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When you drive a Subaru Crosstrek, carrying extra fuel can extend your range during remote trips and provide peace of mind in emergencies. Choosing the right jerry can matters because poor fit, unstable mounting, or a leaky spout can create safety hazards and wasted fuel. This guide highlights a shortlist of top picks that balance secure storage, trunk-friendly dimensions, and straightforward pouring.We evaluated each option for capacity, mounting and storage ease, materials and durability, and spill prevention features to identify the most practical choices for Crosstrek owners. Read on for concise buying guidance and the factors we considered when narrowing the field.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Racewill Lockable 5-Gallon Jerry Can Mount Holder |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Smittybilt Jerry Gas Can Holder (Model 2798) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | MCCKLE Jerry Gas Can Holder Rack with Combination Lock for 5-Gallon Steel Jerry Can |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Mayouko Lockable Steel 20L Jerry Can Holder Rack |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Racewill Lockable Jerry Can Mount Holder for 5-Gallon Jerry Cans |  |
1. Racewill Lockable 5-Gallon Jerry Can Mount Holder
| Fits | 5 Gallon NATO-style jerry can |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount, Corner Mount |
| Special Features | Foldable |
| Finish Type | Painted |
This Racewill jerry can mount is a steel rack made to hold a regular 5-gallon NATO-style can and keep it locked in place with an added padlock. Installation is straightforward and the foldable design gives options for wall, corner, or vehicle mounting; buyers commonly bolt it into truck beds or cargo areas. Notable features include a top lockable strap for anti-theft, cold-rolled steel construction for rigidity, and an internal form that fits common Scepter-style water and fuel containers. In use it keeps a can stable during travel and frees up interior space compared with loose containers. Limitations to expect are that mounting hardware is not always included, some users report thin areas that may flex under heavy load, and cans from some brands can be a tight fit or require minor adjustment. If you plan to mount to a Crosstrek cargo area, check clearance and prepare appropriate bolts and threadlocker for long-term vibration resistance.
Best for: A reliability-focused buyer who wants a secure, welded metal mount to carry an extra 5-gallon container for extended trips and practical overland use in a Subaru Crosstrek.
Less Ideal for: Not a good choice for anyone needing a ready-to-install kit with all hardware included or for those seeking a custom-fit solution for uncommon can shapes without modification.
- Lockable top strap provides theft deterrence when used with a padlock
- Cold-rolled steel construction and painted finish resist road wear
- Foldable design supports multiple mounting locations including wall or vehicle cargo areas
- Fits standard 5-gallon NATO-style and many Scepter-style cans for broad compatibility
- Mounting bolts and hardware are often not supplied with the unit
- Thin metal in some sections can flex and may need reinforcement for heavy-duty use
- Not all 5-gallon cans fit perfectly—some brands require minor modification or shimming
Verdict A sturdy, lockable jerry can rack that secures a 5-gallon can reliably if you supply proper mounting hardware and are prepared to reinforce fitment for heavy use.
2. Smittybilt Jerry Gas Can Holder (Model 2798)
| Material | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Holds | 5 Gallon jerry can |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Mounting Type | Floor Mount / multiple holes |
| Special Feature | Detachable |
This Smittybilt Jerry Can Holder is a heavy-duty metal bracket designed to carry a 5-gallon steel jerry can on a vehicle. It mounts using the multiple predrilled holes in the frame and holds the can with a lockable top strap and rubber isolators to reduce metal-on-metal contact. In real use it gives a secure, low-profile way to carry extra fuel for long drives or remote trips; the powdercoated finish helps resist corrosion and the welded construction feels rugged. Practical benefits include a simple install to a ladder, bumper, or roof rack adapter and a locking strap that deters casual tampering. Limitations to consider are fitment: some plastic or nonstandard containers will not fit and the supplied rubber pads can fall out when removing the can. A few users report rust around welds over long-term exposure and occasional weak tack welds on the strap hinge, so owners who need absolute long-term corrosion resistance or military-grade theft protection may want to reinforce welds or add additional locking hardware.
