A trailer hitch makes an excellent addition to nearly any vehicle, and can allow you to bring along extra cargo with ease, whether hauling a trailer or adding an accessory like a bike rack. However, every vehicle has different towing capabilities, and not every trailer hitch is compatible with every vehicle.
Finding the best trailer hitch for your vehicle means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available classes and configurations. With the right trailer hitch, bringing along your extra cargo can become a quick, over-and-done with task.
We reviewed dozens of trailer hitches to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated trailer hitches vehicle owners can purchase to ensure a smooth and hassle-free hauling experience.
We’ve identified EAZ LIFT 48058 1000 lbs Elite Kit as the best trailer hitch out there. With interchangeable bars that provide positive latching action, this trailer hitch is one that will keep your towing running along smoothly. These benefits allow you to bring your extras with you quickly and easily.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Trailer Hitches
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | EAZ LIFT 48058 1000 lbs Elite Kit | 4.6 |
| Runner Up | Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars | 4.5 |
| Best Budget Buy | CURT 45036 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount | 4.7 |
| Best Class 2 Trailer Hitch | CURT 12091 Class 2 Trailer Hitch with Ball Mount | 4.3 |
| Best Class 3 Trailer Hitch | CURT 13182 Class 3 Trailer Hitch | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: EAZ LIFT 48058 1000 lbs Elite Kit
The EAZ LIFT 48058 1000 lbs Elite Kit took the top spot on our list of the best trailer hitches, and boasts an impressive maximum gross weight rating of 10,000 lbs, with a maximum tongue weight capacity of 1,000 lbs. The U-bolts and chain package are pre-installed on the spring bars for added ease of installation, and it comes complete with a 1,000 lb weight distributing hitch, sway control ball, and 2-5/16-inch hitch ball. The interchangeable bars provide positive latching action for a secure feel.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer hitch appreciated that it was easy to turn the anti-sway feature on and off, and that the entire package was easy to install. People felt that it offered a lot of options when it came to towing things, and liked that it included a 5-year warranty.
With a price tag of around $218, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.6 on Amazon with more than 800 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing vehicle owners to make the investment.
EAZ LIFT 48058 1000 lbs Elite Kit Key Features:
- Available in a choice of weight limits
- Pre-installed and torqued hitch ball and sway control ball
- Mounting hardware included
Our Runner Up Pick: Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars
The Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars took the runner-up spot on our list of the best trailer hitches, and combines weight distribution with sway control in one single unit for added convenience. The universal EZ Adjust frame brackets make for easy installation and adjustment on a variety of vehicle makes and models. It provides a GTW of up to 12,000 lbs, and boasts a lighter, more compact design that previous versions.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer hitch appreciated that it provided excellent sway control, kept both truck and trailer level, and made handling substantially better. People also commented on the ability to back up without removing it, and found the installation instructions very easy to follow.
At a cost of about $305, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.5 on Amazon with more than 150 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing vehicle owners to make the investment.
Husky 32218 Center Line TS with Spring Bars Key Features:
- Forged and hardened steel construction
- Factory pre-installed and torqued hitch ball
- Powder coat finish
Best Budget Pick: CURT 45036 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
The CURT 45036 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount is an excellent choice for those who want a trailer hitch that won’t break the bank. It features a simple loaded ball mount design, and is Class 3 rated. It fits all 2-inch receivers, and comes complete with a 2-inch factory torqued ball that is ideal for use with a variety of trailers and towing accessories for added convenience.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer hitch appreciated that it came complete with everything required to start towing, and was easy to install. People found the materials used in construction to be of good quality, and said it held up well even after multiple years of use.
At a cost of approximately $26, this trailer hitch is a solid choice for those looking for a trailer hitch option on a budget. It has a rating of 4.7 on Amazon with more than 1,500 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing vehicle owners that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at towing as its more expensive counterparts.
CURT 45036 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount Key Features:
- Maximum 7,500 lbs GTW/750 lbs TW
- Measures 8-¼-inch long with a 2-inch drop
- Suitable for use with a variety of vehicle makes and models
Best Class 2 Trailer Hitch: CURT 12091 Class 2 Trailer Hitch with Ball Mount
The CURT 12091 Class 2 Trailer Hitch with Ball Mount is an excellent option for those looking for a Class 2 trailer hitch. It boasts a durable a long lasting welded steel construction, and features a dual-coat finish to help resist rust and corrosion. It is rated for 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight, and provides a standard 1-1/4-inch square receiver suitable for use with a small trailer or in order to mount a cargo carrier or bike rack.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer hitch appreciated that it was easy to install while offering an inconspicuous presence, with only the receiver tube visible after installation. People felt the quality of materials used in construction was excellent.
