Best Truck Bed Extender in 2022 + A Complete Buying Guide

Best Truck Bed Extender in 2022: Top 5 Choices to Boost Your Truck Capacity

We’ve tested dozens of units and chosen the 5 best extenders for various types of trucks and vehicles in general. Keep scrolling to discover their key features, strengths and weaknesses.

1. Best Overall: AMP Research BedXTender

Key features:

• U-shaped design
• Flip-out style
• Torque-resistant
• Easy to assemble and install
• 3-year limited warranty

The AMP Research BedXTender features a standard U-shaped design that provides more capacity. It has 6063-T6 aluminum and glass-reinforced nylon composite, which is an excellent combo that delivers enhanced durability without adding a lot of weight to your vehicle.

The BedXTender features a convenient flip-out design that allows you to open the tailgate, flip the extender over, and add two feet of length to your current cargo bed. Once you’ve done it, you can simply flip it back into the bed. An advantage of such a design is the ability to use the extender as a cargo organizer and keep smaller items in place.

This unit is available in a black and metallic finish. It might require some modification in order to install it, but the kit comes with detailed instructions for how to do it.

PROS// High-quality bed extender; Easy to install; Heavy-duty materials; U-shaped designed for maximum capacity; Two metallic finishes to choose from.

CONS// You might need to order some parts separately.

2. Best for Kayak: Yakima Outpost HD Truck Bed Rack

Key features:

• Compatible with all Yakima mounts to carry lumber, kayaks, surfboards, bikes, etc.
• It fits most truck beds
• QuickChange rack attachment for easy on-off
• Build to last
• Integrated Same Key System locks to secure your rack system

One of the best things about the Yakima Outpost HD Truck Bed Rack is that it doesn’t require any drilling or time-consuming modifications – all you need to do is place it onto the top of your truck bed’s walls. Besides, the crossbars come in different lengths, meaning that this unit can be used on different truck beds, regardless of their width.

You can use the Outpost to haul bikes, kayaks, skis, and surfboards. This heavy-duty tailgate extension rack lets you carry long and heavy items with peace of mind without adding more weight to your truck. In fact, it can reduce the truck’s overall height when loaded.

According to the manufacturer, the Outpost can withstand up to 500 pounds during on-road driving and 300 pounds in an off-road environment. The kit includes all the necessary installation hardware, and you’ll need about one hour to place it.

PROS// Heavy-duty extender; Suitable for truck beds of varying lengths; Supports heavy loads; Durable; Integrated tie-down points to secure your load more easily.

CONS// Not as high as expected.

3. Best for Ford F-150: Genuine Ford 9L3Z-99286A40-C Bed Extender

Key features:

• DOT-compliant
• Provides you with additional 18 inches of carrying space
• Fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene
• Simple installation
• Fits 2009-2014 Ford F-150

If you’re looking for a well-rounded bed extender for your Ford F-150, look no further than the Genuine Ford Bed Extender. It also works as a protector that prevents larger cargo from falling out while adding 18 inches of carrying space.

Users love its classic design that takes your pickup’s aesthetics to the next level. Thanks to its traditional yet phenomenal U-shaped style, you can conveniently carry heavy loads with your Ford F-150. This extender is made from brushed fiberglass that’s strong yet lightweight, which is another great benefit.

This extender will easily blend into your vehicle, regardless of its color and overall style. Aside from its classy design, this truck bed extender provides exceptional value for years to come.

PROS// +18 inches of carrying space; Durable; Quick and easy installation; Lightweight; Sleek design.

CONS// Users complain about the extender’s shape, which limits the types of loads you can carry.

4. Best Aluminum Truck Bed Extender: Dodge Ram Bed Extender By Mopar

Key features:

• 1-year warranty
• Genuine OEM
• Reputable brand
• It fits most Ram models
• Weighs 15 pounds

The Dodge Ram Bed Extender has a sleek and modern design that will make you stand out on the road. You can install it directly to the tailgate to add a foot and a half of additional capacity for your equipment, tools, and cargo.

This is an incredibly durable aluminum bed extender that significantly increases the number of items you can haul. It fits most Dodge and RAM bed sizes, and you won’t go wrong with it if you’re looking for something attractive and durable.

Some mounting hardware is included in the kit, but you might need to make some cuts to see the mounting holes. Also, make sure you have a rivet tool for the installation process.

PROS// Durable; Attractive design; Easy to install; Easy to disassemble; High-quality metal bars.

CONS// Unclear instructions.

5. Best Pickup Truck Bed Extender: Darby Industries 944 Extend-A-Truck

Key features:

• 4-feet support
• Highly adjustable
• Easy to install and remove
• Receiver hitch included
• Adjustable height for rooftop hauling

Any pickup truck can benefit from a phenomenal Darby Industries 944 Extend-A-Truck. This is the best pickup extender for those who use their pickups to haul heavy loads and need something for a more convenient ride.

This is a pretty versatile extender you can use to secure objects above or behind the vehicle. It is an excellent choice for business owners who operate their pickups daily to transport cargo from one place to another.

Another great advantage of this pickup extender is an included red flag that promotes and ensures road safety, as well as pins and clips that enhance the overall stability.

PROS// More secure hauling of long loads; Receiver hitch included; Easy to store when not in use; 4-feet-wide support; A red flag included.

CONS// Some parts are cheaply made.

Truck Bed Extender Types

There are three main types of truck bed extenders, and each of them is suitable for different purposes:

Brands to Choose

While different manufacturers and companies sell truck bed extenders, we suggest you go for some of the most reputable brands in the industry, including:

Pricing Range

Truck bed extenders are available at different prices, including:

• $60-$100: The cheapest truck bed extenders fall into this category. While most are durable enough to withstand heavy loads, entry-level extenders are commonly designed for objects not longer than your truck bed.
• $200-$300: Truck extenders at this price range feature high-quality materials, and you can use them for carrying longer and heavier items. You can also find some well-known brands within this category.
• $400 and more: The most expensive truck bed extenders are $400 or even more. These items feature premium materials and offer the best possible support for your heavy and long items.

Why Should You Use a Truck Bed Extender?

If you’re still wondering whether you should buy a tailgate extender or not, let us point out some of its core benefits:

• More capacity: If you’re frequently hauling heavy stuff around, a truck bed extender is something you need. It helps you save more time and gasoline by allowing you to carry various things at once.
• Helps you store your items more securely: The best truck bed extenders come with a strap that keeps your stuff in place to prevent their damage or breaking during transport. Besides, it makes sure your items don’t end up in hard-to-reach areas when you brake suddenly.
• Broad compatibility: Some bed extenders are compatible with other vehicles, meaning that you don’t need a truck even if you plan on hauling long and heavy items. You can use an extender on your SUV or a van, and you won’t find it difficult to install and remove.

First-Hand Tips for Buying a Truck Bed Extender

How to Install Tailgate Extension?

The installation process depends on the type of truck bed extender you’re using. While some require a hitch mount to connect to the truck, standard U-shaped truck extenders come with clips and straps you’ll hook onto the tailgate’s interior edge to keep it locked in.

FAQs