There are certain modifications that completely change how you use your vehicle. For Subaru owners who want to get serious about overlanding, installing a swing out bumper with jerry can holder is one of them. It’s the upgrade that takes your Forester or Crosstrek from a capable daily driver to a true exploration vehicle, ready for multi-day trips into the backcountry. By moving heavy, bulky items like fuel and a full-size spare to the exterior, you not only free up precious interior space but also fundamentally increase your rig’s range and self-sufficiency. It’s a functional transformation.
Key Takeaways
- It's a Functional Platform, Not Just a Bumper: A swing-out bumper is a strategic upgrade that provides a secure place for extra fuel, water, and a full-size spare. This frees up valuable interior space and gives you the confidence to extend your trips.
- Prioritize Fit and Material Quality: Choose a bumper designed specifically for your Subaru model to guarantee a safe installation. High-grade steel construction and a durable powder-coat finish are non-negotiable features that protect your investment from trail damage and rust.
- Budget for the Complete System: The final cost goes beyond the bumper itself. Remember to account for professional installation, potential suspension upgrades to support the added weight, and accessories like a backup camera relocation kit for a safe and complete setup.
What Is a Swing-Out Bumper with a Jerry Can Holder?
If you’re serious about taking your Subaru off the beaten path, you know that space and fuel are your most valuable resources. A swing-out bumper is a heavy-duty rear bumper replacement that features one or two articulating arms, or "swing-outs," that pivot away from the vehicle. These arms are designed to carry essential gear, and for this guide, we're focusing on the integrated jerry can holder.
Think of it as more than just a protective accessory. It's a versatile solution for carrying extra fuel or water, freeing up precious interior cargo space and improving your rig's capability. For anyone building a vehicle for extended trips, this upgrade is a foundational piece of many overlanding solutions. By mounting heavy items like jerry cans directly to the vehicle's frame via the bumper, you create a more stable and secure setup for rough terrain. This allows you to push further into your adventure with confidence, knowing you have the reserves you need. It’s a smart, functional upgrade that prepares your vehicle for whatever the trail throws at it.
How the Swing-Out Mechanism Works
The magic of a swing-out bumper is in its simplicity and strength. The system is built around a robust hinge that allows the arm, loaded with your jerry can and other gear, to swing completely clear of the tailgate or rear hatch. A heavy-duty latch secures the arm against the bumper when you're driving, preventing any rattling or movement. When you need to access your trunk, you simply release the latch and pivot the arm outward. This design gives you quick, unobstructed access to your cargo area without having to unload your gear first, a key feature for convenience on the trail.
Swing-Out vs. Standard Rear Bumper: What's the Difference?
Your Subaru's standard rear bumper is designed primarily for one thing: minor impact protection in daily driving. It’s not built to carry any significant weight. A swing-out bumper, on the other hand, is a piece of purpose-built equipment. Unlike a standard bumper, its main job is to carry heavy loads like spare tires, recovery gear, and jerry cans. By mounting directly to the strongest points of your vehicle's frame, it transfers the weight of your gear to the chassis. This is a critical difference, as it avoids putting excessive stress on your tailgate, which was never designed to support that kind of load. It’s a significant upgrade that reflects the core principle behind quality performance parts: improving your vehicle’s capability and durability.
Why Add a Swing-Out Bumper to Your Rig?
A swing-out bumper is one of those upgrades that seems simple at first, but completely changes how you use your vehicle. It’s not just about looks; it’s a serious functional improvement that opens up new possibilities for your adventures. If you’ve ever felt limited by your Subaru’s stock storage capacity or struggled to access your gear on the trail, a
Extend Your Range with Extra Fuel
The freedom of the open road, or lack thereof, often comes down to one thing: fuel. Running out of gas in the backcountry is more than an inconvenience; it can be a serious problem. A swing-out bumper with a jerry can holder lets you confidently push deeper into remote areas. By securely mounting extra fuel cans on the exterior of your vehicle, you keep flammable liquids and their fumes out of the cabin. This setup provides quick access when you need to refuel, so you can spend less time worrying about your next fill-up and more time enjoying the journey. It’s a foundational piece of any serious overlanding solution.
