set
2 large bags of miscellaneous camp gear - candles, bug spray, bungee cords, clothes line, cooking utensils, dinnerware for 4, camp toaster, lighters, etc.
Large beach bag of bath, kitchen, and beach towels
10’ x 12’ tarp
15' extension cord
Tub to wash dishes

: Plus, she had room to spare! Tracey says, “…this extra space makes me very happy. I leave it on the car so we can just grab a few clothes, pick up food on the way - and go!”

With a comfortable ride and the ability to bring everything you need for the journey, the StowAway makes road travel more enjoyable!

A special thank you to Tracey and Sophia for sharing their Stow-ry and photos! Happy travels, happy camping!

StowAway's Happy Camper Checklist | Camping Packing List

2018-03-30T14:02:00-05:00

Need a fun, inexpensive adventure with your family? Go camping! Camping is a great way to spend time with your family, without dumping a lot of money into a vacation. Once you have the gear, all you'll pay for are campground fees. Most park or campground fees are between $10 and $25 – you can’t find a hotel for that price. Plus, with no cell reception, your kids will be forced to put down their devices and interact with their surroundings, and you!

To make your camping trip a success, bring plenty of food and games. Don’t forget to check your camping packing list… or forget to make it in the first place. Get your family involved in the process and discuss what you all want to bring. However, if you're like me, even if I make a list I usually forget something. Which is why I suggest checking out what other people and camping sites suggest to bring. For example:

StowAway's Happy Camper Checklist

Tent(s)
Sleeping bag
Pillow
Hiking boots
Sneakers
Shower sandals
Multiple changes of clothes, for both warm and cool weather.
Socks!
Pajamas
Bathing suit
Sunglasses
Towels
Bag for dirty clothes
Pocket knife
Compass
Waterproof matches
Toilet paper
Water bottle
Toothbrush
Hand sanitizer
Sanitizing wipes
Tissues
Flashlight (spare batteries)
Insect repellant
Sunscreen
Whistle
Bug net
Trash bags
Cooler
Food (trail mix, granola bars, s’mores, jerky, hot dogs, etc.)
FIRST AID KIT (For a first aid check list, click here)

And don’t forget your StowAway Cargo Carrier! All of your camping supplies and gear will fit in the StowAway, providing you a convenient way to access everything and stay organized. With the StowAway, you can bring everything you want and need for the trip to be happy campers! If you want to take your camp cooking to the next level, consider getting a trailer hitch grill to pair with your StowAway.

For additional camping information and articles visit http://campersupplies.camping2u.com.

Time For the Stowaway Fishing Rod Holder!

2018-03-23T13:50:00-05:00

Fishing season has finally arrived and you’ve got your plans laid out. You’ve got your fishing license, all your gear is packed and ready to go, and you’re heading to the perfect fishing spot. You’ve made camping/cottage/hotel reservations and your rig is loaded up with food, clothes, coolers, tackle boxes and all your other needful things.

But where, oh where, will you put the fishing rods? It’s not safe to put them inside your car, lest they poke someone in the eye. Which is only slightly worse than getting them bent or – gasp – broken. Seriously, where do you put your fishing rods when you’re hitting the road for fishing season?

: Each StowAway Fishing Rod Holder accommodates three rods, safely and securely

Here’s a grand idea: The Stowaway Fishing Rod Holder. This handy cargo device safely carries three surf fishing rods on the StowAway Hitch Rack (not included). This surf casting rod holder can also be installed quickly and easily on the StowAway Hitch Cargo Carrier. Both the cargo rack and cargo carrier come with an optional SwingAway frame, which pivots 180 degrees to give you full access to the rear of your vehicle.

The Stowaway Fishing Rod Holder is particularly helpful to surf fishers, whose poles typically range between seven and 18 feet long. (The extra length allows anglers to cast further into the water from the shore.)

