Contact Us:
The 10 Best Spare Wheel Bags Australia: Tested & Reviewed 2024
The Best Spare Wheel Bags (2023 Buyers Guide)
When it comes to off-road adventures, having the right gear can make or break your experience. A spare wheel bag is the piece of gear you didn’t know you needed. These bags are the perfect storage space for anything you don’t want to actually bring inside your car – from rubbish or firewood to weather clothes and muddy boots.
Our expert team of camping & 4×4 experts have tested over 20 different spare wheel bags over the last two years (which led us to create our own).
After all this research and testing, we finally agreed on our list of the best spare wheel bags in Australia.
Check it out below.
Related: Top 10 Uses For A Spare Wheel Bag.
Quick Picks – Our Top 3
#1 Best Overall: Echidna Offroad The Outback Spare Wheel Bag
- Rugged 65L bag
- 510gsm hard-coated waterproof canvas for ultimate durability
- PVC lining for waterproof protection
- Zinc alloy metal buckles combined with seatbelt-like straps
- Integrated drainage hole for convenience
- BONUS removable extra large mesh bag for organised storage
- SECURITY: Each bag contains a 4mm coil security cable and weatherproof combination lock
#2 Best For Dirty Gear: Blacksmith Camping Supplies 4WD Wheel Bag
- Rugged 60L 4WD wheel storage solution
- Tough Australian canvas and PVC construction
- Interior lining ensures cleanliness, even with dirt
- Mesh pockets, D-rings for convenient storage
- Reliable choice for expanding vehicle storage
#3 Best For Rubbish: Crashpad Stealth MK2 Wheel Bag
- Stylish 70L wheel bag with eye-shaped accents
- Waterproof canvas exterior, easy-clean PVC lining
- Efficient rubbish management with removable divider
- Dedicated pocket for essentials and waste separation
- Reliable fit on rugged terrains, perfect for adventures
What To Look for in a Spare Tyre Rubbish Bag
When it comes to selecting the ideal spare wheel bag, there are a few crucial factors to consider, especially if you want both durability and a perfect fit. Whether you’re looking to manage rubbish, store dirty gear, or both, finding the right bag is essential for a hassle-free outdoor experience.
Related: How To Choose A Spare Wheel Bag.
Here is what to consider:
1. Size
Spare wheel bags serve various purposes beyond carrying rubbish. They’re equally handy for storing wet towels, wetsuits, muddy boots, or recovery gear. To choose the right size, determine what you’ll want to carry and how long you’re away. Bigger bags suit extended trips, while smaller ones suffice for weekends.
The standard size is somewhere between 60 and 75 litres, but you can also find bags that are bigger or smaller than that.
2. Quality Materials and Hardware
Given their exposure to rugged terrain, your spare wheel bag should be tough. Spare wheel bags are usually made out of canvas or of Oxford fabric. Both of these materials are decent options that are fairly durable and weather-resistant. Canvas is the heavier option, but it also might be more durable, especially considering these bags often come with a heavy-duty PVC lining inside to make them waterproof.
The top pick on our list, however, is made from ballistic nylon. This is a genius choice, because ballistic nylon is one of the most abrasion-resistant type of fabric.
Besides the fabric, reinforced stitching is also important and so are the buckles and zippers. If those are made from cheap plastic, they will get damaged from sun exposure and start falling apart eventually.
3. Ease of Cleaning
Whether it’s rubbish or dirty gear, an easy-to-clean bag is essential. Look for bags with drainage holes at the bottom for effortless cleaning with a hose. Bags with removable PVC liners provide an extra cleaning advantage.
`Whether it’s rubbish or dirty gear, an easy-to-clean bag is essential. Look for bags with drainage holes at the bottom for effortless cleaning with a hose. Bags with removable PVC liners provide an extra cleaning advantage.
On a final note, remember that finding a spare wheel bag that fits your tyre size is crucial for a secure attachment. With these considerations in mind, you can make an informed choice, ensuring that your spare wheel bag becomes an indispensable companion for your outdoor adventures.
