Markus Andrews

Whether it’s your vehicle or a worktop, an unloved metal surface is not only an eyesore, but it can also become a hazard. Chrome polish can help you here by allowing you to work over that surface, deal with any serious issues such as rusting, and bring out that all-important shine. Where do you start then when it comes to making a purchase, and what are the best products on the market today?

What You Need to Know About Chrome Polishes
To help you choose the right chrome polish for you, we’ve compiled all the must-know information about them here.
What Makes a Quality Chrome Polish?
There are a few different factors to consider when looking into any high-quality chrome polish brand’s formula. These will include:
Protection
Providing a long-lasting protective coating is essential. This shields chrome against the effects of the weather and oxidation; it also offers protection from the UV sunlight that hits the hood.
Application
The product you purchase will likely determine this, with some of the more general polishes being done by hand, while others may require a rotary buffer.
Texture
The polishe’s consistency will give you some idea of its purpose. For instance, a liquid solution is typically used for cleaning, and creams are typically focused on tarnishes.
Then it’s just a matter of asking yourself why the chrome polish is needed, and what you’re hoping to get out of it.
Why is Chrome Polish Necessary?
Keeping metals in good working order is vital, especially when it’s a vehicle you’re taking on the road. Primarily, though, chrome polish comes down to two factors.
Damage
This will include general rusting and scratches, along with various other tarnishes in the metal you want to seal over. The integrity of any metal must be kept to a safe standard, as you don’t want your car wearing away, which is why some level of protection is needed. Keeping rust from eating away at your vehicle is a must for all drivers.
Appearance
More of an aesthetic choice, there’ll be those out there that take a high degree of pride in exhibiting their wheels. Not many will want to drive around a rust-bucket, though, which is why there are plenty of more general chrome polishes out there too. It’s then simply a question of how shiny you want your car.
Now it’s on to choosing the polish itself and finding the right product for you.
Types of Chrome Polishes
The makeup of the chrome polish itself is something you need to consider before making any purchase. Different needs and requirements have relevant products aimed at them.
Paste
Typically for smaller, more specific jobs, dealing with more serious tarnishes and blemishes. Only needing to smooth it on over the areas affected, not much is required, which is useful when it’s limited. Here you’ll find brands like Simichrome again, getting right down to the fine details.
Cream
Best suited for working into the rust, while also removing the surface level grime. Smearing it over larger areas, it’s typically stickier in its constitution, as you can work at buffing it out. It also brings out the shine, along with clearing up any pitting or watermarks, giving it an intensive professional job.
Liquid
This is ideal for larger surface level jobs, as it’s not so strong. Still, though, it’s massively popular due to how quick and easy it is, as you only have to smear it across, before lifting it by either hand or machine. Sometimes it’s also possible to spray it on with some brands as well.
Wadding
Some brands will come with wadding already soaked in polish, which again includes Eagle One Nevr-Dull, as you break a piece off, wipe, then dispose of after use. As previously mentioned, these are best for clean up jobs, paving the way for the heavy-duty polishing work underneath.
When it comes to making the final decision, you must make sure the brand is compatible with the polishing job in question. Then it’s just a matter of applying the formula.
What to Consider in a Chrome Polish brand?
Some brands may have instant name recognition, but it’s essential not to overlook some of the smaller companies out there, as you could miss some real gems. Seeing beyond the label, you need to look at some of the primary factors underlying your purchase.
Requirements
We’ll talk more about this further down below, but to start with, taking stock of the work you’re considering is vital. For example, are you only looking to clean and shine your car, or are you looking to get rid of some severe rust? Different polishes focus on specific jobs, and you need to know this before going in.
Reliability
A familiar brand name will be a significant decider here, but there are quite a few smaller companies out there that have been flying under the radar for many, which we’ll look at in the further detail.
Pricing
You’ll find that different price brackets can give you some general indication of what you can expect from a product. For instance, at around $5 for 10 to 15 oz, you’re looking at your more general budget range. Between $10 and $15, you start to find more specialist products, especially if the amount provided is limited.
With that in mind, check out our top chrome polish picks, then go ahead and look at our in-depth guide below to get the most out of your product.

Top 10 Best Chrome Polishes 2020
1. Best Overall Chrome Polish: Blue Magic 400

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Why we like it: Entirely non-abrasive, the shiny finish of the Blue Magic will leave every chrome metal surface gleaming. It’s also easy to apply by either a machine or by hand.
Editor’s Rating:

A smaller brand, the Blue Magic Metal Polish Cream is gradually gaining recognition beyond the US with its powerful and potent formula. After application, a silicone film is left, providing lasting protection for those looking for a more vigorous polish.
Strength and Texture
One of the first things you’ll notice is the smell, as it’s incredibly intense. So make sure to apply the polish in a well-ventilated area while using a mask. You do not want to inhale this in large doses.
It’s also best to stir it up a little before use if only to make the application somewhat easier. Once you apply it, though, you can use a cloth, smear it on, and then buff it out.
Coating and Shine
Being non-abrasive with its ammonia-based formula, this leaves behind a clean, shining coat, providing an excellent finish to any metal surfaces. The opportunity to apply it using a polishing machine is perfect for wheels and various other metals. It does tend to leave behind a slightly bluish hue, but you can remove this with some extra effort, plus the help of a buffer.
Overall
Despite it coming in smaller sized containers, weighing in at 7oz per jar, it still offers better value for money than many of its competitors. As one of the more powerful cream-based chrome polishes, it’s excellent for wheels. Standing up to the most considerably oxidized metals, it’s best suited to both protecting and increasing the shine, removing any blemishes that may have occurred. While more powerful polishes are out there on the market, such as the Simichrome All Metal Polish Tube, this offers a more accessible polish for everyday use. You don’t need to use too much of it either, gaining most efficiency when using it in small amounts.

Pros
Works on all metals
Simple to apply by hand or machine, it leaves no scratches
Provides a long-lasting protective coating
Removes all effects of oxidation and tarnishes

Cons
Ventilation and masks required at all times
Can leave a bluish tinge, which means extra buffing

2. Best Premium Chrome Polish: Simichrome All Metal Polish Tube

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Why we like it: While on the more expensive end, this is a must for anyone looking for a professional job when it comes to removing any blemishes, scratches, and tarnishes.
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On the more professional end of popular chrome polish brands is Simichrome, a relative newcomer to the market. Still, while it may be a younger brand, it more than proves itself, with this premium polish flying into second place.
Strength and Texture
Likely to be the most potent product on this list, you’ll be purchasing Simichrome for its ability when tackling the toughest tarnishes and markings. Highly regarded by professionals, it’s well known for its strength, making it a more than formidable contender. When using the chrome polish paste, it’s best applied in smaller, more manageable chunks when smoothing it onto any metal surface.
Coating and Shine
Restoring metal surfaces to their original condition, this will bring out the natural shine in an instant. Leaving a longer-lasting protective coating too, it retains its shininess, keeping it from tarnishing and rusting further. On top of that, there’s few, if any, toxic substances that will damage the metal chrome surface.
Overall
A major draw for this particular polish is the rate at which it works, clocking in at around all of thirty seconds. The speed factor will appeal to both those looking for a professional job and those on the go. While it may work quickly, though, you’ll find that it’s best applied by hand, targeting smaller, more stubborn marks. Being one of the more professional products, it does need to be handled with care, as it can potentially ruin a finish if not used properly. That said, it’s one the best when it comes to seeing the finished results fast.

Pros
Acting in under 30 seconds, it’s one of the fastest chrome polishes around
Doesn’t contain toxic substances that damage surfaces
Provides a robust, long-lasting protective coating
Highly effective on any metal surface, restoring it to new

Cons
One of the most expensive polishes, it needs to be used sparingly
Not so useful for general cleaning

3. Best Budget Chrome Polish: Mothers California Gold

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Why we like it: Simple to apply, this is ideal for anyone looking for a fast-acting, affordable chrome polish, efficiently protecting for everyday use.
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One of the cheapest chrome polishes out there, Mothers, is a much-beloved brand with car enthusiasts. It’s perfect for giving surfaces a brisk run over with its quick and easy application, cleaning them up, making them as good as new.
Strength and Texture
With a reasonably thick consistency, this particular chrome polish has a creamy texture to it that’s soft when applying. Giving more of a gentle clean, it provides a powerful polish that gets the job done. Offering a smooth mixture, it’s potent, yet typically doesn’t smear or streak across surfaces.
Coating and Shine
Using an advanced polymer formula for the coating, it maintains its shine long after application. It also offers a robust safeguard against any rusting or oxidation that may occur over time. Brightening the surface, it cleans it up, bringing out the shine, restoring the metal as close to its original state as possible.
Overall
There are other multipurpose cleaners, such as the Quick Glo Chrome Cleaner, which are simple to use. Still, when seriously tackling those surfaces on a budget, Mothers excels. Restoring and preserving most metal surfaces, this offers an all-around polish and clean for a reasonable price. There’s no fear of scratching either, with it being soft and smooth, as it’s applied with a minimum of fuss. With it being cheaper too, there’s also the option of using it more often, regularly giving the metals a touch-up.

Pros
Inexpensive and straightforward, it’s easy to apply
Great for rusting and spotting, along with everyday protection, such as fingerprints
Can safely come into contact with other surfaces, including glass and mirrors
Perfect for bumpers and wheels

Cons
Not so good on older metals
Can take some effort, as sometimes leaves a clouded effect with swirl marks

4. Best Heavy-Duty Chrome Polish: Chemical Guys Heavy Metal Polish Restorer and Protectant

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Why we like it: This ideal for any heavy-duty cleaning jobs, with its significant restorative properties removing any adverse signs of rust and oxidation.
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When it comes to more damaged metal surfaces, this is the product many look to in their time of need. Providing a heavy-duty formula as it says in the title, this is predominantly for tackling weightier metal surfaces.
Strength and Texture
Using either a machine or cloth, the formula itself is relatively easy to apply to any surface, although it’s typically best on heavy metals. Smoothing it in, it’s a powerful chrome polish, although they do offer a lighter brand as well. Use that afterward, though, as the heavy metal polish does hold some considerable power behind it.
Coating and Shine
With a UV block mixed in protecting against sunlight, along with a protective sealant, it’s both sturdy and robust. It may not fill the deep scratches buried within the metal, but it does pad out the lighter ones, giving the surface a nice glossy coat. Leaving behind a sparkle and shine, it’s perfect for supplementing other brands when it comes to polishing.
Overall
Removing light rusting from the surface with ease, Chemical Guys is an excellent product for clearing up any extensive external damage. The Heavy Metal Polish offers a reasonably powerful protective sealant, though, perhaps most notable for its UV protection. Because of this, it’s ideal for holding back any weather damage, making it useful for when it comes to extensive use outdoors.

Pros
Can be applied easily by either hand or machine
Offers more robust protection for heavier metals
Clears up any tarnishes or other contamination
Leaves a shiny layer of protection

Cons
The amount provided in each bottle is limited
Is a little more expensive

5. Best Cleansing Chrome Polish: Eagle One Nevr-Dull Wadding Polish

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Why we like it: With over seventy years in the field, this is one of the more reliable brands out there, providing a quality polish that covers a diverse range of metals.
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Despite being a little more expensive, this delivers, with its ability for cleaning up a whole variety of different metal surfaces. Safe and easy to use, it insulates against all manner of outdoor wear-and-tear.
Strength and Texture
Made up of wadding fiber, you tear a piece off and polish the metal’s surface without any need for a machine or buffer. With the polish wadding being pre-soaked, it’s easy to use while also preventing any spillage or excess waste. Attacking the grease with its potent formula, this makes for a quick cleanup job that requires little else besides what’s in the container.
Coating and Shine
Primarily used for bringing out the shine, many use this on their exhaust, as it clears up the metal’s surface. Taking some of the rust off too, it smooths over the scratches bringing its sheen back almost immediately. It may not be the most substantial coating out there, but it’s notable for cleaning up quickly.
Overall
Many will testify to this because of its ease of use, requiring little work from your end. Non-abrasive to touch, it’s application is straightforward, as all you need is the tin and a cloth to wipe over before and after. Popular with motorcyclists due to the debris their exhausts pick up from being close to the ground, it lifts a lot of the muck and tar quickly and efficiently. Anyone looking for quick routine maintenance may find this chrome polish to their liking.

Pros
Well known for its versatility when it comes to metal surfaces
Great at getting rid of tar
Can be applied easily without any tools
Useful when protecting against the weather, it maintains the shine outdoors

Cons
Is a bit on the pricier end
Can dry out if not fastened tightly

6. Best Time-Saving Chrome Polish: 3M Metal and Chrome Polish

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Why we like it: A reliable brand and strong contender, this is another good quality all-rounder that offers value for money with its no-nonsense cream polish.
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In terms of brand recognition, 3M is at the forefront of industrial goods production, working with cars for over a hundred years. With this in mind, it’s no surprise then that their chrome polish is an all-around quality product.
Strength and Texture
The texture is rough, which may be a little abrasive for higher-quality chrome, but this makes it perfectly suited for more rusted metals. Using a microfiber cloth to buff it out once you’ve applied it will help smooth it out here. With its advanced formula, what 3M also brings to the table is power, as it works into those heavier tarnishes with the slightest of ease.
You may find that the amount is slightly limited, but it does provide what you pay for, despite there being visible air pockets on occasion. That said, you don’t need all that much to make it work, as it’s most useful when applied in smaller doses.
Coating and Shine
Bringing out the natural shine of the metal, 3M provides an all-round cleanup job when it comes to some of the bigger tarnishes and rust pits. Not known for smearing, it offers a sparkling coat without needing to put in too much effort. Making it ideal for quick coatings when you only need a touch-up, it’s a great time-saver.
Overall
Like Mothers California Gold and Nevr Dull, 3M is an already well-established brand, with a whole range of industrial products behind it. It’s this that paves the way for it as a robust mid-range alternative in the chrome polish market. Effective against metal pitting, and applicable to pretty much all chrome, this is ideal for general use, keeping the surface free from grime. While it might not be the most professional cream polish out there, it does what it sets out to, helping prevent any corrosion or rust in the process. If you’re someone looking for a chrome polish job without any fuss, then this may be for you.

Pros
Clears up the surface of most metals quickly and easily
Not much is needed
Is effective on a range of different metals
Great for use on metal pitting and spotting

Cons
Can be a little abrasive on high-quality chrome
There can sometimes be pockets of air within the containers

7. Easiest-to-Use Chrome Polish: Turtle Wax Chrome Polish & Rust Remover

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Why we like it: Providing a range of options when it comes to detailing and chrome polish, Turtle Wax is a brand that knows what it’s doing.
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When it comes to chrome rims, this is one of the best out there, given how it deals with oxidation. Wheels face the constant threat of rusting through road salts, which is where Turtle Wax excels.
Strength and Texture
Using a cloth to smooth the solution into and across the metal surface as a liquid formula, it’s quick and easy. Not too runny, you won’t find a lot of excess with this, and you don’t need a great deal to get the job finished. Despite being a weaker polish, it makes up for this in price, as it’s a cheap, inexpensive option.
Coating and Shine
Its non-abrasive mixture, best as a cleaner, works while polishing the metal surface. With only one coat required, the solution is applied by hand, leaving a light protective coating behind. It more than works for one of the budget options, bringing a coat and shine for a fraction of the cost.
Overall
While Turtle Wax probably won’t cover you when it comes to severe surface damage, and light surface rust may also prove to be a problem, it makes up for its shortcomings in price. Providing a quick and easy clean, it’s ideal when you need to clear up the car instantly. Using it alongside other chrome polishes is likely your best course of action here, as you can touch up and restore any previous job. All this makes Turtle Wax one of the go-to purchases for the casual car enthusiast, as it doesn’t take too much effort, nor does it break the bank either.

Pros
Well equipped for clearing general rust
Safe in contact with both rubber and plastic
Leaves behind a protective coating against further oxidation
An inexpensive option when it comes to chrome polish

Cons
Does require some effort to buff it out
Can leave behind stains if not careful

8. Best Multipurpose Chrome Polish: Quickway Brands Quick Glo Chrome Cleaner

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Why we like it: Working as an ‘all-in-one,’ this combines chrome polish with both wax and cleaner, being a sturdy brand that was endorsed by none other than Jay Leno.
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With its cleaner, wax, and polish combined, Quickway has cornered the market when it comes to the all-in-one chrome polish. That said, any job is time-sensitive, as it has a limited shelf-life, but what it does do, it does well.
Strength and Texture
The Quick Glo chrome cleaner has a non-toxic formula that’s safe to use by hand and is environmentally friendly. Suitable for everyday use around the workshop, it cleans up various surfaces with its all-in-one cream texture. Simply spreading it across the surface, it’s relatively liquid in its make up, which can also be a problem if it’s left in humid spaces.
Coating and Shine
Working into the rust holes, it seals up the surface, really clearing up the metal, bringing it back to its original shine. Also useable on surfaces such as glass, Quickway covers water holes, cleaning all liquid spots and smears. It then forms a light protective coating protecting against any further water damage.
Overall
Better for general use around the workshop with its shorter shelf-life, it compensates through its ease of use on a variety of surfaces. Settling around the mid-range in terms of strength, it’s great for protecting against water build-up. Because of this, it’s extremely popular with boat owners, polishing those chrome surfaces ready for sailing. From brass to chrome, to glass, this all-in-one is a great little multipurpose cleaner for keeping close to hand.

Pros
Works on a variety of different surfaces, not just metal and chrome
Environmentally friendly formula
Both cleans the surface and adds a protective layer
Non-toxic, it’s safe to use without the need for ventilation

Cons
Can liquefy if stored in a humid or warm area
Occasionally not so effective on chrome itself

9. Best Protective Coating: Star Brite Chrome and Stainless Steel Polish

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Why we like it: Making many high-quality industrial products, including marine-grade cleaners, Star Brite’s chrome polish offers excellent protection when it comes to stainless steel.
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With the option of applying this to a wet or dry surface, you can effortlessly spread this polish using a cloth. It also provides a robust protective barrier, with the chance to reapply the formula after 10 to 30 days for even better results.
Strength and Texture
It has a smooth, creamy texture that’s easy to spread across most metal surfaces, and it’s easy to apply by hand. Only needing a cloth, it doesn’t take much effort, with its non-abrasive formula. It drys into a haze after using it, which you can then buff off to reveal the shiny surface underneath.
Coating and Shine
Best for shining up stainless steel surfaces, this particular polish is geared towards brightening metals, giving them that sparkle. It does work at protecting too, retaining that shine, while also preventing corrosion and stains. Maybe not so strong against deep down tarnishes, it manages to hold off fingerprints and smears with due diligence.
Overall
As you’d expect from a name such as Star Brite, it’s all in the shining surfaces when it comes to this chrome polish. Picking up on stainless steel, it’s easily applicable to both dry and wet metals. It’s best to use with a buffing pad, topping it up once in a while to keep the sparkle going. Therefore, this polish is best suited to providing a clean, gleaming finish, following a more intensive workout from a more powerful polish.

Pros
Quick and easy to apply
Protects against discoloration, as well as rusting
Efficiently clears up rust stains
Leaves a protective coating, which you can boost every 10 to 30 days

Cons
Can leave streaks meaning a lot of cleaning’s required
There’s a strong, pungent smell of kerosene

10. Best Rotary Buffer Chrome Polish: Surf City Garage

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Why we like it: Offers mirror finishes when used with a buffer, making Surf City a decent chrome polish for bringing out the sparkle.
Editor’s Rating:

Providing a budget-friendly clean up job, this brings a fast shine to most metal surfaces. It’s a simple, effective formula with the chance to apply it either by hand or rotary buffer.
Strength and Texture
Being medium strength, this is easy to apply straight onto the chrome itself, although it does require a bit of shaking up beforehand. Reasonably thin in its consistency, not much is needed when covering a larger area. You will need to be a little careful not to waste any, though, as it pours quite quickly.
Coating and Shine
Leaving a shine to the metal, this works well with a buffer, really cutting into the grime, bringing the brightness up to the surface. Spreading across the metal nicely, it leaves a good coat too, even if it only really removes the outer layer of rust. It’s best used in conjunction with a more powerful polish, letting this effectively complimenting it.
Overall
Specifically made for restoration, it’s a solution formulated to not scratch the metal surface while cleaning. That means, while it’s slightly less substantial as a serious chrome polish, it does work well when shining up your set of wheels. Being more of a liquid-based cream, it’s ideal for working over the surface following the heavy lifting of other more powerful chrome polish brands. Going great with a rotary buffer, it’s perfect for giving the final finishing touches to any restoration job.

Pros
Ideal for any restoration work
Requires little effort, with its fast-acting formula
Only small amounts are needed
The formula is safe to work with by hand

Cons
A bit watery, it’s sometimes hard to work with
The container isn’t very secure

Guide to Buying the Best Chrome Polish

So, we’ve summed up ten of the best chrome polishes currently on the market, but now what? While knowing some of the best chrome polishing products that money can buy is a great place to start, you’ll also want to know how to apply it and what it can do for your car. We’ll cover it all; first, we’ll take a look at why people use chrome polish and what benefits it can provide.
What Can Polishing Offer You?
You might be someone who really couldn’t care about keeping up appearances, but what if I told you it was more than just an aesthetic. In the previous guide above, we looked at what goes into a quality polish, so here we’ll take a closer look at why this is so important.
Prevents rusting and oxidation: this may seem obvious, but it’s crucial, as rust is not only an eyesore but also dangerous if left, with the metal potentially breaking apart.
Protects against the weather: traveling outside is always going to take its toll whatever measures you may take, but a decent polish can help keep environmental effects at bay.
Retains value: with a vehicle, you’ll likely want to sell it at some point, and you can’t do this with a beaten exterior, as that’s going to put potential buyers off in an instant.
Increases longevity: you want to keep any vehicles and metals in working order for as long as possible, and chrome polish can do that, maintaining their integrity for longer.
What Type of Metal are You Polishing?
Matching up your chrome polish with the metal surface is a significant part of choosing the right brand. Some will need you to focus solely on chrome, while others may require something a little more specific to tackle them head-on.
If you’re not so worried about getting the full shine, opting for more everyday upkeep of your surfaces, then the multipurpose all-in-one Quick Glo Chrome Cleaner may be more up your alley.
For those enthusiasts, though, something a little direct might be in order, such as the Simichrome All Metal Polish, bringing an air of sleek professionalism to your wheels. First, though, you should assess the situation in hand.
What’s the Damage?
First things first, before you begin any polishing work, you need to fully assess what the damage to your vehicle is, so you know exactly where you stand. Here’s a quick rundown of the problems that may arise when it comes to metal surfaces:
Rust
This is a fairly straightforward one, but it’s essential, as you need to keep the rust from building across any surface. Caused by oxidation of the metal, using a chrome polish to seal over it and bring out the shine is what you want. When it comes to heavy metals with severe rust, something like Chemical Guys can help you here.
Scratching
These are a little tougher to deal with, and won’t always come out straight away. Digging into the metal requires focus, sealing over the area, making you work on it as closely as possible. Sometimes it may also need another layer of paint if it’s particularly bad, but you want to get as much as you can with the polish first.
Pitting
When it comes to pitting corrosion, you need to find something that seals over the rust while also protecting from the climate. Mainly affected by the weather, it needs something that will provide a sturdy coating.
Discoloration
This is more aesthetic, which may not bother the casual motorist so much, but it’s always nice to ensure your wheels aren’t too faded. If you’re a car enthusiast, though, this can be a problem, especially when it comes to showcasing vintage models. Lifting the shine requires more of a cleaner, such as Star Brite, before proceeding on to something more serious.
Grease and Dirt
Cutting through grease can be a pain, especially when it never seems to wipe away. Add dirt on top of that, and it can become an issue, especially when you want to deal with the metal underneath. Certain brands, such as the Eagle One Nevr-Dull, is made especially for clearing up messes, picking up the dirt and grease with its polish-soaked material.
How to Apply Chrome Polish
While the job requires a high standard, you also want to ensure it’s made as easy as possible. You don’t want to add any unnecessary stress, which is where the polish application comes into question. What then, are the two main options available to you here?
By Hand
Preferred by the general motorist, this is what most will choose. First, you want to wash the car and surface, making sure it’s free from any grit that could potentially scratch it. Then, taking a cloth, which is usually microfibre, you essentially smear the formula over the targeted area, rubbing it in a circular motion. You want to do this until it disappears into the metal.
Using your hands is best for more general polishing work when you need to do a simple job. That said, when focusing on some of the smaller scratches and tarnishes, you’ll also want to go by hand, as machines typically buff up and shine larger areas.
By Machine
Usually involving a rotary buffer, you first apply the solution by hand, either to the metal surface or to the motorized buffing pad itself. It’s often best to use it straight on the buffer, getting it all over and then buffing it out similar to how you’d do it by hand. The only real difference is that you’re giving it a far more intense work over. Some experience is needed, though, as you need to know how fast it’s going, and you don’t want to end up burning the surface.
There are brands like Surf City designed for the rotary buffer. It all depends on what you’re looking for with the polishing and what you want from it.
Whichever method you choose, though, you always want to make sure the solution itself is clean, as again, you don’t want any grit getting into it. Once you’ve done all this, then you’re well on your way to the final product.
How to Maintain Polished Chrome
Whether it’s for a vintage showcase classic car or a set of wheels for heading to work in without looking too grimy, you’ve finally finished the job. Now it’s just a case of maintaining that exterior, ensuring that you update the polish as and when it’s necessary. Some polishes, such as Star Brite, can easily be repolished every 10 to 30 days, making sure it keeps its fresh shine intact and ready to go.
Find the Right Chrome Polish for You
Once you’ve taken all the chrome polish basics on-board, making your choice will be far more straightforward. There’s not much to it, and, as long as you haven’t chosen anything too abrasive, you should be well on your way to buffing up the shine all year round. More

There’s nothing quite like living life on the road, bouncing between jaw-dropping landscapes and careening through our glorious nation with a grin from ear to ear.
But if there’s one thing even the most seasoned RVer misses from home, it’s a properly plumbed residential toilet. The ability to send bodily waste to a far-away abyss at the press of a button is a luxury the RVer must do without—and emptying the dreaded black water tank is one of the major downsides of life on the road.
Nonetheless, it’s an essential part of RVing that cannot be avoided. And with the right toilet installed in your rig, the process doesn’t have to be so bad.
In our in-depth buyer’s guide, we’re going to detail everything you need to know about RV toilets. Of course, we’ll also include a top 10 list of the best RV toilets on the market to help you find the ideal option for you.

