Towing a trailer behind your vehicle is sometimes complicated. Its important that we understand the safety and function of how to operate a towing vehicle and hitch. One of the most common type of hitch is the Bumper Hitch. We explore the Top 10 Bumper Hitches on the market.
Lets start from the beginning.
What is Bumper Hitch?
A Bumper Hitch is also called a drag or tag-along trailer. It forms a connection to a ball hitch that extends to the vehicle’s frame at the rear of the vehicle.
Bumper Hitches are a standard pairing with light-duty towing vehicles like RVs. The weight rating of your RV derives from the quality of Bumper Hitch in use. The Bumper Hitch endures the combined weight of the towing vehicle and trailer – but should not exceed 3,500lbs
The sizes of the receiver inserts will range from 1 ¼ inch to 3 inches.
The tow ball mount on your Bumper Hitch will be available in different sizes and drop lengths. These lengths range between 2-10 inches and some tow ball mounts provide rising length.
Advantages of Bumper Hitches
Important Point – Bumper hitches are smaller in size than the gooseneck hitches.
- Bumper Hitches are cheaper than Gooseneck Hitches.
- No need for a heavy-duty towing vehicle – a SUV is sufficient (this will depend on the weight of your trailer)
- Bumper Hitches are the easiest hitch for newbies.
- It has a consistent turn radius – no turn will prove too great for your vehicle.
Disadvantages of Bumper Hitches
- A bumper hitch can only be used for small vehicles. Meaning less cargo can be carried in your trailer.
- If used on a heavy-duty vehicle, which isn’t recommended, expertise is required when driving and turning. Newbies are prone to accidents with heavy-duty vehicles and Bumper Hitches.
- It is not suitable for transporting livestock, ATVs, etc.
These can be avoided by using the bumper hitches only for low-duty towing.
Things to Consider While Buying a Bumper Hitch
Consider these essential pointers before choosing your product:
Weight of Cargo
Ask yourself what purpose your hitch will serve and what cargo you plan on carrying? this will help you identify the perfect hitch for you. The weight of your cargo will affect the hitch you choose.
Quality
A low quality hitch will lead to problems and accidents. Branded products wield a strong reputation and are usually certified by relevant governing bodies – Its important to visually inspect your hitch before use, looking for any imperfections or damages.
Towing Vehicle's Weight Class
Compact vehicles can transport cargo up to 2,000lbs and SUVS can transport 3,500lbs. Being mindful of your tow vehicles weight class is important when picking a hitch.
Sway Control
Many worry about turning with a trailer attached to your vehicle. A hitch provides rotational resistance around the hitch ball’s axis. This reduces the trailer’s motion while turning and is referred to as sway. Sway control will vary depending on the weight of your trailer and what you are carrying in it.
Installation Standards
Our best advice is to look for a Bumper Hitch that is compatible with your receiver. The responsibility of a hitch’s function falls on your shoulders so ensuring accurate installation is key for safety. To find out more info about safety standards and installation requirements, read the user manual of your hitch.
Handling
Due to the weight of Bumper Hitches, they can’t be changed in the middle of the road. Most are designed with durability in mind but some are manufactured with handling as the priority and these hitches are a popular choice.
Best Bumper Hitches for Towing
# 1. CURT 13333 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, 2-Inch Receiver, Compatible with Select Dodge, Ram 1500, 2500, 3500
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 6,000lbs
Tongue Weight: 10,000lbs
Weight Distribution: 1,000lbs
This class 3 hitch has a 2-by-2 inch receiver which is compatible with many vehicles. It can accompany a cargo carrier, bike rack, ball mount, tow hook, and more. The CURT class 3 hitch is tested under various pressure-on-vehicle conditions similar to those in the real world and does not require drilling.
Pros
- Rust, chip, and UV resistant.
- Easy to install.
Cons
- The design of the cover is not appealing.
- Sometimes, the removable dust cap won’t fit back in its place after installing the hitch.
- It exposes a flat head screw which can cause rusting.
Verdict
Despite its unappealing design, this hitch stands out as one of the best bumper hitches available in the market. It is easy to install, which can help you when you are in the middle of the road trying to hook the hitch.
# 2. 83801 RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 2 inches Adapter for 4-4.5 inches Travel Trailer Rear Bumper
Description
Second on our list is the Towever Bumper Hitch – suitable for 2-inch by 2-inch square tubes on 4-inch to 4.5-inch square bumpers, this hitch can be mounted upside down. The adapter is constructed from 8lbs of solid steel and is protected by a durable “black powder” coating. It comes with 4 bolts that must be securely fitted to the trailer bumper.
Pros
- One of the cheapest options.
- More secure than the U-bolt designs.
- High Strength.
Cons
- Some users experience difficulties connecting the trailer and bumper due to a lack of space for the bolts – dependent on vehicle.
- Not suitable for RV level trailers.
Verdict
Affordable, robust and lightweight. This Hitch is highly recommended for all users, especially those wanting an easy-to-install option.
# 3. CURT 19101 Camper Hitch for 2 x 4-Inch RV Bumper 2 in. Receiver 3500 lbs.
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 3,500lbs
Tongue Weight: 350lbs
This Hitch equips your vehicle with a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver that is suitable for many tow vehicles. It is dual-coated with a rust-resistant and durable “black powder” coat to protect from chipping and UV rays.
Pros
- Corrosion, chip, and UV resistant.
