By Gail Marsh
While walking around our current campground, I was amazed to see all the clever ways fellow RVers were utilizing their RV bumpers. From bike racks to storage solutions, the possibilities for RV bumper attachments are almost endless.
Caution!
Before you start strapping items to your bumper, it’s crucial to know how much weight it can safely support. Overloading your bumper can lead to dangerous tail sway, especially in travel trailers and pop-up campers. Always check with your RV manufacturer or local RV dealer to ensure your bumper can handle the load.
Frame-mounted bumper
For RVers with frame-mounted bumpers—common on motorhomes and fifth-wheel RVs—you have a bit more leeway. These bumpers are generally more durable and capable of holding more weight. But even then, caution is key.
RV bumper attachments
Here are some creative ways to make the most of your RV bumper, provided it can safely handle the weight.
• Bumper-mounted bike rack. Bumper-mounted bike racks are some of the most popular uses for RV bumpers. They keep your bikes secure and out of the way. Just make sure to choose a rack designed specifically for RV use, as these are built to handle the rigors of the road.
- Swagman Traveler XC2. This is a versatile option that can carry two bikes and is built to withstand long trips. You can find more information here.
- LIPPERT RV bumper bike rack. Known for its durability and ease of use, this rack is another excellent choice. Visit this website for more details.
• PVC pipe storage. Attaching a PVC pipe or hollow, plastic fence post to your bumper creates a perfect storage spot for hoses, fishing poles, or even a rolled-up patio mat (if the pipe is large enough). It’s a simple, affordable DIY project that can save you a ton of space inside your RV.
• Cargo tray with storage bins. Plastic storage bins on a bumper-mounted cargo tray are a fantastic way to store RV levelers, fittings, tools, and other camping essentials. This setup frees up valuable basement storage space. Here are plenty of options.
• Tank holder for portable RV sewage tank. Mounting a tank holder for your portable RV sewage tank is a convenient way to keep this essential item out of your RV’s basement. The Camco Rhino tote tank holder is designed to fit most RV bumpers and hold your sewage tank securely in place. More details are available here.
Clothes drying rack. An RV bumper can be an excellent spot for a clothes drying rack, especially after a day of swimming or hiking. This convenient option attaches easily to your bumper. More details can be found here.
Generator support mount. If you travel with a generator, a bumper-mounted support is a handy way to carry it without sacrificing basement storage. A support mount will also save you the hassle of removing a heavy generator from your basement storage. The GennyGo generator mount is specifically designed for RVs. This mount provides a stable platform for your generator. Find it here.
Kayak rack. For the adventurous souls who travel with kayaks, a bumper-mounted kayak rack is a smart way to transport your gear. RecPro RV Kayak Rack Vertiyak Hitch Mount Standing Kayak Carrier will take your kayak where you want to go. See more here.
Spare tire mount. Many RVs come with a spare tire mounted on the bumper, but if yours doesn’t, it’s a practical addition that ensures you’re prepared for any road mishaps. Camco Eaz-Lift is a sturdy option for carrying a spare tire on your RV bumper. Check it out here.
Swing-out grill holder. Love grilling? A swing-out grill holder is a great way to keep your grill accessible while saving storage space in your RV. The KUAFU RV bumper grill mount makes it easy to attach a grill to your RV’s bumper. For more information, click here.
Final thoughts
Your RV bumper can be much more than just a place to hold your license plate or a spare tire. With the right accessories, it can become a valuable storage and utility space. Just remember, safety first! Always check your bumper’s weight limit before loading it up, and if in doubt, consult with your RV’s manufacturer or a local RV dealer. With a little creativity and caution, your bumper can become one of the most useful parts of your RV!
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RVDT2729
Most trailer bumpers are thin steel that can tear easily at the trailer frame mounting points. Really only designed to hold the slinky hose and a spare tire. There are mounting brackets that bolt to the frame and cradle the bumper. They add significant (but not extreme) additional weight capacity to the bumper. If you put a hose inside the bumper do not use a bracket that puts screws into the bumper interior! I recommend this one. Comes in versions to fit your bumper.
If you are adding a hitch receiver to your bumper (bike or cargo rack), do not buy the style with the mounting plates parallel to the ground. They will twist and deform the bumper and the outer bolts start to loosen. Buy one like this with the mounting plates perpendicular to the ground. I put my receiver above the bumper to raise my cargo rack so it won’t drag if entering or exiting the road on a sharp incline found at some fuel stations.
I do not recommend using the bumper to carry anything other than a spare tire. IF someone did want to carry more, I’d recommend Safety Struts from Mount N Lock. It’s important to pre-load the struts upon installation with a jack to make sure they are in solid contact with the bottom of the bumper.
Here are a few helpful hints:
1. If you add a receiver with a cargo rack DON’T FORGET that you just added 3′ to 4′ feet of legnth… IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER THAT FACT WHEN BACKING UP!
2. If you add something to the back bumper make sure that the trailer tail lights can be easily seen.
Thank you for all the suggestions, Gail! Unfortunately, neither our RV, nor our towed car, has a proper bumper. Have a great day and safe travels!