Best for: Performance-minded Crosstrek owners who prioritize extending range for long trips or off-grid driving and want a robust, vehicle-mounted fuel solution that can be modified or reinforced as needed.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a theft-proof, maintenance-free long-term solution or who plan to carry unconventional plastic containers should consider alternative mounting systems or purpose-built containers.
- Solid welded alloy-steel construction for rugged use
- Powdercoated finish for improved corrosion resistance
- Lockable top strap secures the can and deters casual theft
- Multiple mounting holes for flexible attachment locations
- Not compatible with many plastic water jugs or nonstandard can shapes
- Some users report rust developing at weld joints over long-term exposure
- Hold-down strap hinge and rubber isolators can be failure points without reinforcement
Verdict A tough, flexible steel holder that gives Crosstrek drivers a reliable way to carry a 5-gallon metal can, best for those willing to reinforce and maintain it for long-term use.
3. MCCKLE Jerry Gas Can Holder Rack with Combination Lock for 5-Gallon Steel Jerry Can
| Capacity | 5 Gallons |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | MCCKLE |
| Batteries required | No |
This MCCKLE jerry can holder is a simple, budget-focused solution for carrying a 5-gallon steel fuel can on a vehicle. It bolts to a rack or mounting point and uses a strap with a four-digit combination lock to hold the can in place; the base includes a rubber strip to reduce rattling and protect the can. Construction is full cold-rolled steel with a black powder-coat finish, so it resists corrosion and stands up to outdoor use. Installation is straightforward with the included hardware, and the detachable carrier design makes it easy to remove the can when you need to refill. The included lock is convenient for short stops but several reviewers call it lightweight if you need strong theft protection. Because it is a mount rather than a sealed container it does not address fuel venting or spillage beyond the can itself, so proper jerry can caps and venting remain necessary. For Crosstrek owners who want an inexpensive, durable way to carry an extra 5-gallon steel can, this holder covers the basics without complexity.
Best for: Budget-conscious Crosstrek owners who prioritize a low-cost, robust way to carry an extra 5-gallon steel fuel can for trips, overlanding, or emergency preparedness.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking a tamper-proof theft solution or an integrated fuel system with venting and spill containment should consider higher-end locking boxes or purpose-built fuel carriers instead.
- Heavy cold-rolled steel construction provides durable mounting for a 5-gallon jerry can
- Black powder-coat finish helps resist rust and outdoor corrosion
- Detachable carrier design allows quick removal for refilling or storage
- Includes installation hardware and a 4-digit combination lock for basic security
- Rubber strip at the base reduces vibration and protects the can surface
- Combination lock is lightweight and may not deter determined theft
- Mount secures the can but does not control venting or spills from the can itself
Verdict A tough, no-frills steel mount that makes carrying a 5-gallon can on a Crosstrek affordable and practical, but expect only basic lock security and no built-in fuel containment.
4. Mayouko Lockable Steel 20L Jerry Can Holder Rack
| Capacity | 20 Liters |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mayouko |
| Batteries required | No |
This steel jerry can holder is a simple, lockable mounting bracket intended to keep a 20L NATO‑style metal fuel can stable on a vehicle or trailer. It is built from cold‑rolled steel with predrilled mounting points so you can bolt it to a bed, roof rack, cargo carrier, or auxiliary bracket on a Subaru Crosstrek. Installation requires basic hand tools and the included stainless screws reduce the risk of early rust at fastener points. In use the ring and top clamp hold the can snugly and accept a padlock for theft prevention, which is useful when leaving a can on a roof rack or rear carrier during multi‑day trips. The holder is not a freestanding container and must be secured to a firm mounting surface; some buyers have noted the outer ring can bow under heavy off‑road vibration, so reinforcing with additional brackets or straps improves long‑term durability. The product ships as the holder only, so pair it with a compatible steel 20L can for a complete fuel solution for extended Crosstrek outings.
Best for: A risk‑averse Crosstrek owner who prioritizes secure, theft‑resistant storage for a metal 20L fuel can during multi‑day trips and prefers a straightforward, bolted installation.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who want a standalone, pop‑in carrier or those planning aggressive off‑road use without additional reinforcement should consider alternative heavy‑duty mounts.
