If you’re trying to secure items in the back of your Wrangler or you just want the option of doing so, a cargo net is a good choice.
You keep the open feel of your Jeep, while adding some utility.
Cargo nets vary in quality and price, by a good amount. So we picked the best options on the marketplace for the money.
Here are our choices. The 4 Best Cargo Nets for Jeep Wranglers:
1. Smittybilt Cargo Net: 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
Fit: 2 Door Jeep Wrangler JKs 2007-2018
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The Smittybilt Cargo Net for Jeep JK is an affordable option if you’re looking to keep your gear secure with your open top Jeep. This isn’t meant for hard top models of Wrangler, but with modifications you could make it work.
Depends if you want to deal with that. There are similar models that will work better, but they’re considerably more expensive – to the tune of 3 times the price.
Smittybilt is a well known auto brand that have been around a long time. They make good value products and for the amount, this fits that criteria.
It’s not going to be the strongest cargo netting, which isn’t to imply it’s weak – it just depends what you need. Note: This is only for 2 door models, if you’d like a 4 door model for your Jeep Jk you can pick it up here.
2. Rugged Ridge Cargo Net: 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
Fit: 2 Door Jeep Wrangler JKs 2007-2018
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More expensive than our previous option, but thicker and more durable material explains the price difference. It’s made from UV treated polyester, so if you’re going to have this sitting in the sun you’ll be fine.
Some other options we’ve seen are made of cheaper plasticy crud that the sun is going to wear down over time. The Rugged Ridge Net is a good value if you own a JK, and it looks pretty sweet too.
The polyester is stitched over rings throughout the design, which gives it a really sturdy feel. They have a limited 5-year warranty that covers the material and craftsmanship, so if anything goes wrong with it you’ll be covered. We know it’s a bit more expensive but you’ll be able to feel the difference.
One knock we have is that the clips that secure it to the back of the Jeep are plastic, so those are going to be failure points after repeated use.
3. Smittybilt Cargo Net: 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ
Fit: 2 Door Jeep Wrangler TJs 1997-2006
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This simple black cargo net is similar to the first we featured, almost identical. Except it fits the TJs. This design comes with a 5-Year limited warranty and it’s pretty affordable, probably the cheapest one you could get.
There aren’t too many manufacturers who make cargo nets for this range of Jeeps, and they’re all pretty expensive if they do. An alternative to Smittybilt is Extreme Terrain, here is their selection of cargo kits for the TJ.
Extreme Terrain has a good amount of options that are heavy duty, they’re just going to be a bit more expensive.
4. Dirty Dog Cargo Net: 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JKU
Fit: 4 Door Jeep Wrangler JK 2007-2018
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Razer Auto has a model of cargo net made specifically for a 4 door Jeep JK. It does include instructions however they are downloadable. While this is a good quality unit, it’s price point might leave some to be desired. But there aren’t that many options out there for the 4 door models when it comes to cargo nets.
It’s an easy bolt on install and it has plenty of clips to keep it securely placed. The sun won’t fade it, and it’s been tested to fit the models in the specified range. We think this is a good choice, but a bit expensive.
Why Own a Cargo Net?
Well, do you own an animal? Jeeps can be so open that it can put your mind to ease if you keep your dog with you. You wouldn’t want your buddy making a mad dive at the first appealing car that passes in your direction, for many it can give you some peace of mind. For most, a cargo net is just a way to store things.
A cargo net might give you a false sense of confidence but it isn’t going to be as secure as a proper enclosure. If you’ve got something extra heavy – we recommend finding additional ways to secure it. Ratchet straps are a good bet.
Conclusion
There aren’t too many options on the marketplace for Jeeps when it comes to cargo nets, but the ones that are there will suffice. If you’re looking for something affordable that will cover your Jeep, we say go with Smittybilt.
You won’t be able to find something cheaper on price. If you want something a bit more rugged that uses nylon webbing, those are out there – Extreme Rugged is a good option. You’ll pay more, but you’ll get something with a longer warranty and a material that you might prefer.
Cargo nets aren’t a substitute for tying down heavy objects when you have your Jeep open to the elements, but they’re great for keeping lighter things secured – or your dog in your vehicle.