6 Best Spare Tire Mounts For Off-Road Trailers For Overlanding

Flat tires happen on remote logging roads and desert washboards alike, turning a dream trip into a roadside ordeal. Carrying a reliable spare is non-negotiable for any serious overlander, but choosing how to mount that extra weight dictates your trailer’s handling and accessibility. Selecting the right setup ensures you spend less time wrestling with gear and more time enjoying the backcountry.

Disclosure: This site earns commissions from listed merchants at no cost to you. Thank you!

RIGd Ultraswing Multi-Fit: Best Premium Choice

The RIGd Ultraswing Multi-Fit stands as the gold standard for those who demand accessibility and modularity without compromising trail integrity. This hitch-mounted carrier features a swing-away design that clears the trailer tailgate or rear hatch in seconds, making it ideal for frequent stops. Its heavy-duty construction handles oversized tires with ease, effectively eliminating the common issue of carrier wobble on corrugated terrain.

If you are building an expedition-grade trailer where budget is secondary to functionality, this is the definitive choice. The design allows for additional accessories like Rotopax mounts or camp tables, maximizing your rear storage real estate. Choose this if you prioritize quick, tool-free access to your gear and need a mount that survives the harshest vibrations of long-distance off-roading.

Curt 31311 Hitch Mount: Best Budget Option

The Curt 31311 offers a straightforward, no-nonsense solution for adventurers who prefer simplicity over bells and whistles. It utilizes a standard hitch receiver design to hold the spare securely, keeping the tire out of the cargo area without a significant financial investment. While it lacks a swing-away mechanism, it provides a rock-solid, fixed mounting point for those who do not require constant access to the trailer’s rear.

This mount is perfectly suited for basic utility trailers or entry-level camping rigs that see occasional forest road usage. Installation is painless, and the steel construction is more than capable of handling standard-sized tires. If your priority is keeping your budget focused on trail fuel and park fees rather than high-end fabrication, this is the practical, reliable choice.

Extreme Max 3005.3732: Best Heavy Duty Mount

When traversing boulder-strewn passes or deep rutted trails, structural failure is the greatest enemy of any equipment mount. The Extreme Max 3005.3732 addresses this by utilizing heavy-gauge steel and a bolt-on design that creates a rigid connection to your trailer’s tongue or frame. Its high weight capacity makes it the go-to for rigs running large, mud-terrain tires that far exceed the mass of standard factory wheels.

This mount is built for the overlander who expects to subject their rig to intense lateral forces and punishing impacts. Because it fixes the tire securely in place, it eliminates the rattling and sway associated with cheaper, multi-jointed carriers. For those whose adventures take them far from civilization on technical terrain, this mount provides the peace of mind that comes with proven, heavy-duty durability.

BAL 28218 Hide-A-Spare: Best Under-Trailer

Space is the most precious commodity on a small overlanding trailer, and the BAL 28218 solves the storage crunch by utilizing the neglected footprint beneath the chassis. This under-mount system slides out when needed, keeping the tire tucked away safely during travel. By removing the weight from the rear or tongue, it helps keep your center of gravity low and protected from road debris.

This is an excellent choice for teardrop trailers or compact builds where rear-door clearance is a priority. While it requires clear access under the frame, the trade-off is a much cleaner aesthetic and more open storage capacity. If you want to keep your trailer’s silhouette streamlined and your interior cargo space uncluttered, this unique approach is arguably your best move.

Wilco Offroad Hitchgate Solo: Most Versatile

The Wilco Offroad Hitchgate Solo strikes a balance between the accessibility of a swing-away and the robustness of a fixed mount. Its offset design keeps the weight centered while providing enough clearance to open rear trailer compartments, even with larger tires mounted. The construction is exceptionally refined, featuring a latching mechanism that feels secure enough for high-speed highway transit and slow-crawling trail sessions alike.