- Lockable design accepts a padlock for theft deterrence
- Full cold‑rolled steel construction provides a solid mounting frame
- Predrilled mounting points make bolting to roof racks or carriers straightforward
- Includes stainless screws to reduce fastener corrosion risk
- Not freestanding; requires a secure mounting surface and hardware
- Outer ring may deform under heavy continuous off‑road stress without reinforcement
Verdict A practical, lockable steel bracket that secures a 20L metal jerry can to a Crosstrek-mounted rack but needs a sturdy mounting surface and occasional reinforcement for heavy off‑road use.
5. Racewill Lockable Jerry Can Mount Holder for 5-Gallon Jerry Cans
| Fits | 5 gallon jerry can |
|---|---|
| Mounting type | Wall mount, corner mount |
| Finish type | Powder Coated |
| Manufacturer | Racewill |
This Racewill jerry can mount is a steel, lockable rack designed to hold a standard 5-gallon NATO-style metal or compatible plastic jerry can. It installs on flat surfaces such as a Crosstrek's cargo area or a roof-rack platform and uses a U-bayonet retainer and stainless screws to help deter theft. The powder-coated finish and reinforced welding make it corrosion resistant for outdoor use, and the detachable design saves space when not carrying a can. Practical real-world benefits include a secure way to carry extra fuel on long trips and a tidy mounting point that keeps a can from sliding around in the cargo area. Limitations are fitment sensitivity and hardware omissions: some brands of cans do not seat perfectly and users reported thin mounting plates and missing or non-thread-locked bolts, so you may need to drill precise holes and add stronger fasteners or thread locker for long-term vibration resistance.
Best for: A balanced all-round buyer who wants a secure, space-conscious way to carry an extra 5-gallon fuel container on trips and prioritizes practical, durable aftermarket accessories.
Less Ideal for: Avoid this if you need a universal, drop-in mount for nonstandard cans or if you want a fully finished kit with vibration-proof hardware and a plug-and-play installation.
- Lockable U-bayonet retainer increases security against theft
- Powder-coated cold-rolled steel with reinforced welding for corrosion resistance
- Detachable, space-saving design suitable for vehicle cargo areas
- Fits standard 5-gallon NATO-style jerry cans and common Scepter water/fuel containers
- May not fit every brand or shape of 5-gallon can without modification
- Mounting hardware is incomplete and bolts are not pre-treated with thread locker
- Mount plates are relatively thin and can flex during installation or under heavy vibration
Verdict If you want a secure, compact mount for a standard 5-gallon can on your Crosstrek, this sturdy lockable rack is a practical choice but expect to supply stronger fasteners and check can fitment before installation.
Choosing the Right Subaru Crosstrek Jerry Can: Key Factors to Consider
Size and Capacity
Capacity dictates how much range you add and how the can fits in your vehicle. Larger cans provide more fuel but take up more trunk space and add weight that can shift vehicle balance. For a Subaru Crosstrek, prioritize sizes that allow secure placement in the cargo area without blocking visibility or access to emergency gear.
Also consider how a partly filled container behaves. Smaller cans are easier to handle and easier to secure to prevent sloshing, while larger cans may require additional tie-downs or bracing. Think about whether you need multiple small cans or a single larger one based on typical trip length and available storage.
Spout, Venting, and Pour Control
A reliable spout and vent system reduces spills and speeds refueling. Look for a design that allows smooth, controlled flow and includes a vent or rollover protection to prevent glugging that causes splashes. Pour control matters when refueling in windy conditions or in awkward positions near vehicle filler necks.
A threaded or locking cap reduces the risk of accidental opening, and ergonomic spouts with flexible extensions help reach recessed filler necks. Consider how easy it is to remove and store the spout when not in use to avoid damage or contamination.
Material and Durability
Materials affect longevity, weight, and chemical compatibility. Metal cans are often very durable and resist puncture, but they require coatings or treatment to avoid corrosion. Plastic cans are lighter and resist rust, but they can degrade under UV exposure or with certain fuels if not designed for long-term storage.
