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If you drive a Ram 2500, carrying a properly sized jerry can can keep you moving when fuel access is limited. You want a container that mounts securely, resists leaks, and pours easily without making a mess. This guide lists seven shortlisted jerry cans that meet common truck owner needs for on-road and off-grid fueling. We evaluated each option for material durability and spill prevention to highlight practical choices for different storage and usage scenarios. Read on to see which features to prioritize for your Ram 2500.
Looking for other parts? See all Ram 2500 parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Smittybilt Jerry Can Holder (Model 2798) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Racewill Lockable Jerry Can Mount Holder for 5-Gallon Jerry Cans |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Atlantic British Valpro Jerry Can Holder for 10L Wavian/NATO Cans |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | WINMAX Gas Can Holder for 5-Gallon Steel Jerry Can |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | ELITEWILL 5 Gallon Lockable Jerry Can Mount Steel Holder |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Mayouko Lockable 20L Steel Jerry Can Holder Rack |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Racewill 2-Pack Lockable 5-Gallon Jerry Can Mount Holders |  |
1. Smittybilt Jerry Can Holder (Model 2798)
| Material | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Special Feature | Detachable |
| Mounting Type | Floor Mount |
| Holds | 5 Gallon can |
The Smittybilt Jerry Can Holder is a full‑metal bracket designed to carry a single 5‑gallon steel jerry can and attach it to a vehicle mounting point. It mounts with multiple bolt locations, holds the can with a lockable top strap, and uses rubber isolators to keep the can from rubbing directly on the frame. Typical use is off‑road or overland support when you need extra fuel range or emergency reserve; the powder‑coat finish helps resist corrosion and the welded steel construction stands up to rough service. Buyers will appreciate the simple, serviceable design and the variety of mounting holes that make installation on a pickup or rack straightforward. Limitations to note are fit sensitivity with some nonstandard or plastic containers, occasional quality control concerns around welds and strap hardware reported by users, and potential surface rust at welds over long exposures if protective coating is compromised.
Best for: Reliability‑focused buyers who prioritize a sturdy, serviceable accessory to carry emergency fuel on long trips or heavy‑use work duty and prefer a straightforward, repairable solution.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who want a universal holder for a variety of plastic containers or who need an anti‑theft solution that resists determined tampering without additional reinforcement.
- Heavy welded steel construction for durable, long‑term use.
- Powder‑coated finish improves corrosion resistance in outdoor use.
- Lockable top strap secures the can against theft and movement.
- Multiple mounting holes simplify installation on beds, racks, or spare‑tire adapters.
- Not universally compatible with all plastic cans and some larger containers will not fit.
- Some user reports of weak tack welds or strap hardware quality requiring reinforcement.
- Rubber isolators can fall out when removing the can and may need adhesive or replacement.
Verdict A reliable, no‑frills steel jerry can bracket that suits owners who want a rugged, lockable solution for carrying a single 5‑gallon metal can on their Ram 2500.
2. Racewill Lockable Jerry Can Mount Holder for 5-Gallon Jerry Cans
| Fitment | Fits regular 5 gallon NATO-style jerry can |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Wall mount, corner mount |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Manufacturer | Racewill |
This Racewill mount is a purpose-built holder for standard 5-gallon jerry cans that bolts to a flat surface in your truck bed or garage. It uses a reinforced welded frame, an anti-theft U-bayonet and stainless steel locking screws so a filled can remains securely fastened on rough roads or when parked. Installation is straightforward but requires drilling and assembly; the kit appears to ship without mounting bolts or thread locker so bring your own hardware and loctite for best results. The powder-coated steel resists corrosion and the detachable design saves space when not in use. Fit can be tight depending on can brand — it works well with Scepter-style containers but some metal cans need slight modification or a different SKU to fit perfectly. For Ram 2500 owners the mount provides a tidy, secure way to carry an extra 5-gallon can in the bed, but expect to spend a little time aligning holes and adding stronger fasteners for long-term vibration resistance.