With a price tag of around $102, it’s a pretty affordable option as far as trailer hitches go, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.3 on Amazon with nearly 100 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing vehicle owners to make the investment.
CURT 12091 Class 2 Trailer Hitch with Ball Mount Key Features:
- Suitable for use with Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ
- Mounting hardware included
- Made in the USA
Best Class 3 Trailer Hitch: CURT 13182 Class 3 Trailer Hitch
For anyone that need a class 3 trailer hitch, the CURT 13182 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is an excellent choice. It is rated for 6,000 lbs gross trailer weight, 600 lbs tongue weight, 7,500 lbs weight distribution capacity, and 750 lbs weight distribution tongue weight. It boasts a 2-inch square receiver, which makes it extremely versatile for a variety of towing applications and accessories. It features a chip-, rust- and UV-resistant finish for added longevity, and provides a custom fit on select models of the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer hitch appreciated that it was easy to install, and came with all required mounting hardware. Some reviewers wished that it came with the box, but that can easily be purchased separately. Overall, people still felt it offered excellent value for the quality and price.
At a cost of about $125, it’s a pretty affordable option as far as trailer hitches go, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.7 on Amazon with more than 200 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing vehicle owners to make the investment.
CURT 13182 Class 3 Trailer Hitch Key Features:
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
- Tested according to SAE J684 standards
- Made in the USA
Who Should Buy a Trailer Hitch
A trailer hitch is an ideal choice for those who want to tow a trailer behind them, whether for extra storage or camping excursions. They are also suitable for attaching storage accessories to a vehicle, such as bike racks and cargo containers. If you have a boat that you need to haul from place to place, or a trailer that you use to haul equipment, gear, or other goods, a trailer hitch is a must.
Important Features to Consider
Not all trailer hitches are created equal. A trailer hitch should be easy to install and able to handle heavy loads. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best trailer hitch for your vehicle:
- Class. Arguably the most important consideration when it comes to choosing the best trailer hitch for your needs is the class. Trailer hitches are available in five different classes, with each being able to tow varying weights. A Class 1 trailer hitch is the lightest duty trailer hitch, and is best suited for use with compact cars. It provides a towing capacity of 2,000 gross pounds towing weight. A Class 5 trailer hitch is best suited for use with pickup trucks and SUVs, and provides up to 18,000 pounds of GTW. You’ll need to consider both the size and style of your vehicle, as well as what it is that you want to tow, when choosing the right class of trailer hitch.
- Weight limit. While the receiver hitch weight limit will be determined by its class, you’ll also need to consider the weight limit of the tow ball hitch. This needs to be higher than the gross towing weight of the receiver, and should be clearly stated on the package.
- Type. There are three main types of trailer hitches: gooseneck, bumper, and receiver. A gooseneck trailer hitch is suitable for use in heavy duty applications, such as hauling a fifth wheel trailer, but must be installed in the bed of a pickup truck. A bumper trailer hitch boasts a simple design that installs directly on the rear bumper of your vehicle. They aren’t as secure as other styles of trailer hitches, and have a lower weight limit. A trailer hitch receiver bolts onto the frame of your vehicle, and provides a decent amount of towing capacity.
- Finish. Once installed, your trailer hitch will be constantly exposed to the elements, which makes choosing one with a protective finish a smart decision. A powder finish can help to keep rust at bay while protecting your investment.
- Price point.Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a trailer hitch. Trailer hitches vary in price from $40-$2,000 or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a trailer hitch and how does it work?
A trailer hitch is a product that attaches to your vehicle, and allows you to tow a trailer or attach other storage accessories. It works by attaching to your vehicle frame, bumper, or truck bed, and providing an “arm” that a trailer or accessory can fit onto. It is attached either with a tow ball, pins, or bolts.
What are the different types of trailer hitches?
