Best bike rack for your campervan

Best Bike Rack for Your Campervan: Carrying Wheels for Your Wheels

If you’re living the campervan life, a bike rack is a must-have. It’s the perfect way to bring your two-wheeled freedom machines on your adventures. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right rack? Fear not—whether you’re hauling mountain bikes, e-bikes, or that rusty cruiser you’ve had since college, here’s the lowdown (and a few laughs) on the best bike racks for your campervan.


1. Rear Door-Mounted Bike Racks: The Campervan Classic

These racks attach to your campervan’s rear doors like a backpack for your van.

  • Why Choose This?
    They’re lightweight, don’t need a tow bar, and leave your roof free for other important things, like solar panels or rooftop naps. Plus, they make you look like you’re always ready for adventure.

  • Best Pick: Fiamma Carry-Bike Rack
    Specifically designed for campervans like the VW Transporter and Fiat Ducato, this Italian masterpiece is sturdy, stylish, and can carry up to four bikes. It’s like the Ferrari of bike racks, except much slower.

  • Pro Tip: Double-check the doors still open properly when it’s loaded. Nobody likes the “unload to grab snacks” game.


2. Tow Bar-Mounted Racks: Heavy Duty and Hassle-Free

Got a tow bar? These racks are the SUV of bike carriers—big, stable, and perfect for heavier bikes.

  • Why Choose This?
    Ideal for e-bikes or when you’re carrying bikes for the whole family. Many models tilt, so you can still get into the back of the van for that all-important post-ride snack.

  • Best Pick: Thule EasyFold XT 3
    Foldable, tiltable, and tough enough to carry heavy e-bikes. It’s the Swiss Army knife of bike racks, minus the corkscrew.

  • Pro Tip: Tow bar racks keep your bikes at a friendly height—no need for gymnastics to load them.


3. Roof-Mounted Racks: For the Ambitious (or Gym Members)

If your campervan already has roof bars, these racks save space and keep the rear free for storage or other accessories.

  • Why Choose This?
    Roof racks make your campervan look like you know what you’re doing. Plus, they’re great for carrying just one or two bikes.

  • Best Pick: Thule ProRide 598
    Easy to use, secure, and it practically screams “I cycle.” But unless you’re tall or have a stepladder handy, prepare for a workout every time you load up.

  • Pro Tip: Watch out for low bridges and drive-throughs. There’s no bigger buzzkill than ripping your bike off at 30mph.


4. Spare Wheel-Mounted Racks: Two Birds, One Spare

If your campervan has a rear-mounted spare wheel, these racks are super handy. They attach directly to the spare without needing extra mounts.

  • Why Choose This?
    Compact, simple, and you still get full use of the van’s rear door. It’s like the multitasking friend who makes it all look easy.

  • Best Pick: Thule 963PRO Spare Me
    Strong, adjustable, and it’ll make you wonder why every spare wheel doesn’t come with one of these as standard.

  • Pro Tip: Make sure your spare wheel can handle the extra weight of bikes before going full Tour de Campervan.


5. Hitch-Mounted Platform Racks: Stability Meets Style

For campervans with a hitch receiver, these platform-style racks are the Cadillac of bike transportation—stable, easy to load, and perfect for heavy or awkward bikes.

  • Why Choose This?
    Ideal for e-bikes, downhill rigs, or anyone who hates lifting bikes overhead. These racks often come with added security features, so you don’t need to sleep with one eye on your gear.

  • Best Pick: Yakima HoldUp EVO 2
    Sturdy, sleek, and tilts for easy van access. It’s the bike rack equivalent of having your cake and eating it too—except your cake is two bikes.

  • Pro Tip: Platform racks are a bit bulkier but worth it if you want maximum ease of use and security.


How to Choose the Right Bike Rack (Without Losing Your Sanity)

  1. Bike Count Matters
    Hauling just your bike? Easy. Bringing your partner’s, your kid’s, and the neighbor’s bike for some reason? Make sure the rack holds at least 3-4 bikes.

  2. E-Bike Friendly?
    Those e-bikes are heavy! If your rack isn’t built for them, it’ll struggle, and so will you.

  3. Storage Space
    Got a small camper? A compact, foldable rack saves space when not in use.

  4. Access Is Key
    Love your campervan snacks? Choose a tilt or swing-away rack, so you don’t have to choose between grabbing food and keeping your bikes loaded.

  5. Looks and Functionality
    Let’s face it: you want a rack that works and makes your camper look cooler. Bonus points if it’s easy to install without a degree in engineering.


Top Picks Recap: The Best Racks for Different Needs

  • Best Overall for Campervans: Fiamma Carry-Bike Rack – Tailor-made for campervans, reliable, and stylish.
  • Best for E-Bikes: Thule EasyFold XT – Rugged, easy to use, and e-bike ready.
  • Best Budget-Friendly Option: MaxxRaxx 4 Bike Rack – Affordable and does the job without breaking the bank.
  • Best for Roof Mounting: Thule ProRide 598 – For solo cyclists and style points.
  • Best Compact Solution: Thule 963PRO Spare Me – Great for campervans with spare wheels.

Conclusion: Rack It and Roll

When it comes to campervans, the right bike rack makes life on the road easier, safer, and way more fun. Whether you’re hitting the trails or cruising around the campsite, there’s a rack to suit every need and budget. So, strap on your wheels, hit the open road, and let the adventures roll! Just don’t forget to double-check everything’s secure before you drive off. (Trust us, it’s a lesson you only need to learn once.)

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