Tacoma Bed Side Box Cover Alternatives (?)

My wife used the Tacoma yesterday and needed to use a ratchet strap which I keep stored it the small bed compartment on the passenger side. Unfortunately, when she returned home the cover was missing so apparently it didn’t get latched before she took off. I can find replacements on eBay but I’m looking at $50 for a piece of plastic. That made me wonder if there may be a better use of that money for an improved aftermarket solution? Have you guys found anything that works better? I’m curious before I buy a replacement OEM lid. Thanks

just want to clarify the piece I’m talking about:

https://www.ebay.com/p/658850808

 

I use a hitch box on my jeep it's not a bed box but works great. I have it on a Yakima swingaway to access the back of the jeep.

 

Ouch, I know this pain. I let my wife hook up the trailer once... she drove it a few miles with the trailer cord unconnected and it got chewed to bits. But anyway, if you don't cover the compartment back up, don't you have to worry about water and debris getting in there?

 

I’d have to check but I believe there are small drain holes in the cubby that just drain to the rear wheel well. But I also have a soft cover on the bed most of the time so probably not a huge deal. But not being able to use that handy storage sucks. Maybe the $50 on eBay is worth it.

 

Buy the eBay one. Then skip your next restaurant outing to offset the cost. Explain why. Be extra petty about it. That's how to have a lasting relationship.

 

There were a few companies making metal covers / replacement boxes a few years back that were lockable. not sure if they are still in production now. But I’m sure Google can help you out. Search “Tacoma lockable bed box cover” quite a few pop up. This for instance, has hinge so can’t fly away.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/385099761718?chn=ps