7 Best Fender Mounts For Rvs To Secure Your Gear
Maximize your RV’s storage with our top 7 fender mounts. Learn how to securely transport your gear with these durable, easy-to-install mounting solutions.
Maximizing exterior storage on an RV often feels like playing a high-stakes game of Tetris where every inch of vertical space counts. Fender mounts offer a clever, often overlooked solution to reclaim precious interior square footage by utilizing the dead space above your wheel wells. Choosing the right hardware can transform a cluttered rig into a streamlined, adventure-ready machine.
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Understanding Fender Mount Load Capacities
When you start bolting gear to your wheel wells, you are essentially modifying the structural integrity of your RV’s exterior skin. Most fender flares are made of lightweight ABS plastic or thin-gauge aluminum, neither of which is designed to support significant weight on its own. You must identify the backing structure—usually the RV frame or the wheel well sub-structure—before attaching any mount.
Load capacity isn’t just about what the bracket can hold; it’s about what the wall can withstand while bouncing down a gravel road at 55 mph. A static load of 50 pounds while parked can easily turn into a 150-pound dynamic force when you hit a pothole. Always prioritize mounts that distribute weight across multiple contact points rather than single-bolt designs.
Mounting Gear Safely to RV Wheel Wells
The biggest mistake I see in the field is people drilling directly into the decorative fender flare without reinforcing the interior. You need to use backing plates or oversized washers on the inside of the wheel well to prevent the mount from "pulling through" the material over time. Vibration is the enemy of all RV hardware, so always use locking nuts or thread-locking compound on every fastener.
Before you commit to a permanent installation, consider the clearance between your tire and the wheel well. If your rig has tight tolerances, adding a bracket—even a slim one—could lead to tire rub during heavy suspension compression. Always check your tire-to-fender gap at full articulation to ensure your new gear doesn’t become a hazard during a sharp turn or a steep driveway transition.
Stromberg Carlson Fender Mount Bike Racks
Carry bikes safely on your RV with the Stromberg Carlson CC-275 Bike Bunk. This adjustable, steel rack mounts to your A-frame, creating a 2" receiver for RV-approved bike racks and supports up to 100 lbs.
Stromberg Carlson has built a reputation on utilitarian, no-nonsense RV hardware that actually holds up to the rigors of the road. Their fender-mounted solutions are designed specifically for the unique geometry of travel trailers and fifth wheels, focusing on stability above all else. If you are tired of your bikes swaying in the wind, these mounts provide the rigid connection points you need.
These racks are ideal for the weekend warrior who needs a reliable way to carry two mountain bikes without the bulk of a full-sized hitch rack. They aren’t the most aesthetically pleasing option on the market, but they are incredibly functional and easy to service. If you prioritize durability over sleek design, this is your go-to choice.
Camco RV Fender-Mounted Storage Brackets
Camco is the master of the "problem-solver" accessory, and their fender-mounted storage brackets are perfect for organizing the small, annoying items that usually end up rolling around the floor. These are best suited for lightweight gear like leveling blocks, chocks, or exterior cleaning supplies. They are simple, affordable, and get the job done without overcomplicating your setup.
Don’t expect these to hold heavy tools or expensive electronics, as they are primarily designed for plastic-molded accessories. They are a fantastic entry-level upgrade for anyone looking to declutter their storage bays. If you need a cheap, effective way to keep your essential leveling gear within reach, you can’t go wrong here.
Lippert Components Fender Utility Mounts
Lippert is deeply integrated into the RV manufacturing process, so their utility mounts are engineered with a deep understanding of standard RV chassis construction. These mounts are often modular, allowing you to swap out different attachments depending on whether you are carrying fuel cans, extra water, or recovery boards. They feel like a factory-installed upgrade because, in many ways, they are.
These are the best choice for the serious overlander who needs a versatile platform that can change with the seasons. They are robust, well-engineered, and offer the best weight distribution in the category. If you want a system that feels like a permanent, reliable part of your RV’s architecture, Lippert is the gold standard.
MORryde Fender-Mounted Cargo Systems
Easily access your truck bed cargo with the MORryde sliding tray. This fully assembled, carpeted tray boasts an 800 lb capacity and installs in minutes without measuring or cutting.
MORryde is synonymous with heavy-duty suspension and storage solutions, and their cargo systems are built to withstand serious abuse. These aren’t just brackets; they are comprehensive systems designed to secure heavy equipment like generators or fuel canisters safely outside the cabin. The build quality here is significantly higher than most aftermarket options.
These systems are expensive and require a bit more effort to install, but the peace of mind is worth the investment if you are hauling heavy gear. They are perfect for long-term travelers who spend significant time off-grid and need to keep hazardous materials outside the living space. If you have the budget and need to carry serious weight, look no further than MORryde.
Kuat Transfer V2 Fender-Compatible Racks
Kuat is known for high-end cycling gear, and their Transfer V2 system is a masterclass in modularity. While not strictly a "fender mount" in the traditional sense, they offer adapters that allow their racks to integrate with fender-adjacent mounting points on specialized van builds. The design is sleek, lightweight, and incredibly user-friendly for frequent riders.
This is a premium product for the cyclist who treats their bike as a primary mode of transport and demands a rack that won’t damage their frame. It’s an investment, but the ease of use and aesthetic appeal are unmatched. If your RV build leans toward a modern, van-life aesthetic, this is the only rack you should consider.
Rhino-Rack Fender Accessory Brackets
Rhino-Rack brings an automotive-grade approach to RV accessories, focusing on versatility and high-strength materials. Their fender accessory brackets are essentially "L-brackets" on steroids, designed to hold everything from shovels and axes to high-lift jacks. They are incredibly modular and work seamlessly with the rest of the Rhino-Rack ecosystem.
These are perfect for the DIY builder who wants to create a custom exterior storage layout without having to fabricate parts from scratch. They are rugged, reliable, and look great on any rig, especially those with an off-road focus. If you want a highly customizable, "plug-and-play" system for your adventure gear, Rhino-Rack is the winner.
Yakima Fender-Mount Gear Solutions
Yakima has been in the rack business for decades, and their fender-mount solutions reflect that institutional knowledge. Their gear is designed to be aerodynamic and quiet, which is a major plus if you are mounting items on the side of a van or a streamlined travel trailer. They prioritize user experience, ensuring that mounting and dismounting your gear takes seconds rather than minutes.
These are best for the traveler who values convenience and brand integration. If you already own Yakima crossbars or cargo boxes, their fender mounts will likely share the same mounting hardware, making your life much easier. For those who want a polished, professional look that doesn’t scream "DIY project," Yakima is a solid choice.
Maintaining Your Fender Mount Hardware
Even the best-engineered mount is only as good as its maintenance schedule. Every few thousand miles, you need to perform a "shake test" on your mounts to check for loose hardware or signs of stress fractures in the metal. Road vibration will eventually loosen even the tightest bolt, so making this a part of your pre-trip inspection is non-negotiable.
Keep an eye on the points where the mount contacts the RV exterior; if the protective rubber or gasket has worn away, moisture can seep into the mounting holes and cause hidden rot. A quick dab of silicone sealant during your annual maintenance check can prevent a small mounting job from becoming a major repair. Treat your gear mounts with the same care you give your tires, and they will serve you well for years.
Transforming your RV’s exterior into a functional gear-hauling space is a smart move that pays dividends in interior comfort. By choosing high-quality mounts and respecting the structural limitations of your rig, you can carry more while keeping your living space clear. Start small, verify your mounting points, and enjoy the freedom of a more organized, adventure-ready home on wheels.
