Spare tire bags and tailgate bags are some of the most useful overland accessories you can add to a rig. They give you a place for trash, recovery gear and camp items without eating into cab or bed space. Here are the questions we hear most, answered with the actual sizes and materials of the Adventure Trail Gear bags we carry.
What is a spare tire bag used for?
A spare tire bag straps onto your spare tire, ladder, bed rack or trailer and holds the things you want outside the vehicle: garbage, wet or muddy gear, recovery straps, shackles, a camp stool, first aid. Many owners use the built-in D-rings to hang a trash bag inside so the mess stays out of the cab.
Spare tire bag or tailgate bag: which one do I need?
It mostly comes down to size and where it mounts.
- Spare tire bag: the larger option, made for a full-size spare on a rear swing-out, rack or trailer.
- Tailgate bag: a shorter bag sized for smaller tires and truck tailgates.
What are the sizes?
- Spare Tire Bag V2: 18" wide x 25" tall x 7" deep.
- G.A.R.B. Tire Bag (The Original): 22" x 28" x 8" unfilled, and it holds a standard large garbage bag.
- Tailgate Bag V2: 18" x 22" x 7", sized to best fit tires 33" and smaller as well as truck tailgates.
- G.A.R.B. Tailgate: 17" x 22" x 7", for tailgates or tires under 31".
- Ladder/Tread Surface Bag V2: 14" x 22" x 7", the slimmer choice for ladders and tight spots.
What is the difference between the V2 vinyl bags and the G.A.R.B. Cordura bags?
V2 bags use 18 oz PVC-coated vinyl with a woven polyester inside, HD polyester webbing rated to 4500 lb break strength and #10 YKK coil zippers. They are designed for long sun exposure and come in more colours and combinations, including the TRD tri-colour lid.
G.A.R.B. bags are the original design, made from 1000 denier Cordura with #8 YKK zippers and black hardware. Both styles use welded D-rings so worn straps can be replaced, and both let you buy the bag with or without straps.
How does it mount?
- Regular spare tire straps for mounting on the tire.
- 4x utility straps (Velcro and webbing) for ladders, racks and other spots.
- Tailgate straps on the tailgate bags, so the bottom connections can be unclipped and the bag swings out when you lower the tailgate.
- No straps, using the integral D-rings with a carabiner or your own straps.
Will a tailgate bag damage my paint?
Any bag against paint can rub or trap dirt. Every Tailgate Bag V2 comes with a nylon fabric panel to go between the bag and the tailgate to reduce friction, and the maker recommends periodically rinsing the area between the bag and the paint. The G.A.R.B. design suggests mounting traction boards against the tire rather than the tailgate for the same reason.
What fits inside a spare tire bag?
The Recovery Duffle 20L (8" x 8" x 18") was designed to fit in the base of the Rugged Spare Tire and Tailgate Bags, and also fits inside the original regular and small bags. Pack your shackles, soft shackles and straps in it, and the whole kit lifts out in one piece. The G.A.R.B. Tire Bag also has a long side pocket for a three-legged camp stool or a tree saver strap.
What other trail storage goes with them?
- Storage Cube V2 (9 L and 18 L): a soft-sided box with a clear lid window and a double-layered base that does not soak up water on wet ground.
- Tool Bag: five zippered pockets in three sizes, with internal Velcro and elastic for organizing.
- Propane Tank Bags: built around the common 9" x 19" 10 lb tank, with spare tire, ladder/rack and strapless versions. Smaller 5 lb bags are also available.
- Chainsaw Bag: adjustable for e-saws with 14-18" bars.
- MOLLE Pouch Set: three Cordura pouches, hand cut and sewn in Fredericton, NB.
- Can Caddies (4 and 6 can) and the Fire Extinguisher Mount.
- Adventure Pack 2.0: 25 L main compartment in DWR Cordura, with hydration ports and a laptop-access zipper.
Can I choose my colours?
Yes. Pick the main body colour, then add a note at checkout for panel colours, such as a red lid or tan front. Options include the TRD tri-colour lid on the V2 bags.
What about a tire table?
If you want a tailgate-style table too, see the Strike Force 67 Tailgater tire table and bag combo.
Where can I see more?
Browse the full bags and packs, storage and recovery gear collections. Questions about fit for your truck, Jeep or trailer? Message Union Overland and we will help you pick the right size.