Factors to Consider in an RV Toilet
Before we get stuck into our top ten list, you need to know what to look out for when on the hunt for an RV toilet. Here are the most important things to consider when shopping for a toilet for your RV.
Type
RV toilets come in a range of different types, each with distinct pros and cons. Choosing the right one for your rig is essential, so be sure to read our section on RV Toilet Types to get the lowdown.
Size
If you’ve got a small RV, you’re going to struggle to squeeze in a big toilet, not to mention the necessary holding tank. In the same vein, there’s no need to limit yourself to a tiny little portable toilet if you’re driving around in a big rig.
Material
Some folks might be happy to sit on a functional and lightweight material like polyethylene plastic. Others, however, demand something more stylish like ceramic or china. Choose a toilet made from a material to suit your personal preference.
Installation
If you’re installing a brand new toilet into your RV, then look for an option that can be retrofit with minimal fuss. Plumbing pipes into an existing RV is outlandishly expensive, if not impossible; only consider toilets that are suitable for your current setup.
Waste Capacity
If you’re traveling with a large group of people, then chances are your toilet will fill up pretty quickly. In that case, it’s wise to opt for a model with a bigger-than-average waste capacity so you won’t have to empty it every other day.
Mobility
If you or anyone in your group has mobility issues, you’ll need to ensure your RV toilet is fit for purpose. High-profile toilets sit higher off the ground like a residential toilet and are easier for the elderly and the disabled to use (and for taller people, too!).
Cleaning
All RV toilets require the user to dispose of black water, but the exact process involved varies between the different types. Gravity flush and macerating toilets use a drainage hose, while portable and cassette toilets have you empty a container by hand.
With all that in mind, let’s take a look at some great toilets for your RV.

Top 10 Best RV Toilets 2020
1. Best RV Toilet Overall: Thetford Aqua-Magic V

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Why we like it: This functional plastic toilet from Thetford is easy to use and feels like a throne.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Gravity flush
Material: Plastic
Dimensions: 15.75 x 18.25 x 19 inches
Weight: 9.65 pounds
Sure, it might not be the most beautiful RV toilet on the market—there’s no denying that ceramic bowls look prettier. But what Thetford’s latest addition to the Aqua Magic range lacks in aesthetics, it makes up for in raw functionality.
If you’re after an awesome gravity flush toilet that’s easy to clean and gets the job done, look no further than the Aqua Magic V. Even after countless miles bouncing around on the highway, this heavy-duty product sits firmly in place and works time and time again. Furthermore, DIY installers will be happy to hear this one is a cinch to hook up.
Its outstanding usability is mostly due to the single-pedal system, which adds water to the bowl at the halfway point and flushes it down at a full press—it doesn’t get much easier than that.
The high-profile toilet sits at 18.5 inches with the lid closed to provide optimal comfort. If you’d prefer something a bit shorter, there’s a low-profile option available as well. You can also choose between two colors: white and parchment (we prefer the latter).
Another cool feature about this model is the optional add-on of a hand sprayer, which allows you to give the bowl a quick clean using a minimal amount of water. The practice is ideal when you’re boondocking well away from civilization, and water is at a premium.

Pros
Easy to install
Simple to clean
Comfortable height
Durable design
Hand spray add-on

Cons
Plastic less pretty than ceramic

2. Best Budget RV Toilet: Camco (41541) Portable Travel Toilet

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Why we like it: This budget portable toilet does a brilliant job of keeping your effluent safely locked away.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Portable
Material: Polyethylene plastic
Black Water Tank Size: 5.3 gallon
Dimensions: 14 x 16 x 15.5 inches
Weight: 10.8 pounds
Budget-minded RVers after a functional portable toilet that works wonders at blocking smells should invest in Camco. The proudly American-owned company has been manufacturing RV toilets (among other things) since the 60s, and they really know their stuff.
This 5.3-gallon portable toilet’s biggest attraction is the high-quality sealing valve that does an outstanding job of locking in smells. In fact, it’s unlikely you’ll notice your effluent is there at all—until it comes time to empty the thing, of course. Luckily, it only weighs 32 pounds when full and comes with a convenient carry handle to make the dirty deed less daunting.
Two side latches work well at holding the toilet in place for life on the road, and its sturdy yet lightweight design is built to withstand rigorous bumps. To empty the bowl, a basic bellow type flush works in conjunction with a side valve.
It’s a bit lower than the ideal height of 18.5 inches, so avoid this one if you’re exceptionally tall. Still, the kids will undoubtedly appreciate the low-profile on offer here.
As a neat little bonus, Camco throw in a pack of their TST biodegradable toilet chemicals for free—superb value for money given the unit is so cheap already.

Pros
Super cheap
Comes with free chemicals
Sturdy and lightweight
Simple flush function
Holds in smells

Cons
A little bit too low

3. Best Premium Toilet: Nature’s Head

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Why we like it: It’s environmentally-friendly, odor-free, and requires infrequent emptying.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Composting
Material: Plastic
Black Water Tank Size: 5 gallon
Dimensions: 17.75 x 20.75 x 21.5 inches
Weight: 28 pounds
At almost a thousand bucks a pop, it’s little wonder so many RVers balk at the price tag attached to Nature’s Head. But for those in the know, this incredible composting toilet offers some of the best mobile washroom convenience on Earth.
For starters, Nature’s Head is exceptionally environmentally friendly. Forget about buying big packs of planet-destroying toilet chemicals because this unit functions through the natural process of composting. When the process is finished, you can deposit your composted droppings onto a garden to use as fertilizer, in turn creating new foliage to help our planet breathe.
Another tremendous advantage is that because human feces shrink into a fraction of the normal size after being composted, you won’t have to empty the number two section of the toilet very often at all. In fact, the small tray that traps the composted solids underneath only needs to be changed every few months—compare that with a cassette which should be emptied every few days.
But the biggest draw to this toilet—and it’s a biggie—is that the poop in Nature’s Head literally doesn’t stink. You won’t smell a thing while it’s in there composting, and you’ll only notice a faint, and not particularly unpleasant, earthy smell when it comes time to empty it. For RVers who gag at the thought of dealing with feces, Nature’s Head is the ultimate non-odorous solution.
As for number one’s, an innovative design sees fluids trickle into a separate bottle, which you’ll be required to empty as you go.
The American-made product is easy to install and is built tough to last.

Pros
Doesn’t smell
Requires infrequent emptying
Environmentally friendly
Made in the USA
Easy to install

Cons
Very expensive

4. Best Portable RV Toilet: Thetford Porta Potti

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Why we like it: The Porta Potti from Thetford is luxurious to use and easy to clean.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Portable
Material: Plastic
Black Water Tank Size: 5.5 gallons
Dimensions: 18.39 x 15.75 x 17.83 inches
Weight: 13.45 pounds
Perhaps the best selling portable toilet of all time, the Thetford Porta Potti is a much-loved product among RVers and campers alike. Although this highly versatile toilet sits firmly in the premium range, the financial investment is well worth it for the convenience it affords.
As a portable toilet, there’s no installation required whatsoever, which saves the cash-strapped RVer a significant sum. The main appeal of this toilet, however, is the Porta Potti looks and feels just like your toilet at home—a rarity in the portable space. At slightly over 18 inches high and with a smooth ergonomic curve, the product is comfortable to sit on and is a hit for its sleek, modern design.
A battery-powered flush negates the need to push on a clunky floor pedal, and the tank level indicator seems to work better than most. Best of all, the toilet features a highly effective leak-proof valve that stops pungent odors from permeating through your RV.
The only discernible downside to this product is the price—it costs a pretty penny. Sure, it also won’t hold nearly as much as a flush toilet, but that’s to be expected from a portable.
Although this isn’t the most expensive item on our list, the price point is undeniably high for a portable toilet. Grab this one if your budget isn’t too tight, and you want the best portable money can buy.

Pros
Comfortable and ergonomic design
Sleek appearance
Doesn’t smell
Battery-powered push button flush

5. Best Ceramic RV Toilet: Dometic 320 Series RV Toilet w/Hand Spray

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Why we like it: A ceramic toilet that offers luxury even when boondocking in the wildest places on the road.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Gravity flush
Material: Ceramic
Dimensions: 22 x 14.75 x 19.75 inches
Weight: 37.5 pounds
For the posh RVer who insists on having all the comforts of home, it’s hard to go past this beautiful ceramic toilet from Dometic. The company specializes in creating high-quality outdoor gear for adventurous Americans, and their plush ceramic RV toilet delivers the goods.
What makes this one so luxurious, you may ask? Its glossy and vitreous ceramic finish, smooth, elongated design, and earthy enameled wooden seat make it look exceptionally more stylish than the other RV toilets out there. And that’s not to say it’s overly pricey—the Dometic 320 comes in at a similar price to the Thetford Aqua Magic V.
Aesthetics aside, the flush function on this product is pretty good, too. A pressurized full-rim flush clears the entire bowl with ease, so you needn’t stress about those unsightly skid marks. Plus, it uses a mere one pint per flush; you won’t run out of freshwater too quickly.
The foot-pump is pretty easy to work out—press it in a bit to add water and all the way for a full flush. The unit also includes a hand spray, which is effective at keeping things spotlessly clean.
Just be careful not to break the foot pedal as there’s no replacement part available, so you’d have to go out and purchase an entire new toilet.

Pros
Excellent aesthetics
Pressurized full-rim flush
Easy-to-use foot pedal
Vitreous texture
Water-efficient

Cons
No replacement pedal

6. Best Value RV Toilet: SereneLife Outdoor Portable Toilet

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Why we like it: This easy-to-use portable toilet doesn’t emit much odor and represents excellent value for money.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Portable
Material: Plastic
Black Water Tank Size: 5.5 gallons
Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.6 x 16.9 inches
Weight: 11.25 pounds
Cheap and cheerful, this popular road tripping accessory is suitable for woodland camping and RV living alike. Coming in at 11 pounds (empty), it’s portable enough to lug around the campsite, and its sizable 5.5-gallon holding tank is big enough for the whole family to use.
Its petite dimensions are another major attraction, as the unit can easily slide away under a bench when not in use. And for the owners of class B RVs or campervans, that extra portability is a godsend.
Under the hood, a splash-free rotatable outlet pipe lets you quickly pour the tank out without the risk of making a mess. For the price you pay, it does an excellent job of holding in the smell as well—don’t forget to add your chemicals, though. Furthermore, the unit comes with a handy travel bag that makes it super simple to tote to and fro.
On the downside, the tank can be a little hard to clean due to two rather poorly placed indentations that have a nasty habit of securing solids in place. The seat is also relatively small, which, while ideal for children and skinny adults, doesn’t bode well for big people.

Pros
Large holding tank
Affordable portable toilet
Comes with a travel bag
Easy to empty

Cons
Hard to clean out solids
Too small for large adults

7. Best China RV Toilet: Thetford 34430 Aqua Magic Style Plus Toilet

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Why we like it: This elegant toilet from Thetford looks just like a classy residential toilet.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Gravity flush
Material: China
Dimensions: 19.5 x 25 x 22 inches
Weight: 44.9 pounds
If you love the Thetford brand but can’t stand the thought of using an unsightly plastic toilet in your RV, then this fancy china bowl model is the ideal option for you. While the Aqua Magic V gets top marks for functionality, the Aqua Magic Style Plus is all about looks.
Price-wise, it’s not much more expensive than the Aqua Magic V, which is surprising because china is a premium material. But in terms of it-feels-just-like-home aesthetics, this toilet comes up trumps. The contemporary design is almost indistinguishable from the throne you use at home, all thanks to its shiny china bowl.
It’s not all about appearances, however, as the Style Plus is awash with nifty features. An anti-microbial seat prevents the growth of nasty bacteria, while a powerful in-built flush spans the entire bowl. It’s even got an innovative ball valve that physically wipes the bowl clean upon each flush.
It’s relatively easy to install if you closely follow the instructions—no need to get a professional plumber involved. The biggest downside to this product is the seat is a little small for larger adults.

Pros
Comes in a chic contemporary design
Looks and feels like a toilet from home
Anti-microbial seat prevents bacteria
Ball valve wipes the bowl clean
Easy to install for a non-professional

Cons
The seat is too small for large adults

8. Best RV Toilet for Tall People: AW Gravity Flush Toilet RV Toilet

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Why we like it: It’s got everything a good RV toilet needs plus extra height to cater to tall users.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Gravity flush
Material: High-density polyethylene plastic
Dimensions: 19.5 x 25 x 22 inches
Weight: 44.9 pounds
There’s nothing worse than trying to use a toilet that’s too small for you—it feels like squatting down onto a child’s potty. And if you happen to be exceptionally tall, you’re going to find most RV toilets are just a tiny bit too short.
The Gravity Flush Toilet from AW solves the age-old conundrum with a bigger and better RV toilet that’s suitable for tall users. Coming in at a whopping 20 inches high, it’s at least an inch and a half taller than most RV toilets, and that makes all the difference for anyone over six feet.
Aside from the extra height, it’s a decent gravity flush product that’ll stand the test of time. Its durable high-density polyethylene frame is designed to last at least five years, although you should get double that under normal conditions. The toilet is easy to use, too, with a simple push pedal system that either adds water or does a full flush.
But be warned, AW doesn’t have the same quality customer service as the big brands like Thetford and Dometic. Also, there’s no warranty to speak of, so purchase at your own risk.

Pros
Good for tall users
Tough frame is built to last
Easy to use

Cons
Poor customer service
No warranty

9. Best Vacuum RV Toilet: Dometic VacuFlush 509

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Why we like it: It uses advanced vacuum suction technology to suck away the poop.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Vacuum
Material: China
Dimensions: 20.5 x 18.75 x 15.25 inches
Weight: 42 pounds
Sure, it may cost you a pretty penny, but the Dometic VacuFlush 509 offers both exceptional functionality and sleek aesthetics in the one shiny china bowl.
The elongated seat and smooth deep bowl feel just like a residential toilet, while its powerful vacuum-operated flush does an impressive job of washing away unwanted fecal matter.
The vacuum mechanism means the toilet uses hardly any freshwater for each flush. In turn, that significantly increases your holding tank efficiency, thus means you won’t have to empty the thing so often. Using the system is easy enough thanks to a user-friendly flush pedal that isn’t at all hard to reach.
When it comes time for cleaning, the anti-splash rim ensures water stays in the bowl rather than on the floor. Another neat bonus is the toilet fits into a surprisingly small space yet manages to cater to taller users at the same time. If none of your party is particularly tall, then you can install it on the low-profile setting instead.

Pros
Vacuum flush technology is water efficient
Requires emptying less often
Easy to use
Suitable for tall or average-sized users
China bowl looks swanky

10. Best Macerating RV Toilet: TMC Marine Electric Toilet

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Why we like it: It chops your effluent into tiny fine pieces, which makes them easier to dispose of.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Toilet Type: Macerating
Material: China
Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 14 inches
Weight: 35 pounds
Although pricey, this high-tech macerating toilet from the little-known brand TMC is perfect for users who want to break solid waste down into a liquid for easy disposal. If you’re finding that RV toilet chemicals aren’t doing a good job of liquefying your poo or you suffer from unusually dense stools, investing in a macerating toilet could be your best bet.
It’ll only cost about a hundred dollars more than the other mid-range options we recommend, and that will be money well spent when it comes time to empty your tank at the dump station.
Aside from the heavy-duty macerating feature, TMC makes a comfortable and stylish toilet that’ll look lovely in your RV. The polished china bowl is compact and exceptionally vitreous, while a standard household toilet lid completes the package to make you feel right at home.
In terms of usability, a self-priming pump will rinse the bowl on your behalf, while the scavenger pump and macerator will dice up your doodoo—technology at its finest, folks. Rather than an annoying floor pedal (annoying for the elderly or infirm, at least), this toilet has a household-style push button that’s oh-so-easy to use.

Pros
Slices feces into tiny pieces for easy disposal
Perfect for constipated consumers
Stylish china bowl and residential toilet-style seat
Self-priming pump for flushing
Push-button rather than floor pedal

Cons
Expensive
Comes from a little-known brand

RV Toilet: Buyer’s Guide

The RV toilet is surprisingly complex, so you’ll need to do quite a bit of research to find the perfect product. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled the most crucial info into the following in-depth buyer’s guide.
From the different toilet types to the key things you need to consider, here’s everything you should know about the RV toilet.
What Is an RV Toilet?
An RV toilet is, of course, a toilet for your RV. But what makes it different from a regular residential toilet, you may ask?
While the toilet in your house is plumbed into a town sewerage system that whisks the wastewater away in seconds, an RV toilet is not. Instead, you’ll need to store your smelly effluent inside the RV until you can manually dispose of it at the nearest dump station (or appropriate location).
The Benefits of an RV Toilet
RV toilets don’t come cheap, and emptying them all the time is undoubtedly a chore. Nonetheless, these must-have contraptions are still an essential RV accessory for the comfort and convenience they afford.
Go without an RV toilet, and you’ll be forced to find a public restroom every time nature calls. More often than not, the nearest facilities will be miles away—or worse, they’re so horrendously unclean you can’t bear step inside.
With an RV toilet, you’ve got the freedom to expunge bodily waste whenever you choose, ultimately allowing you to live a healthier and happier existence on the road.
The Drawbacks of an RV Toilet
Some RVers, particularly those roadtripping in smaller rigs like a Class B, might shun the idea of a toilet, opting to seek out a restroom or dig a hole in the woods instead. Although excruciatingly inconvenient, especially on an extended trip, there are a few advantages to forgoing a toilet in the RV.
RV toilets are relatively expensive, both to purchase and to install. Budget orientated RVers might prefer to save the cost of a bathroom to spend on other parts of their rig, such as the battery or solar setup. Skipping out on a toilet also means you’ll never have to empty the black water tank, which every RVer agrees isn’t a whole lot of fun. And finally, RV toilets can start to smell if not emptied frequently and maintained adequately.
RV Toilet Types
RV toilets come in several different types, each of which is suitable for users with unique needs.
Gravity Flush
The RV gravity flush toilet works in a similar fashion to your toilet at home—you flush the button, and gravity forces the wastewater to flow down the drain and into a holding tank. One key difference is the RV flush toilet doesn’t have a water holding tank, which means you’ll need to turn your RV pump on or connect it to an external water source to flush.
Once you’ve finished doing your business, you flush the waste away with a foot pedal and then fill the tank again with a lever.
Traditional gravity flush toilets connect to a holding tank that could be located elsewhere in the RV.
Macerating Flush
The macerating flush is the same as gravity flush except for one thing: it includes a razor-sharp set of motorized blades that macerate (slice) solid waste into a sticky slurry before sending it to the waste holding tank. The key advantage of the macerating flush toilet is it turns effluent into a more viscous fluid that’s easier to store and dispose of.
Macerating toilet technology enables the toilet bowl and waste holding tank to be installed apart, reducing unwanted smells and allowing for a bigger tank.
Vacuum Flush
One of the best toilet types on the market, vacuum flush technology sucks the effluent from the bowl using a vacuum vessel and macerating pump, then stores it inside a holding tank. As a result, you get a spotlessly clean toilet bowl after every flush and a tank full of liquid-like effluent that’s easy to dispose of.
Like macerating toilets, vacuum flush toilets can also be installed in a different section to the black water tank, which reduces smells and allows for greater flexibility with the installation.
Cassette Toilet
A classic option in campervans and trailers, the cassette toilet gets its name from its cassette-like wastewater tank stored in an external locker. The toilet bowl sits directly above the cassette, and the waste falls straight inside upon being flushed.
To empty the wastewater cassette, the RVer must manually remove it from the service door and pour it into a toilet or dump station. The process makes you get a bit more “up close and personal” with your effluent, but most RVers get used to it and don’t find it so bad after a while.
Cassette toilets are an excellent option when there’s limited space to work with. However, the external service door means the RV manufacturer must install them upon construction; thus, they aren’t appropriate for the average consumer (which is why we don’t include them on our list).
Portable Toilets
As the name suggests, portable toilets are small enough to be taken anywhere, which makes them a popular choice for tent camping as well as RV use. These petite and lightweight toilets have a plastic bowl that sits right on top of a wastewater storage tank, which the effluent drops into as it would on a cassette toilet.
When the black water tank becomes full, you need to remove it from the bowl and manually pour it into a toilet or dump station—again, much like a cassette.
Composting Toilet
The composting toilet is a unique, environmentally friendly option that composts your effluent on the go. Liquid and solid waste are deposited into separate containers, and the solids are composted into a humus-like substance that can be safely returned to the soil. To empty a compost toilet, either pour it into a compost bin or down a drop toilet and let nature work its magic.
The system doesn’t use a drop of water, which makes it advantageous on remote excursions into arid areas. And aside from being environmentally friendly, compost toilets are popular as they emit very little odor when functioning correctly.
RV Toilets for Those With Limited Mobility
Whether you’ve got elderly travelers in your group or someone with a physical disability, it’s crucial to consider their needs when shopping for an RV toilet.
If possible, opt for a high-profile toilet that sits well off the ground like a regular household toilet and is more comfortable for the infirm to lift themselves on and off. However, these options are usually only available in gravity, macerating, or vacuum toilet types. If you need to install a cassette or portable toilet, consider creating a platform to raise it off the ground.
The classic foot pedal flush is also best avoided. If possible, opt for a modern electric flush that comes with a handle on the wall.
The Different RV Water Tanks
These days, almost all RVs have three separate water tanks: freshwater, greywater, and blackwater.
Freshwater refers to potable water that comes directly out of the town water supply tap and into your RV, often passing through a food-grade hose and water filter to ensure it tastes great.
Greywater is the water you’ve already used to clean your dishes and shower in. As greywater isn’t especially bad for the environment, most RVers will flush it down the drain or release it on the side of the road.
And then there’s blackwater, the icky stuff. Blackwater is what you’ve deposited into your toilet, typically a foul concoction of feces, urine, chemicals, and TP. This tank definitely isn’t environmentally friendly, so you’ll need to empty it into a standard toilet or dump station.
RV Blackwater Tank Sizes
If you’re wondering what the ideal size for an RV blackwater tank (AKA holding tank) is, the answer is simple: as big as possible.
The larger an RV black water tank is, the less frequently you’ll be required to empty it—and as we already know, pouring your poop down a hole in the ground isn’t the most enjoyable chore in the world.
The size of your blackwater tank will vary depending on the type of toilet you’re using and the available space and weight on your RV.
Oversized RVs and fifth wheelers with a gravity flush or macerating/vacuum toilet may have a blackwater tank as big as 100 gallons. However, the average size of a blackwater tank for large to medium RVs is between 20 and 50 gallons.
Smaller RVs, on the other hand, tend to favor the more compact cassette or portable toilets, whose holding tanks are usually around 5 gallons in size. These need to be emptied more frequently—typically every few days if two people or more are using the toilet.
Compost toilets also hold solid matter, which isn’t measured in gallons but can be emptied extremely infrequently (every few months).
When shopping for a new RV toilet, you only need to consider the blackwater tank size when looking at portable or cassette toilets. Other toilets (gravity flush, macerating, and vacuum) will use the blackwater tank already installed in your RV.
Finding a Place To Dump Your RV Toilet

