small hybrid travel trailers

Best Expandable Hybrid Travel Trailers

Do you love to travel, but don't want to give up the comforts of home? If so, an expandable hybrid travel trailer may be the perfect option for you.

These trailers offer many of the benefits of a traditional camper, with the added bonus of being able to expand when you need more space. This makes them perfect for long trips or family vacations.

Buying an expandable travel trailer can be really hard and a daunting process, but fear not. In this blog post, we discuss the best hybrid travel trailers on the market today. We'll take a look at their features and how they compare to one another. 

We offer a buyer's guide explaining what to look for and the best features to know before buying. We also discuss the pros and cons of owning a hybrid travel trailer.

And if you have any unanswered questions, we've included an FAQ section dedicated to all things expandable travel trailers. So, if you're in the market for a new hybrid travel trailer, read on!

Rockwood Roo Hybrid Travel Trailer

What is a Hybrid Travel Trailer?

One can think of a hybrid travel trailer to be the perfect combination of a tent camping and a hard-sided travel trailer. The reason why they are so largely popular is that you get all the benefits of a large trailer, but they're cheaper, lighter and more authentic for the great outdoors. The spacious and lightweight trailers offer convenience and comfort without compromising on the camping experience. 

How to Choose a Hybrid Travel Trailer

When choosing a hybrid travel trailer, there are several things you should keep in mind.

First and foremost, you'll want to consider your budget. Hybrid trailers can range in price up to $30,000 or more. Obviously, you'll want to choose a model that fits within your budget.

Size of Your Family

You also need to consider the size of your family. If you have a large family, you'll obviously need a larger hybrid travel trailer. And obviously, if you're single or have a small family, you can get away with a smaller model. Remember, hybrid travel trailers have expandable tent areas, so you'll be able to sleep more than you might expect.

Weatherproofing

Leakage, lack of insulation, etc. are problems that can disturb your entire experience. In that case, opt for a unit that is well insulated, so it works well for colder months. It should also have good airflow to adapt the vehicle to the summertime. Weatherproofing is, therefore, one of the most important factors to consider when traveling. 

Remember the expandable areas will not maintain the heat, but because the beds are off the ground, you can be comfortable at night.

Extra sleeping space in Hybrid Travel Trailer

Style and design are surely important factors to consider when buying a hybrid travel trailer. However, comfort is more important. Look for a unit that is spacious so you can move around freely. It should be equipped with all the facilities you require to spend quality time. This includes a deep sink with sink covers, comfortable mattresses, sufficient storage space, etc. 

Durability and Maintenance

It is important to invest in a product that is built with high-quality materials. It should be well-constructed, so it proves to be a long-lasting and long-term investment. It’s important to look into the warranty policy for the vehicle and the parts. This ensures it is reliable. 

Moreover, when it comes to maintenance, it isn’t smart to opt for a high-maintenance unit as it can be time-consuming and expensive in the long run. 

Review of the Best Hybrid Travel Trailers

When it comes to buying a hybrid travel trailer, there are a plethora of options available in the market. This makes the decision harder, so allow us to show you what we believe to be some of the best on the market.

Best Overall Expandable Hybrid Travel Trailer: Palomino Puma Travel Trailer

What we love

• Sleeps Up to 8 People
• Laminated White Fiberglass Sidewalls
• Easy to Reach Lockable Bed Latch System
• 6 Sided Aluminum Framed (Side Walls, End Wall, Front, Floor & Roof)
• Showermiser Water Saving System

Quick Specs

• Number of Floorplans: 5
• Number of Expandable Sections: 2-3
• Length: 21 ft 2 in.
• Width: 96 in
• Weight: 4259 lbs.

The Forest River's Rockwood Roo hybrid travel trailer is one of the most popular models on the market today, and it's clear to see why, as it offers a ton of features at a very reasonable price. 

Forest River is a premium name when it comes to the trailer industry, and the Rockwood Roo is built to last. The quality of materials are to the highest level.

Depending on your floor plan, the Roo can sleep up to eight people, making it perfect for families or large groups. It also has a full kitchen, bathroom, and plenty of storage space. If you're looking for a hybrid trailer that has it all, the Rockwood Roo is a great option!

There are 5 floorplans, with all different sleeping and expandable set ups. The Roo 183 floorplan is perfect unit for sleeping the whole family and friends. There are 3 60"x 80" queen beds in this unit with an additional 44" dinette that folds down into a bed.

There is plenty of overhead shelf storage for all of your needs, a full kitchen and a nice sized bathroom. Amazing for a 21' 2" hybrid travel trailer!

Runner-up: Jayco Jay Feather X19H

• Tent or Hardwall Options available
• Stronghold VBL™ vacuum-bonded, laminated floor & walls
• Vacuum-bonded, laminated bed platforms with reverse-campered support
• Outside grill propane quick-connect port
• Residential-style kitchen countertops
• Number of Floorplans: 14
• Number of Slide-Outs: 2
• Length: 20 ft 10 in
• Weight: 4950 lbs.

If you're looking for a hybrid trailer trailer that's on the bigger side, the Jayco Jay Feather is a great option. The different floorplans offer hard walls or tent walls, and can sleep up to 10 people, making it perfect for smaller families or couples.

The Jay feather X19H hybrid travel trailer boasts plenty of exterior and interior storage facilities to make your time away from home extremely comfortable. 