With the Stowaway Fishing Rod Holder attached to the StowAway Hitch Cargo Carrier, you can conveniently store all your gear, as well as food and a cooler full of beverages, in the cargo box between your fishing rods.

: Surf fishing rods can be as long as 18 feet, and have special storing and carrying considerations

Some other features of the Stowaway Fishing Rod Holder include:

Anodized aluminum tubes
Tubes are 20 inches tall x 2 inches diameter
Vinyl end rings protect rods
Bolts with polyethylene brackets
Quick and easy installation
Includes bracket and hardware

Casting about for various solutions for storing, hauling and accessing your fishing gear can be time-consuming, expensive, disorganized and discouraging. This year, celebrate the opening of fishing season with a comprehensive solution. By combining the Stowaway Fishing Rod Holder with the StowAway Hitch Cargo Carrier, you’ll have everything you need - safe, sound and at your fingertips.

: By combining the Stowaway Fishing Rod Holder with the StowAway Hitch Cargo Carrier, you’ll have everything you need - safe, sound and at your fingertips

All StowAway components are sold separately, which gives you a great deal of flexibility in how you choose to use your cargo system. In a mix-and-match configuration, you can carry many things in addition to your fishing rods, including bikes, a grill station, and up to 200 pounds of essential cargo.

And that makes for a great start to any season.

Install your StowAway, BY YOURSELF!

2018-03-16T13:57:00-05:00

You’ve got the strength, and we’ve got the steps how!

With a long list of things to do before leaving on a trip, your friends and family are scattered in different directions trying to get everything done in time. Before you pack anything, you need to install your StowAway. You look left, you look right, and no one is around.

How are you going to install the StowAway by yourself? Luckily, you aren’t alone – well, you know what we mean! Other customers have had the same question, which is why StowAway wants to share the steps to complete an installation by yourself.

Note: Upper body strength is a must for lifting the StowAway and sliding it into the hitch receiver. If you have back problems, it is best to wait for assistance.

To install, you’ll need:

¾” socket wrench
Hitch tightener
Hitch lock and pin
Good upper body strength

Step 1 – Align the StowAway hitch frame with your vehicle’s hitch and slide it into place. If it is not aligned, the hitch pin will not go in.

Step 2 – Insert the hitch pin and lock.

Step 3 – Next, slide the hitch tightener into place and use the ¾” socket wrench to tighten the nuts evenly.

Step 4 – Plug in cord for taillights.

Step 5 – Lock the StowAway in place and tighten the T-bolt. If you have a Swing Away hitch frame, don’t forget to insert the frame pin to keep the StowAway in place.

Helpful tip: Install the wheel kit to make moving your StowAway from garage to vehicle as easy and effortless as possible. They attach to the existing frame and won’t get in the way. Therefore, you can leave them on permanently, so they are there when you need them.

While installing and removing the StowAway is much easier with two people, it is helpful to know how to do it by yourself. Schwarzenegger strength is not required, but please be careful and watch the How to Install by Yourself Video in advance!

We Want to Sponsor YOUR TEAM!

2018-03-09T14:08:00-06:00

Have a cycling group that travels to races? A running group supporting a cause? If so, StowAway wants to sponsor your team!

You’ve done a great job squeezing 6 people, travel supplies, gear, and food into your vehicle – but let us make things easier. StowAway will give your team a hitch cargo carrier at no cost to you. That’s more leg room, easier access to your gear, increased storage capacity, and it doesn’t cost you a penny!

So, now you’re thinking – what’s the catch? In return, all we ask for are photos of your team using the StowAway. It’s as simple as that.

In the past we have sponsored:

“Team Basis,” a professional cycling team who used the StowAway as they traveled across the USA competing in events.

: The “Almost Angels” team that walks every year in the Portland-to-Coast relay to raise money for cancer research.

: Hood-to-Coast relay team , 2015!

: Helen's Angels, Hood-to-Coast Relay.