Unless you’re well off the beaten track in some far-flung locale, there’s usually someplace close by to dump your effluent. The best place to dispose of your waste depends on the kind of toilet you’re using.
Where To Dump Gravity Flush, Macerating, and Vacuum Toilets
RVing is a hugely popular pastime throughout the United States, and there’s a highly developed infrastructure network out there to support the lifestyle.
One of the most prevalent infrastructure pieces is the dump station, which is essentially a hole in the ground that connects with the town sewage system. These have been specially designed so that RVers—especially those with a gravity flush, macerating, or vacuum toilet—can safely and efficiently empty their black water tanks. Each station is either available for free or for a nominal fee.
These three toilet types have a big hose that connects to the holding tank and drains the black water directly into the dump station. Attempting to empty any of these into a standard flush toilet could result in a horrible mess—trust us, you don’t want to try this.
The easiest way to locate your nearest dump station is by using a cell phone app such as WikiCamps USA.
Dump Stations: Yes
Standard Flush Toilets: No
Remote Drop Toilets: No
Where To Dump Cassette and Portable Toilets
RVers using a cassette or portable toilet have a distinct advantage: they’re able to dump their wastewater into dump stations and any standard flush toilet, so long as it’s connected to the town sewage system. This flexibility provides the RVer with extra convenience in remote areas as they don’t have to keep a keen eye out for the nearest dump station.
However, you must never dump the contents of a cassette or portable toilet into a drop toilet, as the harsh RV chemicals could destroy the composting system and cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. The bathrooms in some remote RV parks may also be unsuitable for dumping, as they run on a delicate septic system. Keep an eye out for warning signs, and if in doubt, ask.
Dump Stations: Yes
Standard Flush Toilets: Yes
Remote Drop Toilets: No
Where To Dump Compost Toilets
Compost toilets separate number one and number two into two different compartments, each of which should be disposed of differently.
Compost Toilet Pee Bottles
Number one filters into a “pee bottle,” which includes a durable, watertight cap to avoid spillage. As urine isn’t especially harmful to the environment, it’s relatively easy to find a place to empty these. Normal flush toilets, dump stations, and remote drop toilets are all acceptable places to dispose of urine.
Dump Stations: Yes
Standard Flush Toilets: Yes
Remote Drop Toilets: Yes
Compost Toilet Number Two’s
A compost toilet uses a combo of coco pith, peat moss, and/or sawdust to turn your number two’s into a humus-like substance that’s solid, dry, odorless, and relatively non-toxic. However, this is still humanure we’re talking about, so it could potentially contain E. coli or salmonella and should be disposed of carefully.
Feel free to add the contents into a compost pile or use it to fertilize a garden—but avoid fertilizing vegetable patches or orchids intended for human consumption. Another option is to dispose of its contents directly into a drop toilet at a trailhead or remote camp, as these compost toilets are designed to function in a similar manner. Some campers dig a hole in the woods, although that’s quite laborious, and you’d need to dig deep to empty an entire compost toilet worth of waste.
The easiest option is somewhat controversial: bagging your composted poop and disposing of it in a trash can. While some RVers believe this option to be unethical and perhaps even illegal, others argue it’s a safe and responsible way to empty a compost toilet.  In any case, throwing composted humanure in the trash is certainly no worse than chucking out dirty nappies or plastic-wrapped dog poop.
Dump Stations: No
Standard Flush Toilets: No
Compost For Edible Fruits And Vegetables: No
Remote Drop Toilets: Yes
Compost Bins And Gardens: Yes
Garbage Bins: Yes
Emptying an RV Toilet
The process of emptying an RV toilet varies depending on its type.
Emptying a Blackwater Holding Tank
Traditional flush, macerating, and vacuum toilets all store effluent in a large blackwater holding tank, which may reside in an entirely different section of the RV.
To empty the blackwater into a dump station, follow these steps.
Put on a pair of thick rubber gloves
Take off the outlet cap of the holding tank
Hook up the drainage hose between the holding tank outlet and the dump station
Open the holding tank valve and drain the black water into the dump station
Although not strictly necessary, it’s a smart idea to flush your blackwater tank and drainage hose.
Fill the holding tank with freshwater and drain it again to flush it out
Close the blackwater valve
Run water through the draining hose to flush it and lift one end to let all the water trickle out
Adding chemicals to your holding tank is essential, especially if you plan to use it for number two’s.
Disconnect the hose and stash it in your RV
Rinse the dump station clean and close the lid
Add fresh water and RV toilet chemicals to the holding tank
Emptying a Cassette or Portable Toilet
To empty a cassette or portable toilet tank into a standard flush toilet or dump station, follow these steps:
Ensure the toilet is closed
Remove the cassette from the external locker (or from beneath the bowl for a portable toilet)
Twist the outlet pipe so that it points away from the cassette
Unscrew the cap on the outlet pipe and pour the contents into the toilet bowl or dump station
Press the vent button at the top of the cassette to avoid splashbacks
It’s wise to take a moment to rinse out the tank every time you empty it to reduce the onset of odors.
Pour approximately one gallon of water into the cassette, reattach the cap, and swish it around vigorously
Empty the water into the toilet or dump station again
Now that the inside of your cassette is nice and clean, you’ll need to add water and chemicals.
Pour about half a gallon of water into the outlet pipe
Add the manufacturer’s recommended dose of your preferred RV toilet chemicals
Put the lid back on the outlet pipe and return the cassette to the external locker
Emptying a Compost Toilet
The process for emptying a compost toilet is simple and less “icky” than the aforementioned types.
Number One:
Ensure the cap on the pee bottle(s) is properly fastened
Empty the bottle into an appropriate receptacle.
Number Two:
Open the holding tray
Transfer the contents into an appropriate bag (plastic for the trash or biodegradable for burying/drop toilets)
Dispose of the bag in an appropriate place
Note that human waste shrinks when composted. Therefore, you’ll only have to empty the number two’s from your composting toilet every month or so.
RV Toilet Chemicals
If left untreated, the effluent in an RV blackwater tank would clog up the pipes and start to smell horrendously bad. To address the issue, RV toilet manufacturers have released an array of RV toilet chemicals specially designed to break down human waste.
These chemicals come in satchel or liquid form and are added to the blackwater tank with a half-gallon of water. Septic-safe RV toilet chemicals are better for the environment, while the standard chemicals do a better job of breaking down the nastiness.
RV Toilet Paper
Regular toilet paper doesn’t break down quickly enough to be suitable for RV use. Although it is possible to use it in an RV, there’s a high risk of creating a clog—and of course, you’ll have to unclog it yourself!
For this reason, savvy RVers opt for specialized RV toilet paper instead. Stacks of different competing brands are available, but we reckon Thetford makes the best of the bunch.
RV Toilets For Remote Travel
If you’re planning to venture way off the beaten track, you may want to consider investing in a backup toilet. In far-flung areas, there’s often no dump station around, so you’ll have nowhere to dump your blackwater.
One option is to carry an extra portable toilet with you, which will buy you a bit of time. If you’re using a cassette toilet, you could bring a second backup cassette to start using once you’ve filled your first one up.
RV Toilets: FAQ
If you’ve still got questions that need answering about the RV toilet, then take a look through our FAQ below.
How Do You Unclog a Blackwater Tank?
Try emptying the black water into a dump station. If that doesn’t work, use a course toilet snake and an extra-long and bendable auger to poke around inside the piping and tank. Ensure these are designed for RV use because a domestic one could damage your pipes.
Who Makes the Best RV toilets?
Thetford and Dometic make the best RV toilets on the market, each offering a wide variety of different toilet types. For compost toilets, however, it’s hard to look past Nature’s Head.
Can You Put a Residential Toilet Into an RV?
Residential toilets aren’t appropriate for RV use because they’re too fragile and use too much water. Furthermore, residential toilets are designed to pump effluent directly into the town sewage system, which isn’t possible in an RV.
What Do You Clean RV Toilets With?
To clean the bowl, use a soft-bristled and non-abrasive brush combined with the household cleaner of your choice. As for the pipes and holding tank, you may need a toilet snake and/or auger to clear out any clogs.
Do RV Composting Toilets Smell?
RV composting toilets work by breaking your feces down into a soil-like humus substance that doesn’t emit any odor. Therefore, when working correctly, composting toilets don’t tend to smell.
Do I Need Special Toilet Paper for an RV?
Although it’s possible to use regular toilet paper in an RV, it isn’t recommended as it could clog your piping or holding tank. RV toilet paper is specially designed to decompose rapidly, which makes it much less likely to clog.
Why Does My RV Toilet Stink?
A foul odor emanating from your RV toilet could be caused by several things: a full holding tank, clogged piping, insufficient or ineffective chemicals, excess heat and humidity, a leak in the tank or piping.
Best RV Toilets: Final Thoughts
You’re now an expert on the exciting world of RV toilets. If you’ve made it this far through our guide, you now know all the essential info about going to the bathroom in an RV—including, we dare say, a few things you probably didn’t want to know.
With this high level of expertise at hand, you’re now ready to sort through our top ten list to pick out the perfect toilet for you. Remember to factor in our key considerations before coming to a decision. If you’re looking for further ways to residentialize your RV experience, we have an article about great washer/dryer combos for RVs too.
May your number one’s and two’s be forever non-odorous and easy to clean. More

Steering wheel covers do more than improve the look of your car. They provide safety and comfort during the many hours you spend behind the wheel. Whether you want a sporty look or a soft and fuzzy feel, there’s a steering wheel cover that will meet your needs.
We’re here to cover the most important safety and style features of steering wheel covers. To take the guesswork out of your next steering wheel cover purchase, we’ve reviewed and ranked the top steering wheel covers on the market.

How to Choose the Best Steering Wheel Cover
When trying to choose the best steering wheel cover for you, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. Size is crucial to ensure it fits, and material, style and texture are other core considerations.
Size
We want to talk about size first because it’s the most important feature. Steering wheel covers are meant to have a snug fit.
Most steering wheel covers come in one to three sizes: 14 to 14.25 inches, 14.5 to 15 inches, and 15.5 to 16 inches. Some steering wheel cover options offer all three sizes, while others will only come in one size (usually spanning 15 inches). If you have a slightly smaller or larger steering wheel, be sure to check out steering wheel covers that list multiple size options.
Material
Steering wheel covers are made from several types of materials. Let’s look at the most common materials used to make steering wheel covers and each of their benefits:
Microfiber leather – inexpensive and great for softness, comfort, and style
Genuine leather – unmatched durability and premium feel
Viscose – a sturdy synthetic material that’s great for grip
Cloth – natural fibers that provide comfort with style
Sheepskin wool – soft and fuzzy for warmth in cold weather climates
For more information about each material and relevant steering wheel covers, please refer to our full buyer’s guide.
Style
Are you trying to refresh a beat-up steering wheel with a standard neutral look? Or are you enhancing the look of your car by going sporty or fashionable?
Steering wheel covers come in many styles and colors. For a sporty look, go with a sleek leather or microfiber leather cover. If your goal is to stand out in the crowd, select a cover with bright colors and patterns–or even add a little rhinestone bling. Check out more style suggestions in our full buyer’s guide
Texture
Textures you might come across include smooth, studded for grip, thick, soft, and fuzzy. The texture of your steering wheel cover will depend a lot on the material used to make the cover.
Steering wheel covers with a smooth surface tend to contain unadorned microfibers and genuine leather. In contrast, covers intended to increase grip with added texture typically use studded microfibers, decorative materials such as rhinestones, woven Viscose, and cloth. For a super soft and fuzzy texture, look for sheepskin steering wheel covers.
Taking into consideration the safety and style of steering wheel covers, we’ve ranked the top ten steering wheel covers on the market for your review.

Top 10 Best Steering Wheel Covers 2020
1. Best Overall Steering Wheel Cover: SEG Direct

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Why we like it: This inexpensive microfiber leather steering wheel cover combines a high-end aesthetic with the heat and skid-resistant properties of soft microfiber.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14 to 16 inches
Material: Microfiber leather
Style: One style with six available colors
Texture: Soft leather texture
The SEG Direct Black Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover takes advantage of the softness and breathability of microfiber while providing the sleek look and feel of black leather. This option comes in as our overall favorite for its high-end aesthetic, soft feel, microfiber heat resistance, and very low cost.
We appreciate the pops of color this steering wheel adds to the overall look of the car’s interior. You can choose from an assortment of neutral color options, including blue, gray, red, white, and beige. Each color is distinct and well placed along three sections of the steering wheel cover. For a more traditional look, you can stick with solid black.
On the safety side of things, we like that this steering wheel cover comes in three size options. By having three sizes available, you can make sure you have the right fit for your car. The SEG Direct Black Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover is available in standard size (14.5 to 15 inches), small size (14 to 14.25 inches), and large size (15.5 to 16 inches).
We found a lot to like about this steering wheel cover, but we also came across a couple of downsides. The microfiber leather is slightly difficult to install, requiring a bit of effort to stretch the material fully around the wheel. Once in place, though, the cover stays put and won’t slide around while in use. The microfiber leather also lacks the premium durability of real leather, like this product has. It might look like leather, but wear and tear becomes apparent with frequent use.
Overall, the SEG Direct Black Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover is a great option if you want an economical way to enhance the look of your car while adding grip, softness, and temperature control to your steering wheel.

Pros
Multiple sizes available
Multiple neutral color options
Particularly soft to the touch
Skid-resistant after installation

Cons
Slightly difficult to install
Lacks the premium durability of real leather

2. Best Premium Wheel Cover: Valleycomfy Genuine Leather

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Why we like it: The Valleycomfy Steering Wheel Cover is made from genuine leather and comes in multiple sizes and colors. If you want a genuine leather steering wheel cover, then this is our top choice.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14 to 16 inches
Material: Genuine leather
Style: Coffee or Black leather with four color options
Texture: Soft and thick
While ValleyComfy makes many steering wheel covers, this choice made from genuine leather is one of our top choices. This steering wheel cover is what you want if you are seeking the premium quality of genuine leather.
Like many of our top choices, the ValleyComfy comes in multiple size options, making it likely that you’ll find one that fits your particular car. Having more size choices is ideal since you’re more likely to end up with a steering wheel cover that more closely matches your steering wheel size.
Products made from genuine leather have advantages aside from being made from natural materials. One of these advantages is durability, making this steering wheel cover likely to last much longer than its synthetic counterparts. Another important element is that the soft, giving nature of genuine leather permits a confident grip. This translates to enhanced comfort and safety.
Multiple color options are available, including one with the genuine leather in a separate coffee tone. While we’re partial to the black, having options that match your car is nice. Only four color options put this steering wheel cover on the low end of aesthetic choices.
Installing this cover can be difficult. A downside of genuine leather is that it can have less give than synthetic steering wheel covers. So if the cover doesn’t go on right away, you might want to look into a heating option for stretching it out before resorting to a crowbar.
It does add thickness. If your base steering wheel is on the thinner side, this is great as it will enhance comfort. If your steering wheel is already on the thicker end, this may make it too bulky. That can be uncomfortable to hold at best, and a safety hazard at worst. Next time you’re holding your steering wheel in your hands, think about what it would feel like if it was somewhat thicker, then decide from there.
Overall, this ValleyComfy Steering Wheel cover is our top choice that’s made from genuine leather.  If you can deal with the one-off installation issues and your steering wheel is not on the thick side, then this is definitely a recommendation. Make sure to check if the available colors work in your car too before settling on this one.

Pros
Multiple sizes available
Genuine leather is durable
Multiple color options, including two tones of leather
Leather permits superior grip, making it easy to hold

Cons
Difficult to install
Can be bulky if underlying steering wheel is thick

3. Best Budget Steering Wheel Cover: Valleycomfy Microfiber Leather

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Why we like it: The Valleycomfy Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover makes our list as an inexpensive way to make your steering wheel easier to grip and look nicer.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14 to 16 inches
Material: Microfiber leather
Style: 2 styles with 4 colors each
Texture: Smooth or with textured grip
Like several other steering wheel covers in our list, The Valleycomfy Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover uses microfiber materials to give the impression of a leather cover. This cover stands out in its textured design option that provides extra grip to the steering wheel. For those who don’t want the added texture while driving, you can select a smooth surface.
While this option provides some added softness and heat resistance to your wheel, it isn’t as soft and comfortable as some of our other options, such as the SEG Direct Black Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover. Some of the style choices also contain a sparkly strip of material that’s similar in texture to a nail file at the base of the cover, which you might find scratchy.
For color options, this Valleycomfy Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover sticks to neutral browns, reds, and grays for the smooth texture, with a more colorful pallet of blue, red, pink, and black for the textured options. The colors are not overwhelming and take up about 50 percent of the steering wheel cover surface. Overall, we were pleased with the selection of styles and colors.
There are three sizes available for this steering wheel cover: standard size (14.5 to 15 inches), small size (14 to 14.25 inches), and large size (15.5 to 16 inches). This allows for a proper fit on most vehicles. Unfortunately, this steering wheel cover was harder to install than others on our list. You’ll likely need to heat the cover in some way to increase pliability.
Overall, the Valleycomfy Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover is a great option for drivers who want extra grip on the wheel and a classic style at a reasonable price.

Pros
Multiple sizes offered
Multiple style and color options
Textured style option provides increased grip

Cons
Not as soft as other microfiber covers
Slightly difficult to install

4. Most Fashionable: Diamond Leather with Crystal Rhinestones

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Why we like it: The Diamond Leather Steering Wheel Cover will quickly add a highlight of color and glitter to your car’s interior without breaking the bank.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14.5 to 15 inches
Material: Microfiber leather
Style: 8 colors with 2 rhinestone options
Texture: Rhinestone studded
The New Diamond Leather Steering Wheel Cover with Bling Bling Crystal Rhinestones is a fast and affordable way to add some bling to your car. The rhinestone-studded surface not only looks good, but also feels great in your hand. As an added bonus, the rhinestones make your steering wheel easy to hold, a definite safety bonus.
Made from microfiber leather, this cover will remain easy to clean and won’t dry out like leather. Of course, this only applies to the parts of the cover not covered in rhinestones, which make up a significant portion of the cover. In the areas covered rhinestone-to-rhinestone cleaning can be more difficult.
While microfiber leather has its advantages, durability isn’t one of them. So treat this cover gently if you want it to last longer. Also, some of the rhinestones can pop out during installation. You may want to keep an eye out for this if you have a strong grip, and keep a tube of superglue handy.
The cover comes in eight different colors so it’s sure to match your car. You also can choose if the embedded rhinestones are white or colorful. Overall, we are really impressed by the style choices available with this cover.
Installation is as straight-forward as these covers get. Depending on your steering wheel, you may need to apply a little more elbow grease than you expect. Just be careful with the rhinestones as you stretch it over. Also, measure your steering wheel carefully. This cover only comes in one size, so you want to make sure your steering wheel is 14.5 to 15 inches in diameter.
Overall, the Diamond Leather Steering Wheel Cover with Bling Bling Crystal Rhinestones is a great cover that will quickly re-style the inside of your car. Just make sure you know the size of your steering wheel and be a little gentle installing the cover.

Pros
Easy to clean microfiber leather
Multiple color options
Studded surface massages hands
Easy to hold

Cons
Only one size available
Slightly difficult to install
Lacks the premium durability of real leather

5. Most Color Options: Valleycomfy Genuine Leather Cover

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Why we like it: This version of the Valleycomfy Genuine Leather Steering Wheel Cover has the most color options available in a genuine leather option.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14 to 16 inches
Material: Genuine leather
Style: Three solid colors or eight color options
Texture: Soft and thick
Valleycomfy makes some great steering wheel covers, and this genuine leather option is definitely worth your consideration. Like their other leather option, you’ll get the durability that only genuine leather can provide.
This genuine leather steering wheel cover has a soft and pliable feel, providing for a comfortable and secure grip on your steering wheel. Unfortunately, this can also add a bit of heft to your steering wheel. This is a great thing if your steering wheel is thin to start with, but can be too much for comfort and safety if your hands are already close to what they can hold with your base steering wheel.
This Valleycomfy Genuine Leather Steering Wheel Cover comes in a variety of colors. You can choose from three different solid base colors, including black, coffee or gray. If the standard black works for you, then there are eight stitching color options available.
In addition to colors, this steering wheel cover comes in three different sizes. This is important as you want to choose a steering wheel cover that closely matches the size of your steering wheel.
This Valleycomfy genuine leather cover doesn’t come with any instructions. And that’s a problem, because genuine leather can be difficult to stretch, making installation difficult. Make sure to check out our installation guide for helpful tips.
Overall, this steering wheel cover is a great option when you want genuine leather and a lot of color options. As always, make sure you check out the different styles available to make sure you find one that matches your own car and personal style.

Pros
Durability of heavy-duty genuine leather
Many color options, including base and trim
Soft and pliable leather is comfortable and easy to hold
Multiple sizes available

Cons
Difficult to install
Doesn’t come with any instructions
Heft of leather can add too much thickness

6. BOKIN Microfiber Leather and Viscose Cover

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Why we like it: The Bokin leather and viscose steering wheel cover really excels in color options and provides a comfortable and safe grip.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 15 inches
Material: Microfiber leather and Viscose
Style: Base black in two styles with eight color options
Texture: Smooth microfiber leather with woven Viscose grips
The Bokin Microfiber leather and viscose steering wheel cover has an open weave viscose grip, making for an exceptionally breathable hold. In addition, the raised pattern on the viscose overlay affords a confident hold that won’t slip, an important safety feature. You should note that the deep ridges in this relief can also serve as a place for dirt and grime to accumulate.
This steering wheel cover comes in only one size: 15 inches. If that’s what your steering wheel measures, then you’re set. If not, we really recommend you look at other microfiber options with multiple sizes that might fit better, such as the Valleycomfy Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover.
With eight different color options and two completely different styles, it’s likely you’ll find a good match for your car interior. Remember that you don’t necessarily have to match the existing colors of your cars, it can be just as aesthetically effective to choose a complementary color that can act as a highlight. Many of the bright colors available as options with this steering wheel cover are likely to work as highlights to the colors found in most cars.
While the Bokin leather and viscose steering wheel cover can stretch a bit more than a genuine leather cover, it can still be difficult. The added thickness of the woven rayon grips can make pulling the cover on somewhat difficult. Consider using a heating method on the microfiber leather to help stretch it out before installation.
Overall, you should definitely consider the Bokin leather and viscose steering wheel cover if you have a specific color you want. Also, if grip comfort and breathability is a factor you care about, then definitely take a look at the woven viscose grips here. While not the same secure grip of a perfectly tacky genuine leather, the raised woven pattern provides for a secure, and ultimately safe, experience.

Pros
Combines the benefits of both microfiber and Viscose
Many different color options and a couple of styles
Pattern made from Viscose maximizes grip strength

Cons
Only one size available
Can be difficult to install due to the woven viscose grips
Deep-patterned grip can allow dirt to accumulate

7. Elantrip Sport Leather

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Why we like it: If your goal is to spruce up your ride, the Elantrip Sport Leather Steering Wheel Cover is an inexpensive way to add beautiful stitching details and color to your steering wheel.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14.5 to 16 inches
Material: Microfiber leather
Style: Base style with six color options
Texture: Perforated microfiber leather with added stitching
The Elantrip Sport Leather Steering Wheel Cover uses a perforated microfiber leather material to improve the grip and breathability of your steering wheel. The perforations stand out in this option, as other microfiber steering wheel covers we review are smooth or textured.
The design of this cover adds softness and comfort to the wheel, but not so much that it becomes squishy or too large to hold. Unfortunately, the design also seems to make it less heat resistant than other options. If you live in a hot climate, we recommend looking into the SEG Direct Black Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover, which has excellent heat resistance.
Our favorite aspect of the Elantrip Sport Leather Steering Wheel Cover is its aesthetic appeal. We like how it gives your car’s dashboard a sporty look, with elegant color options and stitching highlights. As much as we love the stitching highlights, though, they do lead to a major downside. This cover can’t compete with the durability of our other microfiber options or genuine leather. The stitching isn’t as resilient as the microfiber material and will show wear and tear sooner than covers without sporty threading.
While the Elantrip Sport Leather Steering Wheel Cover does come in two sizes, 14.5 to 15 inches and 15.5 to 16 inches, it tends to run large. Once installed, the cover might move around the wheel slowly with use. On the flip side, this cover is incredibly easy to install!
The Elantrip Sport Leather Steering Wheel Cover is a great option for anyone who wants to add a sporty look to their car. When new, the stitching is even, symmetrical, and looks very nice on the steering wheel. If you drive your car a lot though, you may want to look for a cover with a little more durability. Overall, this is a good value for your money if you are going for enhanced aesthetic appeal.

Pros
Very easy to install
Looks nice with even and symmetrical stitching
Multiple classic color options

Cons
Cover tends to run loose on the wheel
Threading can show wear and tear
Not as heat resistant as other options

8. Best for Bohemian Chic: Valleycomfy Boho with Cloth

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Why we like it: This one-of-a-kind steering wheel cover has the most unique look and texture of any steering wheel cover we covered.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14.5 to 15.5 inches
Material: Cloth
Style: One multicolored pattern
Texture: Soft and thick
If you’re into recreating the bohemian look in your car’s interior, then this is the steering wheel cover for you. And if you’re not into that look, then look elsewhere, because there is just one style here.
Just like there is one style, the Valleycomfy Boho Steering Wheel Cover comes in one size: 15 inches. While it’s advertised to fit steering wheels ranging from 14.5 to 15.5 inches, you’ll be hard-pressed to get this cover on anything over 15 inches. Even at 15 inches, this steering wheel cover is very difficult to install. Definitely read through our installation guide for some helpful tips. While you’ll likely get a workout installing this cover, just remember it only has to be done once.
The woven cloth surface is definitely unique not just in style, but texture. This steering wheel cover has a woven cloth surface that gives to the touch. This provides not only a unique aesthetic for your car, but also affords excellent comfort in steering. Unfortunately, this comes with a serious drawback: cleanliness. The small nooks and crannies in this cover will accumulate dirt and grime over time. It’s unavoidable and you should know it going in. Just come up with a cleaning protocol that makes you happy, and you’ll be set.
Overall, you’ll probably know if the Valleycomfy Boho Steering Wheel Cover with Cloth is for you a few seconds after looking at it. And if it’s the look you’re after, then you’ll likely figure out how to put it on and keep it clean.

Pros
An absolutely unique look
Woven cloth surface is comfortable to grip
Easy to hold

Cons
Only one size and style available
Very difficult to install
The woven cloth is sure to catch dirt and grime, making this cover hard to clean

9. Most Breathable: Alusbell Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover

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Why we like it: This is definitely the most breathable grip steering wheel cover that we reviewed. It’s also one of the easiest steering wheel covers to install.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14.5 to 15 inches
Material: Microfiber leather
Style: Four colors
Texture: Stitched breathable grip
The Alusbell Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover has some limitations, but the stitched breathable grip may make up for its shortcomings.
Most of the steering wheel cover is made of microfiber leather, which makes cleanup a breeze. However, the grip area is a stitched open weave pattern, making it the ultimate for breathability and ensuring you maintain a secure grip on your steering wheel.
Both the microfiber leather and woven grip have big advantages, but you’re missing out on the durability of a genuine leather product. Keep in mind that you may have to replace this steering wheel cover a few years earlier than a genuine leather product.
One of the benefits of the stitched breathable grip area is that it makes installation significantly less challenging. One of the downsides of the ease of install is that you lose the safety factor of having a snug steering wheel cover. Alusbell used a natural rubber inner in order to provide a better grip of the cover to the wheel.
You’ll definitely want to feel the fit of this after you install to make sure you are comfortable with the ability of the cover to hold onto your wheel. A potential downside to natural rubber is odor. While the odor may have already outgassed before you get this steering wheel cover, it’s possible this natural odor will be present for some time. If you can handle the smell, feel confident it will eventually dissipate.
Like a few other steering wheel covers we reviewed, the Alusbell Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover only comes in one size. So, measure carefully. With only four colors available, you may have to consider choosing a complementary color if the color of your choice isn’t available. You can also consider our Valleycomfy Genuine Leather Steering Wheel Cover as it has many more color options available.
Overall, the Alusbell Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover is a great choice if you prioritize having a comfortable breathable grip and don’t want to deal with a potentially complicated installation.

Pros
Easy to clean microfiber leather
Breathable grip surface
Easy to hold
Easy to install

Cons
Only one size available
Limited colors available
Lacks the premium durability of real leather

10. Best Woolen: ANDALUS Pure Australia Sheepskin Wool

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Why we like it: The ANDALUS Pure Australia Sheepskin Wool Steering Wheel Cover is fluffy, insanely soft, and sure to keep your hands warm in cold weather climates.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Size: 14.5 to 16 inches
Material: Australia sheepskin wool
Style: One fuzzy wool style in fifteen colors
Texture: Thick fuzzy wool
The ANDALUS Pure Australia Sheepskin Wool Steering Wheel Cover is undoubtedly the softest steering wheel cover on our list. It’s made out of authentic pure Australia Sheepskin Wool, which adds a warm, luxurious feel to your drive. It’s so soft that you might question if it’s real wool, but the underlying leather and irregularities in the wool indicate it’s the real deal. If you want to avoid synthetic materials, this steering wheel is a great, affordable option.
The fun look and increased warmth in cold weather do come at a cost. The softness of the material means you’ll need to apply extra pressure to the steering wheel to obtain a firm grip. For some, this might lead to mild hand fatigue at best or dangerous driving conditions at worst. If you prefer to provide a light touch to the wheel, you might want to consider steering wheels with added texture for grip, such as the Valleycomfy Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover.
If you prefer to stick with the fluffy fibers of sheepskin wool over a synthetic microfiber material, the good news is that wheel cover install is a breeze. The elasticity in the ANDALUS Pure Australia Sheepskin Wool Steering Wheel Cover allows for easy wrapping of the steering wheel without much fuss. During install, a few of the wool fibers may shed. Don’t worry though. The initial shedding doesn’t persist, and subsequent shedding doesn’t seem to be a problem.
Unfortunately, only one size is available for this sheepskin wool steering wheel cover, with a range of 14.5 to 16 inches. If you have a smaller wheel, you’ll have to look elsewhere. Check out the SEG Direct Black Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover, which has a small size for steering wheels less than 14.5 inches.
This steering wheel cover isn’t going to be for everyone, especially those looking for a sporty look. It’s going to give your steering wheel an ultra-soft, fluffy look and feel. But if that’s your goal, we recommend you give this ANDALUS Pure Australia Sheepskin Wool Steering Wheel Cover a shot!

