7 Best Tongue Boxes For Exterior Storage For Rv Owners

Optimizing the A-frame of a travel trailer is the single most effective way to claw back precious interior square footage while keeping essential gear accessible. An exterior tongue box acts as an extension of the RV’s living space, providing a dedicated home for dirty, heavy, or infrequently used items. Choosing the right unit transforms a cramped trailer into a well-organized mobile home, provided the weight and dimensions are handled with precision.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

UWS EC10473 Chest: Best Overall Performer

The UWS EC10473 stands out for those who value structural integrity above all else. Constructed from heavy-duty, extra-thick aluminum, this chest features a patented Rigid Core lid design that resists bending and prevents sagging over years of exposure to the elements.

This box is the gold standard for full-timers who need a permanent, weather-resistant solution for expensive power tools or specialized equipment. The stainless steel locking mechanism is remarkably durable, offering a level of security that feels substantial even at remote campsites.

If the goal is to install a box once and never worry about it again, the UWS is the clear choice. Its rugged build quality justifies the price point for anyone planning to log serious miles on diverse road conditions.

Dee Zee DZ91717P Poly Box: Best Budget Pick

Not every storage solution needs to be made of diamond-plate metal to be effective. The Dee Zee Poly Box serves as the ideal entry point for RV owners who need basic, lightweight protection for chocks, leveling blocks, and water hoses without adding significant tongue weight.

Because it is molded from high-density polyethylene, this box will never rust or dent, making it surprisingly resilient against road salt and moisture. While it lacks the high-end security of metal boxes, it offers a clean, low-profile aesthetic that blends easily with almost any trailer setup.

This is the right choice for the occasional camper or the budget-conscious traveler who prioritizes utility over heavy-duty security. It performs exactly as expected, keeping gear dry and contained at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives.

Buyers Products Black Steel Box: Most Secure

When the contents of the tongue box include high-value items like high-end portable solar panels or expensive power tools, the Buyers Products Black Steel Box provides the necessary peace of mind. The powder-coated steel construction is intentionally designed to be a deterrent against tampering.

The piano-style hinge and automotive-grade gaskets ensure that the contents stay completely isolated from the environment, regardless of torrential rain or dusty gravel roads. This level of enclosure is rarely matched by lighter-weight alternatives.

Those who prioritize security over weight savings will find this box indispensable. It is heavy, so ensure the trailer’s tongue weight capacity can accommodate the extra pounds, but for pure theft protection, this unit is essentially a mobile vault.

Camco A-Frame Cargo Tray: Most Versatile

Sometimes the best storage isn’t a box at all, but a foundational platform that allows for modular customization. The Camco A-Frame Cargo Tray provides an open, sturdy shelf that mounts directly to the A-frame, giving the user total freedom to strap down oversized or irregular items.

This setup excels for those who carry unique gear like portable fuel cans, specialized storage bins, or even oversized outdoor cooking equipment. It avoids the “fixed volume” trap of traditional boxes, allowing for a more fluid approach to packing based on the needs of the trip.

If flexibility is the primary constraint, the cargo tray is the superior route. It is ideal for the minimalist who wants to secure items quickly with ratchet straps rather than stuffing them into a confined, awkward space.

Better Built 28010170: Best for a Generator

A generator is a significant investment that requires a delicate balance of protection and ventilation. The Better Built 28010170 is favored for its spacious interior and high-quality build, which is sturdy enough to anchor a running generator or house one securely during transit.

Beyond just the size, the build quality ensures that road vibrations don’t turn the box into an echo chamber for rattles. It offers enough room to store necessary accessories—like fuel funnels and heavy-duty extension cords—right alongside the generator, streamlining the setup process.

For those who rely on off-grid power, this box is a specialized piece of equipment rather than just a bin. It is the smart, professional-grade solution for protecting a heavy power source from theft and weather simultaneously.

Challenger Aluminum Box: Sleekest Look

Form often follows function in the RV world, but the Challenger Aluminum Box proves that equipment can look refined while performing flawlessly. The polished or diamond-plate finish offers a crisp, professional appearance that elevates the visual appeal of any travel trailer’s A-frame.

Beyond the aesthetics, the lightweight aluminum construction is a major advantage for smaller tow vehicles that are near their maximum payload. It provides solid, weather-resistant protection without the massive weight penalty of steel or thicker alternatives.

This is the perfect fit for the aesthetic-conscious owner who wants a premium look without sacrificing durability. It is a high-performing, visual upgrade that integrates seamlessly with modern trailer designs.

Lippert Underchassis Storage: Space-Saving Pick

If the A-frame is already crowded with propane tanks and battery boxes, look toward the Lippert Underchassis storage solution. This system utilizes the unused space behind the tongue area, offering a clever way to increase capacity without cluttering the front of the trailer.

By mounting storage below the frame rails, you keep the center of gravity low, which is a major win for towing stability. It requires a bit more effort to install than a top-mounted box, but the payoff is storage capacity that doesn’t eat into your tongue weight limit or block access to propane valves.

This is the go-to choice for crowded tongue setups where adding another box would create a clearance nightmare. It’s an intelligent, “hidden” solution for those who have maximized every other inch of available storage space.

How to Measure Your A-Frame For The Right Fit

Precision is everything when measuring an A-frame for a new box. Start by measuring the width at the point where the box will sit, noting the angle of the frame rails as they taper toward the hitch.

Check for obstructions such as propane tank mounts, battery boxes, or break-away switches that might interfere with the lid’s clearance. Always account for the “swing” of the tongue jack handle, as many boxes can unintentionally block the jack if positioned too far forward or backward.

Test the fit with the trailer in a turning position. Ensure that the box does not interfere with the tow vehicle’s bumper or the tailgate, especially when executing sharp, low-speed maneuvers at a campsite or gas station.

Tongue Weight 101: Safe Towing with a Full Box

Adding a heavy metal box plus gear directly to the tongue acts as a lever, significantly increasing the weight on the tow vehicle’s hitch. Every pound added to the tongue effectively subtracts from the vehicle’s payload capacity, affecting steering response and braking performance.

Aim for a tongue weight that is between 10% and 15% of the total loaded trailer weight for optimal stability. When filling a tongue box, balance heavier items toward the rear—closer to the trailer body—rather than the front, to avoid placing excessive strain on the hitch components.

Ignoring these physics can lead to white-knuckle towing experiences or damage to the frame. Always weigh the tongue after installation to ensure the setup remains within the manufacturer’s specified limits.

What to Store (and Not Store) in Your Box

Tongue boxes are the perfect “wet storage” location for items that shouldn’t touch the interior of the RV. Use them for wheel chocks, leveling blocks, sewer hoses, electrical shore power cords, and heavy-duty hand tools.

Never store flammable materials like extra gasoline or propane canisters unless the box is specifically vented for that purpose. Additionally, avoid placing soft goods like bedding or clothing in these boxes, as even the best-sealed units can develop minor condensation during temperature swings.

Treat the box as a dedicated home for dirty or exterior-only gear to keep the interior of the RV clean and stress-free. If it is heavy, messy, or smells like the road, it belongs in the tongue box.

Choosing the right tongue box is an investment in the functionality of the entire rig. By balancing storage needs with weight limits and proper placement, you turn a chaotic collection of gear into a streamlined, efficient setup. Focus on quality construction and correct measurements to ensure the addition serves the lifestyle for many miles to come.