Carry More Water for Your Adventures
Just as crucial as fuel, a reliable water supply is non-negotiable for any extended trip. You need it for drinking, cooking, and cleaning up after a day on the trail. A swing-out bumper provides a dedicated and sturdy mount for water cans, allowing you to carry a significant amount without sacrificing interior space. This external storage keeps your water easily accessible and separates it from other gear, preventing potential contamination. Having a designated spot for water containers simplifies your packing process and ensures you’re always prepared, whether you're setting up camp for the night or just stopping for a quick trailside lunch.
Get Unobstructed Access to Your Cargo
There’s nothing more frustrating than needing something from the back of your rig and having to unpack half your gear just to get to it. Standard hitch-mounted carriers or oversized spares can completely block your tailgate. A swing-out bumper solves this problem beautifully. Because the entire carrier arm swings away from the vehicle, you get wide-open, unobstructed access to your cargo area. This means you can easily grab a jacket, your recovery kit, or snacks without a hassle. For vehicles like the Subaru Crosstrek, where every inch of space counts, this easy access is a massive quality-of-life improvement on any trip.
Maximize Space Without Losing Ground Clearance
When you’re building an off-road rig, every modification is a balance. While roof racks can carry a lot, they add weight up high, which can affect your vehicle's stability and center of gravity. They can also get snagged on low-hanging branches. A bumper-mounted swing-out carrier is the perfect alternative. It allows you to carry heavy items like a full-size spare tire, fuel, and water securely at the rear of the vehicle. This keeps the weight lower and helps maintain your vehicle’s handling characteristics. Most importantly, it adds significant carrying capacity without reducing your ground clearance or departure angle, ensuring your Subaru remains as capable as ever on challenging terrain.
How to Choose a High-Quality Swing-Out Bumper
A swing-out bumper is a significant investment for your rig, so choosing the right one is about more than just looks. It’s a critical piece of gear that needs to be durable, functional, and perfectly suited to your vehicle and your adventures. When you’re comparing options, paying close attention to the details will ensure you get a bumper that can handle the trail and last for years. Let’s walk through the four key areas you need to examine before making a decision.
Inspect the Materials, Finish, and Corrosion Resistance
The foundation of a great swing-out bumper is the material it’s made from. Look for bumpers constructed from thick, high-grade steel, as this provides the strength needed to withstand off-road abuse. A quality bumper will also have a durable finish to protect it from the elements. A multi-stage powder coat is a great start, as it creates a tough barrier against scratches and impacts. Some of the best options add an E-coating underneath the powder coat for an extra layer of corrosion resistance. This is especially important for anyone who drives in wet climates or areas where roads are salted in the winter. Investing in superior materials and finishes means your bumper will resist rust and look great for the long haul, protecting your overlanding solutions investment.
Evaluate Jerry Can Capacity and Mounting Style
The whole point of adding a jerry can holder is to carry extra fuel or water, so make sure the bumper you choose can do it well. A well-designed mount should securely hold standard-sized jerry cans, typically the 5.3-gallon (20-liter) variety, without excessive rattling or movement. Check how the cans are secured; a sturdy, lockable latching system is ideal for both security and trail stability. The mounting style itself is also important. A system that is integrated cleanly into the swing-out arm’s design will be stronger and more reliable than a flimsy, bolt-on afterthought. This ensures your extra supplies are a secure part of your vehicle’s performance parts ecosystem, not a liability on rough terrain.
Verify Weight Rating and Load Distribution
A swing-out bumper carries a lot of weight far from the vehicle's mounting points, creating significant leverage. You need to be certain the bumper is engineered to handle it. Always check the manufacturer's weight rating for the swing-out arm. This rating should account for a spare tire, fully loaded jerry cans, and any other gear you plan to mount. A robust spindle and hinge mechanism is the heart of the system, as it bears the entire load. A bumper designed for proper load distribution will transfer the weight effectively to the vehicle's frame, preventing damage and reducing stress on the chassis. Adding this much weight will affect your vehicle's handling, so it's a good idea to consider how it fits into your overall build, including any potential suspension upgrades.