Assess construction quality, seam and weld strength, and whether the material is rated for the fuel type you intend to carry. Durable fittings, reinforced handles, and protective finishes help the can survive repeated use and rough transport.
Mounting and Fitment
How the can mounts or sits in the cargo area determines security and convenience. A can that nests against the cargo wall or locks into a rack will be far less likely to shift during off-road use. Look for flat sides, integrated tie-down points, or compatible mounting brackets that work with common rack systems and trunk tie-downs.
Consider whether the can will block access to other gear, how it stacks with other supplies, and whether it can be quickly removed for refueling. Secure fitment reduces noise and prevents damage to both the can and vehicle interior.
Safety Features and Certification
Safety features help prevent accidents and legal issues. Important elements include secure locking caps, pressure relief or flame mitigation when applicable, clear fuel-type labeling, and child-resistant closures where relevant. Certifications or compliance with transport guidelines indicate the can meets baseline safety standards.
Also consider ease of inspection and maintenance. A can with visible fill markers and a design that allows cleaning and drying will stay safer in long-term use. Avoid cans that lack basic labeling or appear to compromise venting and pressure control.
FAQ
How much extra fuel should I carry in a Subaru Crosstrek for a long trip?
It usually depends on trip length and how remote your route is. Many drivers carry one 2 to 5 gallon equivalent can for emergency range extension. Balance the added weight and trunk space with the extra range you need, and consider carrying a smaller can if you frequently drive on limited-access roads.
Is metal or plastic better for a portable fuel container?
Both have tradeoffs. Metal cans are often more impact resistant but can corrode without proper coating. Plastic cans are lighter and resistant to rust but may be more vulnerable to UV degradation and certain fuel additives. Choose a material rated for the fuel type and conditions you expect.
How should I store a jerry can in my Crosstrek to prevent spills?
Secure the can flat against the cargo area with tie-downs or in a recessed area so it cannot shift. Use accessory brackets or non-slip mats where available, keep the can upright, and ensure caps and vents are tightly closed before driving. Regularly check seals for wear and replace damaged parts.
Can I carry diesel or gasoline interchangeably in the same can?
It is usually best to dedicate a can to one fuel type. Residual traces can contaminate the next fill, and some materials respond differently to diesel versus gasoline. Clearly label cans by fuel type and clean them per manufacturer guidance before changing uses.
Are there legal or safety limits to how much fuel I can transport in a passenger vehicle?
Regulations vary by location and situation, and safety recommendations usually limit the amount carried in enclosed passenger compartments. Follow local guidelines and common-sense precautions: secure containers, use approved cans with proper labeling, and avoid placing fuel in the passenger cabin. When in doubt, check local transport rules.
How We Chose the Best Subaru Crosstrek Jerry Can
We focused on features that matter specifically to Crosstrek owners who need a compact, safe way to carry extra fuel. Primary evaluation criteria included physical dimensions and mounting compatibility so the can fits in the Crosstrek cargo area or on common racks; capacity options that balance usable range versus storage space; spout and vent design to minimize spills and make refueling straightforward; and construction materials and corrosion resistance for long-term durability. We also rated ease of handling, ergonomic handles and pour control, and whether a can supports secure locking or strap-down points to prevent movement during transport.We excluded specialty commercial or extremely large industrial tanks that clearly exceed passenger-vehicle storage norms, and we did not consider units lacking basic safety labeling or venting. The resulting shortlist emphasizes practicality: trunk- and rack-friendly sizes, reliable anti-spill features, and robust construction suitable for road and trail use.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Picking the right jerry can for your Subaru Crosstrek is about balancing usable capacity, secure fitment, and safe handling. Prioritize a size that fits your cargo area, a spout and vent system that minimizes spills, and materials and construction that suit your typical conditions.Tradeoffs are inevitable: larger cans increase range but take more space and weight, while smaller cans are easier to store and handle. Use the factors above to choose a can that matches how you drive and where you travel, and maintain seals and mounting points for long-term safe use.
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