Hitch-mounted cargo carriers free up interior vehicle space while maintaining easy access to equipment. Simple, basket-style trays are the most common style next to sport-specific options, like bike racks. Yakima bridges the gap with the EXO, a customizable hitch-mounted cargo carrying system designed to offer twice as much storage capacity with unique accessories to meet a wide range of needs.
The SwingBase and TopShelf are at the heart of the EXO’s double-decker design. This tiered system allows drivers to stack two different cargo carriers from the EXO line-up onto a single trailer hitch.
Yakima’s latest addition is the EXO OpenRange—a rugged cargo box that serves as a portable camp kitchen. The OpenRange Deluxe includes a gamut of add-ons that transforms it into a fully functional workstation.
PROS:
- Easy, tool-free installation
- High-quality materials and durable construction
- 85 liters of internal storage space
CONS:
- Expensive
- Metal side table accessory is too big to store inside the OpenRange
- Fold down front door is not designed for meal prep; requires bracing for use
Most cargo carriers are designed for either general gear transportation or hauling specific types of equipment, such as kayaks. Switching between cargo carriers requires removing one system to install another. The Yakima EXO eliminates this need, allowing owners to swap between cargo carriers using a locking cleat system. The EXO accessory line-up includes spacious, weatherproof storage lockers, cargo baskets that convert to carts and sports-specific mounts for bikes and snow gear.
The OpenRange is designed for organizing and storing kitchen gear. It features 85 liters of storage space, an internal shelf, integrated utensil drawer, lantern hook and backboard organizer. The OpenRange Deluxe bundle expands the customization possibilities with camp kitchen add-ons available for individual sale or as a complete package. These add-ons include a wood side table with cutting board, collapsible wash basin and drain hose, metal cook side table with a fuel hose and canister pouch and a two-burner stove.
Over the past two weeks, we tested the OpenRange Deluxe cargo carrier installed on the EXO TopShelf. After driving for miles down washed-out backroads, it’s proven extremely durable and effective at keeping out dust and debris. During a week of camping in the Sangre de Cristos, the OpenRange Deluxe served as a functional all-in-one option for storage, meal prep, cooking and clean-up. It was quick and easy to set up and break down, making it a convenient option for travel and mobile living.
Price is its main downside, especially as part of the EXO system. While the OpenRange can be used on its own, it’s still a hefty upfront investment.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how this product scores in our evaluations:
Is the Yakima EXO OpenRange a Good Value?
The OpenRange costs $750 and the Deluxe bundle costs $1200. Compared to other portable camp kitchens, it’s a pricey stand-alone product. Its extra utility as a cargo carrier, however, redeems its score in the value category.
Note: We’re not including the cost of the EXO SwingBase ($590) or TopShelf ($460) in these evaluations.
Is This Product Durable?
The roto-molded OpenRange storage box is ruggedly built with strong locking latches. An interior rubber gasket effectively keeps out dust, debris, weather and animals, giving it a high score in the durability category.
How Secure is This Cargo Carrier?
Like all Yakima accessories, the OpenRange includes SKS locking latches for securing gear within the cargo box itself. Two locking SpeedKnobs fasten the box to the EXO SwingBase or TopShelf, making for a very secure overall product.
Is It Easy to Install and Use?
The OpenRange slides easily onto the TopShelf or SwingBase using the EXO cleat system. Setting up and breaking down the complete camp kitchen requires no tools and takes under five minutes.
How Versatile Is It?
While it’s designed to function as part of the EXO cargo carrying system, the OpenRange can be used by itself. It’s easy to stow in the bed of a truck or back of an SUV. In addition, Yakima offers a Free Standing Leg Kit accessory, making it possible to set up the OpenRange anywhere.
Our Verdict:
The Yakima EXO OpenRange Deluxe is a highly customizable, versatile camp kitchen option designed for travel and mobile living. It’s practical as a stand-alone product or as part of the Yakima EXO cargo carrying system.
Methodology:
Though we’re only evaluating one product here, we evaluate all hitch-mount cargo carriers based on these weighted metrics:
- Price (25%)
- Manufacturer Reputation (15%)
- Materials used for construction (15%)
- Ability to fold and/or swing away for access to hatch without removing (15%)
- Versatility for additional specialized mounts (10%)
- Finish: Paint, powder coat or other (5%)
- Weight (5%)
- Ease of storage (5%)
- Warranty (5%)