StowAway enjoys sponsoring teams and getting involved in active communities, but we need your help finding a dedicated team with a purpose! The team does not have to be professional athletes or from a specific area. Most importantly, we are looking for a team with storage issues that need solving!

Have a great team in mind? Email lauren@pacrecproducts.com with a short description of the team you are nominating and why they could use a StowAway. There is no deadline for when you can nominate a team but we only sponsor 1 a year, so act fast!

Wheels to the Rescue!

2018-03-02T14:15:00-06:00

You’ve been enjoying the convenience and storage capacity of your StowAway Cargo Carrier for miles and miles. Loading and unloading gear easily, freeing up room in your vehicle, and being able to take everything you need along the way. But when it’s time to store your StowAway, what is the best way to do that?

When you’re moving the cargo carrier from your vehicle into the garage, follow the motto:
work smarter – not harder.

The StowAway Carrier Wheel Kit is here to help!

The wheels easily mount to the frame of your StowAway Cargo Box while it is still attached to your vehicle. This allows you to easily install the wheels, and roll the cargo carrier effortlessly from your vehicle to the garage.

The wheel kit includes:
• Two heavy-duty wheels that mount onto any StowAway frame
• Wheels use the same attachment points as the frame
• Easy installation (no drill required)
• Easily move your carrier while still attached to the frame
• Free Shipping

Visit www.stowaway2.com to learn about other useful products that make your StowAway more versatile and easy to use.

Cargo Rack for BottleDrop Plus | Car Luggage Rack | StowAway

2017-05-12T07:00:00-05:00

Have you heard of BottleDrop? Chances are if you live outside of Oregon or Southwest Washington then most likely you know nothing about this excellent recycling program. BottleDrop aims to help keep the world greener, one bottle, or can, at a time. According to the company’s website, “BottleDrop is a new system for redeeming bottles and cans in Oregon.” With its “clean and spacious indoor facilities, friendly and helpful staff, and innovative new BottleDrop Account, the company is making returning containers and collecting a refund fast, clean and convenient.” So what does recycling bottles and cans have to do with StowAway Cargo Carriers and Hitch Frames?

Cargo Carrier for BottleDrop

As you can see from this photo, BottleDrop has come up with yet another way for people to recycle their bottles and cans and easily earn rewards. Thanks to this mobile collection station, people can even deposit their empty bottles and cans on the go. It’s another convenient way for residents in Oregon to make a little extra cash and help save the environment by recycling. In addition, if you take a closer look at this photo, you’ll notice that the BottleDrop vehicle is carrying two deposit bins for collecting empty cans and bottles. You’ll also notice that they are hauling these bins around with the convenience and security of a StowAway Cargo Rack and SwingAway Hitch Frame.

Another Way to Customize Your Cargo Carrier

We we’re very happy to receive this photo from the folks at BottleDrop who recently contacted us to share how they are using our StowAway Cargo Carrier. You might notice that BottleDrop has taken the liberty to customize their car luggage rack. The fact is we don’t sell the cargo rack in orange. However, the folks at BottleDrop explained that they powder coated the cargo rack they purchased so it would match their branding. In our opinion it looks incredible. This is just one more way that a customer who has purchased one of our car luggage racks found a creative and unique way to use it. We love it when our customers find new ways to use their cargo carriers, cargo racks and hitch frames from StowAway.

Share Your Creativity

We also love it when they share those ideas with us. You can see many of these extra car storage ideas for yourself on our website. From attaching a smoker to one of our hitch frames to turning the cargo carrier into a kitchen sink on the back of a fifth-wheel, people have found hundreds of ways to use and customize their StowAway Cargo Carrier and Cargo Racks. If you have a unique use for your cargo carrier or rack, and you would like to share your creativity with us, please send us a note with your story and images. Just visit our StowAway In Action page by clicking here and submit your photos. And of course, keep depositing those bottles and cans with BottleDrop.