Best for: Convenience-driven owners who want a simple, secure solution to carry an extra 5-gallon can on their Ram 2500 without complex racks or custom fabrication.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need an out-of-the-box bolt-on solution with included hardware or those who plan to mount nonstandard-sized cans without modification.
- Lockable U-bayonet and stainless steel screws deter theft and keep the can secure.
- Powder-coated cold-rolled steel frame offers corrosion resistance for outdoor use.
- Detachable design and compact footprint save bed space when not carrying fuel.
- Reinforced welded construction provides strong containment on rough roads.
- Does not include mounting hardware or pre-applied thread locker, so additional fasteners are required.
- Fitment varies by can brand and some metal jerry cans may need modification to sit correctly.
- Some users report thin or soft metal in mounting areas that can bend during installation if over-torqued.
Verdict A practical, lockable mount for carrying a single 5-gallon can on a Ram 2500, but plan to provide your own mounting hardware and check can compatibility before installation.
3. Atlantic British Valpro Jerry Can Holder for 10L Wavian/NATO Cans
| Fits can size | 2.5 gallon (10 liter) Wavian or NATO European cans |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel |
| Mounting | Pre-drilled screw/bolt holes for rack or bed mounting |
| Exterior | Painted finish |
This steel Valpro jerry can holder is built to keep a 10 liter Wavian or NATO-style can securely mounted on a vehicle rack. It installs with through-bolts to a rack or bed-mounted bracket and uses a locking strap that snaps over the can handle to hold the can in place during driving. The frame includes rubber/plastic bumpers to prevent metal-to-metal contact and reduce rattling, which helps protect the can finish and reduces noise on rough roads. In use it is straightforward: bolt the holder to your Ram 2500’s bed rack or rear carrier, slide the 10L can in, and fasten the strap; reviewers report it holds filled cans tightly even off-road. The latch accepts a small padlock for simple theft deterrence but the strap and thin metal are not intended as a heavy-security solution. It is robustly painted and finished for outdoor exposure, but the design is large and fairly heavy, so confirm clearance and mounting space on the truck before purchase.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize secure, road-ready fuel carrying for trips and off-road use and who run a Ram 2500 with a rack or mounting point for an external can.
Less Ideal for: Users who need a low-profile, lightweight solution inside tight storage spaces or who require high-security locking for stored fuel should consider other options.
- Made from steel with a painted finish for outdoor durability
- Locking strap that secures the can and accepts a small padlock
- Rubber/plastic bumpers protect the can and reduce rattling
- Multiple mounting holes allow direct bolting to a rack or bed mount
- Locking strap and thin metal are not designed to resist determined theft or heavy prying
- Relatively large and heavy which may not fit all mounting locations
Verdict A heavy-duty, well-finished steel holder that securely carries 10L Wavian/NATO cans on a Ram 2500 rack but is large and not intended as a theft-proof enclosure.
4. WINMAX Gas Can Holder for 5-Gallon Steel Jerry Can
| Material | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5 Gallons |
| Finish | Powder coated |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
This welded steel holder is built to carry a single 5-gallon jerry can and fastens to bumpers, racks, or trailer frames using the pre-drilled mounting holes. It is intended for exterior vehicle use and comes powder-coated to resist corrosion in outdoor conditions. Installation is straightforward for DIYers who can align and bolt the bracket to a Ram 2500 rear bumper or rack, though some users report minor fitment adjustments or trimming may be necessary with certain can lid assemblies. The lockable top strap keeps the can from shifting or being stolen on long trips. Practical benefits include a robust metal base that clamps cans tightly and simple universal mounting that works on common Ram 2500 attachment points. Limitations are visible manufacturing variance in weld alignment and hole spacing that may require drilling or modification for a perfect fit, and some strap designs need trimming to clear specific can lids.
Best for: Budget-conscious Ram 2500 owners who prioritize a rugged, low-cost way to carry an extra 5-gallon steel jerry can for longer trips or work use.