Pros
Softest cover in our list
Keeps hands toasty warm in cold weather
Easy to install

Cons
Fluffy design requires a stronger grip on the wheel
Sheds a little during install
Only one size available

Guide to Buying a Steering Wheel Cover
If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’ve already decided to buy a steering wheel cover, and there are many good reasons to do so. Even though a steering wheel cover looks simple, there are many factors that need to be considered to find the right steering wheel cover for you.
Keep reading here for tips and advice on why you might need a steering wheel cover, how it affects your safety, and how to be smart about choosing a steering wheel cover.
The Value of a Steering Wheel Cover
There are four main reasons to buy and use a steering wheel cover.
Damage to Existing Steering Wheel
There are a few spots on your car that get touched every time the car is driven, and your steering wheel is one of them. All of that contact leads to quicker wear-and-tear.
On a steering wheel, this can manifest as the surface of your steering wheel breaking off or degrading. Another way this can happen is just being exposed to extreme environments. So leaving your car parked out in the sun, or living in a desert, can make your steering wheel degrade much more quickly.
Since replacing the entire steering wheel can be a costly and labor-intensive process, simply putting a cover on it can be an easy way to address the damage.
Existing Steering Wheel is Not Comfortable
Another great reason to get a steering wheel cover is that you are unhappy with your car’s existing steering wheel. Some cars, especially older cars, have large and thin steering wheels. These can get uncomfortable to hold onto during longer drives. A steering wheel cover can address this concern by making the surface of your steering wheel more comfortable through the use of different materials, like genuine leather or a soft, pliable cloth.
Existing Steering Wheel is Not Safe
Some steering wheels can also have a slick surface, posing a safety concern if your hand happens to slip while steering. Steering wheel covers typically directly address this issue by having a dedicated gripping surface. These can range from relying on the natural tackiness of genuine leather to textured plastic surfaces meant to provide a secure place to grip.
Renew the Interior of Your Car
The aesthetic of your car shouldn’t be a factor that’s overshadowed by safety. You may have decked out the rest of your car in bling and want the steering wheel to match, or you just want your steering wheel to stand out. Either way, a steering wheel cover can easily transform the center of your console into whatever you want your car to look like.
The Safety of a Steering Wheel Cover
As mentioned above, a steering wheel cover can transform an unwieldy or slippery steering wheel into an elegant, comfortable and easily controllable surface. But you have to do your due diligence, or a cover could decrease your safety just as easily.
There are three main safety concerns to look out for, namely fit, handling, and unobtrusiveness.
Your Steering Wheel Cover Needs to Fit
Steering wheels come in a range of sizes. So do steering wheel covers. If you don’t carefully measure your steering wheel, you may buy a cover that doesn’t fit, and that’s bad if it’s too small or big.
If your cover is too small, you just won’t be able to get it on. This situation isn’t great, but it’s not a safety concern. It’s a whole different story if you buy a cover that is too large. A loose-fitting cover can allow the underlying steering wheel to turn independently of the cover. What this means is your car might continue barreling forward even when you clearly turn the wheel.
Your Steering Wheel Should Not be Unwieldy to Handle
A steering wheel cover has some thickness to it. In the case of some covers, especially those made from genuine leather, the thickness can be substantial. If you have a thin steering wheel and are using the cover to bulk it up so it’s more comfortable to handle, then this is just what you want.
However, if your steering wheel is already on the thicker side, putting a cover on it may make it too thick to handle well. A steering wheel that requires you to use too large of a grip can not only feel uncomfortable, but can also compromise your ability to steer.
So the easy way to address this is to grip your existing steering wheel. If it feels like your grip could handle some more thickness, then proceed. If you feel like you’re already pushing what you can hold comfortably, then either re-think your plan to get a cover, or choose a cover that is on the thinner side.
Your Steering Wheel Should Not be Obtrusive
Finally, some steering wheels can be downright dangerous based on their ability to tangle onto things. For example, a cover with heavily textured cloth grips could easily catch onto a piece of jewelry, like a bracelet, ring or watch.
One easy way to address this is to just think if you typically wear anything that is likely to catch onto a non-smooth surface. If you tend to accessorize, then either consider how much you really need a fuzzy steering wheel (knowing that you’ll have to de-accessorize every time you drive) or just choose a slick surface cover.
Do Steering Wheel Covers Ruin Your Steering Wheel?
One concern that comes up frequently is that installing a steering wheel cover can actually damage your steering wheel. On the face of it, this isn’t true. You are mostly placing a rubber, plastic or leather surface up against your existing steering wheel. This leaves little room for damage. Instead, damage can happen during installation. Many of the steering wheel covers here are a tight fit (and for good reason). Many people resort to using brute force techniques that involve sharp-sided tools.
If you’re covering up a damaged steering wheel, feel free to pry on a cover. If you want to leave your steering wheel looking pristine, just be careful during installation. It may take a bit more arm muscle, but you can certainly get a cover on without scratching your original steering wheel.
Selecting a Steering Wheel Cover
Once you’ve decided to get a steering wheel cover, there are several factors you need to keep in mind as you select your steering wheel cover.
Steering Wheel Covers are Not One-Size-Fits-All (or Universal)
Some steering wheels are advertised as one-size-fits-all or universal. Do not fall for this hype. If a steering wheel cover doesn’t state a range of sizes it fits, it’s probably best to pass on it. Every steering wheel cover in our list has a tightly defined range of sizes for this reason.
You need to measure your steering wheel and compare it to the range of sizes that the cover will work for. If the cover is too small, good luck getting it on. You’ll return your purchase before you’ve had a chance to try it out! If the cover is too big, you’ll have a serious safety problem on your hands–literally. Oversized steering wheel covers can slide as you rotate the wheel. The cover will turn, but the car won’t.
Steering Wheel Material Matters
To help narrow down materials that might work for you, we’ve provided a quick explanation for each material we cover in our list, including the pros and cons of each option.
Microfiber Leather
Microfiber leather (also called polyurethane or PU leather) is inexpensive and ideal for heat resistance, anti-skid, softness, breathability, and style variability. Microfibers are a well-studied material and have comfort advantages which are worth considering.
However, microfibers lack the durability of natural materials, such as genuine leather. For a good microfiber steering wheel cover option, check out the SEG Direct Black Microfiber Leather Steering Wheel Cover.
Genuine Leather
Genuine leathers are unmatched for durability and premium feel. But they tend to be expensive, and they fail to offer the same breadth of style and color options that synthetic materials provide.
If this is what you want, check out the Valleycomfy Steering Wheel Cover with Genuine Leather.
Viscose
Viscose (also known as rayon) is a sturdy synthetic material that can be woven together to provide increased grip on the steering wheel. This material can be found on the BOKIN Microfiber Leather and Viscose Steering Wheel Cover.
Cloth
Cloth steering wheel covers provide an affordable natural fiber option when you’re avoiding synthetic materials but don’t want to splurge on genuine leather. Cloth covers are amenable to many color and pattern options.
Check out the cloth cover on the Valleycomfy Boho Steering Wheel Cover with Cloth.
Sheepskin Wool
Sheepskin wool covers are for those who love the feel of a fluffy steering wheel. This is not a cover for those seeking a sleek, sporty look!
For example, have a look at the ANDALUS Pure Australia Sheepskin Wool Steering Wheel Cover.
Think About the Style
Look around a little and see if you can find a pattern that really stands out to you. This can range from an elegant and simple design to a neon and modern-looking cover.
If you’d like to stick with a neutral look, we recommend choosing an existing color in your car and looking for the closest color match you can.
If you want your interior to pop, consider selecting a complementary color to your car’s interior. Complementary colors can be determined using a simple color wheel. Additional accessories, such as floor mats, can complement the style and color pallet you choose.
Installing a Steering Wheel Cover
Once you have your steering wheel cover selected, you’ll have to get it on. If you’ve properly sized the cover to match your steering wheel, then you’re likely to have a small tug-of-war on your hands. Unfortunately, most steering wheel covers don’t ship with instructions manuals.
Luckily, we’ve created a small guide to installing steering wheel covers. Follow our handy tips and you should have your cover on in no time.
Installing a steering wheel cover can be a difficult process. Luckily, it’s something you usually only have to do once. So even if you get to a point where you are huffing and puffing, take solace that it’s a one-time effort you’re putting in.
Heating Up Your Steering Wheel Cover
Steering wheel covers are primarily made from synthetic and natural plastics or leather. One common feature all of these materials have is that they expand when they get warm. The idea here is to make the cover bigger than its normal state just temporarily while you are installing it. Please note that they don’t all do so to the same extent. A viscose cover will expand much more than a piece of genuine leather.
There are many ways to heat up a steering wheel cover. On the simple end of things, you can just leave your steering wheel cover out in your car on a sunny day. Wait until midday so it gets a few hours of heat, then try installing. If you live somewhere with a hot climate, this is likely to work.
Of course, you can get more involved. Pull out your hair dryer or heat gun, and you can start working on parts of your cover as you are installing it. Be careful though as these types of tools are capable of melting plastic or permanently disfiguring leather. If you want a more hands-off approach, you can put your steering wheel cover in the dryer (use gentle) or even an oven (start at low temperatures for short times and work up from there).
All of these heating methods come with inherent risks to destroying your new steering wheel cover. So be careful and don’t leave your project unattended.
Pulling Your Steering Wheel Cover On
You might think it’s obvious how to put a steering wheel cover on. Slip it over the top, work it over the sides, then push it down until it snaps into place. In general, that’s not a bad approach and will work. In fact, most people probably do exactly this. But you can do better.
It’s important to note that starting from the top is definitely the better way to go. If you start from the bottom (and you may be tempted to, depending on the pattern of your cover), you’ll end up having to pull up the top of the cover over the steering wheel. We’ll skip the physics lesson here, but you really want the leverage and the weight of your body pushing down on the hardest part.
Final Thoughts
With more and more steering wheel covers coming on the market, including all-new synthetic materials, it can be a confusing process to select a steering wheel cover that not only fits your car and style, but is safe and durable. We’re happy to steer you in the right direction. With the help of our guide and our list, we hope you have fun improving the safety, style, and comfort of your car. More

Keeping track of your tire pressure is a simple but vital way to keep your car running well. With the proper tire pressure, your vehicle will have better traction and fuel mileage. Furthermore, the correct tire pressure can be the difference between a flat tire and a safe drive home in winter conditions. This is why you need to think about tire pressure and make sure you have the right amount.
So, how do you measure tire pressure? With a handy tool, the tire pressure gauge. These handy tools give you an accurate reading of your tire pressure so that you can add or remove air from the tire. There are a few different types of tire pressure gauges, but they all work the same. Read on to learn more about tire pressure gauges and which one is the right fit for you.

Things to Consider When Shopping for Tire Pressure Gauges
While tire pressure gauges are specific products, they’re not all the same. You’ll come across different types, PSI ranges, and heads. For this reason, you need to carefully consider the features of each product before making a choice.
Type
We’ll start with the different types of tire pressure gauges. While there are variations of each type, the three main types are stick/pencil, digital, and dial. While every tire pressure gauge works, each product has unique strengths and weaknesses.
Stick
Stick tire pressure gauges are the most straightforward. They’re small tools that give you a pressure reading towards the bottom of the device. Once you hook it up to a tire, a small strip will pop out from the handle. The number that it lands on is the PSI. These tire Pressure gauges are also the most affordable because the design is simple.
Digital
Digital tire pressure gauges are well-rounded products. They’re comfortable to hold and give you a digital reading on the screen. These tools require batteries, but they’re easy to use in the dark and give you a quick reading. Plus, some digital products are priced in the same range as stick tire pressure gauges.
Dial
Tire pressure gauges that use a dial to give you a pressure reading. The dial is round like a clock and uses a needle to display the PSI. Furthermore, dial tire pressure gauges are the most feature-rich. Sometimes these products include bleeder valves, dual-scale dials, and shock-resistant components. While some products come with a lot of features, it drives the price up. Compared to stick and digital products, these tire pressure gauges are more expensive.
PSI Range
The whole purpose of a tire pressure gauge is to give you an accurate PSI rating, so you need to choose one that can read. The average tire pressure gauge will provide you with a range between 60 and 120 PSI. This covers the needs of most passenger cars and spare tires. Still, if you’re shopping for a heavy truck or motorcycle, you’ll need a more specific range. Some tire pressure gauges go down to 0 and up to 250 PSI.
Heads
When looking at tire pressure gauges, you’ll come across some products that have more than one head. If you’re shopping for a passenger car or light truck, like a pickup truck or SUV, you don’t need to worry about this. On the other hand, if you need a tire pressure gauge for heavy-duty applications, it’s handy to have a product with more than one head. You’ll always have the right tool for the job.
Once you know what to look for, finding the right tire pressure gauge becomes straightforward. Still, you need to know which products are the best. We’re going to take you through the ten best tire pressure gauges to help you narrow down your options.

Top 10 Best Tire Pressure Gauges 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: We love the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge because of its simple features. Anyone can use it, even without experience, and it provides an accurate reading.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0-150
Heads: 1
The AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is one of the most well-rounded tire pressure gauges. It features a non-slip ergonomic handle for comfort, and the LCD screen is easy to read. It emits a subtle blue light to help you read the gauge in dark conditions. This product also features another blue light by the nozzle, which illuminates the area you’re working on. When working in the dark, this makes it easy to see.
This product also comes with a handful of different settings. You’ll be able to get readings for PSI, bar, Kg/cm2, and kPa. Regardless of the application, you’ll be able to trust that you get an accurate reading with this product. It also boasts a high operating temperature, which makes the product applicable in most situations.
What Sets it Apart
What makes this product unique is the LCD screen and blue light projected by the tool’s head. While most digital products have an LCD screen, this product’s screen is more balanced. The blue light is easy on people’s eyes, which makes it a nice touch. You’ll be able to make accurate readings in the dark, without straining your eyes during the day.
Things to Consider
The AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge performs well, but the auto-shutoff feature turns the LCD screen off too fast. Reviews suggest that the product turns off between 10-15 seconds after use. For some, this is too short to see the reading on the screen.
If you like the design, but prefer a tool that doesn’t shut off as fast, the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge is a great alternative. The design is almost identical, but the auto-shutoff starts after 30 seconds.
Who It’s For
The AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is an excellent choice for anyone that needs a simple tire pressure gauge. It works on most vehicles, aside from heavy machinery, making it easy to get an accurate reading.

Pros
Balanced blue-lit LCD screen
Ergonomic handle
Blue light to illuminate what you’re working on
Four different settings

Cons
Auto shutoff happens too soon

2. Best Premium Pick: Topeak SmartGauge

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Why we like it: The Topeak SmartGauge can read high-pressure tires, up to 250PSI, which is why we love it.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0-250
Heads: 1
The Topeak SmartGauge is a premium tire pressure gauge. It has a PSI range between 0-250, which is more than most products around. It’s also well-made, with a 360° rotating head with a thick valve stem that prevents leaks. The LCD screen displays PSI or bar and turns off after thirty seconds to prevent the battery from draining. You can also use this tool to reduce tire pressure with the air release bottom.
What Sets it Apart
The Topeak SmartGauge is unique because it’s not made like other digital tire pressure gauges. Most digital tire pressure gauges on the market have a similar look and shape. While they’re designed well, Topeak went the extra mile to create a product that outperforms the competition.
Things to Consider
Tire pressure gauges are typically budget-friendly items. Unfortunately, this one isn’t. Compared to other products, the cost is higher. This is because there are premium features, and it lasts longer, but some people don’t need premium tire pressure gauges. Plus, it doesn’t come with a light to illuminate dark areas.
Suppose you’re shopping for a more affordable product, but like the digital style, the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is a great alternative. It’s more budget-friendly and includes a light.
Who It’s For
The Topeak SmartGauge is best suited for people with passenger cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. For these vehicles, it’s one of the best tire pressure gauges money can buy. Still, it’s not ideal for heavy-duty applications, and it’s best suited for motorcycles and bicycles.

Pros
Wide PSI range between 0-250
Displays PSI and bar
The smart-head rotates up to 360 degrees
Comfortable handle

Cons
Expensive
No light on the nozzle

3. Best Budget Pick: EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is one of the most affordable digital tire pressure gauges, which is why we love it. For the cost of a stick-style tool, you can have a digital one instead.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0-150 PSI
Heads: 1
The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is a simple digital tire pressure gauge that gets the job done. The LCD screen gives you an accurate reading and turns itself off in thirty seconds to conserve battery life. The screen also offers readings in PSI, bar, kPa, and Kg/cm2. This tire pressure gauge also features a comfortable ergonomic handle and nozzle light to help you see what you’re doing at night.
What Sets it Apart
The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is unique because of the price. Most digital tire pressure gauges cost more than stick-style tools but not this one. The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is in a similar price bracket as most high-quality stick-style products. Plus, it performs as well as many products sold for more.
Things to Consider
The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge has some durability issues. While the cost is low, you get what you pay for. Compared to other digital tire pressure gauges, the battery life is shorter, and the construction is flimsy. Sure, the price is low, but a premium product like the Topeak-SmartGauge is a better option for long-term use.
Who It’s For
The EPAuto Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is an excellent choice for people that don’t need to use a tire pressure gauge often. If you live in a location that doesn’t have a lot of weather variation, this tool is a great choice. It doesn’t last as long as other devices, but if you are only using it once in a while, you can save some money with this simple tool.

Pros
Easy to read LCD screen
Lighted nozzle
Manual and automatic shutoff

Cons
Short battery life
Less durable than other digital tire pressure gauges

4. Best for Night Time: TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge

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Why we like it: We love the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge because it’s a simple digital tool that doesn’t cost a fortune. Plus, while the price is low, it performs as well as competitors.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0-100
Heads: 1
The TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge is a reliable tool. It comes with everything you need right out of the box, including the batteries that last for an average of 18 months. The LCD screen is simple to read and delivers an accurate reading moments after using the tool. Furthermore, there is a blue light next to the head that illuminates the area you’re working on.
This product also gives you a lot of options. It provides accurate readings for PSI, bar, kPa, and kg/cm2. Bar is 0-7, kPa is 0-700 and kg/cm2 is 0-7. For this reason, the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge is useful for most automotive applications, including larger vehicles and agricultural equipment
What Sets it Apart
What sets this product apart is its ability to perform as well as high-end products. It comes with everything you could want in a tire pressure gauge but doesn’t cost a fortune.
Things to Consider
While the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge performs like a high-end digital product, it’s not made like one. Upon taking the product apart to change the batteries, shoppers have noticed that the construction is flimsy at best. While it works like a professional tool, it doesn’t have the same lifespan as one. If you’re looking for a similar product that’s more durable, the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
The TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge is an excellent choice for anyone that needs a digital tire pressure gauge for occasional use. While it can be used often, the battery and lifespan of the product are improved if it’s not used as frequently. For someone that needs to check their tire pressure a handful of times each year, this product is perfect.

Pros
Well-lit LCD screen
Ergonomic handle
Batteries included
Four different measurement options

Cons
Not as durable as a high-end digital tire pressure gauge

5. Best Dial Gauge: TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: We love the TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge because it’s one of the most straightforward products to use. You don’t need any batteries, hoses, or select settings. Simply connect it to your tire, and you’re ready to go.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Dial
PSI: 0-60
Heads: 1
The TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge is a simple dial-style product. The brass head is on a 45° angle, giving you plenty of room to work with. There’s a pressure release system to remove air from tires, and it’s comfortable to hold. The dial is covered with rubber grooves that keep it from slipping out of your hand. While the product is compact, it’s efficient. It’s accurate to +/- 2%, even without a hose.
What Sets it Apart
Most dial-based tire pressure gauges use a hose, but TireTek went a different route. This was a great move because the air has a more direct path to the dial, which increases accuracy. Plus, without the hose, TireTek can keep the cost of the product lower than most dial-based products.
Things to Consider
The TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge works well, but something is missing. Most dial tire pressure gauges come with glow in the dark dials, which help you see in the dark. Unfortunately, this product is only useful if you have the appropriate lighting. If you need a product with similar accuracy and a glow in the dark dial, the JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
The TireTek Tire Pressure Gauge is the perfect choice for someone who needs a simple and accurate tire pressure gauge, especially if you don’t want to deal with any complications. You don’t need to worry about any hoses or batteries because it’s as easy to use as most stick-style tire pressure gauges. While it’s less useful for heavy-duty applications, anyone with a passenger vehicle will benefit from this too.

Pros
Brass material
Rubber grooves improve grip
Accurate to +/- 2%
The dial is easy to read

Cons
Not suitable for heavy-duty applications
The lack of hose makes it uncomfortable to hold in some situations

6. Best Heavy-Duty: AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: We love the AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge because it’s one of the best products for heavy-duty applications.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Digital
PSI: 0- 230
Heads: 2
The AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is one of the few heavy-duty tire pressure gauges you can find. It has two stainless steel heads that fit traditional passenger vehicles and heavy-duty vehicles like RVs. The measurement is displayed on a backlit LCD screen, and the handle is ergonomic. It also features a flashlight.
What Sets it Apart
The AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is unique for a few reasons. First and foremost, it runs on AAA batteries, which are more accessible than watch batteries to replace. Secondly, it comes with two heads, one of which fits in heavy-duty tires.
Things to Consider
The AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge is excellent, but it’s not for everyone. If you own a passenger car or motorcycle, you might want to consider an alternative like the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge. It’s made by the same company but works better for passenger cars and motorcycles.
Who It’s For
If you have an RV or a different heavy truck, you should consider this tire pressure gauge. While other products can work, the heavy-duty design and two heads on this product do a much better job.

Pros
Comes with two heads
Suitable for heavy-duty vehicles
Powered by AAA batteries
Comes with a flashlight
Comfortable, ergonomic handle

Cons
Best suited for heavy-duty applications
Larger and more difficult to store than compact products

7. Easiest to Read: Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: The Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge is an affordable dial tire pressure gauge that just works.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Dial
PSI: 0-100
Heads: 1
The Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge is one of the best dial-based products available. The dial gives an accurate reading, and the text is large enough for anyone to read. While the product is simple to use, it’s also durable. It’s made with brass parts and features a braided hose with a 360° swivel. The swivel helps the valve stem remain connected to the tool, which prevents air leaks.
What Sets it Apart
The Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge is unique because of the hose. It’s one of the more flexible hoses you can find but what makes it better than similar products is the sealing. Tire pressure gauges have issues with hoses blowing out after frequent use, but this product is proven to last, hose, and all.
Things to Consider
While this tire pressure gauge performs as well as the next one, the PSI range is limited. While 100 PSI is excellent for a dial-based product, there are alternatives with a better range. For example, the Topeak-SmartGauge has a range between 0-250.
Who It’s For
Vondior is an excellent company that takes pride in its work. This product is no exception, and it’s a superb dial tire pressure gauge to consider. Still, it’s best suited for people that drive passenger cars, light trucks, and motorcycles. While it works for larger vehicles, the low PSI range is restricting.

Pros
Glow in the dark dial
360° swivel and durable valve stem prevents air leaks
Braided hose
Easy to read

Cons
The durability is questionable
Best suited for motorcycles and bicycles

8. Best High-Performance: JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge

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Why we like it: The JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge is excellent because it’s accurate. With an accuracy rating of plus or minus 1.5%, it’s one of the most accurate tire pressure gauges available.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Dial
PSI: 0-100 PSI
Heads: 1
The JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge is an above-average tool. It comes with a ten-inch hose that gives you plenty of wiggle room, and the dial is encased in rubber to improve your grip. Everything on the dial glows in the dark, and the two-inch needle makes it easy to read. This tire pressure gauge also comes with a 360° swivel to prevent leaks and a 45° extended tip. All of the metal parts are also made with brass, which is more durable than most types of steel and plastic.
What Sets it Apart
The JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge offers accuracy that’s tough to compete with. Most tire pressure gauges are accurate by plus or minus five PSI. That’s not terrible, but this product is accurate by plus or minus 1.5%. With this tool, you get a measurement that’s 3.5% more accurate than most of the competition. Furthermore, ANSI has certified this product.
Things to Consider
The JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge is not perfect. The biggest flaw is the hose. While it’s durable, the best tire pressure hoses are braided. A braided hose uses wire that’s woven around the hose. Twisting wire around the hose bolsters its strength and integrity, plus it prevents kinks.
If you love everything about this product but prefer a braided hose, the Rhino USA Heavy Duty Tire Pressure Gauge is a great alternative. Many of the features are the same, but it comes with a braided hose.
Who It’s For
If you live in an area with many seasons and dramatic temperature changes, this tire pressure gauge is the right fit. The amount of pressure your tires need varies based on the conditions they’re operating in. In winter months, you need to make sure you have an accurate reading for performance and traction. With a PSI rating within plus or minus 1.5%, this tool is as precise as they come.

Pros
Accurate to plus or minus 1.5%
Glow in the dark dial
Large text that’s easy to read
Brass material
360° swivel and 45° head
Rubber casing for a comfortable grip

Cons
Difficult to store in one piece
The hose can be shorter

9. Best Two-Pack: AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge (2 Pack)

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Why we like it: We like the AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge because of the value. Getting two products for the price of one is something we love to see.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Stick
PSI: 10-75
Heads: 1
The AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge is simple, budget-friendly, and efficient in most situations. The package comes with two tools, made from premium stainless steel. The devices feature a four-sided pressure indicator, which displays the PSI in easy-to-read digits. Furthermore, this product also offers readings for PSI, kPa, and bar. The head fits most tires, excluding heavy trucks, and there is a pressure release valve.
What Sets it Apart
The AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge is unique because you get two products for the price of one. There are also other packages, with the largest one offering five tools. While the amount of devices you get for the value is excellent, what sets this product apart on its own is the thick valve stem connector. Unlike similar products, there are almost no air leaks.
Things to Consider
A two-pack is excellent, but there is a reason the cost is low. Compared to a product like the Milton S-920, the design is less durable. Stainless steel is excellent, but machined parts and brass are superior.
Who It’s For
The AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge is an excellent choice for anyone that works with these tools frequently. For example, if you work in an automotive environment, keeping plenty of tire pressure gauges around is handy. Plus, for the value, getting two or more products is better than one.

Pros
Comes with 2 or 5 tools
Thick valve stem for fewer air leaks
Pressure release valve to reduce air pressure
Readings for bar, PSI, and kPa

Cons
Not as durable as a machined stick tire pressure gauge

10. Best Stick-Style Gauge: Milton S-920

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Why we like it: If you’re looking for a no-frills tire pressure gauge that does not require battery power, this is one of your best choices.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Stick
PSI: 10-70
Heads: 1
The Milton S-920 is a great, well-made, pencil tire pressure gauge. The head is designed to fit on vehicles with a tire nozzle of 1/16″. For most passenger cars, motorcycles, and bikes, the head size is a perfect fit. The PSI range is also high enough for low and high-pressure tires, making it well-rounded. Also, while the product is small, the stick with the PSI measurement is easy to read.
What Sets it Apart
The Milton S-920 is unique because of its machined parts. Many of Milton’s competitors use standard features, which come from molds. The process of machining parts is complicated and costly, but it produces a durable tool. Machining means that the device is designed with precision in all areas.
Things to Consider
This product works well for the design. As a traditional pencil-style tool, it works, but it lacks the advanced features that dial and digital products. While this is fine for some, it’s a hindrance for others. Suppose you need a more advanced tool, the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge. It’s in the same price range but offers additional features.
Who It’s For
The Milton S-920 is an excellent choice for anyone that needs a traditional and straightforward tire pressure gauge. You don’t need to worry about batteries, dials, or any complicated features. While you’ll miss out on things like an LCD screen, you gain reliability in almost any situation. Overall, it’s a great tool to keep in your car.