Spring Road Trips With the StowAway Carrier

2017-05-10T14:27:00-05:00

It’s spring and that means it time to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors again. It also means that road trip season is getting back into full swing. With spring break going on all over the country, as well camping trips, and even ski trips to the mountains, people have a lot of reasons to pack up the family vehicle and head out on the road. The fact is, when you’re going to take a road trip, you have to be able to store all your gear safely inside your vehicle before you leave. Road trip storage often requires some real packing and loading ability, as well as some compromise when some things just won’t quite fit. So how can you make your next spring road trip better? Make sure you take a StowAway Cargo Carrier along for the ride.

Take the StowAway Cargo Carrier With You This Spring

The StowAway Cargo Carrier will be the best passenger you’ve ever had. It easily attaches to your rear mounted hitch frame and rides quietly and conveniently behind your vehicle. It holds up to 200 pounds when attached to a 2-inch hitch, and with it’s locking mechanism and smooth ride you won’t even know its there. Plus, every time you need to access the back of your vehicle the StowAway SwingAway Hitch Frame makes it easy. With its pivoting arm, you can easily swing the Cargo Carrier out of your way and reach whatever you need inside your car, truck, van or SUV.

Extreme Versatility

The StowAway Max Cargo Carrier, for example, has so many different uses for extra car storage that you will find handy on any kind of spring road trip you take. Our customers use it for camping trips, golf outings, fishing excursions, ski trips, hunting and fishing, bike trips, hauling their dog accessories and just about any other type of road trip you can imagine. In fact, one customer even turned their StowAway Cargo Carrier into a kitchen sink. There are all kinds of road trips and several things to carry when you head out on the road. But it doesn’t matter where you’re going or what you need to haul - you can use a StowAway Cargo Carrier for road trip storage.

It’s Time to Make Your Next Road Trip Better

These strong and durable cargo carriers, together with the heavy-duty SwingAway Hitch Frame, can handle almost any load. So, don’t let an overloaded vehicle ruin your next road trip. Instead, order a Stowaway Cargo Carrier and make sure you have room for everything you want to take, even that last little item that someone always forgets to squeeze into their bag. Your extra cargo will be safe and secure in your StowAway Cargo Carrier, while you and all your passengers will love all the extra space and comfort you’ll get to enjoy inside the vehicle. Order yours today.

Best Spots for Surf Fishing Along the East Coast

2017-05-08T11:33:00-05:00

The open air, the beautiful waves and, of course, the big catch: these are all part of what makes surf fishing so exhilarating. There’s nothing quite like standing on the shore, casting in your line as far as you can and then fighting the sea to land the big one. Whether you’re hoping to snag a striped bass, a bluefish, a flounder, an albacore tuna, or any other species, surf fishing is always a good time. If you want to experience some of the best surf fishing available, you’ve got to head to the East Coast and try your luck. There are literally hundreds of locations to try, but the following are some of the best East Coast fishing spots to cast in your line when you want to reel in the big one while surf fishing on East Coast shores.

Hilton Head, South Carolina – It doesn’t matter what kind of fish you’re trying to land, including mahi mahi, snapper, kingfish and even shark. The fishing experience at Hilton Head is always spectacular.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts – What East Coast fishing trip would be complete without a stop in Cape Cod? You won’t run out of beautiful scenery, open waters and plenty of game to catch. From sea bass, cod, bluefish, tuna, and many more, this is a great place to experience surf fishing.

Montauk, New York – You can find some of the best saltwater fishing on the East Coast in Montauk, which is why it’s known as the largest commercial fishing location in all of New York.

Charleston, South Carolina – Just a couple hours away from Hilton Head you’ll find another great surf fishing spot on the shores of South Carolina. Charleston offers fishing from both on and off the shore, with plenty of open spaces and lots of available game.

Chesapeake Bay – Covering 64,000 square miles, this famous bay offers so many places to cast from, including several different states in the region.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – This is a perfect spot if you’re taking the whole family but not everyone is into fishing. There are all kinds of things do here, and of course the fishing is excellent, too.