There are three main types of trailer hitches: gooseneck, bumper, and receiver. A gooseneck trailer hitch is suitable for use in heavy duty applications, such as hauling a fifth wheel trailer, but must be installed in the bed of a pickup truck. A bumper trailer hitch boasts a simple design that installs directly on the rear bumper of your vehicle. They aren’t as secure as other styles of trailer hitches, and have a lower weight limit. A trailer hitch receiver bolts onto the frame of your vehicle, and provides a decent amount of towing capacity. There are also box hitches and drawbar hitches, as well as hitches designed specifically for towing fifth wheel trailers.
What’s the difference between a Class 2 and a Class 3 trailer hitch?
The difference between a Class 2 and a Class 3 trailer hitch is their gross towing weight, or GTW. A Class 2 trailer hitch can handle a 3,500 pound GTW, with a trailer tongue weight limit of 300 pounds. Trailer tongue weight refers to the amount of weight that the trailer attachment bears down onto the hitch. They generally have a 1.25-inch square receiver opening. A Class 3 trailer hitch can handle a 6,000 pound GTW, with a trailer tongue weight limit of 600 pounds. They generally have a 2-inch square receiver opening.
How do I choose a trailer hitch?
You’ll need to consider both the size and style of your vehicle as well as what it is that you want to tow when choosing the right trailer hitch. Start with the class of hitch first, and then consider the type. After that, you can consider things such as finish, whether or not mounting hardware is included, as well as whether it includes receiver balls in varying sizes.
Other Trailer Hitches We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other trailer hitches. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best trailer hitches list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your vehicle. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Box Trailer Hitches
Towever 84209 2″ ATV Receiver Hitch 3 in 1 Ball Mount with 2″ Ball
This box hitch boasts a three-in-one design that comes complete with the hitch receiver tube, draw bar, and ball mount in one package for a complete towing solution right out of the box.
Key Features:
- Suitable for use with four-wheelers and ATVs
- Reinforced tow loop
- Hitch ball rated for up to 2,000 lbs
Cost: $27
HUSKY TOWING Products 32850 2″ Box Hitch Extension
This box hitch extends a two-inch hitch box a further 12 inches upon installation. It is rated for up to 350 pounds of tongue weight.
Key Features:
- Black color
- Includes a 1-year warranty
- Compatible with a 2-inch receiver
Cost: $26
Reese 48-84-008 45018 Titan Hitch Box Extension
This box hitch boasts a durable and long lasting steel construction, that has been powder coated for rust-resistance, and fits 2.5-inch hitch receivers.
Key Features:
- Family-owned company
- Extends 41-48 inches
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $355
This box hitch boasts a 2.5-inch square design that is suitable for use with Titan hitches, and is suitable for use in marine, agricultural, and recreational applications.
Key Features:
- 1.25-inch shank hole
- Max tongue weight of 2,000 lbs
- Max trailer weight of 18,000 lbs
Cost: $71
Draw-Tite 40382 10-5/8″ Aluminum Ball Mount
This box hitch boasts a durable, one-piece forged aluminum construction, and is designed to fit a two-inch square receiver tube opening.
Key Features:
- 800/8,000 lbs (TW/GTW)
- Measures 10-⅝-inch long, 3-inch rise, 4-inch drop
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
Bumper Trailer Hitches
Goplus Step Bumper for 2″ Receiver Hitch
This bumper hitch boasts a 5,000 lb towing capacity, and features a durable and long-lasting heavy duty steel tube construction that is rust resistant.
Key Features:
- 2-inch receiver
- Compact design
- Suitable for use with multiple vehicle types
Cost: $32
7BLACKSMITHS RV 2” Square Bumper Hitch
This bumper hitch boasts a unique design that U-bolts onto any four-inch square continuous welded RV bumper, and can accept two-inch cargo carrier tubes.
Key Features:
- Rust-resistant, powder coated steel construction
- Zinc-plated hardware
- Suitable for use with multiple vehicle types
Cost: $18
Mount-n-Lock Bundle SafetyStruts (TM) and Bumper-Mounted Hitch
This bumper hitch boasts a flexible design that allows you to safely add bumper-mounted hitches, bike racks, generators, and other cargo to your RV. It has been bounce-tested over 1 million cycles.