The Best Spare Tyre Bags Australia 2024: Our Top Picks
#1 Best Overall: Echidna Offroad The Outback Spare Wheel Bag
- Rugged 65L bag
- 510gsm hard-coated waterproof canvas for ultimate durability
- PVC lining for waterproof protection
- Zinc alloy metal buckles combined with seatbelt-like straps
- Integrated drainage hole for convenience
- BONUS removable extra large mesh bag for organised storage
- SECURITY: Each bag contains a 4mm coil security cable and weatherproof combination lock
Capacity: 65 L
31″ to 35″ Wheels
The Outback spare wheel bag from Echidna Offroad is made to withstand the test of time and rugged terrain. With a simple but intelligent design, this bag is the perfect companion for all sorts of outdoor adventures. It will happily contain anything you need it to – be it muddy shoes, a wetsuit, or a bunch of firewood.
The material used to make the bag is what I found differentiates Echidna Offroad from other options. It’s made from the toughest canvas out of any wheel bag that I’ve seen, an industry-high 510gsm hard-coated and waterproof coating.
Related: The “Joey’ Small Outback Spare Wheel Bag is made for 24″ to 29″ wheels.
On the inside of the bag, there is heavy-duty PVC lining, which makes the bag waterproof. The functionality is increased with a drainage hole on the bottom of the bag.
The company has a ‘buy quality, buy once’ motto that really shows, they’ve included zinc alloy metal buckles with straps that look as strong as seatbelts, making the bag virtually indestructible.
Another unique aspect of this option is the free extra large mesh bag that fits perfectly inside the spare wheel bag. This made it incredibly easy for me to store items and also meant I didn’t have to use plastic bags to collect my rubbish.
If you are looking for a product that you will use for a long time, this spare wheel bag, designed with Australia’s diverse conditions in mind, is a choice you won’t regret.
I chose the Outback Spare Wheel Bag in the top position as it’s better looking and just as capable; however, much more affordable than the second-place Blacksmith 4WD bag, making it a suitable option for the everyday, budget-conscious Australian.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unparalleled durability | Only for spare tyres between 31” and 35” |
| Premium hard-coated waterproof canvas exterior | |
| Waterproof lining for added protection | |
| Backed by a 12-month warranty |
#2 Best For Dirty Gear: Blacksmith Camping Supplies 4WD Wheel Bag
- Rugged 60L 4WD wheel storage solution
- Tough Australian canvas and PVC construction
- Interior lining ensures cleanliness, even with dirt
- Mesh pockets, D-rings for convenient storage
- Reliable choice for expanding vehicle storage
Capacity: 60 L
The 4WD Wheel Bag from Blacksmith Camping Supplies is designed to provide that extra storage you need while enduring the rigours of off-road journeys. Constructed with a Dynaproofed™ 370 gsm Australian canvas outer shell and a 680 gsm Australian PVC interior lining, it’s built to stand up to harsh conditions. Reinforced stitching on stress points guarantees its durability over time.
Related: Blacksmith Camping Supplies 4WD Spare Wheel Bag Review.
What sets this bag apart is its ingenious design for dirty gear. The robust PVC interior lining not only makes cleaning effortless but also ensures that my mud-caked boots, soiled clothes, or wet equipment would’t leave a trace inside my car. Side-mesh pockets and stainless steel D-rings offer convenient storage options, while the drainage eyelet prevents moisture buildup.
With a 60-litre capacity, the bag accommodates a wide range of items, making it ideal for the extended trips I took. Crafted in Australia, this bag might not claim the top spot, but it certainly earns its place as a reliable choice for expanding storage while keeping your gear and vehicle organised. If you’re seeking an on-the-go storage solution that can handle the mess, this bag deserves a closer look.