Confirm Vehicle Compatibility and Fitment
There is no such thing as a "one-size-fits-all" high-quality bumper. Proper fitment is essential for a clean installation, correct functionality, and the safety of your vehicle. A reputable manufacturer will provide a detailed list of the specific vehicle models and years their bumper is designed for. For example, a bumper made for a Subaru Crosstrek will have different mounting points and dimensions than one for a Forester. Confirming compatibility ensures that the bumper will align with your vehicle’s frame, accommodate factory sensors, and not interfere with the tailgate. This precision fitment is a hallmark of a quality product and will save you from major headaches during installation and use.
Exploring the Different Types of Swing-Out Bumpers
Once you decide a swing-out bumper is the right move for your build, the next step is choosing the right type. Swing-out systems are not one-size-fits-all. They come in several configurations, each offering a different balance of storage, access, and complexity. Understanding these options will help you select a bumper that perfectly matches your adventure style and the gear you need to carry. From simple single-arm designs to highly customizable modular systems, let's break down the most common types you will find.
Single Swing-Out Bumpers
A single swing-out bumper features one arm that pivots away from your vehicle to grant access to the rear cargo area. These are a popular choice for their simplicity and straightforward operation. The single, robust arm is designed to carry a spare tire, jerry cans, or other essential gear. Because there is only one pivot point and latch, they are often lighter and more mechanically simple than dual-swing systems. This design is a versatile solution for anyone looking to add significant utility to their rig without too much complexity, making it a great starting point for many overlanding solutions.
Dual Swing-Out Bumpers
As the name suggests, dual swing-out bumpers feature two separate arms that pivot from the corners of the bumper. This design offers incredible versatility and weight distribution. You can dedicate one arm to a heavy spare tire and use the other for jerry cans, a propane tank, or a camp table. This setup allows you to open only the side you need, which can be convenient in tight spots. The split design also means each arm carries less weight than a comparable single-swing setup, which can reduce strain on the pivot and latch mechanisms over time. This flexibility is perfect for building out a highly customized rig.
Integrated Tire and Jerry Can Combos
This is one of the most common and efficient configurations you will see on the trail. These bumpers are specifically designed with a swing-out arm that holds both a spare tire and one or more jerry cans. By combining these two essential items onto a single carrier, you get a compact and organized storage solution. This is especially useful for Subaru models like the Crosstrek, where you might be upgrading to a larger tire that no longer fits in the stock location. An integrated combo keeps your extended-range fuel and your spare right where you need them, all in one streamlined package.
Modular Swing-Out Systems
For the ultimate in customization, modular systems are the way to go. These systems often start with a base bumper that you can add components to over time. Instead of buying a bumper with a fixed configuration, you can purchase swing-out arms, jerry can holders, and other accessory mounts separately. This approach lets you tailor your setup to your exact needs and budget. You can start with just a bumper and add a tire carrier, then add a fuel mount later. This adaptability makes it easy to evolve your vehicle's capabilities as your adventures change, ensuring all your performance parts work together seamlessly.
Is a Swing-Out Bumper Right for Your Subaru?
Deciding to add a swing-out bumper to your Subaru is a big step, but it can completely transform your vehicle’s capability. If you’re an overlander, a weekend camper, or someone who just needs to haul more gear without sacrificing interior space, this upgrade is worth serious consideration. A swing-out bumper is much more than a protective accessory; it's a versatile platform for carrying extra fuel, water, a spare tire, and other essential equipment. This makes it an incredible addition for anyone who loves taking their Subaru off the beaten path.
Of course, adding a swing-out bumper means adding weight to the rear of your vehicle. You need to weigh the benefits of increased storage and utility against the potential impact on your suspension and handling. For many Subaru owners, the trade-off is easily justified by the freedom it provides. It allows you to extend your adventures, knowing you have the resources you need securely mounted and out of the way. The right setup enhances your Subaru’s functionality, making it a more capable tool for exploration. Crawford Performance offers a range of overlanding solutions that integrate seamlessly with your vehicle's performance.
