6 Unique Ways To Use A Tow Hitch

October 1st, 2025 by

A tow hitch receiver is typically attached to the frame of your Chevrolet and is what you use to insert a mount and ball where your trailer attaches and is then towed by your vehicle. However, there are actually different ways to use a tow hitch that doesn’t involve towing anything with wheels behind your vehicle. Here are six unique ways to use your trailer hitch.  

A Hitch Step 

Climbing into the bed of your Silverado or Colorado can be a hassle if you are vertically challenged, and sometimes you just can’t be bothered to lower the tailgate for various reasons. By mounting a hitch step, you can make it easier than ever to get things out of your truck’s bed without lowering the tailgate or trying to step on the top of the rear tire to increase your height. There are numerous companies that offer such products, with some able to support around 600 lbs of weight on the step. Most hitch steps are anywhere from $30 to $70 and offer a very easy way to load up your truck bed or take things out without having to resort to acrobatics.  

BMC hitch mounted LED lighting on truck

Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack 

For the outdoorsy people that like to ride their bikes, whether on a trail or when on vacation with the family, your tow hitch offers a great opportunity to take your bikes with you by mounting them to a hitch mounted bike rack. For under $100, you can find multiple options on Amazon that will hold up to four bicycles, meaning you, your spouse, and two children can each have their own spot to mount their bike.  

Extra Cargo Carrier 

Another way to use your hitch if you are into camping or traveling with extra luggage is to attach a hitch mounted cargo carrier. These super sturdy racks add extra storage space that can be secured easily and hold anywhere from a couple hundred to 500 pounds or so. While some models will run you $200 or $300, you will end up paying for quality in this case. Some will come with the storage platform, ratchet straps, and some sort of bag or case that will protect your items in rainy weather. Be sure to read the reviews of each model, though, as some will be better at holding heavier items than others.  

Extra Exterior Lighting 

Whether you’re camping or just doing outdoor projects, you can never have enough light after the sun goes down. Interestingly enough, your tow hitch can also be used to mount extra LED lights that can be hooked up via a provided wiring harness. Depending on the model you choose, you will be able to aim the light up or down to focus the illumination where you need it to be.  

A Chill Hammock 

Relaxing on the go can be a challenge, especially if you are on a road trip or are parked at a campsite. Some people have decided to add a hammock to their tow hitch and have never looked back. The hitch itself offers a stable and secure platform to mount a hammock. So, relaxing outside, even in your own driveway, doesn’t have to involve uncomfortable and annoying lawn chairs.  

Hitch safe

A Place to Store Valuables on the Go  

Last but not least on this list is something that you would not expect but could absolutely save your bacon. You can use your trailer hitch receiver to become a portable safe. There are products on the market that bolt into a vehicle’s hitch and allows for a combination lock that can hold keys, credit cards, cash, and other valuables. If you’re going to the beach and don’t want to carry your wallet and keys, simply use the secure lockbox in your trailer hitch.   

While there are multiple unique ways to use your tow hitch, there is only one way to buy a new or used Chevrolet in Idaho, and that’s at Twin Falls Chevrolet. With some of the best pricing around, the knowledgeable sales staff will help you find the right car to fit your needs.  

Why Choose Twin Falls Chevrolet 

At Twin Falls Chevrolet, we pride ourselves on providing you with the absolute best sales and service possible. With hundreds of new and used vehicles, our talented sales team and finance department will help you find the best one for you and your family. Our fantastic service department will keep that vehicle in the best condition for you. We look forward to serving you!