The only problem I found with this bag is that it doesn’t fit perfectly on every wheel with a diameter between 31″ and 35″, even though it claims to do so. We found it doesn’t fit well on skinny wheels, and there were some problems with 35” wheels too. However, this was all fixed with some simple modifications if you are willing to do a little DIY.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large capacity | Doesn’t fit right on some wheel sizes |
| Durable | |
| Convenient mesh pockets and D-rings for attaching gear | |
| Available in three colours | |
| Made in Australia |
#3 Best For Rubbish: Crashpad Stealth MK2 Wheel Bag
- Stylish 70L wheel bag with eye-shaped accents
- Waterproof canvas exterior, easy-clean PVC lining
- Efficient rubbish management with removable divider
- Dedicated pocket for essentials and waste separation
- Reliable fit on rugged terrains, perfect for adventures
Capacity: 70 L
The Crashpad Stealth MK2 Wheel Bag is a great combination of functionality and style. This wheel bag not only enhanced my spare wheel’s aesthetics with cool eye-shaped accents but also transformed it into a multifunctional tool, especially for rubbish management during outdoor expeditions.
Crafted with a robust 410 gsm hard-coated waterproof canvas exterior, this bag withstood all kinds of conditions. The 600 gsm PVC lining ensures effortless cleaning, which I found particularly essential after dealing with rubbish or messy outdoor gear.
Related: Crashpad Stealth MK2 Spare Wheel Bag Review.
The innovative design caters to adventure enthusiasts seeking efficient rubbish management. Equipped with a removable internal divider and a dedicated storage pocket featuring a custom Crashpad zipper slider, the bag kept my essentials organised, accessible, and separate from the section I used as a rubbish bin.
The 70-litre volume provided ample space for waste during my outdoor escapades. Its heavy-duty metal side release buckles secure the bag to your spare wheel, ensuring a reliable fit even on rugged terrains.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large capacity | More expensive than some other options |
| Quality materials | |
| Velcro divider inside for easy organising | |
| Easy to clean |
#4 Best For XLarge Tyres: Crashpad Boss Wheel Bag
- Tailored solution for XLarge wheels, 31″ – 35″
- Unique round shape, maximizes space and fit
- Premium materials: 410 gsm canvas, 600 gsm PVC
- Essential drainage hole and hidden pocket design
Capacity: 74L
Although most spare wheel bags claim they will fit any wheel between 31″ and 35″, I’ve found there are often issues when trying to fit them onto wheels that are in the top of this size range. The Boss Wheel Bag from Crashpad provides an easy solution to this issue. It’s a slightly larger bag designed specifically for XLarge wheels.
Design-wise, the bag is very similar to the Stealth MK2 model from Crashpad. It’s made using the same materials – 410 gsm canvas on the outside and a 600 gsm PVC lining on the inside. Looking from the outside, the main difference is the shape of the bag. While most spare wheel bags are square, this one is actually round, so it completely matches the wheel. This maximised the space inside, but also means that this bag will only fit onto 35” wheels.
The bag also features the obligatory drainage hole on the bottom and a hidden internal pocket.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Larger than most other bags | Only one colour available |
| Fits perfectly onto 35” wheels | Not adjustable to different wheel sizes |
| Sleek round design | |
| Made with heavy-duty fabrics |
#5 Budget Pick: Kings Premium Dirty Gear Bag
- Budget-friendly storage solution for outdoor gear
- Designed to keep dirty/wet items away from interior
- 42L volume, can also double as a backpack
- Convenient strap system for spare wheel attachment
- Focus on affordability over top-tier quality
Capacity: 42L
The Kings Premium Dirty Gear Bag offers a budget-friendly solution for outdoor enthusiasts seeking extra storage while keeping dirty or wet items away from their vehicle’s interior. While it comes with attractive features at a considerably lower cost, it’s essential to note that this bag is designed with a focus on affordability rather than top-tier quality. That’s what I noticed, anyway.
Related: Kings Premium Spare Wheel Bag Review.
With a 42-litre volume, this bag is considerably smaller than many others. However, that’s still quite a bit of space. And, in a pinch, this wheel bag might double as a backpack. In fact, the bag looks just like a backpack that goes on your spare wheel, with two straps that wrap around it. While this system was quite convenient and easy to set up, it didn’t stand the test of time, with our test case bag breaking pretty quickly.