Less Ideal for: Buyers looking for a bolt-on, vehicle-specific carrier with exact factory fit or a stainless solution for saltwater coastal use should consider higher-end or model-specific options.
- Full-metal construction gives a sturdy mount for highway and off-road use
- Powder-coated finish improves corrosion resistance for outdoor mounting
- Lockable top strap secures the can against movement and theft
- Pre-drilled mounting holes simplify bolting to bumpers, racks, or trailer frames
- Mounting hole spacing and weld alignment can be off and may require drilling or modification
- Strap and tab may not clear every can lid without trimming or minor modification
Verdict A sturdy, budget-friendly steel carrier that secures a 5-gallon jerry can on a Ram 2500 but may need minor fitting work for a perfect installation.
5. ELITEWILL 5 Gallon Lockable Jerry Can Mount Steel Holder
| Designed for | 5 Gallon fuel jug |
|---|---|
| Material | Iron with powder coat |
| Mounting | Pre-drilled holes sides and bottom |
This ELITEWILL jerry can mount is a steel bracket built to hold a 5 gallon fuel jug securely and lock it in place for travel or storage. It installs using pre-drilled holes on the sides and bottom so you can fasten it to a Ram 2500 bed, headache rack, or hitch carrier with basic tools. The holder wraps over the top of the can for improved stability, includes foam padding to reduce rattling, and ships with a combination-style lock and anti-theft hardware. The powder-coated iron construction helps resist weather when mounted on open trucks, and the adjustable bolts let you tighten the fit around slightly varied container shapes. Expect a straightforward, secure mounting solution that may require some drilling or minor fabrication to fit your specific mounting point on a Ram 2500 and plan to replace the supplied foam and lock with heavier-duty options for long-term use or off-road abuse.
Best for: Risk-averse Ram 2500 owners who prioritize secure, theft-deterrent storage for a spare 5 gallon fuel jug during work or overland trips.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who want a completely tool-free, bolt-on solution for specific Ram 2500 mounts or those who prefer an integrated cargo system should consider alternative mounting options.
- Lockable design and anti-theft hardware help protect fuel when left on a truck or trailer
- Pre-drilled mounting holes on sides and bottom simplify attachment to a Ram 2500 bed, rack, or hitch carrier
- Steel construction with black powder coat improves outdoor durability
- Top-over mounting style and adjustable bolts provide a snug, stable hold for 5 gallon jugs
- Included lock and foam padding are lower quality and may need upgrading for heavy use
- May require drilling, modification, or extra fabrication to fit some Ram 2500 mounting locations
Verdict A sturdy, lockable bracket that secures a 5 gallon jerry can on a Ram 2500 but plan to upgrade the supplied lock and padding and allow time for installation.
6. Mayouko Lockable 20L Steel Jerry Can Holder Rack
| Capacity | 20 Liters |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mayouko |
| Batteries required | No |
This steel jerry can holder clamps a 20L NATO-style metal fuel can into a keyed, lockable frame for secure transport on a Ram 2500. It mounts with pre-drilled holes and stainless screws to resist rust, and the full cold-rolled steel construction gives a firm anchor point to keep a filled can from tipping or rattling in the bed. Installation is straightforward and can be completed with common hand tools; several mounting positions make it easy to fit to the truck bed, bed rack, or trailer hitch-mounted platforms. Practical benefits include theft deterrence via padlock capability, a snug fit for common 20L cans, and modularity if you want to group multiple holders. Limitations are that it only accommodates metal NATO-style cans and is not a standalone carrier; very aggressive off-road use may deform the outer ring over time, so additional bracing is worth considering for heavy-duty overlanding. The product ships as the holder only — the gas can is not included.
Best for: Practical optimizers who want a durable, budget-conscious way to secure a single metal 20L fuel can to their Ram 2500 for camping, work, or long trips.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need a standalone portable carrier, need to carry multiple non-standard cans, or prioritize a rubber-mounted, vibration-isolating solution should look elsewhere.