How to Carry All That Surf Fishing Equipment

No matter where you decide to go for your East Coast surf fishing trip, you will need a good way to haul all your gear and equipment, including your fishing pole, your tackle, and your bait or lure. And as any experienced fishing enthusiast will tell you, one pole is never enough, so you'll need a Hitch Fishing Rod Rack. Plus, don’t forget about waders, jackets, and any other extra equipment and accessories that you’ll need to make your fishing trip go smoother. Not to be forgotten is a net to help haul your catch and a cooler to keep it fresh on the drive home. Speaking of the drive, you need a place to store all that gear, and unless you like your vehicle smelling like fish, you’re going to want to keep it all outside. That’s where the StowAway Cargo Carrier with SwingAway Hitch Frame comes in handy.

Keep the Fish Smell Outside

With the StowAway Cargo Carrier you can conveniently store all your gear, accessories, extra clothing and even the cooler holding your catch, outside of your vehicle. It will all be safely tucked away inside your weatherproof Cargo Carrier securely hitched to the back of your vehicle. You’ll be able to keep the fish smell outside where it belongs. So, if you’re looking for the perfect way to haul and store your fishing gear before your next surf fishing trip to the East Coast, purchase a StowAway Cargo Carrier today.

Front Mount vs. Rear Mount Surf Rod Racks – Pro’s and Con’s

2017-05-05T12:43:00-05:00

When you’re headed out to do some surf fishing, chances are you’re going to need the right cargo rack to haul all your gear, especially your poles. One of the most popular methods for experienced fishing enthusiasts is to use a surf rod rack to get their equipment to and from their chosen destination. There are all kinds of racks to choose from, including roof mount racks, front mount racks, and rear mount racks. Roof mount racks are usually a hassle to work with so if you have fishing gear to haul, a front mount or rear mount rack is typically the better choice. That being said, is one better than the other? Let’s take a closer look.

Front Mount Racks

There are many front mount surf rod racks to choose from but they all essentially offer the same features.

Pros – one of the pros of a front mount surf rod rack is that it's easy to use when driving on the beach. You can pull up to the perfect spot, cast your line set your rod up and sit in your vehicle to watch for any bites. Another pro is that you can easily keep an eye on your gear from the driver seat.

Cons – on the other hand, there are a few cons, including the fact that they are not good for transporting rods while driving on the road, especially at freeway and highway speeds. The wind can damage your gear, including snapping your rods in half. Road debris that gets kicked back from other vehicles can also damage them. Overall, your rods just aren’t as safe in the front of your vehicle as they are in the back.

Rear Mount Racks

There are some pros and cons to rear mount surf rod racks, as well.

Pros – the best thing about using a rear mount surf rod rack is that your gear, especially your poles, are much safer when you travel. They won’t snap in the wind or get hit by flying road debris. They also won’t interfere with your view or be a distraction while you drive.

Cons – the main downside to a rear mount surf rod rack is that you don’t have access to the back of your vehicle. However, if you combine your rack with a StowAway SwingAway Hitch Frame, you can eliminate this problem, too. That means you can safely store your gear in the back but still fish from the comfort of your vehicle.

Which Is Right for You?

The bottom line when you’re looking for a surf rod rack is you have to weigh all the pros and cons of both options and determine which one is right for you. Ultimately, if you want the convenience and safety of carrying your equipment in the back of your vehicle while still being able to easily access your trunk then mounting your StowAway Surf Fishing Rod Rack to a StowAway SwingAway Hitch Frame is your best bet. You not only get the benefit of a sturdy rack that can safely hold up to six fishing poles, but you also get a heavy-duty cargo rack designed to hold up to 200 lbs. with a 2-inch hitch. It easily pivots away from your trunk, allowing you access to the back of your vehicle and you don’t have to worry about having anything in the front of your vehicle blocking your view or getting damaged by road debris or wind. If you want to make hauling your surf fishing gear much easier, purchase your StowAway Surf Fishing Rod Rack today.