More for the weekend warrior.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very affordable | The attachment system might not be 100% safe |
| Convenient side pockets | Not as durable as other options |
| Waterproof PVC lining | |
| Drainage hole at the bottom |
#6 Best Small Bag for Spare Wheel: Navigator Wheel Pack Buddy
- Compact yet efficient wheel pack option
- Designed for lightweight, practical outdoor use
- Accommodates standard tyres, fits up to 35″
- Secure drawcord closure, lid zipped pocket
- Practical design with front pocket, D-rings, mesh base
Capacity: 37L
For those who prefer to keep things compact yet efficient, the Navigator Wheel Pack Buddy offers a practical solution that doesn’t compromise on utility. As the smallest bag in consideration, this wheel pack is tailored for those seeking a lightweight and manageable option for their outdoor journeys.
Despite its smaller dimensions, I found this wheel pack doesn’t compromise on versatility. First of all, it was designed to accommodate most standard tyres, with a recommended maximum off-road fit of 35”.
Related: The Navigator Wheel Pack Buddy Spare Wheel Bag Review.
Furthermore, there are a few very convenient features on this bag. For example, there is a secondary drawcord closure under the lid, preventing litter from escaping or helping to keep my gear extra secure. The zipped pocket on the lid was handy for storing spare garbage bags, while the front pocket with a twin-slider rubberised zipper and drainage hole let me stay organised. Underneath the front pocket, there are D-rings designed to accommodate a portable hand sanitiser, reflecting the bag’s practical design. Elasticated openings on the side pockets provide additional storage options.
Finally, the main compartment features a mesh base. While Navigator claims that the mesh is very durable, I found this to be the weakest part of the product. However, it does provide excellent drainage and ventilation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Small and practical | Limited capacity |
| Versatile tyre fit | Not as rugged as some other options |
| Easy-to-clean PVC lining | |
| Multiple extra pockets |
#7 Biggest Capacity: ALL-TOP Overland Series Spare Tyre Trash Bag
- Spacious Overland Series trash bag, 100 L capacity
- Adjustable fit for wheels up to 40″
- Canvas exterior in grey, tan, or black
- Water-resistant lining, drainage holes for dry storage
- Exterior mesh pockets, webbing straps for extra items
Capacity: 100L
The ALL-TOP Overland Series Spare Tyre Trash Bag is designed for those who really need a lot of space. With a capacity of 100 L, it is bigger than most other spare wheel bags I’ve tested. And, due to the adjustable fitting mechanism, it’s suitable for all sizes of wheels, up to 40”. So, if you find that standard sizes aren’t big enough for your needs or to fit around your wheel, this is the option to try.
The bag’s exterior is made from canvas, and it’s available in three colours – grey, tan, or black. While that’s just a minor detail, it’s nice to be able to choose a colour that fits the rest of your stuff. The canvas is lined with a water-resistant layer on the inside to keep water from getting in. But, if it does get in, there are drainage holes on the bottom, which let my stuff stay dry.
On the outside of the bag, there are a bunch of mesh pockets as well as webbing straps, which I often used to attach extra stuff such as keys when at camp
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for large wheels | No compartments inside |
| Easy to set up | Pockets aren’t secure |
| Available in three colours | |
| Largest option available |
#8 A Good Option For Rubbish: Tuff Terrain Rear Wheel Bag
- Versatile 60L Rear Wheel Bag for various uses
- Designed as an efficient rubbish bin
- Waterproof Oxford fabric construction
- Lightweight, durable, and functional
- Single compartment with zipper-closed lid
Capacity: 60L
The Tuff Terrain Rear Wheel Bag was specifically designed to hold rubbish, although nothing is stopping you to use it for anything you want. However, it does really work great as a rubbish bin.
Unlike some heavy-duty models which are made from canvas with a PVC lining, this bag is made from waterproof Oxford fabric. This is not as tough as the thicker canvas options, but the fabric is still very durable. As a plus, the choice of fabric makes the bag more lightweight.
Related: Tuff Terrain Rear Wheel Bag V2 Review.
