6 Best Side Mount Ladder Brackets For Easy Access Nomads Swear By
Secure your ladder and simplify roof access with these 6 nomad-approved side-mount brackets. We compare the best options for durability and ease of use.
You’ve just pulled into the perfect boondocking spot, but the solar panels on your roof are caked in dust from that long dirt road. Getting your ladder off the side of your van or RV shouldn’t be a wrestling match that leaves you frustrated and covered in grime. The right side mount ladder brackets are the unsung heroes of rig life, turning a dreaded chore into a simple, secure task.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!
Critical Factors for Choosing Ladder Brackets
Choosing the right brackets isn’t just about finding something that fits. It’s about matching the hardware to your rig, your ladder, and your lifestyle. The first thing to consider is the material. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, while powder-coated steel offers superior strength but can be heavier and susceptible to rust if the coating gets chipped. Think about where you travel. Are you constantly near saltwater or in wet climates? Aluminum or stainless steel might be the better long-term investment.
Next, look at weight capacity. This isn’t just about the weight of your ladder; it’s about the dynamic forces it endures while you’re bouncing down a washboard road. A cheap bracket might hold your ladder just fine while parked, but it could fail under the stress of constant vibration. Always choose a bracket rated for well above your ladder’s actual weight. This is one area where over-engineering is your friend.
Finally, consider the mounting style and security. Some brackets are simple U-bolts, while others offer quick-release pins or integrated locks. If you park in urban areas or leave your rig unattended for long periods, a locking system provides peace of mind. If you need to remove your ladder frequently to access a storage box or clear a tight trail, a quick-release mechanism will save you countless headaches.
GP Factor Mounts: For Rugged Off-Road Rigs
When your rig is designed for serious overland travel, every component has to be bombproof. GP Factor understands this. Their mounts are typically machined from thick billet aluminum and designed to integrate with systems like L-track or specific roof racks, ensuring a connection that won’t vibrate loose on corrugated roads. This isn’t a "universal" solution; it’s a purpose-built piece of gear.
The primary advantage here is strength and a perfect fit for popular overland platforms. You’re not drilling random holes and hoping for the best. You’re bolting a precisely engineered component into a system designed to handle extreme stress. This is for the nomad who has invested in a high-end rack system and needs their ladder mount to be just as reliable as their suspension.
The tradeoff is cost and specificity. GP Factor mounts are a premium product, and they are often designed for specific ladders, like the popular Telesteps telescoping models. If you’re on a tight budget or have an odd-sized ladder, this might not be the most practical path. But if you value a secure, integrated system that can handle the abuse of the backcountry, the investment is easily justified.
Surco Universal Brackets: A Versatile Choice
Sometimes you just need something that works without a lot of fuss. Surco’s universal brackets are the workhorses of the RV and van world for a reason. They are typically simple, adjustable, and designed to clamp onto a wide variety of factory and aftermarket roof racks or gutters. Their straightforward design makes them an accessible option for people who aren’t looking to build a custom overland rig.
Their strength lies in their adaptability. Whether you have a vintage RV with a gutter rail or a modern van with a simple crossbar system, there’s likely a Surco bracket that will get the job done. This makes them a great starting point for new nomads or those who might change their ladder or even their vehicle in the future. You’re not locked into one specific ecosystem.
However, "universal" can sometimes mean a master of none. While they are plenty strong for most applications, they may require a bit more tinkering to get a perfectly snug and rattle-free fit compared to a vehicle-specific mount. You’ll want to double-check all the hardware and perhaps add rubber shims or Loctite to ensure everything stays tight on rougher roads.
Stromberg Carlson Quick-Release Ladder Mounts
For many nomads, the ladder isn’t a permanent fixture. It comes off for better aerodynamics on a long highway drive, for security in a city, or to access a side-mounted awning. This is where Stromberg Carlson’s quick-release mounts shine. They allow you to remove and reinstall your ladder in seconds without any tools.
Imagine pulling into a tight campsite with low-hanging branches. Instead of worrying about your ladder snagging, you can simply pull a couple of pins, stow the ladder inside, and navigate the spot with ease. This convenience is a game-changer for daily usability. It transforms the ladder from a semi-permanent attachment into a tool you can deploy on demand.