Pros
Made with machined parts
Reliable in all conditions
Fits in your pocket

Cons
No flashy features

Everything You Need to Know About Tire Pressure Gauges

Tire pressure gauges are specific products, but there is more than meets the eye. Some products won’t cut it for particular applications or vehicles, so you must have the right tool for the job. To help you narrow down your options, we’ll take you through a few shopping tips.
Shopping Based on Your Vehicle
The best way to determine which tire pressure you need is to consider the vehicle you drive or operate. There are many vehicle classes, but most cars have the same valve, excluding some bicycles and heavy trucks. So, we’re going to take you through a handful of vehicle types and suggest the best tire pressure gauges for that vehicle.
Large Trucks and Agricultural Equipment
We’ll start with large trucks and agricultural equipment. If you drive a large truck, like an RV, you’ll need a tire pressure gauge that handles high pressure. Furthermore, you’ll need a tire pressure gauge with more than one head size. Unfortunately, as tires get larger, the valve you put air in changes in size. So, for larger vehicles, we recommend a product like the AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge.
The AstroAI Heavy Duty Digital Tire Pressure Gauge comes with a handful of unique features that make it work for larger vehicles. It has two different head sizes, so you can still use it for passenger cars and bicycles.
Light Trucks and Passenger Cars
If you have a light truck or passenger car, we have good news for you; you have many options. Passenger cars and light trucks have standard tire valves, so you don’t need to worry about needing more than one head. Plus, the PSI rating is typically between 10-60, which is standard for most products.
Still, we recommend the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge for passenger cars because it’s affordable and straightforward. It fits right in your glove box, works in the dark, and gives you an accurate reading.
If you don’t need anything fancy and prefer to keep a small tool at home, and in your car, the AstroAI Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge is a great choice. You can get a pack of two or five, and they’re simple to use.
Motorcycles and Bicycles
Motorcycles and bicycles are where things get tricky. There are a lot of different tire types and valve sizes, so you need to shop carefully. Plus, the angles you’ll need to fit the tool into can pose a problem for larger tire pressure gauges.
For this reason, we recommend the Topeak SmartGauge. While it works for most vehicles, heavy trucks aside, the PSI range and 360° rotating head make it perfect for motorcycles and bicycles.
How to Check Your Tire Pressure (Tips for Using Tire Pressure Gauges)
Having a tire pressure gauge is a great way to start but using one isn’t always easy. Some products are more complicated than others, which can leave you frustrated if you’re not using it properly.
How to Determine Your Vehicle’s Prime Tire Pressure
Getting a PSI reading is excellent, but if you don’t know what your tire pressure should be, it won’t be of much use. To determine how much pressure your tire needs, check the driver’s side door (for cars) and the owner’s manual (for motorcycles). There will be a few ratings listed, which change based on the temperature.
Stick
The stick tire pressure gauge is the most straightforward tool you can use. For a product like the Milton S-920, simply connect the head of the device to your tire’s valve. Once the tool is connected, a stick at the bottom will shoot out from the handle of the tool. The number closest to the handle is the PSI rating. To reset the device, push the stick back into the handle and repeat the process.
Digital
Digital tire pressure gauges are more complex than stick tire pressure gauges, but the concept is similar. The first step is turning the device on. Most products, like the TEKTON Digital Tire Gauge, have a button next to the LCD screen. Once the device is on, simply connect the nozzle to the valve and make sure you don’t hear any air hissing out.
The good news about digital tire pressure gauges is that they give you a precise reading that’s simple to see. Simply wait until the reading is displayed on the screen and disconnect the nozzle. Also, most products will turn off on their own after you use it.
Dial
Dial tire pressure gauges, like the JACO Elite Tire Pressure Gauge, seem complicated, but they’re easy to use. If the product comes with a hose, simply connect the hose to your tire’s valve. If it doesn’t have a hose, you can connect the head of the tool directly to the tire nozzle.
Once the tool is connected, you’ll notice that the needle will move. Wait until the needle stops moving and take a look at the number it lands on. That’s your PSI rating. You should also know that on most dial tire pressure gauges, you can remove the hose to avoid kinks and get more accurate readings.
Looking for New Tires?
We have you covered! Make sure to check out our manufacturer-specific tire guides by clicking here.
Tire Pressure Gauge FAQ

What Should My Tire Pressure Be?
If you can’t find the information for your vehicle, most modern cars recommend a PSI between 32 and 35 for the winter months. Still, this is a specific rating for each car, so you should always consult your owner’s manual for tire pressure-related questions.
If you need a better way to inflate your tires, make sure to read the rundown of our favorite tire inflators for your garage.
Can I Add More PSI than Recommended?
It might seem like a great idea to get some extra pressure in your tires, but this isn’t the case. If you go over the recommended air pressure, you risk blowing out on the road or popping your tire. If the pressure build-up is too high, you can damage the tire’s tube, which holds the air. Replacing one of those is not cheap.
Do All Tires Have the Same Valve/Nozzle?
Unfortunately, some tires don’t have the same nozzle or valve. The good news is that most tires on passenger cars do, so you don’t need to worry. The only time you’ll need a unique tire pressure gauge is if you have a motorcycle or heavy-duty vehicle. Plus, most motorcycles have the same valve as passenger cars anyway.
Final Words
Tire pressure gauges are a must-have tool. If you’ve noticed that your fuel mileage has decreased or your tire looks a little empty, it’s time to consider a tire pressure gauge. You’ll be able to get an accurate measurement of your tire’s PSI so that you can add or remove air accordingly.
Luckily, tire pressure gauges are affordable items. Even the best tire pressure gauges won’t cost too much, so feel free to experiment with a few tools until you find one that you’re comfortable with! More

Traveling in an RV is a statement all on its own. It’s a way to tell yourself and others that it’s not just about the destination but about the journey. But you won’t enjoy the journey very much if you’re hot and sweaty through most of it. That’s why it’s so important to have a dependable air conditioner installed in your recreational vehicle.
We’ve put together this guide to cover everything that you need to know about air conditioning for your RV. Before getting to our recommendations of the best products, let’s find out what you need to know before making that decision for yourself.

What You Need to Know Before Buying an RV Air Conditioner
There are a few pieces of information that you need to keep in mind when buying a new RV air conditioner.
Types of RV Air Conditioners
There are three main types of RV air conditioners to choose from: rooftop, window and portable.
Rooftop RV Air Conditioners
The most commonly used RV air conditioners are rooftop-mounted ones. They are the most powerful type of ACs on average. Another benefit they offer is that they sit on the roof, which means that you save space within your RV.
There are two ways in which rooftop RV air conditioners are powered. Some may have a control panel that’s also mounted on the ceiling. Others will have a wire that connects the AC to the thermostat in your vehicle.
The Dometic Brisk II is a great rooftop RV air conditioner.
There are two types of rooftop RV air conditioners. Non-ducted RV ACs blow air out of their own body. Ducted rooftop ACs, as you’ve probably guessed by now, are connected to the air ducts in your RV. This ensures an even distribution of air throughout the vehicle. The Dometic Penguin II is a great ducted RV air conditioner.
Window RV Air Conditioners
Just like rooftop RV air conditioners, window ACs conserve space within your RV. They will, however, block the view you have from one of your windows because that’s where they sit and pull warm air out of your recreational vehicle.
The challenge with finding a good window RV air conditioner is getting one that’s the right size. Different RVs have windows that are of different sizes. You will have to find an AC that matches the dimensions of your window to make it work.
Another drawback of using this type of RV air conditioner is that they block your window. So make sure that you have other ways to get natural light into your RV before buying one.
The Home Labs HME020003N is a product to consider if you’re looking for a window-mounted RV air conditioner.
Portable RV Air Conditioners
Let’s say you don’t want to block light coming through your window and don’t want to lug a big AC up onto your RV’s roof. You don’t have to consign yourself to warm, sweaty days in your RV. You can, instead, use a portable air conditioner to cool your vehicle.
Portable RV air conditioners are great because the installation process is, well, barely a process at all — especially compared to the other kinds of RV ACs. An AC like the SereneLife SLACHT108 can be brought into your RV and connected to the power for quick cooling.
Portable RV air conditioners are usually not as powerful as their roof- and window-mounted counterparts. They also take up space on the floor, which is an important factor to take into consideration.
RV Air Conditioner Size and Weight
Another factor to take into account is the size and weight of the air conditioner you’re purchasing. A low-profile RV air conditioner like the Dometic Penguin II is designed to be aerodynamic and creates less drag as a result.
The weights of RV air conditioners run the gamut. Rooftop ACs, as mentioned earlier, tend to be on the heavier side. There are, however, lighter RV ACs out there. The Frigidaire White Energy Star and Black + Decker BPACT10WT are two great lightweight RV air conditioners.
How many BTUs Do you Need?
The most important metric that determines your choice will be what’s expressed as British Thermal Units, or BTU for short. This is a measure of how well an AC can cool a particular space. Most RVs measure between 200 and 300 ft, so even the smallest option can adequately cool your average RV.
Choosing the capacity of your RV air conditioner is not an exact science. If you own a supersized RV, you will want an air conditioner that has more than 13,500 BTU, like the Dometic Brisk II or Airxcel Mach 15. These can easily cool RVs up to 1,000 square feet in size.
If you own a smaller RV, your BTU requirements are also smaller. RVs up to 500 square feet in size can use air conditioners with a capacity of between 8,000 and 12,000 BTU. The Black + Decker BPACT10WT is an air conditioner that falls in that range.
Those who own standard-sized RVs, up to 300 square feet in size, can make do with an air conditioner that’s between 5,000 and 7,000 BTU. The Frigidaire White Energy Star is a great 5,000 BTU RV air conditioner.
With these key concepts in mind, let’s get into our list of great RV air conditioners that can keep you cool as you pile the summer road.

Top 10 Best RV Air Conditioners 2020
1. Best Overall RV Air Conditioner: Dometic Brisk

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Why we like it: The Dometic Brisk II is a powerful RV air conditioner that can be used for both heating and cooling.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 15,000 BTU
Installation type: Rooftop (ducted/non-ducted)
Weight: 74 pounds
Dimensions: 29.18 x 27.23 x 12.7 inches
The Dometic Brisk II covers almost every base there is when it comes to RV air conditioners.
The first question that springs to mind about a new air conditioner unit is whether it is easy to install. The Dometic Brisk II weighs 74 pounds, so you may need a step ladder and a helping hand to get it onto your RV. But once you’ve done that, it is just a 30-minute job to get it up and running.
Once the unit is atop the RV, start by bolting down the AC by lining it up with the holes on the vehicle. You can then attach the wires to get the unit powered and running. It’s really that simple.
With less powerful AC units, it can be hard to get the temperature in your vehicle under 80 degrees if it’s 95+ degrees outside. This RV air conditioner, however, can maintain temperatures in the low 70s even on very hot days.
Other times of the year, you may need an AC that provides heating. The Dometic Brisk II comes with a heat pump, so you can also use it to heat your RV, making it very versatile.
The Dometic Brisk II does, however, have a few minor shortcomings. Because of its impressive output, the Dometic Brisk II can be a little loud at times. Fencing off the air conditioner can help dampen some of the noise if it gets too annoying.
Although a great overall RV air conditioner, the Dometic Brisk II is not the most low-profile rooftop AC. If that’s what you’re looking for, then the Dometic Penguin II is a more appropriate product.

Pros
Easy to install
Comes with a heat pump
Maintains cool temperatures easily

Cons
Can be loud
High-profile

2. Best Budget RV Air Conditioner: Frigidaire White Energy Star

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Why we like it: The Frigidaire White Energy Star is low on energy requirements and is perfect for single-room cooling.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
BTU: 5,000 BTU
Installation type: Window
Weight: 49.2 pounds
Dimensions: 17.75 x 17 x 14.75 inches
Sometimes, all you need is an air conditioner that can cool one room of your RV well – or you just have a small RV. If that’s what you’re looking for, then the Frigidaire White Energy Star is your best bet. Don’t let this product’s seemingly low 5,000 BTU rating fool you. It’s meant to be used for rooms up to 150 square feet in size. This makes it perfect for single rooms in your RV.
An added benefit of the Frigidaire White Energy Star’s modest aspirations is its energy efficiency. The product’s energy efficiency ratio (the ratio between cooling capacity in BTU to its input wattage) is 11.1. An EER value of 12 is considered very good for AC units, so this Frigidaire unit does well on that scale.
The Frigidaire White Energy Star is a window-mounted air conditioner. It comes with a window mounting kit so that you can go about installing it straight away.
This AC is perfect for RV owners looking to cool rooms of their vehicle on a budget. It consumes a low amount of energy and is relatively quiet as a result. This is the kind of product you’ll love if you own a smaller RV.
Portable ACs are also a great way to cool small rooms. The Black + Decker BPACT10WT is the most portable RV air conditioner on the market.

Pros
Affordable
Low energy requirements
Relatively quiet
Comes with window-mounting kit

Cons
Can be used to cool only one room

3. Best Premium RV Air Conditioner: Airxcel Mach 15

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Why we like it: This RV air conditioner boasts impressive performance and the ability to sustain that performance in high temperatures over long periods.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
BTU: 15,000 BTU
Installation type: Rooftop (ducted/non-ducted)
Weight: 90 pounds
Dimensions: 42.00 x 28.00 x 16.00 inches
The real test of an RV air conditioner is whether it can keep you cool through searing temperatures outside. Let’s say you’re dealing with 110-degree dry heat in Arizona, for example. The Airxcel Mach 15 is the kind of air conditioner that can keep your RV cool in those conditions without signs of being overworked. It can take inside temperatures from 90 degrees to 50 degrees in as little as 10 minutes.
Getting this RV air conditioner up and running is an easy process. The unit is designed for the 14×14 AC vent, which is standard, and the amount of wiring work required to kick it into action is minimal. It’s the kind of job most RV owners can do on their own. You will, however, need help getting the unit up onto your RV because of its weight.
Under the hood, the Airxcel Mach 15 uses a combination of gas-flux joints and copper tubing. These combine with the condenser coils to create a system that can cool an RV for long hours in warm conditions. Since it is capable of high cooling output, this AC works best in a ducted setup. However, it can also be used as a non-ducted AC by using a ceiling assembly kit.

Pros
Powerful cooling capabilities
Easy install
Sustained performance

Cons
Heavy, you will need help hoisting it onto your RV
Pricey

4. Most Portable RV Air Conditioner: Black + Decker BPACT10WT

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Why we like it: The Black + Decker BPACT10WT is an affordable portable RV air conditioner with multiple modes of use.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 10,000 BTU
Installation type: Portable
Weight: 52.9 pounds
Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.5 x 26 inches
Portable air conditioners offer benefits that you can’t get with an AC that’s mounted in your window or roof. Firstly, they consume less energy than larger mounted units. They can also be moved around easily, which is something you can’t do with a mounted unit. The Black + Decker BPACT10WT offers these benefits in a product that performs supremely well.
This portable RV air conditioner comes in a compact body that can generate 10,000 BTU. This means that it is best suited for areas 250 square feet or under, which translates to RVs that are 31 feet in size. If you own an RV that falls within that size, you can’t do better than the Black + Decker BPACT10WT. If you need a portable RV air conditioner that is slightly more feature-rich and don’t mind some additional weight, the SereneLife SLACHT108 is a good choice.
This RV air conditioner offers three different modes that you can run it on. The first is the standard cool setting, for when you want to use it as an AC. On cooler days, you can switch to the fan setting just to keep the air flowing. It also offers a third dehumidifier mode. You can use this AC’s dehumidifying feature without having to deal with filling and emptying water containers. A hose adapter that comes with the product releases excess water out the window.

Pros
Easily portable
Compact body
Multimode use

Cons
Not fit for areas larger than 250 square feet

5. SereneLife SLACHT108

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Why we like it: The SereneLife SLACHT108 is one of the most feature-rich portable RV air conditioners on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 10,000 BTU
Installation type: Portable
Weight: 62.6 pounds
Dimensions: 17. 4 x 13. 4 x 32. 1 inches
RV owners usually equate portable air conditioners with compromising on certain kinds of features. And that’s true to some extent; you can’t expect the same cooling capacity as other kinds. However, as the SereneLife SLACHT108 shows, you can have your cake and eat it too with the right portable RV air conditioner.
Installing this AC is a quick process. Everything you need to get that done comes out of the box. This unit doesn’t take too much space, which is a boon for anyone who owns an RV.
Once you have it set up, there are a lot of features you can play around with. The SereneLife SLACHT108 has four operating modes: cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and a fan mode. You can use the remote control to set the mode as well as play around with the fan speed, temperature, and other things.
A major drawback with the SereneLife SLACHT108 is that it can be loud: very loud. This article shows you a few ways you can quiet down a loud RV air conditioner.

Pros
Multi-mode operation
Can be controlled remotely
Easy to install

Cons
Can be loud

6. Airxcel Mach 3

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Why we like it: The Airxcel Mach 3 is easy to install and can cool an entire RV all on its own.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 13,500 BTU
Installation type: Rooftop
Weight: 79.5 pounds
Dimensions: 41 x 28 x 16 inches
Let’s say it’s a hot day out there. The mercury touches 90 degrees, which means that it’s definitely time to get your RV air conditioner up and running. The Airxcel Mach 3 is the kind of AC that can have the temperature inside your RV at about 70 degrees within 25 minutes. That’s the kind of cooling power you’re grateful for when it’s a hot day in the RV.
The hardest part about installing this RV air conditioner is getting it up on top of your RV. If you can get that done, you’re faced with a simple installation process. The 1-inch rubber seals that come with the unit have arrows that show you exactly how far to tighten them. After securing the AC to the RV, it’s very easy to plug in and power it up. The whole process takes only about an hour.
The Airxcel Mach 3 works dependably for long periods of time. It is built well and you can expect to get multiple years of use from it. You may have a difficult time telling the difference between the different fan modes of the AC. But it works like a charm when you switch to the cooling mode.

Pros
Easy to install
Quick cooling
Durable

Cons
Different levels in the fan mode may not always feel very different

7. Best Low-Profile Rooftop RV Air Conditioner: Dometic Penguin II

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Why we like it: The Dometic Penguin II has a sleek design that reduces wind drag and minimizes fuel consumption.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 13,500 BTU
Installation type: Rooftop (ducted/non-ducted)
Weight: 118 pounds
Dimensions: 42 x 30 x 12 inches
Most high-capacity RV air conditioners can be conspicuous and resource-intensive. And that’s why low-profile rooftop ACs like the Dometic Penguin II stand out. This is an AC that’s designed to maintain a low profile, which has several benefits.
The first big benefit of a low-profile rooftop air conditioner is that it reduces wind drag. The Dometic Penguin II sits low on your RV roof so that the entire vehicle is more aerodynamic. This is helpful for when you want to zip around in your RV and reduces fuel consumption over the long run.
The Dometic Penguin II does all of that without falling short in the performance department. It cranks out 13,500 BTU, which is sufficient capacity for RVs sized about 675 square feet – enough for almost all RVs on the market.
The one drawback with the Dometic Penguin II is that it doesn’t always maintain a low profile when it comes to the amount of noise it produces. But it’s never so loud that it is disruptive to your overall RV experience.

Pros
Aerodynamic design
Enhanced fuel usage
Strong performance

Cons
Can be loud at times

8. Best Window-Mounted RV Air Conditioner: Home Labs HME020003N

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Why we like it: The Home Labs HME020003N is a sturdily built air conditioner that will fit in most RV windows.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 5,000
Installation type: Window
Weight: 36.5 pounds
Dimensions: 16 x 15.4 x 12 inches
The Home Labs HME020003N is built to be compact so that it can sit snugly in RV window units. The product has dimensions of 16 x 15.4 x 12 inches. The small size means that this air conditioner will fit in most windows unless you have extremely tiny windows in your RV.
Although this AC is small, it is by no means a flimsy product. The body is built using materials that feel premium. The buttons are sturdy and don’t feel like you’ll damage them quickly.
The Home Labs HME020003N is perfect for cooling small rooms. The 5,000 BTU it produces can quickly take a 150 square foot-sized room from warm to cold in a hurry. For larger spaces, however, you will need an air conditioner with a higher capacity.
This RV air conditioner produces some white noise, but isn’t what you’d consider loud. You can have the AC running and hear your TV without cranking the volume up to unreasonable levels. So this one is good for your RV and for your ears.

Pros
Compatible with most RVs
High-quality build
Not overly noisy

Cons
Not suitable for spaces above 150 square feet

9. Best RV Air Conditioner Air Distribution Box: Dometic 3314851

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Why we like it: The Dometic 3314851 is a great accessory to distribute air from a non-ducted RV air conditioner – just keep in mind it won’t do the job by itself.
Editor’s Rating:

At a glance:
Installation type: Rooftop attachment
Weight: 10 pounds
Dimensions: 23 x 21 x 2 inches
This one isn’t an RV air conditioner on its own but performs an important function as an AC accessory. The Dometic 3314851 is an air distribution box, which means that it distributes air channeled into it. It’s a great product to have when you have to use a non-ducted AC but want to circulate the air from it.
The Dometic 3314851 does that by first connecting to your existing rooftop air conditioner. If you have a roof that’s thicker than 4 inches, you will need to purchase the Dometic Bolt Kit to make the installation happen. This product works well with high-capacity ACs, such as ones with a rating of 15,000 BTU.
Once connected to the rooftop AC, the Dometic 3314851 distributes air evenly across your RV. The Dometic 3314851 also acts as a control unit for your AC.

Pros
Distributes air from non-ducted ACs
Can handle high-capacity air conditioners
Doubles up as a control unit

Cons
Requires additional accessory for roofs thicker than 4 inches
Not a full AC unit

10. Best Non-ducted RV Air Conditioner: Atwood 15026

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Why we like it: The Atwood 15026 is a non-ducted RV air conditioner that comes with a remote, making it easy to control
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
BTU: 15,000
Installation type: Rooftop
Weight: 88 pounds
Dimensions: 40 x 28 x 15 inches
We saw that products like the Dometic Penguin II and Airxcel Mach 15 can be used in both ducted and non-ducted setups. The Atwood 15026 is the first one on our list that works exclusively as a non-ducted RV air conditioner. Since it works only as a non-ducted AC, it’s a lot easier to set up in that environment.
This RV air conditioner has a capacity of 15,000 BTU, which means that it is more than sufficient to cool large spaces. But cooling is not the only thing it does. The heat pump that it comes with can be used to heat your RV if you’re suddenly faced with a cold day. That said, the heat pump can run into problems at lower temperatures. You may not get the heating levels you want at temperatures under 42 degrees.
Perhaps the best part about using the Atwood 15026 is that it comes with a remote. That means that you can control the AC without having to get up to change the temperature. Admit it: an AC that indulges your laziness is every RV owner’s dream.
Installing the Atwood 15026 couldn’t be any easier. Once you have it in the AC slot, you can attach it using the 4-bolt bracket. The gaskets come attached to the product. After attaching the unit, you can connect ground, neutral, and hot wires to get it running.

Pros
Comes with a remote
High capacity
Easy to install

Cons
Heat pump is not always dependable

Everything You Need to Know About RV Air Conditioners
Most RV air conditioners last a fairly long time. Choosing the right product for your RV is half the battle. Here are some other things you will have to deal with when it comes to RV air conditioners.
How to Install an RV Air Conditioner
The exact steps that you will follow to install an RV air conditioner depend both on the RV that you own and the AC that you buy. The specifics that you need to follow will be mentioned in the instruction manual that will come with the product. Here are a few general pointers to keep in mind. Note that these are assuming you’re installing a rooftop AC.
Always Unplug the Power
Disconnect the power to your existing AC and turn off the switch powering it in your breaker box. You don’t want any surprises when you make contact with the AC or any wiring that connects to it.
Create a Slot for the AC
Take some time to decide where in the roof of your RV the AC will go. Make sure that there aren’t any lights or anything else in the way. Choose a spot that’s at least ten inches from each edge of the roof.
Once you’ve found a slot that checks all those boxes, it’s time to make a hole in the roof. This part can be scary so only proceed if you’re sure of your ability to work with metal roofing and power tools. Make sure to mark where the bolts need to go after making the hole.
Mount the AC
It’s finally time to get that AC up on your RV. We’ve seen that some RV air conditioners can be heavy, so you may need some help with this. Once you have the unit up on the roof, secure it using the mounting bolts, the location of which you marked in the previous step. Then step into your RV and install the bolts that go into the ceiling of the vehicle.
You can apply a sealant to the areas where the AC makes contact with the RV’s metal roof. This lends additional stability to the installation.
Wire It Up
The final step involves connecting the wires in the AC to the RV. You can match the color of the wires to do this correctly. Refer to the instruction manual if you have any issues knowing where each wire goes.
If you get this part right, you should be able to turn the power on and have your AC up and running.
How to Refill an RV Air Conditioner
There will be times when you’ll need to provide some juice to your RV air conditioner externally. This usually happens because refrigerant levels in the unit need to be replenished. Refer to your AC’s instruction manual to find out what kind of refrigerant the vehicle uses.
Once you have the refrigerant, head up to your AC’s roof along with wrenches of a few different sizes. You can use those to take the lid off the AC. Make sure to lift the lid carefully so that you don’t damage it.
The refrigerant gauge under the lid is what will tell you how much additional refrigerant your RV is thirsting for. Check the gauge and unscrew the port to refill the refrigerant.
You may be eager to get that lid back on at this point, but not so fast. First, power your RV back on and test your AC’s cooling to make sure that it’s working properly again. After confirming that, head back up and get the lid back on.
How to Clean and Maintain an RV Air Conditioner
Using an RV air conditioner for a long time requires regular maintenance. There isn’t really a one-size-fits-all checklist that all RV owners can use to make sure that they’re maintaining their vehicle the right way. There are, however, a few different parts of the AC that you should check regularly to ensure they’re in good condition.
Filters
Anything clogging the filters of your AC is sure to reduce the airflow through it. This can hamper the overall performance of the unit because clogged filters make the compressor work harder, leading to overheating. So check the filters regularly and make sure that they’re clean.
Evaporator
The evaporator is the part of the AC that captures excess heat and transfers it outside your RV. The coils of the evaporator are usually made of copper and the fins are made of aluminum.
You can clean the evaporator by taking the shroud off its top and taking apart the plenum. You can use a coil cleaner to do the cleaning.
Compressor
The compressor is another important component of RV air conditioners. You don’t need to check on these too regularly; maybe just once or twice a year. The main thing you’re trying to do here is to get rid of the debris that tends to collect on the body of the compressor.
The easiest way to do that is by using a spray cleaner. These will unsettle the debris that sits on the compressor. You can then use a shop vac to clean up all the loosened debris.
Frequently Asked Questions About RV Air Conditioners
How long do RV air conditioners last?
ACs from good brands, like the ones on this list, tend to last longer. We also just saw how it takes a fair amount of maintenance to keep your RV air conditioner running at optimal levels. If you get all of that right, you can expect your AC to last about five years on average.
How Much Does Installing an RV AC Cost?
Not everyone can install their RV air conditioner on their own, and that’s completely fine. If you need help installing a new AC, you can take it down to your shop. The price to install a new unit tends to be around $200-$300 on average.
How Do I Know When It’s Time for a New RV Air Conditioner?
If your AC isn’t working as you want it to, the first thing you need to do is check on a few components. First, check the fan motor to see if it’s working properly. You can use a multimeter to check if the motor is functioning like it should. If it is, move on to the compressor and check if it’s clean and working properly. Finally, check the refrigerant levels.
If both these parts seem fine and your refrigerant is topped up, and your AC is still not performing at its best, it may be time to consider a new AC unit.
The Cool Open Road
Travels that you undertake in an RV are meant to be carefree and relaxing. The best way to maintain that spirit of recreation is by choosing an air conditioner that can keep you feeling cool as you make your way down the open road.
We’ve covered the best of what’s out there and how you can choose which RV air conditioner is right for you. After making that choice, make sure to maintain the unit well so that you don’t have to think about another purchase for a while. And if you’re looking for ways to entertain yourself in your RV, check out our list of the best RV antennas. More

There’s nothing cheap about owning a car, and even the slightest of collisions can result in frustrating repair bills. Making minor repairs yourself is a great way to save money and using good-quality plastic glue to make those repairs might save you a lot more than you think.
The challenge is identifying which plastic glue is best for you, your vehicle, and the type of repair that you need to make. Remember that major repairs will require a lot more work than even the best plastic glues can accomplish. For smaller cracks and quick repairs though, glue can save both time and money.

