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Many of the guides on this site assume you have a hitch. This one covers the basics: what a receiver is, what sizes Subarus use, and what to check before you buy a hitch cargo carrier or bike rack.
Quick Picks
• Best budget cargo carrier: MaxxHaul 70107 hitch cargo carrier, 4.5 stars from 5,600+ reviews
• Best premium cargo carrier: CURT folding hitch cargo carrier, 4.6 stars from 3,800+ reviews
• Best bike rack for most owners: Kuat NV 2.0 platform rack, rated 4.7 to 4.8 stars on Amazon
• Best premium platform rack: Thule T2 Pro XTR, rated 4.5 stars on Amazon
• Best for security: Rhino USA locking hitch pin, 4.6 stars from 10,000+ reviews
What a Hitch Receiver Is
The receiver is the square opening under the rear bumper that accepts a ball mount, a cargo carrier or a bike rack. Two things decide what you can use with it: the opening size and the weight the hitch is rated to hold.
Receiver Sizes You’ll See on Subarus
| Model | Hitch example | Receiver | Tongue weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forester (2022-2024) | Subaru OEM hitch | 2 in | 150 lbs (300 lbs on Wilderness) |
| Crosstrek (2024-2026) | Subaru OEM hitch | 2 in | 150 lbs (350 lbs on Wilderness) |
| Crosstrek (older) | CURT Class 1 aftermarket | 1.25 in | varies, check the listing |
| Outback (select years) | CURT Class 2 aftermarket | 1.25 in | 350 lbs |
| Forester | CURT Class 3 aftermarket | 2 in | varies, check the listing |
Hitch makers, years and trims differ, so these are examples, not a lookup table. Confirm the receiver size on the hitch installed on your car, or measure the opening.
What the Receiver Size Means for Carriers and Racks
- Most hitch cargo carriers and bike racks are sold for a 1.25 in or a 2 in receiver. Buy the size that matches your hitch, or a model sold with an adapter.
- A 1.25 in receiver usually means a lighter-duty carrier, so check the rack’s own weight and capacity.
- The carrier plus everything on it must stay under your hitch’s tongue weight rating.
Tongue Weight Is the Number to Watch
A 150 lb tongue weight limit disappears quickly. A hitch cargo carrier like the CURT carrier can weigh a good part of that before you add a cooler or bags, and a platform bike rack like the Kuat NV 2.0 or Thule T2 Pro XTR adds its own weight to the bikes. Pick a low empty weight, or choose a roof box if your tongue limit is tight. See our hitch cargo carrier vs roof box comparison. A locking hitch pin protects whatever you mount.
FAQs
What size hitch receiver does a Subaru have?
OEM Forester and Crosstrek hitches are listed with 2 in receivers. Aftermarket hitches vary, including 1.25 in options, so check yours.
Can I put a bike rack on a Subaru hitch?
Yes, if the rack matches your receiver size and the rack plus bikes stay under the tongue weight limit.
What is tongue weight?
The downward force on the hitch. Carriers and racks count toward it.
Do I need a hitch for a cargo carrier?
Yes. Hitch carriers mount in the receiver. A roof box is the alternative.
Final Thoughts
Know your receiver size and your tongue weight limit before you shop. Those two numbers decide which carriers and racks you can use.
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