Which Enclosed Hitch Cargo Carrier is Most Secure from Theft

Question:

I would like to know between the Yakima, and GearDeck enclosed carriers, which would be considered the most secure against theft? That is, which would be the hardest to pry or cut open, which has the best locking mechanism, etc. We travel cross-country a couple times a year and leave the car unattended when stopping for meals, staying overnight at hotels in small towns, etc. And would your recommended option work on a 2009 CRV and still allow the liftgate to open?

asked by: Adam W

Helpful Expert Reply:

Between the Yakima # Y62VR and Geardeck # H00604 you mentioned, the winner in my opinion is the GearDeck 17 Enclosed Cargo Carrier # H00604 when used with a padlock part # ACC3250 because not only is the pad lock more secure than the Yakima lock, the way the carrier opens is also difficult to get a pry bar into.

A determined thief with enough time could get into any of them but the GearDeck will give them the most trouble.

I would highly suggest removing the boxes of either system and bringing them into your hotel overnight. The GearDeck offers a wheeled cart to help you with this: Let's Go Aero Landing Gear Cargo Carrier Load Support
# H00550. This bolts under your carrier and is there to use when you need it. The downside is that it weighs 40 pounds and reduces that much cargo capacity.

The Geardeck also slides out too which would most likely allow the CR-V rear gate to open. See picture. The Yakima swings out of the way which would ensure being able to access the back of your CR-V.