Factors to Consider When Buying Plastic Glue for Cars
As well as being much easier to do yourself, using glue to make minor repairs to your car is significantly cheaper than alternative repair options like welding.
In particular, glue is ideal for fixing seams due to its flexibility and natural water-resistance. After all, car parts typically require a degree of movement and are frequently exposed to water, moisture, and humidity. But while plastic is an incredibly useful material, it can be very demanding for standard types of glue. Most glue types struggle to bond with plastics, and that can make car repairs much more challenging.
When you’re doing minor car repairs yourself (or even something major – like windshield repair), you need the best adhesives for the job. Here are the key factors to consider now you’ve decided to get your hands dirty with some plastic repair work.
Type
Glues that are suitable for fixing car plastics come in three main types. You’ll find each type within our product reviews, but for now, here’s a brief overview of your choices.
Gel: the most common – easy to apply and dries solid
Liquid: much more viscous, better suited for those with experience, but offers a hard seal once dry
Spray: covers a wide area in one go, very time-efficient for larger jobs
Quantity
If you have a big repair job to get done, then you’re going to need a larger bottle. It makes sense to buy smaller tubes for smaller tasks because glue can dry out quickly, and it can suddenly become very difficult to remove caps and start using your tube. That just leads to wasted time and money. Some glues are designed with this in mind and will be a good investment, no matter the size of your repair job.
Of course, you’ll also need to factor in shelf life. There’s no point keeping a tube of glue in your workspace (or your refrigerator) if it’s going to deteriorate to the point of not being useful when you need to make quick repairs.
Color
While some glues are clear and will remain so even after they have set, others have a more cloudy appearance, and others come in a black color. If the join you’re creating will be visible and you don’t want to reduce the value of your vehicle, then a clear glue will be the best option. If the join is going to be out of sight, then coloring will be less of an issue.
Applicator
We all know how messy glue can be, and that’s why you need to pay attention to the applicator. Even some of the best glues in the world have packaging problems and poorly designed nozzles, and the results can get very sticky indeed. Other glues will have a brush for smoother glue layers or for coating smaller parts. Our reviews detail all known issues with product applicators and packaging.
Pliability
The glue that holds the plastics in your car together needs to be as pliable as those plastics. If you use glue or adhesive that dries too solid, then it can more easily break if used on the plastic parts of your car that require flexibility. You need your glue to be able to move with the parts it is joined to without breaking the bond.
Pliability at the time of application is also dependent on the dry time of the glue. To learn more about the expected dry time needed when gluing car plastics, check out our section here on setting time.
Price
Plastic glues for cars come in a wide range of prices, but more expensive doesn’t always mean it’s the best choice for you. In many cases, you’ll find that a cheaper, more suitable glue will do the job you need it for. Don’t get stuck on price if you have a very clear idea of what your repair job is going to be. Look instead at the glue that is designed for the job.
With the above factors in mind, here is our top 10 list of the very best plastic glues for your car.

Top 10 Best Glues for Car Plastic
1. Best Overall Plastic Glue for Cars: E6000 230022 Medium Viscosity Adhesive

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Why we like it: An industrial-scale glue that will do your car repair job easily and will bond parts of your car together so strongly that you may never need a replacement.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 1
Size: 3.7 Fl Oz
Color: Semi-transparent
Incredible Bonds
This E6000 is one tough glue. It’s perfectly suited for making car repairs, and even big jobs will be made much easier and cheaper when you use this very affordable, incredibly tough adhesive. The best thing about this glue is that it’s an excellent all-rounder and is ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
This is a glue that will stick glass to glass and plastic to plastic, and that helps make it one of the best glues on the planet. For auto repairs, it’s hard to beat. It’s an amazing glue, and because it’s been designed to perform in industrial settings, it’s more than powerful enough for your car repairs.
Strong Odor
This is a glue that you must use in a ventilated space, although outdoors is even better. It’s incredibly strong-smelling and will give you a headache if you try to use it in a small room with no ventilation. Follow the instructions, and you’ll avoid that particular issue.
While an excellent glue, the E6000Auto/Industrial Adhesive does take some practice when it comes to application. It’s very easy to squeeze out more glue than you need, and you’ll find that even when you stop squeezing the tube, more glue will continue to release. Use your angles and try to pour out less than you need because this can be a very hard glue to remove if misapplied.
Size and Warnings
This is a big tube of glue, so you’re not going to run out for a while, no matter how badly damaged your car is. Make sure that you allow for drying time, with those projects that are left to set from between 24 and 48 hours more likely to stay stuck. It’s worth noting that this particular glue does come with a warning that says that it “contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer.”

Pros
Incredibly tough
Stays bonded despite temperature changes
Can be used to stick almost anything to anything
Large bottle

Cons
Strong, potentially headache-inducing odor
Tricky to apply without practice
Scary warnings

2. Best Premium Plastic Glue for Cars: Henkel-Loctite 1363589 Super Glue Ultra Gel Control

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Why we like it: Much cleaner and easier to use than liquid glues, this Super Glue gel is also tough enough to make car repairs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 4
Size: 4g each
Color: Transparent
Easy to Use Gel
Unlike the majority of plastic glues on this list, this Henkel-Loctite Super Glue is a gel, and that’s a major bonus point. That’s simply because it is so easy to apply and much easier than liquid glues, which are prone to making a mess. The glue itself is incredibly tough and durable, dries quickly, and will last for a long time no matter what kind of car repairs you’re carrying out.
Single-Use
The tip on this container is incredibly well-designed too, and it will only clog if you make the mistake of leaving it open. That means you can use it again and again, although the incredibly small container size is certainly more suitable for single-use jobs.
It’s not a bottle as such and is more like a tube of single-use glue, and the downside of that is that it can be a job to get every drop of gel out. You may need to practice your squeezing grip! However, the ease of application is the big selling point of this ultra-clear gel, and even beginners will have few problems when it comes to making their car repairs.
A Firm Favorite
This may not be the strongest glue on the market, but when it’s this easy to make repairs, it’s certainly deserving of its place in this list. Put simply, this is the type of glue that once you use it, it will be very likely to be a regular feature of your shopping basket.

Pros
Fast to dry
The firmer gel is less messy than liquid glues
Won’t dry out
Single-use tubes
Easy to control

Cons
Small container
Hard to get the last drops out
Not the toughest glue

3. Best All-Rounder: Gorilla Clear Glue

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Why we like it: Very durable glue designed for indoor and outdoor use that makes it ideal for car repairs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Liquid
Quantity: Available in 1-pack or 2-pack sizes
Size: 3.75 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
Gorilla Quality
One of the biggest names in glue, Gorilla has a great reputation and a global brand. This clear glue is one of the toughest you can buy, and it’s particularly well suited to car repairs and maintenance because it’s designed specifically for indoor and outdoor use.
However, although it is sold as water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof, like the Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant. So if you live in areas with high levels of rainfall, such as Seattle, Washington, or New York, then you should be wary of using this too much.
The Price Issue
On the plus side, this glue is great for car repairs, especially if you sand or roughen where you plan on joining your two pieces of material. Of course, price is an issue here, and Gorilla Clear Glue is one of the more expensive adhesives on this list, especially when you factor in how much you need to use for each job. That’s because you tend to need a lot more liquid with Gorilla glues, and this one is no exception.
If you don’t use enough, then the edges will dry, and you will assume that the bond is sealed together when it isn’t. Unfortunately, using too little of this glue will leave you having to clean it and start again because you will always need more than you think.
Drying Time
You’ll have to let this glue sit for longer than other glues, sometimes for up to 48hours. This is a good, high-quality glue that can be ideal for car repairs, but the cost and the value for money make it less appealing than many of the alternatives.

Pros
Great for hot and cold states
Incredibly reliable when used correctly
One of the toughest glues on sale

Cons
You have to use a lot
May not stand up to high levels of rainfall
Takes a long time to set

4. Best for Seams: Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue

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Why we like it: A runny glue that’s perfect for using along seams or for reinforcing large joins.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Liquid
Quantity: 1
Size: 40ml
Color: Transparent
Extra-Thin but Ultra-Strong
This is the best glue you can buy if you’re looking at long seams that need reinforcing on your car. It’s incredibly easy to use, thanks to its pointed applicator tip, which gives you maximum control over exactly where you want your glue to go. If you do make a mistake, this is an ultra-thin glue, so it’s not going to be a lot of hard work to clean off and start over.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that because this is classed as ultra-thin that it won’t be up to the task of car repair. Not only will this glue remove paint, which will make it easier to bond two plastics together, it will also flow easily into any cracks and grooves that you need it to.
The Benefits of Being Extra-Thin
The fluidity of this glue means it’s ideal for getting into seams and small spots. It runs more like a liquid than most of the other glues on this list, but it will make your joins very tough. It’s also very easy to apply, and the level of control that you get with the applicator tip makes it one of the easiest glues on sale for beginners, especially when mistakes can be rectified with very little work.
It does have a very strong odor, so you’re going to want to use it only in a well-ventilated space if you don’t want to live with the glue smell for several hours after use.
Perfect for Reinforcement
While this isn’t a glue for big jobs and large parts, it’s ideally designed to reinforce those bigger jobs and could be the deciding factor when it comes to keeping your car in one piece. Unfortunately, it is almost too clear, which can make it very challenging to visually check that you have applied it to the right place. If you’d prefer something that’s easily visible, the J-B Weld 50139 Plastic Bonder comes in black.

Pros
Incredibly easy to apply
Perfect for small repairs and reinforcing other repairs
Easy to fix gluing mistakes

Cons
Not strong enough for big jobs
Can be hard to see
Strong smell

5. Best Budget Plastic Glue for Cars: Scotch Super Glue Liquid

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Why we like it: The single-use, small bottles mean less waste, it’s easy to apply, and it doesn’t ooze after using it. Our favorite choice for small repairs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Liquid
Quantity: 4
Size: .07 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
No-Run Perfection
Scotch Super Glue is tough, durable, and versatile, and it’s also one of the least messy glues on the market. This small .07 oz bottle comes with a precision control applicator, and that means it’s incredibly easy to put your glue exactly where it has to go. This Scotch glue also comes with a no-run formula, although this isn’t always as effective as advertised.
The good news is that the applicator alone is brilliant enough to justify its inclusion on this list, and the precision and control that you get is second to none. Most other glues will always ‘ooze’ a little more than you need unless you are experienced, but you don’t get that here.
No Drying Out
It’s not just the applicator that’s good either, because the bottle is also designed to specifically prevent the glue in the container from drying out. Like the Henkel-Loctite Super Glue, this glue comes in single-use tubes, but you aren’t limited to that single-use because you can always put the cap back on the container and store it.
You get four in a package, so you can even have one in your garage, one in your car, and have two spares for other emergencies. So while the tubes are small, they have more than enough glue needed for quick and long-term repairs.
Incredible Value
This is the glue to look at if you’re only planning to make small repairs on your car, simply because larger jobs are going to need a lot more glue to get the job done. If you’re looking to get some larger repair work done, you may wish to check out the E6000 230022 Adhesive, which comes in a much larger size.
Still, when it’s this easy to use, Scotch Super Glue Liquid in this small container is exceptional value.

Pros
Unique precision control applicator
Incredibly easy to use
Less waste
Strong glue
Excellent value for money

Cons
Not a lot of glue in the container
The no-run formula can’t be relied on

6. Best for Big Jobs: J-B Weld 50139 Plastic Bonder

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Why we like it: For really big joins, this hard-drying adhesive does the jobs that other glues simply can’t match.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 2
Size: 0.85 Fl Oz
Color: Black
Hardy and Permanent Adhesive
This isn’t technically a glue and is classed as an ‘adhesive system,’ but it’s particularly well suited to car repairs. It’s fantastic when it comes to bonding carbon fiber composites, thermoplastics, and many different types of coated materials. This is a big leap from traditional glues, but that’s what makes it stand out.
You mix it so that it can be more easily shaped, and it will fill out even the oddest of spaces. It also won’t drip or run as it dries, which always means less risk of things going wrong.
Tricky to Prepare
This is certainly more complicated to use than a basic tube of glue, but it sets incredibly quickly at just 15-minutes and once set, it’s a solid mass. It dries exceptionally hard, so it’s not going to be suitable for every repair job on your car. Often, you need a little flexibility and give, and this just won’t do that.
Instead, what you’ll get is a solid and incredibly strong bond, and that makes it perfect for filling out any dents on your bodywork, fixing bumpers in place, and repairing any interior or exterior plastic parts of your vehicle.
Long-Lasting
This is the bonding agent you need if you want to make sure that any repairs that you make will last as long (if not longer) than the car itself. Classed as a permanent bond, once this is in place, you’ll never have to worry about it again unless you’ve made a mistake. It will dry black though, so you may need to paint over it if your vehicle is a different color and your repairs are going to be visible.

Pros
Extremely durable
One of the toughest adhesives available
Will last as long as your car
Very quick to set

Cons
It dries hard
Mistakes are hard work to rectify
Takes skill to use

7. Best for Fabrics: 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Spray

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Why we like it: Quick and easy to use without the problem of it soaking into the material, meaning less waste and more bonding.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Spray
Quantity: 1
Size: 16.75 Fl Oz
Color: Black
Joining Different Materials
This is a spray-on glue, so it’s very different from others on this list. It’s designed more for lightweight jobs, but when it comes to applying the fabrics in your car, it’s hard to beat. Whether you’re joining fabrics to other fabrics or to plastics or metals, this is the glue for you.
Unfortunately, if you’re trying to bond larger surfaces, then this won’t be your best option. In most cases, those larger surfaces will bond, but there is a very common issue with spray-on glues: if you use too much, then you’re going to end up with a weak joint, and that’s going to affect the safety of your car.
Struggles in Hot Weather
This spray-on glue is also prone to being vulnerable to hotter climates, so if you live and drive somewhere hot, then this is probably one to avoid. For those in more temperate states, this glue might be one of the best available. There’s no soaking-in, so you won’t lose too much of the glue to the materials, and it’s very uniform in its application.
Potentially Very Messy
Of course, because it’s a spray glue, you’re going to need to get some practice in, because it’s very easy to make a mess. When you start spraying glue, it can go where you don’t want it to go, and it can take a long time to clean up the mess that you make. Always put some tarpaulin down before you start spraying!
As you’d expect, this glue does have a strong odor, but it’s not one that lingers. More suitable for fabrics but still above average for smaller plastic repair jobs, this is a glue that has a very defined (and limited) value to the majority of car repairers.

Pros
Good for lightweight jobs
Ideal for gluing fabrics
No soaking-in

Cons
Not great in high temperatures
Hard and messy to use
Not brilliant with plastic-to-plastic bonds

8. Best for Extreme Environments: Loctite Stik n’ Seal Extreme Conditions Adhesive

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Why we like it: One of the most resilient glues on the list, the bottle and liquid are both designed to be used in extreme environments.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: Available in 1-pack or 6-pack sizes
Size: 0.58 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
Fantastically Durable
From warped plastic panels on your bodywork to fixing broken side mirrors, this is one of the best, most practical, and brilliant all-round glues for car repairs. This glue from Loctite has been designed to be used in extreme temperatures, and the result is a glue that can be used anywhere and is almost guaranteed to keep what you want where you want it. It’s brilliant in the extreme temperatures of Vegas and LA, but it’s also incredibly resilient in colder, wetter climates.
This is the glue that motorists use when they’ve tried other, less durable options, and it’s the one you’ll keep coming back to if you try it just once.
Appalling Packaging
The problem is the packaging and the container. The packaging is needlessly difficult to open, while the applicator is incredibly imprecise. Considering the price of this glue, it should have a much easier to use application system, but the fact is that this is a very messy glue to try and use. That might seem like a minor nitpick, but you may need to get used to cleaning up glue messes until you’ve become a little more experienced with handling this troubling design.
Drying Time
Loctite Stik N’ Seal will create a permanent bond, but you will have to let it rest in place for drying. If you live somewhere humid, try to leave it for 48 hours, although generally 24-hours is more than enough. Often, it’s a good idea to use some tape to hold your pieces in place while this glue dries and bonds.
Whether you’re reattaching parts of your exterior or resealing your back windows, this is the glue that will do the job, as long as you are prepared for the potential mess.

Pros
A permanent glue designed for extreme conditions
You can use it almost anywhere on your car
Perfect for big and small jobs
No strong odor

Cons
Very messy
Hard to open
Long dry time

9. Best for Clear Dries: Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant

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Why we like it: One of the most practical clear glues you can buy, and it can be used for multiple types of repair jobs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 1
Size: 2.7 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
Amazing Glue, Flawed Packaging
This is one of the glues where the glue itself is almost flawless, but the packaging and container let it down. Ideally, this glue would be much higher up the list, simply because it’s so good at what it’s supposed to do. It’s very easy to apply, and it doesn’t have the problem of being overly odorous. It will dry quickly, and it won’t peel either.
Loctite recommends waiting up to 48-hours for the drying time, which might feel a little excessive, but that wait time is worth it. The result that you end up with will be as tough, waterproof, and as flexible as it comes. It dries clear too, so you won’t have to worry too much about the look of your car if you’re making exterior repairs.
The Problem with Mess
As soon as you try to open this otherwise excellent glue, you’re going to spot the problems. The cap will often split when you try to open it, and even if you can avoid that problem then it still might split when you finish with your glue and put the cap back on.
Tightening it by even a minor amount will result in a split cap. Of course, with a split cap, the glue that you have left in the container will be quick to dry, wasting your money.
It’s not just the cap that’s a problem either. The tube itself is very thick, which makes squeezing it a bit of an effort, and if you squeeze too hard, then you risk the tube cracking. That’s going to mean glue everywhere and a lot of waste.

Pros
One of the strongest glues on this list
No strong odor
Dries clear
Very flexible

Cons
Easy to break the cap when opening
The threat of splitting the tube
Messy

10. Most Beginner Friendly Glue: Amazing GOOP 160012 Automotive Adhesive

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Why we like it: A very tough glue that is very easy for beginners to use and will stay in place as it dries.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Gel
Quantity: 1
Size: 3.7 Fl Oz
Color: Transparent
Hugely Popular
This is a solid little glue that will do a lot more than you might expect. It’s designed to remain durable in temperatures from -40°F and 150°F, so it might not be any use for engine repairs, but it’s more than up for the task of other car fixes.
One of the reasons why this is such a popular glue option is because it has very little slip and slide when you’re placing two materials together. All you have to do is keep your pieces in place for a few seconds, and the bonding process begins. It won’t even stick your fingers together either! The low cost is just the icing on the cake.
Read the Instructions
Although the glue itself is great, its effectiveness will dramatically reduce if you don’t follow the instructions to the letter. It’s not great with metal, so if you’re trying to attach plastic to metal parts then your bond isn’t going to be as tough as you might hope. The major problem with GOOP is that it evaporates very quickly, so you need to make sure that you leave the lid on the container as much as possible.
The other issue is that, because it is such a thin liquid, it spreads very quickly, and you may end up having to apply more than one coat if you’re joining large surfaces. However, it goes on easily (sometimes too easily), and it is very user friendly once you get used to the runniness.
Potent odor
This is one strong-smelling glue, and you absolutely must use it in only a well-ventilated workspace. Preferably, leave your glued pieces outside while they dry, because the fumes from this glue are both very strong and toxic. You will get a headache if you try to use it in a small, enclosed space.

Pros
Excellent glue
Multi-purpose
Inexpensive

Cons
Toxic fumes
Easy to spill
Quick evaporation

Guide to Buying the Right Plastic Glue for Car Repairs

The best glue for your car repairs will always depend on your level of experience and the job that you hope to do. Some products, such as the J-B Weld Filler Syringe, will require some prep work that can be confusing if you’ve never used it before. Alternative options like the Henkel-Loctite Ultra Gel are incredibly easy to apply, making these options perfect for first-timers or for those that just want quick and easy fixes.
Picking the Best Plastic Glue
Of course, not every glue is going to be suitable for every purpose. Keep reading for some handy tips on how to choose the right glue for your specific situation.
Think About the Job
If you want to stick two pieces of your car together, then you’re going to want something that’s going to stick. There are a lot of different types of plastic in your car, so you need to make sure that your glue will bond between the specific materials that you’re joining. For example, if you want to join carpet and fabric to plastic, then 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Permanent Spray will be the preferred choice.
The bigger the job, the more glue you’ll need. For large jobs, you’ll want to avoid the single-use tubes that might contain excellent glue but will not be very cost-effective. Striking the right balance between the amount of glue that you need and the types of materials you are joining together is critical.
Setting Time
Lots of glues call themselves ‘fast set,’ but for very small jobs, that’s not going to be too much of a factor. Be wary though of paying too much attention to fast-dry claims when it comes to glues for car repairs. Making repairs on a car isn’t the same as breaking a child’s toy or your glasses.
Cars suffer from a lot of wear and tear, and you need to give your glue time to bond properly. Even if a glue says that it bonds in seconds or minutes, always leave it for at least 24 hours. There are ways to make your glue dry faster if you’re in a rush, but as a general rule of thumb, it’s always better to let the glue do its job.
Temperature and Weather
It makes sense that you want your car glue to be resistant to water, especially if you’re making repairs where that glue is going to be exposed to the elements. You also need to factor in the heat of your usual driving environment. Drivers in North Dakota will need to think more about the glue’s resilience to cold, while drivers in Florida will have to make sure that their glue is resistant to heat and sunlight.
Tips for Gluing Car Plastics

Before carrying out any repair jobs on your car with glue, you need to get things right. It’s very easy to make a mistake when it comes to gluing, and although some extra-thin glues will make mistakes easy to rectify, thicker glues can be a mess. So you need to make sure that you do things right the first time. That will mean:
Prepping the surface: Wash down your surfaces with soapy water or a specialized plastic cleaner. Alternatively, you can use isopropyl alcohol to make sure that your surfaces are as clear of dirt and other particles as possible. Then, make sure the surface is dry, and keep your hands away from the surfaces that you’re gluing as you will leave oil residue from your hands that will weaken the glue bond.
Use sandpaper: Glue sticks better if the surfaces are not smooth, so it’s worth taking a few minutes to do some light sandpapering of where your glue is going to go. You don’t need to go overboard because you just want a light roughness to the surfaces. If you don’t have any sandpaper to hand, then some steel wool will do the job just as well.
Clamping: Even if a glue claims to be quick-drying, that doesn’t mean your car will be ready to drive a few minutes after you’ve glued two parts of it together! You will want to keep those pieces together and immobile for as long as possible, with 24 hours generally being the minimum. Secure your bonded parts together using some form of clamp or use tape/elastic bands to make sure that your pieces don’t slip out of place.
Cleaning up: Once you have finished gluing everything that you need to glue, it’s time to clean the bottle and the cap. Use denatured alcohol or isopropyl alcohol to remove excess glue or any spillages on your work surfaces. Then, reseal your glue tightly and keep it somewhere dry. Many people swear by keeping their glue in the fridge, while others will recommend using a sealed mason jar with some dried rice inside to absorb any moisture.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to saving money on car repairs, there’s nothing quite like doing those repairs yourself. When even big jobs can be completed by using glue rather than by welding or using heavy equipment, it’s always worth looking a little closer at your options.
Don’t waste cash on expensive mechanics when you could already have all of the skills you need to start gluing your car back together again. More

Years of hard miles on the open road can take their toll on both your motorcycle seat and your body, there’s no shame in that. Due to the fact that it’s becoming increasingly more fashionable to ride bikes with minimally padded seats (cough, cough, cafe racers) as well as unique, fashionable bikes like hardtails and vintage scramblers, life hasn’t been as bad to the posteriors of motorcyclists since before the days of suspension.
But amidst the trend of form over fashion, there’s still hope. Never in the history of motorcycling have there been so many products, materials, and technologies meant to make riding comfortable readily available on the market. With a nice seat cushion, the pains of the road will melt away.