Key Features:
- Installation video available
- Includes self-tapping bolts
- Made in the USA
Cost: $115
CURT 19101 Camper Hitch RV Bumper Hitch
This bumper hitch boasts a rust-resistant black powder coat finish, and quickly mounts to a 2×4-inch bumper beam. It comes complete with a 2-inch receiver tube opening, and includes mounting hardware.
Key Features:
- 350/3,500 lb (TW/GTW)
- Made in the USA
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
Cost: $57
Nachman 12-101 Universal Bumper Hitch
This bumper hitch boasts a durable and long-lasting all metal design, and offers a nearly universal fitment for added convenience. It provides up and down action.
Key Features:
- Compatible with round or square tube bumpers
- Mounting hardware not included
- Bumper opening of 1-inch
Drawbar Trailer Hitches
This drawbar hitch is suitable for use with trailer hitches with a 2.5-inch x 2.5-inch receiver tube opening, and couples to 2 5/16-inch couplers or lunette eyes with a 2.5-inch or 3-inch inside diameter.
Key Features:
- Secure spring-loaded locking arm
- Solid forged steel construction
- Trailer ball capacity of 20,000 lbs
Cost: $82
Draw-Tite 36061 Trailer Hitch Drawbar Kit
This drawbar hitch is suitable for use with a Class 2 trailer hitch, and is compatible with 1.25-inch square receiver tube openings.
Key Features:
- 300/3500 lb (TW/GTW)
- Rust-resistant black powder coated finish
- Includes a drawbar, pin, and clip
Cost: $21
CURT 11186 Class 1 Trailer Hitch with Ball Mount
This drawbar hitch is rated Class 1, which means it has the capacity to tow up to 2,000 lbs of gross trailer weight and 200 lbs of tongue weight.
Key Features:
- Mounting hardware included
- Made in the USA
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
Cost: $160
Draw-Tite 36063 Trailer Hitch Drawbar Kit
This drawbar hitch is suitable for use with a Class 2 trailer hitch, and is compatible with 1.25-inch square receiver tube openings.
Key Features:
- 300/3,500 lb (TW/GTW)
- Rust-resistant black powder coated finish
- Includes a drawbar, pin, and clip
Cost: $20
Tow Ready 36053 1-1/4″ Drawbar Kit
This drawbar hitch boasts a durable and long-lasting rust-resistant black powder coated finish, and comes complete with a drawbar, pin, and clip.
Key Features:
- Compatible with 1.25-inch square receiver tube openings
- 300/3,500 lb (TW/GTW)
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
Fifth Wheel Hitches
CURT 16049 Q25 Black 5th Wheel Hitch with Ram Puck System Legs
This fifth wheel hitch boasts an extra-wide, self-aligning head opening, and is compatible with Dodge RAM trucks with the towing prep package. It is available in GTW options of 20,000, 24,000, and 25,000 lbs.
Key Features:
- Spherical axial bearing for 360-degree tilt
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
- Made in the USA
Cost: $1,026
B and W RVK3300 Companion 5th Wheel for Ford Puck
This fifth wheel hitch is compatible with Ford pickup trucks that come with the factory puck rail system installed, and features an easy-to-install two-piece design.
Key Features:
- Cam-actuated latching mechanism
- Casting lock jaws are 1-inch thick
- 20,000 lb GTW/ 5,000 lb vertical load rating
Cost: $1,036
This fifth wheel hitch boasts a four-way pivoting head, and comes complete with a skid plate which pivots 5-degrees to either side for easier hookups on uneven ground. It includes a 10-year limited warranty.
Key Features:
- 15,000 lb GTW
- Rounded slide bar mechanism
- Jaw handle with tab for padlock security
Cost: $287
CURT 16516 E16 5th Wheel Hitch with Roller for Short Bed Trucks
This fifth wheel hitch has been specially designed for use with short bed trucks, and features a dual pivoting head that provides a smoother, more stable towing experience.
Key Features:
- Sidewinder compatible
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
- Made in the USA
Cost: $538
B&W Companion Slider 5th Wheel Trailer RV Gooseneck Hitch Adapter
This fifth wheel hitch has been specially designed for use with short bed trucks, and boasts a fully articulating coupler head that allows for pivoting from front to back and side to side for a smoother towing experience.
Key Features:
- 1-inch thick wrap-around jaws
- Rattle-resistant polyurethane bushings
- 20,000/5,000 GTW/VTW
Cost: $1,470