Best Subaru Models for a Bumper Upgrade
While you can modify almost any vehicle, certain Subaru models are particularly well-suited for a swing-out bumper upgrade right from the start. The Subaru Forester and Crosstrek are prime candidates due to their robust unibody construction, factory ground clearance, and massive popularity in the off-road community. This popularity means there is a wide selection of aftermarket parts designed specifically for them. You’ll find that many owners have already documented their experiences with hitch-mounted carriers and full bumper replacements, proving the platform’s strength. For example, many have successfully added custom swing-outs with jerry can holders, finding them perfect for long trips. This shared knowledge makes it easier to plan your own build with confidence.
Overlanding Builds: Forester and Crosstrek Spotlight
The Forester and Crosstrek have become icons in the overlanding world for a reason. Their Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides a fantastic baseline for off-road performance, and their practical design makes them ideal for custom builds. The community around these models is incredibly active, with owners constantly pushing the limits of what’s possible. You can find countless examples of DIY and professional builds online, including detailed walkthroughs of custom-fabricated rear bumpers with integrated swing-outs. These builds often feature mounts for jerry cans, propane tanks, and spare tires, turning these capable crossovers into true adventure rigs. Exploring Subaru Forester upgrades can give you a clear picture of how to start your own project. Similarly, the right Subaru Crosstrek upgrades can prepare your vehicle for any trail.
The Crawford Performance Approach to Overlanding
At Crawford Performance, we see Subarus as incredibly versatile platforms perfect for adventure. Our approach to overlanding isn't about changing what your Subaru is. It's about enhancing its inherent capabilities to make it more reliable, functional, and ready for the path less traveled. We focus on thoughtful, performance-oriented modifications that work in harmony with the vehicle's design, ensuring you can push further into the backcountry with confidence.
Building a Capable Subaru for the Trail
A successful overlanding trip depends on being prepared, and that starts with your vehicle. One of the first challenges Subaru owners face is where to put a full-size spare tire, an absolute essential for any serious trail. A dedicated swing-out bumper provides a secure and integrated solution, getting the spare out of your cargo area and onto a robust platform built to handle rough terrain. This single upgrade is a cornerstone of a capable build, freeing up interior space and setting the stage for other essential overlanding solutions that prepare your rig for whatever lies ahead.
Integrating Storage Solutions with Performance
A swing-out bumper does more than just hold a tire; it’s a complete storage system. By integrating mounts for jerry cans, recovery gear, and other equipment, you create a setup where everything has a purpose-built home. This is about more than just organization; it’s about quick and easy access when you need it most. We design our Subaru Crosstrek upgrades to distribute this extra weight intelligently, preserving the vehicle's balance and handling characteristics. Your Subaru still feels like a Subaru, even when fully loaded for an expedition.
Why Quality Components Matter for Overlanding
When you're miles from the nearest town, the quality of your equipment is paramount. A flimsy bumper can rattle, sag, or fail under the constant vibration and stress of off-road driving. That’s why we build our parts to last. A quality swing-out bumper is an investment in reliability, constructed from durable materials with strong welds and a finish that resists the elements. Our experience on the racetrack informs the engineering of all our performance parts, ensuring they can withstand extreme abuse. If a part can survive the track, it can thrive on the trail.
Budgeting for Your Swing-Out Bumper
A swing-out bumper is a serious investment in your rig’s capability, so it’s smart to plan your budget before you start shopping. The price can vary quite a bit, but understanding what goes into the cost will help you make a confident choice. Think of it as investing in more freedom and longer trips, which is always a good return. Let's break down what you can expect to spend and what you get for your money.
Understanding the Price Range
When you start looking at swing-out bumpers, you'll see a wide range of prices. A complete, high-quality swing-out bumper system for a Subaru can run anywhere from $1,500 to over $3,000. The final price depends on the brand, features, and materials. On the other hand, if you already have a swing-out arm, you might just be looking for an accessory. A separate dual jerry can mount, for example, typically costs between $250 and $350. It’s important to distinguish between buying a full bumper system and adding individual components to an existing setup.
What Factors Drive the Cost?