The design relies on a two-part system: one piece stays on the vehicle, and the other stays on the ladder. When you bring them together, a pin or latch secures them. The main consideration here is ensuring the mechanism is high-quality and won’t develop slop or rattles over time. For those who prioritize speed and convenience, the small potential for mechanical wear is a worthy tradeoff.
Rhino-Rack Stow It: More Than Just a Ladder Mount
Rhino-Rack thinks in terms of systems, not just individual parts. Their Stow It brackets are a perfect example. While they work exceptionally well for ladders, they are designed as a versatile utility holder for their popular roof rack platforms. The same bracket can securely hold a shovel, an axe, or even a paddle.
This multi-functionality is a huge win for small-space living. Every piece of gear that can serve more than one purpose is a victory in the battle for space and efficiency. By investing in the Rhino-Rack ecosystem, you’re not just buying a ladder mount; you’re buying a flexible solution for carrying all sorts of long, awkward items. The brackets often feature a locking mechanism and a robust, easy-to-use design that’s been tested in the brutal Australian outback.
The catch, of course, is that you get the most benefit when you’re already committed to the Rhino-Rack system. While some brackets can be adapted to other racks, they are truly at home on a Rhino-Rack platform. This makes it a fantastic choice for those planning a build from the ground up, but a potentially less straightforward option for those just looking to add a ladder to an existing, non-compatible setup.
Fiamma Safe Ladder Brackets for Secure Access
Fiamma is a household name in the European and American RV markets, and their reputation is built on well-designed, safety-conscious products. Their ladder brackets are no exception. Often sold as part of a complete ladder system, Fiamma’s "Safe Ladder" mounts prioritize a secure and stable connection, both for transport and for when you’re actually climbing the ladder.
These systems often include locking clasps that hold the ladder tightly against the rig, preventing rattling and theft. More importantly, they are engineered to provide a solid foundation. You won’t feel the unnerving wobble or flex that can come with less robust mounting solutions. For anyone who is a bit nervous about heights or is frequently climbing onto their roof, this added sense of security is invaluable.
Fiamma products are typically designed for the vertical walls of RVs, motorhomes, and some boxier vans, rather than angled roof racks. This makes them an ideal solution for traditional RVs but may require some creative adaptation for a van with a lot of curvature. They represent a commitment to safety and proven RV-specific design.
Top Line Brackets: The Heavy-Duty Mounting Solution
When your ladder is a heavy, multi-section extension ladder or you’re using your rig for work-related purposes, you need a no-nonsense, heavy-duty solution. Top Line Manufacturing specializes in exactly that. Their brackets are often made of thick-gauge steel and feature simple, robust designs that prioritize sheer strength over anything else.
These are the kind of brackets you’d expect to see on a contractor’s truck. They often use oversized hardware and have high weight ratings designed to handle the daily abuse of commercial use. For the nomad carrying a heavier-than-average ladder or who simply wants the most overbuilt option available, Top Line is a brand to look at.
The design philosophy is function over form. They may not be as sleek or feature-rich as some of the other options. You likely won’t find elegant quick-release pins or intricate locking mechanisms. What you will find is an unapologetically strong and reliable mount that you can trust to hold your ladder securely, no matter what.
Installation Tips for Side Mount Ladder Brackets
Mounting anything to the side of your rig is a high-stakes job. A mistake can lead to leaks, structural damage, or a ladder falling off on the highway. Your number one rule should be to always use a sealant like Sikaflex or Dicor around every single hole you drill. Water is the enemy of every van and RV, and a small, unsealed screw hole is an open invitation for rot and mold.
Before you drill, double-check what’s on the other side of the wall. It’s heartbreaking to drill through a wall only to find you’ve punctured a wiring harness or a water line. Use a stud finder or look at your vehicle’s build plans if you have them. Whenever possible, use a backing plate on the inside of the wall. A simple piece of flat steel or even a large washer will distribute the load and prevent the bolts from pulling through the thin skin of your vehicle.
Finally, check your work. After the initial installation, and then again after your first hundred miles, re-tighten all the hardware. Things can settle and vibrate loose. A quick check with a wrench is all it takes to ensure your ladder, and the people driving behind you, stay safe on the road.
Ultimately, the best ladder bracket is the one that fits your specific rig, ladder, and travel style. Don’t just buy the most popular option; consider how you’ll actually use it day-to-day. A little forethought here will save you a world of hassle and give you safe, easy access to your roof for years to come.