- Lockable steel frame deters theft and secures the can.
- Cold-rolled steel construction provides a rigid mounting point.
- Pre-drilled mounting holes and included stainless screws simplify installation and reduce corrosion risk.
- Multiple mounting positions increase versatility for truck-bed or trailer mounting.
- Fits only NATO-style 20L/5-gallon steel cans and will not work with many plastic or non-standard cans.
- Not a freestanding carrier so it requires a solid mounting surface and hardware.
- Outer ring may bow under heavy off-road stress without additional reinforcement.
Verdict A straightforward, lockable steel mount that gives Ram 2500 owners an affordable, secure way to carry a 20L metal jerry can if you can mount it solidly to the truck bed.
7. Racewill 2-Pack Lockable 5-Gallon Jerry Can Mount Holders
| Fitment | Fits 5 gallon NATO-style jerry cans |
|---|---|
| Material | Cold rolled steel |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Set Quantity | 2 Pack |
These Racewill jerry can holders are metal mounting brackets sold as a two-pack for carrying standard 5-gallon NATO-style cans. They bolt to a flat surface such as a truck bed wall, roof rack or garage wall and use a top lockable strap so you can add a padlock to deter theft. Built from cold-rolled steel with a black powder coat, the frames are stiff enough for repeated road use and resist corrosion when painted or cared for. Buyers appreciate the secure fit for common Scepter-style water and some metal cans, and the holders save space while keeping cans upright and easy to access. There are a few practical limits: the holders are a tight fit on some can brands and may require minor modification or care during installation, and fasteners are not always included so you may need to supply bolts and thread locker. Installation requires drilling and aligning bolt holes on uneven surfaces can be fiddly. For a Ram 2500 owner wanting a sturdy, lockable way to carry two 5-gallon cans without a bulky carrier, these brackets are a capable, budget-friendly option.
Best for: A balanced all-round buyer who wants a straightforward, space-saving way to carry two 5-gallon cans on a Ram 2500 and values theft protection and durable construction.
Less Ideal for: Users who need a ready-to-install, hardware-complete system or who prefer a universal carrier guaranteed to fit every jerry can brand without adjustment should consider alternative mounting solutions.
- Lockable top strap allows use of a padlock for theft deterrence.
- Cold-rolled steel construction with powder-coat finish improves durability and corrosion resistance.
- Compact two-pack design saves bed or wall space while keeping cans upright and accessible.
- Compatible with common 5-gallon NATO-style and many Scepter-style cans without extra adapters.
- No installation hardware included so bolts and locking nuts must be sourced separately.
- Fit can be tight or inconsistent across different can brands, occasionally requiring modification.
- Bolt hole design and thin sections can make alignment and mounting difficult on uneven surfaces.
Verdict A practical, lockable two-pack of steel jerry can mounts that gives Ram 2500 owners a secure, space-efficient way to carry two 5-gallon cans if you are willing to supply hardware and do minor fitting.
Choosing the Right Ram 2500 Jerry Can: Key Factors to Consider
Material And Durability
The can material determines how well the container holds up to drops, scrapes, and long-term exposure. Metal cans typically resist punctures and high temperatures, while engineered plastics offer corrosion resistance and lighter weight.
Durability affects long-term value and safety. Choose a construction that matches how you will use the can: heavy off-road use calls for tougher, impact-resistant materials, while occasional highway carry may allow lighter options that resist rust and chemical degradation.
Sealing And Spill Prevention
A reliable sealing system keeps fuel from evaporating or leaking during transport and storage. Look for secure caps, integrated gaskets, and spill-proof venting that reduce the chance of fuel escape when the vehicle moves.
Spill prevention is also about ease of use. A design that allows controlled pouring and has a reputable venting method will make refueling quicker and safer, especially when you are working alone or in confined spaces.