So, what’s the difference between a $1,500 bumper and a $3,000 one? It really comes down to materials, design, and features. Most bumpers are made from steel for its strength and durability. The thickness of the steel, often 1/8-inch or more, and the quality of the welds play a big role in its ability to handle tough trails. A durable powder-coat finish is also crucial for preventing rust. More complex dual-swing arms, integrated recovery points, and modular designs that let you add accessories later also add to the cost. Investing in quality performance parts from the start means you can trust your gear when you're miles from the nearest town.
How to Find the Best Value
Finding the best value isn’t just about finding the lowest price; it’s about getting the right bumper for your specific needs. Start by thinking about how you’ll use it. Are you planning weekend trips or a month-long expedition? This will determine how much fuel and water you need to carry. Look for a bumper that is specifically designed for your Subaru model to ensure a perfect fit and proper weight distribution. Some companies offer modular overlanding solutions, allowing you to buy the base bumper now and add a jerry can holder or tire carrier later. This can be a great way to spread out the cost while building the exact setup you want.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Swing-Out Bumper
Choosing a swing-out bumper is a significant upgrade for your Subaru, but it’s easy to make a misstep if you don’t know what to look for. A little research upfront can save you from a purchase that doesn’t fit, compromises your vehicle’s performance, or creates a safety issue. To make sure you get it right the first time, let’s walk through some of the most common mistakes buyers make and how you can steer clear of them. By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll end up with a bumper that perfectly suits your rig and your adventures.
Don't Assume Universal Fitment
One of the biggest mistakes is assuming a bumper will fit just because it’s labeled "universal." The reality is that every vehicle is different, and a bumper designed for a truck won't necessarily bolt onto your Subaru Forester without serious modifications. Always confirm that the bumper is specifically designed for your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Manufacturers should provide a detailed compatibility list. If they don’t, consider it a red flag. A proper fit ensures that mounting points align with your vehicle's frame for maximum strength and safety, preventing issues with alignment, vibration, or structural integrity down the road.
Account for Weight and Suspension Impact
It's easy to forget just how much weight a swing-out bumper adds, especially once you load it with a full-size spare and two full jerry cans. This extra weight, positioned behind the rear axle, acts like a lever and can significantly impact your Subaru’s handling, braking, and suspension. Your stock suspension may not be equipped to handle the additional load, leading to sagging, poor ride quality, and reduced performance on and off the trail. Before you buy, consider if your current setup can handle it or if you need to budget for suspension overlanding solutions to properly support the weight.
Check Rear Visibility and Backup Camera Obstructions
While a swing-out bumper adds incredible utility, it can take away something crucial: your rear visibility. A large spare tire and jerry cans can easily create significant blind spots or completely block the view from your rearview mirror. More importantly, they can obstruct your factory backup camera, which is a key safety feature for daily driving and tricky trail maneuvers. When shopping, look for designs that aim to minimize this obstruction. Some manufacturers offer camera relocation brackets as a solution, so be sure to ask if that’s an option before you commit to a purchase.
Research Local Regulations for Transporting Fuel
Strapping a couple of jerry cans to your bumper seems straightforward, but you need to be aware of the rules for transporting fuel. Different states and local jurisdictions have specific regulations regarding the type of containers you can use and how they must be secured for transport on public roads. Some areas have strict laws about carrying fuel on the exterior of a vehicle. A quick search of your local Department of Transportation website can clarify the rules in your area. Ensuring your setup is compliant will help you avoid fines and potential safety hazards on your way to the trailhead.
Remember to Budget for Installation
The price tag on the bumper itself is rarely the final cost. Installation can be a complex job that may require cutting, drilling, or even wiring for license plate lights and camera relocations. While some mechanically inclined owners might tackle the installation themselves, many will need to pay for a professional to get the job done right. The cost of labor can add a significant amount to your total investment. Before you buy, get a quote from a trusted shop for the installation. This will give you a realistic idea of the total cost and help you find the best value for your performance parts budget.
How to Maintain Your Swing-Out Bumper
A swing-out bumper is a significant upgrade for any overlanding rig, but it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it accessory. Like any other critical component on your Subaru, it requires regular attention to perform safely and reliably for years to come. Off-road travel, with its constant vibrations and exposure to the elements, puts a lot of stress on your gear. A simple maintenance routine will protect your investment, prevent trailside headaches, and ensure your bumper is always ready for action. Think of it as part of your pre-trip checklist to keep your adventures running smoothly.