The bag features a single compartment with a lid on top which is closed by a zipper. There is no drainage hole on the bottom, so storing wet gear inside is probably not the best idea. On the other hand, the fact that there are no openings means the smells from rubbish will not seep out of the bag and attract insects and wildlife.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good value for money | No drainage hole |
| Made with waterproof Oxford fabric | |
| Easy to set up | |
| Useful side pockets | |
| Perfect for storing rubbish |
#9 Good Value for Money: XTM 4WD Spare Wheel Bag
- Practical XTM spare wheel bag at BCF
- Generous 45L storage for camping essentials
- Zippered compartment, three mounting straps
- Added security with anti-theft strap and padlock
- Affordable solution for camping waste storage
If you’re working with a tight budget or seeking a practical solution to store odds and ends during your occasional camping escapades, consider the XTM spare wheel bag available at BCF.
This bag boasts a spacious single compartment, offering a generous 45 litres of storage capacity. The compartment is secured with a zipper, while the three adaptable mounting straps effortlessly fasten over your tyre. There is also a unique feature: an extra anti-theft strap. The strap has reinforced eyelets that you can attach a padlock to for extra security.
Related: The XTM Spare Wheel Bag Review.
While it falls among the more affordable choices in our selection, if you’re simply in need of a fundamental camping waste receptacle for your upcoming outdoor venture, this BCF spare wheel bag fits the bill perfectly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | No extra pockets |
| Well-made and durable | Fairly small |
| Easy to mount |
#10 Good Option For Smaller Wheels: Partol Spare Tyre Trash Bag
- Partol Spare Tyre Trash Bag for Jeep Wrangler
- Easy X-strap attachment, secure placement
- Oxford cloth with water-resistant coating
- Drainage holes for water, UV-resistant buckles
- Decent choice, though less sturdy, UV-sensitive fabric
The Partol Spare Tyre Trash Bag is marketed for Jeep Wrangler, but it will probably fit on any wheel between 30” and 33”. That is to say, it will fit better on smaller spare wheels.
The bag attaches to the wheel with two straps that make an X. That means it’s very easy to install the bag and it will remain securely in place. The fabric used is Oxford cloth, treated with water-resistant coating on the inside. That makes the bag fairly resistant to rain, but not actually waterproof. Speaking of water, you’ll also find there are drainage holes on the bottom, so if there is water inside it will be able to drip out.
The buckles on this bag are made of plastic, but they come with nylon covers to protect them from UV-rays. There are also convenient mesh pockets on the outside of the bag as well as webbing straps which can be useful for organising your gear when camping.
Overall, this is a decent spare wheel bag, but it is less sturdy than some other options. The fabric tends to fade with prolonged exposure to UV and some users have complained of snapped straps.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fits 30” – 33” spare wheels | Not water-proof |
| Easy to install and use | Not as durable as other options |
| Lightweight |
My Final Verdict
There are some excellent options on the market, and the differences between them are mostly about the details and personal preferences. The one that stands out among the rest as the best spare wheel bag is the Echidna Offroad ‘Outback Spare Wheel Back’.
This bag uses ballistic nylon which is super resistant to wear and tear, and is much more affordable than the other top-of-the-line competitors. In that sense, the Echidna bag is a step ahead of the others, but canvas bags are also fine and there are some really nice options to choose from to suit all uses and budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
The size of the spare wheel bag you need depends on the items you intend to carry and the duration of your outdoor trips. Larger bags are suitable for extended journeys and can accommodate various types of gear, while smaller bags are ideal for weekend getaways.
Many spare wheel bags feature waterproof or water-resistant materials, such as PVC lining or coated canvas, to protect your gear from moisture. Some bags also have drainage holes at the bottom to allow water to escape and prevent odour buildup.
Spare wheel bags typically have size specifications, so it’s important to choose a bag that matches your spare tyre’s diameter. Some bags are designed to fit a range of tyre sizes, while others are specific to certain dimensions.
Cleaning a spare wheel bag depends on its design and materials. Bags with PVC lining or waterproof coatings are often easy to clean with a hose. For fabric bags, check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning recommendations.
Most spare wheel bags are designed for easy installation. They typically come with adjustable straps that secure the bag to the spare tyre. However, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation to ensure a secure fit.