Features to Consider in a Motorcycle Seat Cushion
Seat cushions typically accomplish one goal: help you get more comfortable on the motorcycle. Keep in mind that some are more effective than others, and that different seat cushions come with different levels of quality. Consider the following aspects when looking for a cushion that works with your body.
Padding Material
More than anything else, it’s important to find a cushion with the right padding material. A lot of this comes down to personal preference, but there are a few general trends when it comes to the pros and cons of each type.
Memory Foam: Memory foam is a classic for all products meant to be comfortable. It’s arguably one of the best options due to its postural benefits, and it’s come down in price in recent years, but some motorcyclists find it too soft for their personal preference.
Inflatable: Some seat cushions inflate with air or even water, meaning you can adjust the firmness and deflate it for storage. The only issue, though, is that they need to be reinflated over time. Seat cushions that can be filled with water can help with temperature regulation, although they’re a bit more inconvenient.
Natural Materials: Wool, down, leather, and even wood can be incorporated into seat cushions. Natural materials aren’t not the most comfortable or affordable options, but they’re typically fashionable and long-lasting.
Beading: The classic seat cover for RV and truck drivers across the nation is now available for motorcyclists as well. It’s cheap, great at regulating temperature, but a little slippery. Our favorite? This cover from Regway, a beaded cushion made from real wood.
Gel: Gel padding is the most expensive option for a seat cushion. Although it’s very comfortable, they’re not supportive enough to be ergonomically safe on long rides, so we haven’t included any gel cushions on our list.
Cover Material
It’s hard to create a rule to classify cover materials, as different grades of nylons, plastics, and leathers all can change based on price and quality. High-grade nylon is more durable and more waterproof than leather, but leather is typically perceived as a higher grade material. Watch out for not just the material, but its quality as well.
Seat Compatibility
When shopping for a seat cushion, you’ve obviously got to pick a product that will fit your seat. We’d stay away from seat cushions that claim to be universal, as one-size-fits-all really is more likely to yield a fit that doesn’t really work that well on any single seat.
Extra Features
Along with the most prominent features buyers look for, some little details can make or break a motorcycle seat cushion or cover. Think about the features below before taking out your wallet.
Quality Fasteners: Buckles are better than Velcro, metal is better than plastic, and a product with a warranty is better than a product without one.
Waterproofing: Sheepskin and cloth seat protectors might be fashionable, but you’re all but guaranteed a wet butt if you head out in the rain. Look for something that’s sufficiently grippy but that still repels water.
Security: A pad that slides around isn’t just annoying, it can be dangerous. Invest in a pad with a proper fit and fasteners that keep the product correctly in place.
You probably have some idea of what you’re looking for, whether it’s an ergonomic gel seat cushion or a sheepskin you throw over the back of your bike. Check out a list of our top 10 favorite options below.

Top 10 Best Motorcycle Seat Cushions 2020
1. Best Overall Motorcycle Seat Cushion: MadDog GearComfort Ride Seat Protector

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Why we like it: This all-purpose cover isn’t just for cushioning, it also protects the seat itself and comes with a year-long warranty that’s rare for the category.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Soft-Molded Foam
Cover Material: Nylon
Seat Style: ADV, Motocross, Dual-Sport, any longer seats
Extra Features: Reticulated construction
While this seat was originally designed and advertised towards ATV riders, long-haul motorcycle riders quickly co-opted the product for its durability, adaptable fit, and comfort. While it’s a bit lighter in terms of padding, it provides just the right amount of cushion to add a bit of comfort without feeling like it obstructs movement or reduces the ability to maneuver the motorcycle. It’s also got a full, year-long warranty that takes care of any damage or deterioration up until day 365 of ownership.
With more aggressive riding comes a greater need for a secure fit, and this cover has three sturdy, adjustable quick-release buckles that keep the pad locked in place during use.
Instead of a single pad, this motorcycle seat cushion is made of 22 articulated smaller padded sections, making fit much more versatile than with the typical motorcycle seat cushion. This means it will work for any long narrow seat, such as those seen on Dual-Sport bikes, ADVs, and motocross bikes, but it won’t fit cruiser seats, so check out the Air Motorcycle Pressure Relief Pad if this won’t meet your needs.

Pros
Versatile fit thanks to 22 small articulated padded, soft-molded foam sections
Full-year warranty for any issues
Light padding makes it feel less bulky and more maneuverable
Works for any number of longer, narrower seats

Cons
Won’t fit cruiser seats
Needs to fit perfectly to be ridden aggressively

2. Best Seat Cushion for Cruisers: Air Motorcycle Pressure Relief Pad

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Why we like it: This cruiser-oriented seat cushion has a cushion for airflow and a bulky construction for maximum comfort.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Mesh
Seat Style: Cruiser, Touring
Extra Features: Fill Valve
Meant for cruisers and touring bikes, this 15 by 15-inch seat cushion is shock-absorbing and designed with a breathable cover to keep airflow going and reduce discomfort over long rides. It’s a pretty extreme option, though, and while it’s sure to make you much more comfortable on the motorcycle, it’s not a small cushion like the MadDog GearComfort Ride Seat Protector and thus might feel strange or bulky to riders used to harder, narrower seats.
The seat cushion, although it’s all contained under a single mesh cover, is composed of 12 self-contained air chambers. These allow the cushion to articulate around the seat and relieves pressure via the channels in between the air bladders and are great from an ergonomic and postural perspective, conforming to the curves of the body, adding support where necessary and giving way where pressure points, bones, and joints conventionally cause numbness and pain.

Pros
Inflatable seat cushion works well with cruiser and touring bikes
12 articulated air chambers contained by a mesh cover
Adds support where necessary while not being too bulky
Channels help relieve pressure against the undercarriage

Cons
May feel strange to riders used to harder and narrower seats
Bulky construction is an extreme solution

3. Best Premium Motorcycle Seat Cushion: Airhawk R-Revb Cruiser R Large Motorcycle Seat Cushion

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Why we like it: This inflatable pad is cool, ergonomically designed, and adjustable on the fly.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Mesh Cloth
Seat Style: Cruisers
Extra Features: Adjustable Air Valve
Although expensive, Airhawk is one of the biggest manufacturers in this space, utilizing pressure-relieving support, 3D imaging, and high-end materials to help improve airflow and reduce pressure on the body while sitting down. While the air chambers are made of polyurethane and do a great job of holding in air, the top cover is made of three layers of mesh to keep the pad cool–which means that this cushion is unfortunately not waterproof, so if you’ll be out in the rain often something like the Aquacapsule Pressure Relief Air Motorcycle Seat Pad might be a worthy alternative.
A single pressure-relieving cutout runs down the length of the seat and elevates the tailbone away from the seat, permitting both air and blood flow to the undercarriage, directly combatting the numbness that some motorcyclists often experience. Our favorite feature, though, is an easy to operate air valve that can be adjusted on the fly to reduce the air pressure in the cushion as necessary, although it shouldn’t be attempted while moving. Make sure to pull over to make any adjustments.

Pros
Incorporates an easy-to-operate air valve
Firmness can be quickly and accurately adjusted on the fly
Top cover is made of three layers of cooling, structural mesh
Helps both air and blood flow

Cons
The mesh cover material isn’t waterproof
Shouldn’t be deflated while moving

4. Best Waterproof Motorcycle Seat Cushion: Aquacapsule Pressure Relief Air Motorcycle Seat Pad

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Why we like it: This waterproof ergonomic seat cover is phenomenal for those looking for pressure relief, and can also be filled with water to maximize comfort and heat distribution.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Lycra
Seat Style: Cruiser/Touring Saddles
Extra Features: Air and Water Inflatable
This inexpensive seat cushion from Aquacapsule is specifically designed for pressure relief, advertising a 30% improvement over typical stock cruiser and touring saddles, which is not only impressive but also can help you avoid issues with your undercarriage. It can be filled up with either air or water, with air maximizing ease of use and portability, and water maximizing comfort and distribution of heat. The bottom of the cushion has a non-slip material, the cushion itself is waterproof, and uses two straps with buckles to hook to your motorcycle seat.
The cushion is also incredibly economical, at about half the price of premium options like the Airhawk R-Revb Cruiser Seat Cushion. While that’s great, it does give us some pause when thinking about the quality and longevity of the individual inflatable chambers, especially when filling them with water.

Pros
Inexpensive seat cushion designed to relieve pressure
Bottom of the cushion has a non-slip material to prevent cushion movement
Can be filled with both air and water
Much less expensive than premium options

Cons
Air pockets aren’t of the highest quality
Some concerns with water leakage

5. Best Budget Motorcycle Seat Cushion: KKmoon Motorcycle Seat Cover

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Why we like it: A mesh construction and a construction more fit for sport bikes than for cruisers means that this isn’t just one of those typical seat cushions for Harley-Davidson riders.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Layered Mesh
Cover Material: Mesh
Seat Style: Sport, ADV, and Pillion Seats
Extra Features: Water Drainage, Anti-slip coating
In a category of products that are primarily dedicated towards cruiser riders and cruiser seats, this particular seat cover is comfortable, stable, and can fit all kinds of non-traditional motorcycles—the only type of seat it doesn’t fit, in fact, is a typical cruiser seat. So really, if you’ve got a sport bike, and ADV bike, or really any bike with a narrower seat, this is one of the best options available. While the mesh material that both covers and pads the seat isn’t technically waterproof, it is at least quick-drying thanks to a matrix of holes that help with drainage.
It’s one of the most effective covers at redistributing heat, with the mesh structure doing an incredible job at preventing the large rises in heat that happen to motorcycles when left in the sun on long summer days. The structure is composed of two separate layers of mesh that not only reflect heat away, but also provide good airflow and vibration absorption that’s just about best in class. Also helping with ease of use and security during operation is the non-slip coating underneath which helps the cushion stay firmly planted.

Pros
Quick-drying seat cushion meant for narrow motorcycle seats
Mesh material is effective at redistributing heat
Two separate layers of mesh provide vibration absorption
Non-slip material keeps cushion firmly planted on the seat

Cons
Doesn’t fit cruiser seats
Construction with drainage holes isn’t waterproof

6. Best Ergonomic Motocycle Seat Cushion: Wehope Seat Air Cushion Pad for Cruiser Motorcycles

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Why we like it: This triangular inflatable cushion helps relieve pressure on the sit bones while tilting the pelvis forward, adjusting the entire body to make riding more comfortable.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Mesh
Seat Style: Cruiser
Extra Features: Fill Valve
Straddling the line between narrow (the MadDog GearComfort Ride Seat Protector) and cushy (the Air Motorcycle Pressure Relief Pad), the Wehope Seat Air Cushion is wide at the back to support the sit bones, but narrower at the front to push the hips forward for a more ergonomic seated position.
Because of this design, it doesn’t just cushion but actually adjusts the rider’s posture on the bike. 11 by 11 inches is smaller than average as far as footprint goes, but that’s no issue on cruiser saddles as they’re generally a bit smaller anyways. If you’re looking for something that can pad out a longer saddle (like the ones you’ll see on tourers, scramblers, and cafe racers), check out the KKmoon Motorcycle Seat Cover).

Pros
Design actually adjusts the rider’s posture on the motorcycle
Straddles the line between narrow and cushy in a seat pad
Wider at the back to support sit bones
Narrow at the front to push posture forward

Cons
Narrower than other seat cushions
Smaller footprint won’t work on longer, narrow saddles

7. Best Motorcycle Cushion for Small Seats: Airhawk Dual Sport Motorcycle Air Cushion

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Why we like it: A compact seat cushion isn’t just nice for portability and getting the best fit on small bikes, but it feels light and non-bulky while riding longer distances.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Polyurethane Mesh
Seat Style: Smaller Seats/Pillion Seats
Extra Features: Washable Zip Cover, Air Valve
Similar to its larger brother, the Airhawk R-Revb Cruiser Seat Cushion, this cushion from Airhawk is a bit smaller in form than most, but equally as comfortable. With a quick-access air valve that lets you adjust air pressure on the fly, the inflatable pad is covered in a polyurethane cover that is both breathable and washable. All of this comes in a form factor that can crush down to fit in a saddlebag or a backpack.
In fact, it’s small enough that it can be used as a pillion seat cushion as well, although the shape means that it might sit slightly awkwardly and be a bit harder to attach if you’re setting it up as a secondary seat pad. That’s thanks to its small size, which fits on everything from the thickest, widest cruiser seats to smaller and narrower seats seen on sport bikes and ADV bikes. Watch out for the straps, though, as the elastic material and plastic buckles feel flimsy, especially when stretched around larger seats.

Pros
Small, inflatable cushion scrunches down to a compact size
Polyurethane mesh cover is both breathable and washable
Small enough to be used as a pillion seat cushion
Works on all types of bikes from ADV bikes to cruisers

Cons
Cushion is smaller than most seat cushions
Plastic buckles and elastic straps feel flimsy

8. Best Classic Motorcycle Seat Cushion: Alaska Leather Large Sheepskin Buttpad

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Why we like it: This classic yet comfortable wool seat cushion is the perfect combination between modern tech (buckles) and the miracle of natural materials.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Sheepskin
Cover Material: Wool
Seat Style: Cruiser
Extra Features: Natural Materials, USA-made
Sheepskins and wool have been popular with motorcyclists ever since the earliest days of motorcycling, and this product pays homage to a different time of motorcycling, where adventurers did whatever they could do to get comfortable over long, rough roads. While the cover itself looks like the sheepskin seat covers of 100 years ago, the bottom attachment system is composed of modern, high-quality straps, hooks, and buckles that keep the cover solidly attached to just about any cruiser seat.
Some of the issues with authentic wool are some of the same issues that are seen on most natural substances: no waterproofing, a propensity to holding off odors, and a slightly itchy texture. Made of 100% authentic sheepskin, though, be advised that this USA-grown and USA-manufactured product has great quality, and with that, a high price tag.

Pros
Sheepskin cover adds a modern touch to a traditional motorcycle seat cushion material
Bottom attachment system is well-designed and durable
USA-manufactured with USA-grown wool

Cons
Prone to hanging on to off smells
Natural wool is not waterproof
High price tag

9. Best Beaded Motorcycle Seat Cushion: Regway Wood Beaded Seat Cushion

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Why we like it: These wooden, vintage-style seat cushions aren’t just cheap, they also provide phenomenal airflow and come in a two-pack.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Beading
Cover Material: Wood
Seat Style: Cruisers
Extra Features: Pack of Two, Water-Resistant
A unique type of seat cushion, these small wooden beads are loved by some and hated by others. Although they provide a kind of massaging sensation and maintain good airflow, many riders have complaints that they feel a bit too slippery. They attach via a bungee-cord style hook, which makes them easy to install, but not particularly permanent. At least the attachment system is universal; we also appreciate the fact that the budget-priced cushion comes in a two-pack.
Admittedly, though, they’re for low-riding cruisers with wide seats. This seat cushion won’t fit sportbikes, adventure-tourers, or even most motorcycles with pillion seats, as it slides around. The wood itself isn’t particularly durable, though, and the wooden beads are prone to breaking. If you ride a lowrider, bobber, chopper, or a cruiser, though, this cover can be very comfortable for you. And for an incredibly economical price, you’ll get phenomenal cooling potential.

Pros
Free-rolling beads are the preferred form factor for some riders
Provide a massaging sensation during use
Great cooling potential
Two-pack of covers comes at an economical price

Cons
Wood beads are prone to breakage
Won’t fit sport bikes, pillion seats, or adventure tourers
Wood mat sometimes slides around during use
Bungee-style hook straps aren’t particularly permanent or durable

10. Best Seat Cushion for Pillion Passengers: Airhawk Small Pillion Motorcycle Seat Pad

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Why we like it: This small inflatable pillion seat is a simple, universal cushion for ride-along passengers that need a little added comfort.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Padding Material: Inflatable
Cover Material: Separated Mesh
Seat Style: Pillion Seat, Universal
Extra Features: Non-slip base material
A common complaint among passengers who ride on the back of a motorcycle is how uncomfortable it can be. The back part of a seat designed for pillion passengers is typically smaller, made of a different material, and less supportive than the primary seat, causing problems for anyone traveling long distances on the back of a bike.
So what’s to be done? Well, a seat cushion goes a really long way. This 9 by 11-inch pad is small but mighty, with a non-slip base material preventing the inflatable (and thus, adjustable) cushion from sliding around too much. With 12 separate air cells all inflatable and made of durable polyurethane, the pad conforms to the seat. It attaches with loops that create a more sturdy base than many pillion cushions that just set on top of the seat without an attachment method.

Pros
Small pillion cushion is meant for a second passenger
12 durable air cells made of durable polyurethane
Pad conforms to the seat, meaning it doesn’t slip around much
Attaches with loops that create a sturdy base around the seat

Cons
Can’t really be used for a single passenger
Less comfortable than cushions for primary seats

Guide to Buying the Best Motorcycle Cushions for 2020
While some people claim to like the clean look of a motorcycle seat without a cushion, we’re more on the side of ‘stay comfortable.’ Those who frown upon a motorcycle cushion are probably the same type of people who do nothing more than take their cafe racer around the corner to drink an espresso (not that there’s anything wrong with that).
Those who head out on motorcycles for long trips understand that often, comfort takes priority over fashion. Adventure isn’t about fashion, it’s about adventure, and that means you can’t be held back by a sore butt.
Benefits of a Motorcycle Cushion
There’s a great saying about where to spend your money: “Always invest in your bed and your shoes, if you’re not in one, you’re in the other.” Another contact point worth investing in? A motorcycle seat cushion, and it’s not just about comfort.
More Time on the Bike
Have you ever been in a group where it feels like you’re stopping at every exit? If you’re comfortable, it means more time on the seat, which means more miles and more adventure. Make sure you’re still taking occasional breaks, a good rule is a break once every couple of hours.
Postural Health
A supportive postural seat cushion can help align the entire body, aiding with everything from numb legs to back and wrist pain. It’s surprising how effective a seat cushion, especially one designed with ergonomics in mind like the Wehope Seat Air Cushion Pad for Cruiser Motorcycles can be at relieving pains across the whole body.
Blood Flow
Studies have shown that the typical motorcycle seat isn’t just uncomfortable, but it also can restrict blood flow to the undercarriage. Take care of your delicate bits, it’s not worth gambling on medical issues.
Temperature Regulation
All motorcyclists have had really hot days on the bike, made worse by wearing the proper personal protective equipment. Along with dressing in wicking clothes and staying hydrated, a seat cushion with proper ventilation and airflow like the Airhawk R-Revb Cruiser R Large Motorcycle Seat Cushion can go a long way towards keeping you cool.
Posture When Riding

Motorcycling is a lot harder on the body than rolling along in a minivan, and for some, that’s part of the appeal. Physical therapists and body experts all have opinions and exercises that can be particularly helpful to comfort on the bike and to reduce soreness and pain after the ride.
Back Posture
The most important part of motorcycle posture is how you hold your core and your back. Make sure you’re keeping your core still, and engaged, with your shoulders back and upright. This will improve both visibility and comfort. Maintain a slight arch with your back, which will help keep your core stretched and comfortable. Imagine that a string is coming out of the top of your head, helping align and keep your posture neutral.
Many issues with pain while sitting and with long-term back pain on the motorcycle can be solved after a rider learns how to hold themselves on the motorcycle properly.
Where to Sit on a Motorcycle Seat
Also important to pay attention to is exactly where you sit on the motorcycle, with the goal being to keep the bike as balanced as possible. Your weight should be directly above the footpegs, with some weight on your feet and little to no weight on your arms. When you encounter rough terrain or a bump, you should be able to effortlessly shift your weight off of the seat for control.
There’s a whole science to maximizing performance based on how you sit on your bike. If you’re interested in learning how to get the most out of your motorcycle by how you sit on the motorcycle, check out this article that discusses the best way to sit on your bike for speed, control, and comfort.
Health Concerns and Motorcycle Seats
Some research shows that most motorcycle seats can restrict blood flow to the genital area, which can lead to a whole host of health issues, most commonly urinary flow issues, nerve damage, loss of sensation, and erectile dysfunction. Motorcycling is risky enough even without the risk of impotence, so any investment you can make in your health is worth it.
Along with a motorcycle seat cushion designed to relieve pressure, take frequent breaks, avoid thin seats, and sit with proper posture to avoid any negative health consequences.
Other Motorcycle Products to Consider
The world of motorcycle accessories is vast, and for good reason, as many clever products exist to make riding more fun, more comfortable, and safer. Consider picking up some of the following products listed below that will make your motorcycling trip the best one yet.
Motorcycle Locks: While it’s probably not worth it to lock up your seat cushion, it is a wise investment to invest in chain locks, wheel locks, and frame locks to keep your investment (and prized possession) completely safe.
Motorcycle Tires: Often overlooked when talking about comfort, tires are left in the wake of suspension and engine performance when talking about both performance and staying comfy. A good tire can make your ride faster and make your bike more bearable during long hauls.
Motorcycle Goggles: Often, motorcycle goggles are overlooked as a PPE option, but many find them more comfortable and breathable than traditional visors (or even worse, no eye protection at all).
Motorcycle Glasses: While a pair of sunglasses is better than nothing, you really need a pair of motorcycle-specific glasses for adequate protection and comfort. Best part? A lot of them are less expensive than standard Ray-Bans or Oakleys.
FAQ
Check out some of motorcyclists’ most common questions on seat cushions below.
What’s the Best Material for a Motorcycle Seat Cushion?
Different riders want different materials when picking out a motorcycle seat cushion, but the most popular type of seat cushions are probably inflatable air-matrix options. Unfortunately, though, that popularity could be due to the fact that air is free. Our favorite material is layered mesh due to the fact that it’s pressure-relieving, cooling, and supportive.
How Do I Keep My Motorcycle Seat Cool?
Every motorcyclist knows the feeling: stop at a restaurant, biker bar, or a gas station, and when you come back out your black leather seat is hot enough to fry an egg. There are a couple of ways to combat the phenomenon, some simple (park in the shade) and some expensive (buy a mesh seat cover).
Our advice? Minimize sun contact when possible, look for mesh-covered, air-filled cushions (this cushion from Wehope has both), and wear long pants that cover your entire leg. Staying cool is about staying smart.
Do Gel Pads Make Motorcycle Seats More Comfortable?
Gel pads are pretty phenomenal for comfort, although they have some problems, predominantly support. While they’re nice for your posterior, they don’t do the same job as articulated air chambers or foam in aligning the spine. So yes, they make the seat more comfortable, but we’d recommend foam, mesh, or air for a good balance of comfort and support.
Wrapping Up
We’ve really run the gamut of motorcycle cushions, providing you with the expensive, the inexpensive, the sturdy, the natural, the classics, and more. At the end of the day, keep in mind that a seat cushion isn’t just a way to make your ride more comfortable: it can help you with postural and medical issues and even provide some protection from wear and tear against the factory seat. For a price that is typically a small fraction of what your motorcycle itself is worth, it’s well worth the investment. More

While a motorcycle is arguably one of the best ways to experience the country, when you’ve got to transport one from place to place without riding it, things get more complicated. Towing a motorcycle is no small endeavor, but it can be made much easier by using a proper motorcycle trailer.
The most important thing to consider when purchasing a motorcycle trailer is how you’ll be using it. Are you buying a trailer for a one-time trip? Are you a competitive motocrosser frequently headed to the track? Do you have a heavy cruiser or a lightweight 125cc city bike that can fit on a hitch-mount rack? Carefully consider how often you plan to tow, your type of motorcycle, and your objectives with a trailer before purchasing one.

Picking the Perfect Trailer
Even before starting to shop around for your first trailer, there are some vital things you’ve got to take into account related to your towing vehicle and motorcycle. Knowing the following stats will make it a lot easier to narrow down your options:
Motorcycle Weight: You’re not going to fit your half-ton Harley Super Glide onto a hitch-mounted rack, and you don’t need an enclosed trailer for a 125cc dirtbike from 1997. Remember: pick the right tool for the job
Motorcycle Dimensions: Rear racks typically have a maximum wheelbase of around 80 inches, and tow-behind trailers are no longer than they have to be. If you’ve got a trike or a chopper, be aware that you have different length requirements than other motorcyclists.
Towing Capacity: As a general rule, towing capacity is overstated by manufacturers, and make sure you’re adding in the weight of the vehicle itself along with its passengers and cargo. This means that while a crossover might claim 1500 pounds of towing capacity, once fully loaded up, actual towing capacity could be a lot closer to 500 pounds.
Type of Hitch: Most tow-behind trailers in this category (trailers for consumer vehicles) are designed around a two-inch ball hitch. Hitch mount racks are typically designed for class three receivers, with some class two and class four designs.
Features to Consider in a Motorcycle Trailer
The options for a motorcycle trailer are almost as broad as the options for a motorcycle itself. Whether you’re looking for something simple for one-time use on a cross-country move, or you need something to haul your dirt bikes to races every weekend, there are a wide variety of options that can work for you.
Trailer Format
Motorcycle trailers come in many different shapes and sizes for different needs, price points, and vehicles. The following types of trailers and racks are the most common types of motorcycle trailers available.
Fully Enclosed Trailers
For those inclined to treat their two-wheeled friend like the family, the best option is a fully covered trailer. While larger, heavier, and more expensive than other options, fully-enclosed trailers are much more protective than other options and can resist the rain, snow, dirt, and wind. Another benefit is their storage capacity: with enclosed trailers, there’s plenty of space to put accessories, luggage, panniers, toolboxes, and anything else you need to haul
Hitch-Mounted Trailers
Some lightweight motorcycles can be lifted onto a hitch-mounted trailer which slides directly into a trailer hitch. There are a couple of downsides, though, including the fact that they only support a limited amount of weight. These trailers forgo wheels entirely, suspending motorcycles up above the road.
Front Wheel Toe Brackets
Front-wheel toe brackets hook to just the front wheel of a motorcycle, virtually converting the motorcycle itself into a trailer. While they’re inexpensive, they leave the motorcycle exposed to the elements and put a significant amount of weight on the rear tire, causing a lot of wear.
Folding Trailers
Folding trailers are designed to be folded up and tucked out of the way. By adding the proper hardware, these trailers can be set up to haul motorcycles long distances. They’re both lightweight and reliable, but a bit more expensive.
Flat-Bed Trailer
A classic flat-bed style trailer isn’t only versatile in the way that it carries multiple types of cargo, it’s also versatile in that it can be formatted to carry either one or multiple motorcycles. They’re slightly more protective than folding trailers because a solid floor can block rocks from getting kicked up and scratching your motorcycle, but they still don’t protect from the weather.
Capacity
While the typical motorcycle trailer only holds one bike, other motorcycle trailer formats can carry two. Larger, fully-enclosed trailers (and sometimes folding trailers) can hold up to four motorcycles, although that’s rare and requires a truck meant for towing bigger loads.
Weight Limit
Pay special attention to a trailer’s weight limit depending on what kind of motorcycle you ride. Although some trailers (especially hitch-mounted options) can only hold a few hundred pounds, others can carry multiples of the biggest bikes: even a few Harley Super Sports won’t be an issue for the biggest flatbed or enclosed trailers.
With all of that in mind, let’s get in to our picks for the best trailers available today, whether you’re planning on daily transportation, a one-time cross country trip, or anything in between.