Perform Routine Hardware Checks
The constant jostling of a trail can loosen even the most securely fastened hardware. Before and after every major trip, make it a habit to inspect all the nuts and bolts on your swing-out bumper. Pay close attention to the main hinge pivot, the latch mechanism, and the bolts securing the bumper to your Subaru’s frame. Grab a wrench and check that everything is torqued to the manufacturer's specifications. This simple step prevents rattles, reduces wear, and ensures the entire assembly remains solidly attached to your vehicle. A thorough check gives you peace of mind, knowing your overlanding solutions are secure for the journey ahead.
Lubricate Moving Parts and Prevent Rust
To keep your swing-out arm opening and closing smoothly, you need to lubricate its moving parts. The main hinge and the latch assembly are the most important areas to focus on. Dust, mud, and water can all work their way into these mechanisms, causing them to bind or seize. Regularly clean these areas and apply a quality lubricant like white lithium grease or a dry graphite spray. While you’re there, inspect the bumper’s powder coat finish for any deep scratches or chips. Touching up these spots with paint will prevent rust from taking hold, especially if you frequently drive in wet climates or on salted winter roads.
Keep Your Jerry Cans Secure on the Trail
Your jerry cans will only be useful if they arrive at the campsite with you. The straps and mounts holding them are subjected to immense forces on rough terrain. Before you hit the trail, double-check that your cans are snug in their holders and that all straps, clamps, or locking mechanisms are tight. Even a small amount of movement can cause paint to rub off and create annoying noises, but a loose can could become a dangerous projectile. Make it a habit to check the security of your cans every time you stop for a break. This ensures your fuel and water supply stays put, no matter how challenging the trail gets.
Related Articles
- Crosstrek Rear Bumper: The Ultimate Upgrade Guide
- The Ultimate Forester Off-Road Bumper Guide
- The 4 Best Off-Road Bumpers for Your Forester
Frequently Asked Questions
Will adding a swing-out bumper and gear make my Subaru's rear end sag? That's a great question, and the short answer is yes, it probably will with a stock setup. A fully loaded swing-out bumper adds a lot of weight behind the rear axle. Your factory suspension is not designed to handle that extra load, so you will likely see some sagging, which affects ride quality. To properly support the new weight, you should plan on upgrading your suspension with stiffer springs or a complete lift kit. This ensures your vehicle remains balanced and capable.
Why choose a swing-out bumper instead of a cheaper hitch-mounted carrier? The biggest reason is access. A hitch-mounted carrier completely blocks your rear hatch, meaning you have to unload everything just to get into your trunk. A swing-out bumper pivots the entire load away, giving you clear, unobstructed access. It is also a much stronger and more stable solution for rough terrain because it mounts directly to the vehicle's frame instead of just the hitch receiver.
How much maintenance does a swing-out bumper actually need? It requires some simple, regular attention to stay in top shape. Before any big trip, you should check that all the mounting bolts, the hinge, and the latch hardware are tight, as off-road vibrations can loosen things. It's also smart to periodically clean and lubricate the hinge and latch to keep them operating smoothly. Finally, inspect the finish for any deep scratches and touch them up with paint to prevent rust from forming.
Can I install a bumper from a different vehicle on my Subaru? I would strongly advise against it. A quality bumper is engineered specifically for the vehicle it's meant for, with mounting points and dimensions designed to match your Subaru's frame perfectly. Trying to adapt a "universal" bumper or one from another model will likely result in a poor fit, compromised strength, and a lot of frustration. Always choose a bumper that is explicitly listed as compatible with your exact model and year.
I've installed my bumper. What's the first thing I should put on it? A full-size spare tire is the most logical first step. If you've upgraded your tires for off-road use, the larger spare probably won't fit in the stock location anyway. Moving it to a dedicated carrier on the bumper is a foundational part of a capable build, freeing up valuable interior space. After that, you can add jerry can holders for extra fuel or water as your adventures demand.