- Easy to install.
- Adjustable width.
Cons
- Some users struggle to connect it to their 4″ bumpers.
Verdict
Some features of this hitch are limiting however it is tested according to SAE J684 standards to ensure safety while towing.
#4 TOPTOW 63803 RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 2 inch Adapter Receiver Opening 3500 LBS Capacity Fits for 4 inch X 4 inch Square RV Rear Bumpers
Description
Tongue Weight: 350lbs
It is used exclusively for RV level towing. This hitch can fit on 4-inch x 4-inch square bumpers and can be mounted upside down. It is robotically welded to ensure tensile strength. The two sets of bolts provided need to be tightly secured around the trailer bumper for safest use.
Pros
- Strong and well-made.
- Provides a tight-fit seal around the bumper and trailer.
Cons
- Sometimes, the bolts get too tight to access without equipment.
- Does not fit perfectly on the 4″ x 4″ bumper on some RVs.
- Not for heavy-duty towing.
Verdict
With many positive aspects and few drawbacks, its no surprise that we have ranked TOPTOW’s Bumper Hitch at the number 4 spot. No Hitch is perfect and this one can cause some users trouble when fitting it on their bumper.
# 5. TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 for 4 inches to 4.5 inch Beams 2-inch Receiver Opening Fits for Bike Racks Cargo Carriers Camper-on
Description
Tongue Weight: 200lbs
This hitch is not intended for RV-level towing. The receiver has a 2-inch x 2-inch tube opening that can fit bike racks, cargo carriers and most items with a 2-inch shank. TOPTOW is no stranger to quality and this shows in their robotically welded products.
Pros
- Sturdy.
- Easy to install.
- Made for heavy-duty towing.
- The durable “black powder” coating finish resists rain, dust, snow, road salt, and other corrosive substances.
Cons
- Not for RV towing purposes.
Verdict
Its easy-to-install, sturdy, and corrosion resistant properties have propelled this product high on our list. If you want to buy an affordable and highly efficient bumper hitch, this is your option.
# 6. CURT 19030 Step Bumper Hitch Receiver 2-Inch 5000 lbs.
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 10,000lbs
Tongue Weight: 500lbs
It accepts ball mount, cargo carrier, bike rack and tow hook. This product is tested according to SAE J684 standards to ensure safety and reliability while towing.
Pros
- Rust, chip, and UV resistant.
- Easy to install.
- Durable.
Cons
- Sometimes, the correct alignment of holes is absent.
- It is limited to the lowest-rated towing component.
Verdict
Apart from the misalignment of holes in some cases, this is a great product. Many customers like this product because of its versatile and adaptable nature.
# 7. Buyers Products 1809055 Bumper Hitch Receiver, Black
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 17,000lbs
Provides ICC bumper protection – also includes two forged D-Rings with brackets and pre-punched holes that fit multiple electrical adaptors.
Pros
- Good quality.
- Easy to install.
- Corrosion-resistant.
Cons
- It requires a minimum of two 3-inch welds per side.
Verdict
We consider this the go to Hitch for bike racks. Overall, the product is a consistent one but keep in mind that it needs two 3-inch welds per side (minimum).
# 8. Towing Planet RV Bumper Hitch Receiver Adapter Mount for Bike Cargo Carrier, Bike Trailer Trailer Coachman for 4" Square Continuous Welded Cargo Carrier Bumpers RV Bumpers Cargo Carrier Bumpers
Description
Tongue Weight: 350lbs
The Towing Planet hitch fits a 4-inch bumper and accepts 2-inch shank accessories such as bike racks, RV tire carriers and cargo carriers. It also grants a 30-day money-back guarantee and a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Accommodates 2-inch shank accessories.
- Durable.
- Corrosion-resistant.
Cons
It is limited to the lowest-rated towing component.
Verdict
Some customers have reviewed that the manufacturers deliver a low-quality finish on the product.
# 9. CURT 19050 Step Bumper Hitch Receiver for Dodge, 2-Inch, 4,000 lbs.
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 10,000lbs
Tongue Weight: 400lbs
It can fit in a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver that is suitable for many tow vehicles. The dual-coat of rust-resistant and durable “black powder” coat will protect from rust, chipping, and UV rays.
Pros
- Rust, chip, and UV resistant.
- Easy to install.
- Durable.
Cons
- It is limited to the lowest-rated towing component.
Verdict
This hitch is tested according to SAE J684 standards to ensure safety while towing. It is the best option for economical-wary users.
# 10. CURT 19031 Step Bumper Hitch Receiver for Westin or DMI, 2-Inch, 5,000 lbs.
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 5,000lbs
Tongue Weight: 500lbs
It is tested as per SAE J684 standards for utmost safety while towing. The hitch will equip your truck with a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver.
Pros
- Rust, chip, and UV resistant.
- Easy to install.
- Durable.
Cons
It is limited to the lowest-rated towing component.
Verdict
Some users report trouble connecting this hitch to their vehicle. CURT is a consistent brand and rarely has issues with compatibility – if you chose the right hitch for your vehicle, that is. It is a class-3 which makes it suitable for heavy-duty towing. It is affordable and provides heavy-duty towing.
Choosing the correct bumper hitch for your vehicle shouldn’t be a complicated process. There are plenty of bumper hitches but not all are perfect. You need to look for the correct information about the hitches and select accordingly in order to suit your particular needs. We hope this article has helped you in that process.