Top 10 Best Motorcycle Trailers 2020
1. Best Overall Motorcycle Trailer: Kendon Go! Series Single Rail Ride-Up Folding Motorcycle Trailer

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Why we like it: This trailer is easy to load and has a high weight capacity, meaning it’s perfect for those with slightly larger motorcycles who are looking for the best product possible.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Folding Trailer
Capacity: One
Weight Limit: 1,000 lbs
In a world of motorcycle trailers meant for lightweight bikes or requiring modification, this trailer from manufacturer Kendon takes care of everything for you, admittedly at a premium price. However, for those with standard-sized motorcycles that are willing to pay for the best, this trailer is a phenomenal option.
A full 1,000 pound capacity will take care of just about every stock motorcycle on the road (even a Honda Goldwing weighs in at under 1,000 pounds) except for trikes, which won’t fit on this format of trailer anyways due to their ultra-wide rear ends—something like the Carry-On 5×8 Open Mesh Floor Utility Trailer would be better there.
It supports all of this weight on a 360-pound platform, lightweight and maneuverable enough to be hauled even by smaller SUVs and minivans (car models like the Toyota Rav4 and Honda CRV have towing capacities of about 1,500 lbs).
You’ll still want to use some tie-downs to secure the motorcycle in place, but it’s one of the most secure options on the market, and that’s by design. With lots of less-than-stellar options out there, most motorcycle owners with beloved bikes will be more than willing to splurge an extra few hundred dollars to make sure their motorcycle stays perfectly in place.
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What really pushes this trailer to the top of our list is the ease of loading: not only does it fold up after use for easy and compact stowing away, it’s also specially designed to be easy to load. A wide ramp enables you to drive your motorcycle directly up onto the trailer into the chock that holds your bike upright. The ramp is longer, yielding a lower load angle that enables this. Especially with heavier bikes, this feature is incredibly convenient.

Pros
Fantastic ease of loading
Trailer folds up for compact storage
Holds motorcycle upright in place
Full 1000 pound capacity holds even the biggest motorcycles

Cons
Trikes won’t fit on this trailer due to their wide rear axles
Still requires use of tie-downs

2. Easiest Motorcycle Trailer to Use: Goplus 600 Pound Motorcycle Carrier with Loading Ramp

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Why we like it: This simple hitch-mounted trailer is one of the sturdiest axle-less options out there, supporting bikes up to 600 pounds with no issues and incorporating an easy-to-use loading ramp.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch Mount
Capacity: One
Weight Limit: 600 lbs
While most hitch racks only support a few hundred pounds of weight, this model from Goplus is a monster among hitch-mounted trailers, holding up to 600 pounds of brawny bike, beating out even some tow-behind flatbed trailers. While the weight limit is impressive, make sure to use a tie-down strap in addition to the two included quick releases, and to keep your speed under the manufacturer-suggested maximum 55 miles per hour.
The rack mounts directly into a 2” receiver (no ball mount required as with other trailers), suspended about a foot over the surface of the road. It’s 79 inches long, which will accommodate even the longest wheelbase motorcycles. There’s a vehicle chock welded in the rack tray to help support the bike vertically.
There’s one drawback, though: the weight limit isn’t a true 600 pounds. As far as holding weight while standing still, this bike can hold up a brawny liter bike all day. However, Goplus (the manufacturer) only provides a static weight limit, meaning when driving down the highway, heading over rough terrain, or accelerating, the weight limit is probably somewhat lower. If you want to be cautious, keep your loads under 450 pounds or upgrade to something with a truer limit like the Yescom 800 lbs Motorcycle Trailer Hitch Hauler.
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Of all the hitch-mount options on our list, this trailer is probably the easiest to load thanks to a wide, stable loading ramp. Sure, you’re still pushing 550 pounds of metal up a relatively steep incline if you’ve got a big bike like a Harley Sportster, but at least a wide track makes the rolling relatively stable. If you’re loading a motorcycle over 300 pounds, it’s probably best to make sure you’ve got a spotter in the immediate area.

Pros
Incredibly stable to load thanks to a wide loading ramp
79-inch tray size accommodates long-wheelbase motorcycles
Vehicle chock welded in rack tray for support
2-inch receiver doesn’t use a ball mount

Cons
Weight limit isn’t truly 600 pounds
55 MPH maximum speed limit
Requires spotter for loading

3. Best Budget Motorcycle Trailer: Yescom 800 lbs Motorcycle Trailer Hitch Hauler

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Why we like it: A clever and proprietary design solves weight, length, and towing problems by turning the bike itself into an inexpensive trailer that attaches directly to the hitch.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Front Wheel Toe Bracket
Capacity: One
Weight Limit: 800 lbs
This motorcycle trailer is completely different from anything else on the market with a unique design that lifts the front wheel of the motorcycle onto the back of your car, securely towing your bike without any extra wheels or axles. It’s the lightest and most minimal option out there, threading into a two inch hitch receiver and weighing in at just over 30 pounds.
If you’re planning on using this with a moped, though, you’re out of luck. Since it relies on the rear wheel to roll freely along the road, you need a neutral gear, which mopeds simply don’t have. In that same vein, make sure you put your motorcycle in neutral before using this rack. If not, you could completely burn out your tire.
Even if you use it properly, you’ll cause undue wear on your tire as it directly comes in contact with the road during trips both short and long. You also leave your motorcycle directly in contact with the elements when using this rack, as you can’t fit a moving motorcycle with a cover and there’s no flatbed trailer below to protect the bikes undercarriage from flying debris. Fortunately, motorcycles are made to hold up to weather and debris, and thousands of miles of use—just make sure you lube your chain afterwards if you happen to hit a rain shower.
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While this rack is based on an incredibly clever idea, there are some problems that come with loading and transporting. Unlike motorcycle trailers with ramp-based loading systems, this rack requires the front end of the bike to be physically lifted onto the trailer, something that is difficult with heavier bikes (think about purchasing a motorcycle scissor lift to help out).
Another issue that comes with the territory is maximum tire size; this rack doesn’t fit anything bigger than 4 ⅞ inches, different from the owner’s manual which states it holds tires up to 5 ⅞ inches. If your bike has larger tires, check out something like the Black Widow Hitch-Mounted Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier instead, which accommodates a much wider variety of sizes.

Pros
Proprietary, clever design turns your motorcycle into a trailer
Entire setup only weighs about 30 lbs
Impressive 800 lbs weight limit

Cons
Doesn’t hold tires larger than 4 ⅞ inches
Can’t protect your bike from the elements or from road debris
Requires the bike to be physically lifted up to mount

4. Best Premium Motorcycle Trailer: Trinity MT3 Three Rail Motorcycle Trailer

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Why we like it: An expensive but rare three-motorcycle option, this motorcycle trailer is sturdy and specifically designed to be motorcycle-ready out of the box.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Flatbed Trailer
Capacity: 3
Weight Limit: 2,000 lbs
While a hitch-based rack mount is convenient for even mid-weight motorcycles, it has a distinct disadvantage: they can only hold a single motorcycle. This flatbed addresses that issue, providing a fantastic capacity in a sub-500 pound format, hauling 3 separate motorcycles staggered on the single flatbed trailer.
While most other conventional flatbed trailers require you to install motorcycle mounting chocks yourself, this trailer comes delivered to your door completely ready to go. A 2000-pound weight limit is more than adequate for nearly every combination of motorcycles (unless you’re towing 3 Harley Road Glides), and many drivers will find themselves restricted by the towing capacity over their vehicle over the weight capacity of the trailer itself.
There are some flaws, however. The bearings, axles, and dust caps come installed but really need some level of service, lubrication, and thread lock (like LocTite) before taking on a long voyage. We wish the manufacturer would take care of the details before delivery, but once it’s good to go, it’s a solid trailer for many thousands of miles. One last note: due to state trailer licensing requirements, be advised that this trailer isn’t available for purchase in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, ID, ME, MT, ND, NH, NV, OR, SD, UT, VT, WA, and WY.
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This trailer is surprisingly compact (and lightweight) for being a 3-motorcycle trailer, and although it’s particularly easy to maneuver, especially for beginners, it has the unfortunate side effect of being difficult to load. Space is simply at a premium in this trailer format, and 5 by 7 feet of space isn’t much. Obviously smaller displacement bikes are easier to load, but bigger bikes are more limited by space than by the trailer’s high weight limit. It’ll do the job, but if you regularly transport multiple bikes you might find the Carry-On 5×8 Open Mesh Floor Utility Trailer easier to use.

Pros
Compact and lightweight three-motorcycle trailer
Easy to tow for beginners
High weight capacity will hold all but the heaviest bikes
Trailer is delivered completely ready to go

Cons
Isn’t available for purchase or delivery in several states
Bearings and axles need some love before heading out on long trips
Difficult to load multiple motorcycles

5. Cotric 600 lbs Black Steel Motorcycle Carrier Mount Dirt Bike Rack

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Why we like it: This sturdy hitch-mount rack is an inexpensive solution that can hold motorcycles weighing up to 600 pounds, loading with a convenient flip-down ramp.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch-Mounted Trailer
Capacity: 1
Weight Limit: 600 lbs
One of our biggest issues with hitch-mounted trailers? Durability. All the weight relies on a single point to stay upright, not like with axle-based trailers that have wheels to support their weight. But this steel, powder-coated hitch-mounted is one of the most solid hitch-based options, made of a solid steel track coated with an anti-rust paint.
A 79-inch rail is long enough for even the longest of cruisers, and an adjustable wheel chock means that even shorter and smaller motorcycles can be adequately supported. Your motorcycle is locked in via several quick-release locks that thread through your motorcycle’s wheels and frame, although we’d still recommend a tie-down strap or two just as a fail-safe in case the quick releases wear out or fail.
Watch out for the fact that the rack is delivered inside of two separate packages that may not arrive at the same time, so if you end up with just half of a rack, wait a few days before panicking. And should you need any help, have confidence that a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee covers any issue you might have, from order placement through installation.
Loading
Although this rack’s loading ramp isn’t as wide or as easy to use as the Goplus 600 Pound Motorcycle Carrier’s loading ramp, it’s still relatively user friendly, especially when compared to trailers that aren’t motorcycle specific and require modification or the extensive use of tie-down straps. All in all, it’s one of the easiest trailers to load, especially with lightweight motorcycles.

Pros
Adjustable wheel chock and strong rail helps support all types of motorcycles
79-inch rail is long enough for even long-wheelbase motorcycles
One of the easiest trailers to load
100% customer satisfaction guarantee

Cons
Still requires a tie-down for security
Loading ramp isn’t particularly wide or easy-to-use
Delivered in two separate packages

6. Black Widow MCC-600 Steel Motorcycle Carrier

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Why we like it: This premium 600-pound motorcycle carrier is simple to use and fits directly into a trailer hitch, no wheels or axles required.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch Mount
Capacity: 1
Weight Limit: 600 lbs
This ramp-loading hitch-mount rack from Black Widow is one of the most expensive hitch-mount options, with a price justified by a high weight limit and a sturdy build quality. The metal tray fits large bikes with wheels up to 8 inches wide and up to 600 pounds. It’s designed to fit Class Three or 2-inch hitch receivers.
And while it’s a pretty solid motorcycle hauler, it falls to the same drawbacks as all hitch-mounted racks: namely, a difficult loading process, a less-than-stellar weight limit, and no auxiliary storage. And while it’s rated to 600 pounds, we’d be a bit more cautious: lean light, especially if you’ve got accessories and a full tank of gas.
Our recommendation would be to keep your total load under 500 pounds if you can, with a bit of wiggle room. That’s not to say that this rack will drop your bike as you roll down the highway, just that the more weight you have, the more likely it is that you’ll break the smaller accessory pieces (hooks, ratchets, and screws).
So while those looking for something to bring their dirt bike to the motocross track might see a perfect candidate in this rack, Harley riders with big cruisers might think about something a bit more brawny: a flatbed like the Kendon Go! Series Trailer simply suits bigger bikes better.
Loading
Loading bikes, especially hitch-mount variations, is always a bit inconvenient. A small trailer format without a rear axle simply doesn’t lend itself to convenient loading, even if it does have a ramp that allows you to roll the motorcycle directly onto the travel tray. Heavier bikes are more likely to scratch the tray paint and be harder on hardware, so the anti-rust coating and metal hardware is particularly welcome in this case.

Pros
Durable and solid tray holds heavyweight bikes with just a hitch
Loads with a convenient fold-down ramp
Metal hardware and anti-rust coating helps protect the tray
Fits Class Three and 2-inch receivers

Cons
Flatbed ramps are easier to use for loading
Smaller accessory pieces are slightly more likely to break under a large load
No auxiliary storage for saddlebags, equipment, or tools

7. Best Rack for Dirt Bikes: Black Widow Hitch-Mounted Aluminum Motorcycle Carrier

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Why we like it: This lighter-weight hitch-mounted trailer is particularly economical, although a 400-pound weight limit means that it’s more suitable for dirt bikes than for touring bikes, Harleys, and dual-sport options.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch Mount
Capacity: One
Weight Limit: 400 pounds
This hitch mount trailer is an absolute featherweight at well under 40 pounds with a full aluminum construction, although that means it does sacrifice a bit in terms of weight capacity: the rack tops out at carrying just about 400 pounds. But while other racks claim high capacities and really need a lighter-weight motorcycle to work properly, this rack’s 400 pound limit is totally accurate.
The welded aluminum rack simply feels solid, mounting into Class Three or Class Four hitch receivers. It’s great for dirt bikes as it accommodates tires up to 5 ½ inches wide, which are typically seen on motorcycles meant for motocross. The loading ramp is wide for easy storage and loading, but has punched holes in the metal, yielding significant weight savings.
The trailer also comes with an adapter that can hold smaller 50cc to 80cc motorcycles that are commonly meant for children to ride and learn on. It’s a nice feature, especially considering the fact that most trailers have trouble accommodating these ultra-small motorcycles.
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A quite-small 400-pound weight limit yields a rack that feels rather flimsy, but the included ramp is easy to use, especially with lightweight bikes, feeling just as solid, if not more solid than the rack itself. A word of caution, though, that this isn’t compatible with class two hitches, the type of hitch that’s most common for crossovers and lighter vehicles.

Pros
Lightweight hitch mount rack is under 40 pounds installed
Loading ramp is wide and sturdy for easy loading
Accommodates larger format tires of up to 5.5 inches
Includes an adapter for smaller motorcycles

Cons
Not compatible with class two hitches
Tops out at a 400-pound weight capacity

8. Best for Trikes: Carry-On 5×8 Open Mesh Floor Utility Trailer

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Why we like it: While this flatbed trailer isn’t specifically designed for motorcycle use, it’s a phenomenal option that can be adapted into a motorcycle-specific hauler for around $1000.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Flatbed Trailer
Capacity: Three
Weight Limit: 1600 lbs
As a trailer designed to haul farm equipment, UTVs, and ATVs, this trailer isn’t immediately ready for motorcycle use like more expensive trailers such as the Trinity MT3 Three Rail Motorcycle Trailer. But for a couple thousand dollars less, there are plenty of mechanically savvy motorcycle owners that are probably willing to do the job.
There are a few different approaches to loading this with motorcycles: the most simple, impermanent, and least secure option is using multiple inexpensive tie-downs to both prop the motorcycle up and hold it in place. We wouldn’t recommend this method for use during high speed, long-distance trips, and although it’s cheap, a more permanent option is prudent if you’ll be using this trailer specifically to haul motorcycles.
While cinching the motorcycle down is still prudent, screw in a permanent wheel chock (this option includes tie-downs) that will maintain your front wheel tightly in place. It’s not only more secure, but it’s safer and more convenient as well. This trailer ends up being a phenomenal option for trikes as well, as the wide trailer fits wide rear axles, and a high weight limit can handle even the brawniest of ¾-ton Harley three-wheelers.
Loading
With a back liftgate that also functions as a roll-up ramp, this is one of the simplest-to-load trailers on our list. There are two things to be aware of, though: firstly, while the frame supports about 1,600 pounds, the metal floor mesh used in this trailer is a little less durable than we’d like. When loading, you should be careful to make sure most of the motorcycle’s weight stays over the frame itself. Secondly, mind the slight gap between the loading ramp and the bed of the trailer itself—the space there is large enough for a thinner tire to get stuck, which can ruin your day (or wheel).

Pros
Customizable flatbed trailer is great for tinkerers
Mesh floor is lightweight, durable, and easy to work on
Roll-up ramp means bikes are easy to load
High weight limit can handle bigger Harleys and trikes

Cons
Watch for the slight gap between the loading ramp and the bed of the trailer
Mesh floor doesn’t support weight as well as the frame itself

9. Best Enclosed Motorcycle Trailer: Proline 6×10 Enclosed Trailer

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Why we like it: This pricey 6 by 10 foot trailer is large enough to hold two motorcycles, although it requires some modifications to become the motorcycle-hauler of your dreams.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Fully Enclosed Trailer
Capacity: 2
Weight Limit: 3,500 lbs
The first thing to know about this trailer is the fact that it’s not a motorcycle-specific trailer. But in some ways, that’s what makes it great. The benefit of this bare-bones platform is the fact that you can set it up to your exact specifications, whether you want just one large, solid berth for a trike or several smaller ones for lightweight, nimble dirt bikes.
In fact, it’s one of the most adaptable trailers out there, with hardware meant to be customized with different tie-down locations and with a ¾ inch plywood floor that’s practically designed for the easy installation of accessories. Even motorcycle riders that head to the mechanic for an oil change will find trailer modification easy enough to tackle themselves.
An impressive near-two-ton load limit inspires complete confidence in the platform, while the single-axle design comes complete with 15-inch radial tires that are more than equipped to handle those kinds of loads. It has a lit interior that connects through the vehicle end trailer port, there are also bright brake lights and running lights. A 32-inch side door is convenient for quick access, and there’s plenty of space for storing motorcycle bags, panniers, accessories, and tool boxes.
Loading
With a drop-down ramp, motorcycles can be simply rolled up into the trailer, although the fact that the product doesn’t come specifically equipped with motorcycle-specific brackets means you’ll have to invest some time and effort upfront to make it work for your needs. The ramp is shallow enough that you can ride bikes straight into the trailer, although watch out for the small gap between the loading ramp and the floor of the trailer itself.

Pros
Adaptable trailer is sturdy and easy to load
Designed for installation and customization
Drop down ramp allows trailers to be easily loaded
Bare bones platform lowers price but makes it easy to add your own touches

Cons
Need to add your own motorcycle-specific brackets for compatibility
Gap between loading ramp and the trailer floor is difficult to navigate

10. Motogroup Aluminum Double Motorcycle Carrier

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Why we like it: This is the perfect rack if you don’t want a wheeled trailer and you’re headed to the track with a couple of small capacity dirt bikes, which admittedly isn’t everybody.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance:
Format: Hitch Mount
Capacity: Two
Weight Limit: 600 lbs
This rack is cool, the only hitch mount solution on the market that can hold more than two motorcycles. Although the weight capacity isn’t stellar, it’s great for someone who’s hauling small bikes around, or even kids bikes around. It could work for mopeds as well, so if you’re a multi-moped owner, this rack could work well.
Along with a 600-pound weight limit, watch out for the rack length, which is quite a bit smaller than typical at 75 inches. While this isn’t a problem for dirt bikes, some smaller capacity cruiser-style motorcycles can measure a bit longer, meaning they won’t be compatible with this rack. Check your bikes’ spec sheets before buying.
However, that isn’t our biggest issue with this rack. Our problem, frankly, is the fact that the use case with this towing solution is so specific you might as well just get a real wheeled trailer with a bigger weight limit and much better capacity. Unless every motorcycle you plan to own is under 300 pounds, a better option might be a trailer like the Proline 6×10 Enclosed Trailer.
Loading
Loading multiple bikes, even lightweight ones, is downright tricky no matter how much experience you have or how solid your stand is. And frankly, this stand is not the most sturdy in our lineup with aluminum construction. Both sides of the rack rely on the same ramp, a 45-inch skid that yields a relatively steep load angle. Good thing you can only get light bikes up there, because pushing bikes close to the weight limit up onto the rack is a chore.

Pros
Perfect rack for bringing lightweight bikes around
Only hitch-mount rack that holds multiple bikes
A good option for hauling mopeds

Cons
Loading with the steep ramp is a chore
Use case for the trailer is really specific
Short rack tray might not work with some lightweight bikes

Guide to Buying the Best Motorcycle Trailers for 2020
Purchasing a motorcycle trailer is a big decision, as you’re trusting it to keep one of your most important and expensive possessions safe as you drive down the road. Just as you wouldn’t cut corners on motorcycle parts, accessories, or services, don’t cut corners on your motorcycle trailer either.
Safety Practices

It’s important to educate yourself on how to use a motorcycle trailer. The safest and most secure motorcycle hauler isn’t adequate when in the wrong hands. Familiarize yourself with all of the safety features and fail-safes of your trailer before use, or you could end up in a dangerous (and expensive) situation.
Towing a big load is both more dangerous and more difficult than driving your car without a trailer. With added weight and length, your car handles differently, your braking distance increases, and you have to work to predict traffic and think ahead as you drive down the road. Follow these tips to stay safe while driving.
Properly Connected Tail Lights
Almost any motorcycle trailer completely obscures the tail lights on your vehicle, meaning you’ll need a set of lights on the trailer itself to stay both legal and safe. Make a habit to plug your lights into the power outlet next to your trailer hitch every time you hook your trailer up, it’s also a good practice to make sure you regularly check that your trailer brake lights are working properly.
Emergency Brake
All trailers are subject to federal safety requirements, key among them legislation to ensure every trailer has a functioning breakaway trailer function. When hooking up your trailer, make sure to attach your emergency breakaway brake wire to the car itself, which will automatically stop the car from moving in case of a catastrophic trailer hitch or trailer failure.
Maintenance Schedule
As far as checks, lube, tire pressure, and other routine checks, the more, the better, but it’s easy to get carried away. Although you should definitely check tire pressure, breakaway chains, lights, safety chains, and your hitch every time you drive, follow this maintenance calendar for the best guidance on more long-term routine maintenance.
Runaway Chains
While a properly-maintained ball hitch combined with a breakaway emergency brake can prevent about 99% of trailer-related accidents, it’s important to have another layer of security just in case. Make sure your trailer has well-maintained runaway chains that connect to your hauling vehicle at least a quarter-inch thick. Also ensure that your chains are short enough so that they drag on the road below, as chains can wear through even during drives of 30 minutes or less when dragging on the ground below.
Setting Up a Trailer
Most flatbed, folding, and framed trailers don’t come set up by themselves for motorcycle hauling, although they’re designed and formatted to be compatible with the accessories needed to safely tow motorcycles like chocks, mounts, and tie downs. Take the following steps to set up a flatbed, folding, or framed trailer.
Install a Chock: While you can get away without a chock for slow, short distance trips, if you’re going to head out on a longer trip, you need something to hold your motorcycle upright. If it doesn’t come included, buy a chock.
Install Anchor Points: Tie-downs need solid points to attach to or they’re worthless. If your trailer doesn’t have specific anchor points meant for tie downs, make sure to install the proper brackets or hooks so your straps can be properly attached.
Safety Checks: Axles, hitches, and wheels are the most common points of failure on a motorcycle trailer. When your trailer is delivered, make sure to perform a basic service on these trailer parts, also make sure you perform periodic services on these key parts so that your equipment is always in good working order. Your owner manual can help you determine the frequency of these check-up services.
Tire Balancing: New trailer checks are much less rigorous than new vehicle checks, meaning that your trailer might not arrive in the ideal condition to head out on the highway. Most commonly the source of instability at speed is an important step that some manufacturers skip: tire balancing. Tire balancing is inexpensive, usually under $20 per tire, and will provide an immediate impact to how your trailer maneuvers, especially when driving at higher highway speeds.
Protecting Your Motorcycle

Unless you have a completely covered trailer, your motorcycles are left exposed to the elements whenever they’re being towed. Take the following steps to make sure your motorcycle arrives at the final destination in perfect condition.
Use a Cover: A cover is the simplest and least expensive way to protect your motorcycle when hauling it on a trailer over long distances. Make sure that it’s cinched down as tight as possible for maximum fuel efficiency. Alternatively, choose a covered trailer like the Proline 6×10 Enclosed Trailer.
Drive Slow: Not only are trailers easier to control when driven at slower speeds, they’re also less likely to kick up the gravel and dirt that can damage your motorcycle.
Check Tie Downs Periodically: Even if you have a direct bracket to mount your motorcycle, you’ll probably still be using at least one tie-down to double-check security. Every couple hours of driving, check your tie-down to make sure it hasn’t loosened.
What You Need With Your Motorcycle Trailer
To maximize what you can do with your motorcycle trailer, you need a lot more than just a ball hitch. To protect and care for your bikes on longer trips, consider purchasing the following auxiliary products/accessories to provide proper care and security to your bikes.
Motorcycle Locks
While it’s a great practice to get in the habit of using a motorcycle lock every time you pull in the driveway, it’s even more important when traveling. Opportunistic thieves can accomplish rollaway thefts in under one minute, quick enough to nab your expensive bike when you’re in the bathroom at a gas station. Even if you’re using a locked, enclosed trailer, it’s not a bad idea to add an auxiliary lock. You can take a look at a list of our favorite motorcycle locks here.
Motorcycle Covers
Predicting weather during interstate travel is notoriously hard to do. If you don’t have an enclosed trailer, your motorcycle ends up enduring whatever conditions you end up driving through. Even in the best weather, your motorcycle is susceptible to damage from rocks and dust kicked up by other vehicles and flying debris. It’s a great idea to place an inexpensive motorcycle cover over your bike to protect your prized possession, so check out this list of motorcycle covers if you’re in the market for one.
Tie Downs
Tie-downs are one of the most important aspects of motorcycle hauling, securing your motorcycle in place onto the trailer. A catastrophic tie-down failure can mean disaster for your motorcycle and other road users, so make sure you’re purchasing a tie-down rated for the proper weight limit and verified by a trustworthy cargo certification body like the AAR (American Association of Railroads).
Motorcycle Lube
Especially if you’re not using a cover, your motorcycle lube, grease, and wax will gradually get stripped off over long drives in inclement weather. After every trailer trip, check that your bike is adequately lubed and greased. You can see some of our favorite motorcycle lubes here.
Motorcycle Lifts
No matter what type of trailer you’re using, a motorcycle lift will make loading much easier. From small format portable scissors jacks that will make loading hitch mount trailers (like this one from Goplus) ridiculously easy, to larger pneumatic lifts that you can store in an enclosed trailer, a motorcycle lift simply makes life easier for motorcycle owners. Check out our article on these ultra-convenient garage lifts.
Wrapping Up
Towing a motorcycle is serious business: when you’re hauling you have to take care not only of your prized bike, but also make sure to protect yourself other road users in the process.
No matter how big your motorcycle is or how far you’re towing, there’s a trailer out there for you. While it might require some modification to become the motorcycle-hauler of your dreams, there are plenty of safe and convenient options to get your two-wheeled friend from point to point. More