Capacity And Weight
Capacity determines how much extra range you can carry, while weight affects handling and mounting. Larger cans extend range but add more weight to lift and secure; smaller cans are easier to stow and manage but require more frequent refills.
Consider both the filled weight and how many cans you plan to carry. Balance between the need for emergency reserve and the physical limits of your truck bed, carriers, and mounting hardware.
Mounting And Transport Compatibility
How a can mounts in your Ram 2500 affects safety and convenience. Secure mounting points, integrated tie-downs, or designs that fit common bed carriers reduce movement and potential damage while driving.
Transport compatibility also includes footprint and shape. Choose a can with dimensions that fit your available storage, whether in a bed-mounted rack, toolbox, or flat surface, to prevent shifting and ensure easy access.
Dispensing And Pouring Features
Practical spout design makes filling and pouring less messy and faster. Features such as flexible spouts, auto-venting, and drip-free nozzles help reduce spillage and protect paint and equipment from fuel contact.
Think about how you will use the can when refueling. If you need to pour into awkward filler necks or operate solo, choose a dispensing system that allows one-handed control and predictable flow.
Corrosion And Weather Resistance
Exposure to moisture, salt, and sunlight can degrade some materials over time. Cans with corrosion-resistant coatings or UV-stable plastics will last longer when stored in a truck bed or exposed to the elements.
Weather resistance matters for both safety and longevity. A can that resists rust and brittleness preserves seals and structural integrity, reducing the risk of leaks and the need for frequent replacement.
FAQ
Is it safe to carry a filled jerry can in the bed of a Ram 2500?
Carrying a filled jerry can in the bed is common, but safety depends on secure mounting and proper sealing. Use a stable mount or tie-downs to prevent movement and choose cans with reliable closures and venting. Store cans upright and away from heat sources to reduce risk.
Should I choose metal or plastic jerry cans for my truck?
Both materials have tradeoffs. Metal cans can offer greater puncture resistance, while plastic cans resist corrosion and are lighter. Consider how you will use the can, exposure to elements, and whether weight or impact resistance is more important for your needs.
How many liters or gallons should I carry for emergency fuel?
The amount depends on your typical driving range and how far you might be from fuel stations. Many drivers carry a single mid-sized can to extend range without adding excessive weight. Think about how often you can safely lift and store a filled container and plan accordingly.
What should I look for in a pouring spout or nozzle?
Look for a spout that provides controlled flow, has a secure attachment to the can, and includes venting to prevent glugging. A drip-free nozzle and an option for one-person operation make refueling cleaner and easier, especially in tight spaces.
Can I store fuel long-term in a jerry can kept with my Ram 2500?
Fuel stored for long periods can degrade, so follow fuel stability guidelines and store containers in cool, shaded locations. Use cans with tight seals and consider fuel stabilizers for longer storage, but rotate stored fuel periodically to maintain quality.
How We Chose the Best Ram 2500 Jerry Can
We shortlisted jerry cans that suit the heavy-duty needs and cargo constraints of a Ram 2500, focusing on real-world usability and safety. Key evaluation criteria included material construction and impact resistance, to assess durability under rugged use; sealing and spout design, to minimize leaks and make pouring safer; mounting and carry options, to ensure stable transport in a truck bed or carrier; capacity and weight, to balance range extension with handling and storage; and compliance with fuel storage standards or common safety practices, to reduce risk during transport. We also considered corrosion resistance and UV stability for cans that may be stored outdoors. Exclusions included containers not designed for vehicle transport, uncertified or homemade tanks, and options that lack basic spill prevention features. The resulting list favors cans that combine secure mounting, safe dispensing, and durable construction for consistent performance with a Ram 2500.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Choosing the right jerry can for a Ram 2500 means balancing durability, secure mounting, and safe dispensing. Prioritize a construction and sealing system that match how you will transport and use the fuel. Also weigh capacity against handling and storage constraints, and favor cans with weather-resistant finishes and reliable pouring features. That approach helps you carry emergency fuel with confidence while minimizing risk and hassle.
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