looking for a good hitch carrier for a 2004 explorer so we can strap coolers or other gear on it when we have a load of people in the SUV. What brand do u guys recommend?

 

I bought one from NorthernTools several years ago. I wanted one with deep enough sides to hold stuff IN, and I use bungy cords to hold the stuff DOWN. This is what I bought, although my version doesn't fold.
I typically use large coolers to contain the smaller items and it also keeps dirt/mud and rain off the stuff.


Ultra-Tow Steel Folding Cargo Carrier — 500-Lb. Capacity, 60in.L x 20in.W | Receiver Hitch Cargo Carriers| Northern Tool + Equipment

 

we use basically the same thing. I bought at Harbor Freight. .... ours does not fold.

 

Ultra-Tow 2-in-1 Steel Cargo Carrier with 4-Bike Rack — 500-Lb. Capacity, Model# FTF-2762KR | Receiver Hitch Cargo Carriers| Northern Tool + Equipment

I use this one. It has bike hoops that come out and then its a normal hitch carrier. It is heavy though but has held up to its rated weight for thousands of miles. It even hauls bikes quite well.