This mount is the best option for those who switch between different types of adventures, from weekend getaways to multi-week remote treks. Its versatility shines when you need to swap between a spare tire and a cargo rack system. Choose the Hitchgate Solo if you are looking for a refined, professional-grade solution that adapts to the shifting needs of your seasonal gear setups.

Front Runner Mount: Top Choice for Roof Racks

Roof-mounted spares are a classic overlanding tactic for freeing up precious frame space, and the Front Runner Spare Tire Mount is engineered specifically for this purpose. It mounts directly to the brand’s signature Slimline II rack system, providing a low-profile anchor that keeps the tire centered and balanced. It is exceptionally lightweight yet incredibly strong, ensuring that the extra weight aloft doesn’t jeopardize your vehicle’s stability.

This mount is ideal for trailers with full-length roof racks used to carry rooftop tents or extra jerry cans. By placing the tire on the roof, you prevent the rear of the trailer from dragging on steep departures. If you have an established roof-rack ecosystem, this mount is the most integrated, efficient way to manage your spare tire without sacrificing lower storage space.

How to Choose the Right Mount for Overlanding

Selecting a mount requires a clear-eyed assessment of your trailer’s layout and your intended terrain. If your trailer has a rear door that needs frequent opening, a swing-away mount is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for sanity. Conversely, if you are tackling technical rock crawling, an under-mount or high-mounted setup keeps your spare away from potential impact zones.

Always verify the bolt pattern and the total weight capacity of the mount against your specific tire and wheel combination. A mount rated for a 31-inch tire will eventually fail under the weight of a 35-inch mud-terrain tire. Prioritize mounts with locking mechanisms if you plan to park in public areas or high-traffic trailheads, as spare tires are frequent targets for theft.

Balancing Trailer Tongue Weight and Placement

The position of your spare tire significantly impacts the tongue weight of your trailer—the downward force exerted on your hitch ball. Mounting a heavy spare on the extreme rear of the trailer creates a lever effect, which can lead to dangerous trailer sway during highway towing. Conversely, placing that same weight on the tongue can exceed your tow vehicle’s hitch capacity.

Aim for a balanced distribution that keeps the tongue weight within 10 to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight. If you must mount the spare far to the rear, ensure your trailer’s other heavy gear, such as water tanks or batteries, is positioned forward to compensate. Proper placement ensures predictable handling, reducing the strain on both your trailer frame and your tow vehicle’s suspension.

Routine Maintenance to Prevent Rust and Rattle

Off-road environments are brutal on steel mounts, with vibration and road grit accelerating wear on pivots and bolts. Inspect your mount before every major trip, checking for hairline cracks in the welds and ensuring all hardware remains properly torqued. If you use a swing-away or sliding mount, clean the pivot points regularly and apply a dry-film lubricant to keep the action smooth.

A rattling mount is a sign of impending failure; if you hear movement, address the source immediately with rubber dampeners or lock washers. For exposed metal, a quick touch-up with rust-inhibitive spray paint goes a long way in preventing corrosion before it starts. Consistent, proactive maintenance is the difference between a secure tire and a catastrophic roadside failure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spare Mounts

Does a rear-mounted spare tire affect my departure angle? Yes, a low-slung spare can significantly reduce your departure angle, potentially catching on rocks or steep inclines. If your terrain involves steep transitions, opt for a roof mount or a high-clearance frame-mounted setup.

Can I use any hitch mount for my trailer? Not necessarily, as many hitch mounts are designed for vehicles rather than trailers. Always check that the mount is rated for the vibrations of a trailer frame, which are often harsher than those experienced by a tow vehicle’s bumper.

Is a locking mechanism really necessary? While not required for functionality, locks are highly recommended for any external mount. Spare tires are easy to remove and steal, and losing your only spare in a remote location can end a trip abruptly.

The right spare tire mount is a foundational piece of your overlanding kit that allows you to venture further with confidence. By carefully balancing your specific needs for accessibility, weight distribution, and durability, you create a rig capable of handling any obstacle the trail throws your way. Now, secure that spare, check your tire pressure, and get out there to explore the miles ahead.