StowAway Cargo Carriers - Versatility in action.

2017-01-25T14:03:00-06:00

How many times have you wished you had more space for your road trip?

Packing up for a road trip requires careful planning - how much to take and where to put it. Too much gear and your passengers will end up riding with duffel bags or suitcases on their laps for hours. Not enough gear and you won't have what you need when you stop along the way. So where do you put the gear that you need but don't quite have the room for? You could try a travel trailer but driving and parking with a trailer can be a bit challenging. Plus where to store it when not in use, or the cost to rent one if you go the rental route. Or you could use a rooftop carrier, but loading and unloading a rooftop carrier requires a foot stool for a lot of people, let alone the impact of a rooftop carrier on your gas mileage. And don't forget you have it up there when going into the garage or you may tear it off.

Is there a better solution?

Everything, INCLUDING, the Kitchen Sink

We think there is, and it's the StowAway Hitch Cargo Carrier. The StowAway Carrier slides easily into your hitch receiver, providing you with ample, ground level access to your gear. The box itself is rugged and roomy, and the StowAway carrier swings out so you can access the back of your vehicle to let the dogs out. And the StowAway box design is not only perfect for carrying your luggage and your gear, it can also be converted to a kitchen sink once you get to your destination. Talk about versatility! It even has a drain plug.

What about Other Uses?

The versatility doesn’t stop there. The StowAway SwingAway Frame has plenty of different functions just by itself. You can combine this hitch mount carrier with one of our Cargo Carriers, a hitch cargo rack, a bike rack or even our Tailgate Hitch Grill Station . However, the uses are practically endless. In addition to the many options we offer, several of our customers have come up with their own uses, including the homemade kitchen sink above. Anyone who has ever gone on a long camping trip knows how nice it would be to have a kitchen sink in the woods. With the StowAway Hitch Cargo Carrier, that dream can be a reality. Plus, if you can turn it into a kitchen sink, just imagine what else you can do with it.

Endless Possibilities

Of course, you can haul just about anything you’ll need for your trip in the cargo carrier, up to 200 lbs. with a two-inch hitch. That includes golf clubs, luggage, food, recreation equipment and even fold-up bikes. It’s also great for pet owners. As anyone who owns a pet can attest to, there are plenty of extra things you need to bring along when you travel with your furry friend. All that “stuff” conveniently fits into your hitch mount carrier, which means you’ll have more room for you and your pet(s) inside. Even when you’re not camping or on a long road trip there are plenty of other uses for the StowAway Hitch Carrier. Do your kids play sports? Maybe you coach a soccer team. It doesn’t matter the sport, you can throw all that smelly, dirty gear in your hitch mount carrier and leave the stench behind.

Buy a Cargo Carrier for Your Next Adventure

The StowAway SwingAway Frame, together with the StowAway Hitch Carrier, offers so many options for so many different adventures. So make your next road or camping trip much easier with the StowAway MAX Hitch Cargo Carrier.

Foldup Bike Storage and Transport While on the Road

2017-01-08T11:20:00-06:00

People use our StowAway carriers for all kinds of reasons. In fact, our customers continually find new ways to use our cargo carriers that we would never think of, and many of those customers share those experiences with us. A lot of people ride bikes and although we offer a cycle carrier that attaches to our hitch mounted SwingAway Frame, folding bikes don’t fit well on a bike rack. As it turns out, our StowAway Max Cargo Carrier makes a great companion for anyone who owns and hauls a folding bike.

Where to Put Your Folding Bikes on a Road Trip

If you own a folding bike you may tend to take your bikes on vacations, road trips or even day outings. Hauling the bikes along with your other gear can be a challenge even in a good size SUV or RV. That’s where the Max Cargo Box comes in. A road bike storage solution, the Max box will comfortably carry two folding bikes, and leave plenty of room for helmets, gloves and other accessories. And StowAway customers have hauled the most popular folding bike brands, including Dahon and Bike Friday models.

