Why We Install Rear Tire Carriers on our Camper Van Conversions
If you've looked through photos of our builds, you've probably noticed something:
A lot of them have rear tire carriers.
That's not by accident.
In fact, rear tire carriers are one of the upgrades we recommend most often for van owners, especially those traveling off pavement or running larger tires.
Here's why.
Factory Spare Tire Locations Aren't Ideal
On most vans, the spare tire is mounted underneath the vehicle.
While that keeps it out of the way, it also makes it difficult to access.
If you ever need it on the side of the road, in mud, snow, sand, or uneven terrain, you'll quickly understand why many owners look for alternatives.
Changing a tire is already inconvenient.
Fighting to access the spare underneath the van only adds to the frustration.
Tire Upgrades Create Another Problem
Many owners upgrade their tires shortly after purchasing their van.
Larger all-terrain tires are one of the most common modifications we see.
The issue?
The factory spare often remains the original size.
That means if you need to use it, you're suddenly running a mismatched tire.
On AWD vehicles, driving long distances with different tire sizes can place additional strain on the drivetrain and lead to unnecessary wear.
Carrying a matching full-size spare eliminates that concern.
Rear Tire Carriers Make Everything Easier
A rear tire carrier provides:
Easy access to your spare tire
A matching full-size spare
Better usability during roadside repairs
Improved convenience during off-road travel
But that's not all.
Many Systems Include Roof Access
Many rear tire carrier systems integrate with ladders.
This provides easy access to:
Solar panels for cleaning
Roof racks
Cargo boxes
Recovery gear
General maintenance
For vans without roof racks that can accommodate side ladders, rear ladders often become the best solution.
One Upgrade, Multiple Benefits
One of the reasons we recommend these systems so often is because they solve multiple problems at once.
You gain:
Better spare tire access
Roof access
Additional storage opportunities
A more adventure-ready setup
For many clients, it ends up being one of the highest value upgrades they make.
If you're considering a rear tire carrier or wondering which system is best for your van, we'd love to help you explore your options during one of our diagnostic sessions.
Need some help? Contact us!