Save Room in Your Vehicle

Loading your folding bikes into the Max Box will save you room in your vehicle and keep your bikes protected from the weather. You can lock your StowAway Cargo Carrier, which means your folding bikes will be safe against would-be thieves. Plus, with the Max’s convenient and easy-to-use swing away hitch frame you don’t have to remove your bikes to access the back of your vehicle.

Your Folding Bike’s New Best Friend

If you’ve been looking for a better way to haul your folding bikes then look no further than the StowAway Max Cargo Carrier. Convenience, protection and accessibility rolled into one bike carrier solution. And best of all, when you aren’t transporting your folding bikes, you can use your carrier for hauling all kinds of other gear, whether it be for camping, team sports, or visiting your out of town relatives.

So go to StowAway2.com to learn more about your folding bike’s new best friend

Smokin Brothers Tailgate Grill Secret Ingredient is StowAway

2016-12-20T11:26:00-06:00

The football season is in full swing and fans everywhere are already starting to get their playoff and bowl plans in order. Every football fan loves that big moment in the game when his or her team makes the key play, scores the big touchdown or comes up with a huge a defensive stop. However, you can’t really sit down to watch a big game without a proper tailgate party before the kick-off. Playoff and bowl games are no exception, so of course, every fan already looking forward to the post season is likely making big plans for their tailgating experience, as well.

How Tailgating Was Meant to Be

It doesn’t matter what you’re serving, whether it’s hamburgers, polish sausage, a rack of ribs, or anything else you decide to throw on the grill, everyone needs a good meal before they scream their lungs out for three hours. There are so many different options for grilling at a tailgate party, and people have come up with a lot of unique and interesting ideas. However, every tailgater has something in common. They all have to find a way to haul their grill to the game. But what if you could simply attach your grill to the trailer hitch on your vehicle and have it ready for use when you get to the game? That would really make your tailgate party a winner.

Smokin’ Brothers to Go

Well, thanks to the StowAway SwingAway Frame you can easily turn your Smokin’ Brothers grill into a hitch mount grill. Whether it’s the big game, a camping trip, or any other place you grill, this versatile and easy to use swingaway hitch frame is a great way to take your grill on the road, no matter where you’re headed. Take a look at what this StowAway customer did with their SwingAway Frame. That’s the Smokin’ Brothers “24” grill and it’s attached right to the trailer hitch, making this a super portable trailer hitch grill. With the StowAway SwingAway Frame it’s easy to create your own hitch mount smoker grill or hitch grill station with a Smokin’ Brothers grill. Getting your grilling station to and from the game has never been easier.

Durable, Quiet and Convenient

lus, it’s also very convenient to use. Because the SwingAway Frame swings away from your vehicle up to 180 degrees you still have easy access to your trunk while you grill. Just throw all your fixings in the back of your vehicle and they’re right there where you need them for smokin’ or grillin’. This heavy-duty steel hitch frame will easily handle just about every grill/smoker the Smokin’ Brother makes. The SwingAway Frame holds up to 175 lbs. with a 1.25-inch hitch and up to 250 lbs. with a 2-inch hitch. It also includes a hitch tightener to help reduce or eliminate hitch rattle. If you love your Smokin’ Brothers grill and wish you could take it with you to your next tailgate party, camping trip, or any other BBQ outing, then try pairing it with the StowAway SwingAway Frame. Your stationary grill will become a fantastic hitch grill BBQ for every occasion.

Your Tailgate Experience Will Always Be a Winner

Of course, we can’t guarantee that your team will always be victorious on the field, but we can promise that your tailgating event will always be a winner when you combine your Smokin’ Brothers grill with the StowAway SwingAway Frame. So, if you’re ready to upgrade your tailgating experience this football season then click here to purchase your new Smokin’ Brother’s grill and click here to team it up with the StowAway SwingAway Frame to create your very own portable hitch grill station. Tailgating will never be the same.