This model boasts 2 tent walls with large bedding areas that sleeps 4 people. The living area, there's a dinette and a jackknife sofa, both of which sleep up to 4 more.

There's a good size bathroom, with shower, toilet and wash basin. The skylight and roof vent in the bathroom offer the luxury you would expect from Jayco. 

The kitchen boasts residential style counters, and has all the accessories you'd need on a road trip. There's also an outdoor grill that makes barbecuing easy and frees up space inside, making the Jay Feather X19H an ideal hybrid camper for up to 8 people.

KZ Escape E180 RBT

• Alum-a-Tough® Roofing w/12-Year Limited Warranty
• Self-Adjust Electric Brakes
• White Exterior Fiberglass
• Backup Camera Prep
• Off-Grid/Off-Road Package for the adventurous
• Number of Floorplans: 11
• Length: 22 ft 11 in
• Weight: 4245 lbs.

The KZ Escape hybrid trailer is another great option for those who are looking for a smaller model. It can sleep up to four people, making it perfect for couples or small families. 

There are 2 tent bed areas, boasting 2 large 54x74" beds, with storage under one of them. The mattresses are good quality, and the dinette also converts in sleeping space for 2 more.

The kitchen inside the trailer features a microwave, a two burner stovetop, a sink, a fridge, and enough counter space. The bathroom at the back of the trailer boasts a shower, a sink, and a toilet.

The outside of the trailer features a 13' awning which is ideal when you need some shade while chilling with a beer in the summer sun.

There's an off grid package with this hybrid trailer if anyone wants to go boondocking. This includes a 100W roof-mounted solar panel, 1,000W inverter with dedicated 110V outlets, solar controller, tongue-mounted bike rack, griddle, and electronically-controlled heated holding tanks, and much more.

  Forest River Flagstaff Shamrock Hybrid Travel Trailer

• Radiant Foil Insulated Underbelly & Slide Out Floors
• Vacuum Laminated One Piece Roof & Walls
• 12V Refrigerator w/ Inverter
• Roof Solar Panel
• Newport Ash Cabinetry
• Number of Slide-Outs: 3
• Length: 22 ft
• Weight: 4,298 lbs

The Forest River Flagstaff Shamrock comes with a really useful 3 tent bedroom slideouts, all with queen-sized 60” x 80” beds with extra storage next to all 3 tent bedrooms. 

There are 5 different floorplans, but for the 183 model hybrid travel trailer boasts all the luxuries of a traditional RV. There's plenty of storage, including extra outside storage space.

This model boasts an additional 44" dinette that folds down into a bed, making sleeping capacity 8 people for this impressive expandable travel trailer.

The exterior construction is made of white fiberglass walls, and the Radiant Foil Insulated Underbelly & Slide Out floors helps keep the warmth in, making this one of the more economical for maintaining any warmth.

The accessories and amenities in the kitchen is impressive. With Newport Ash Cabinetry setting the scene, and a useful 12V Refrigerator w/ Inverter, and enough workspace for cooking, you can really enjoy road trips with large groups.

The bathroom is spacious and has a shower, toilet and wash basin. Outside there's a roof solar panel and a water purifier, making this a great trailer for dry camping. With 8 people, it will be a squeeze, but for short weekends away, it shouldn't be a problem.

Pros and Cons of Hybrid Travel Trailers

Are you still on the fence about buying a hybrid travel trailer? You could really benefit from looking at the pros and cons they have to offer to make a better decision. 

Expandable hybrid travel trailers are lightweight and easy to tow for most vehicles, so finding a compatible vehicle to tow the trailer won’t be a problem. They're also much easier to maintain than many other trailers, so you don’t have to go to crazy lengths to keep them running smoothly and properly.

Long-Lasting

They are built to be durable as well as sturdy and rigid, granted one invests in a quality trailer. Buying from a quality brand also gets the consumer good warranty policies, which makes the vehicle more reliable. 

Real Camping Experience

Hybrid travel trailers are known to provide a camp-like experience. Thus, they are great for those who want to experience camping, whereas some other available trailer options give a more apartment vibe. 

Price Entry

Expandable hybrid travel trailers are cheaper than the bigger travel trailers, 5th wheels and motorhomes. This makes them accessible to pretty much any budget.

Pop up Campers

Last updated on: March 8, 2022

The 10 Best Hybrid Campers To Buy in 2022

by Peter Wade

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If you want to go on extended camping trips as a large group with family or friends, normally a large motorhome or a fifth wheel trailer would be the ideal options since they offer more sleeping space, storage space and full amenities. However, these classes of RVs are heavy and large, thus hard to maneuver and are gas guzzlers.

If you want something that is fairly lightweight and easier to drive in but still has enough sleeping space for a large group, a hybrid camper would offer the best value for money.

If you’re not familiar with this type of RV, this article will equip you with everything you need to know. Learn the unique characteristics of a hybrid camper, its benefits, and our delicious handpicked list of the very best hybrid travel trailers on the market that your can rent or buy in 2022. 

What Is A Hybrid Camper?

Hybrid campers’ characteristics, is a hybrid camper the right rv for you, 2021 forest river rockwood roo 233s: sleeps 10, 2021 keystone bullet crossfire 2190ex: sleeps 10, dutchmen kodiak ultra-lite: sleeps 10, 2021 kz sportsmen classic 180 rbt: sleeps 10, 2021 jayco jay feather x23e: sleeps 9, 2020 forest river flagstaff shamrock 233s: sleeps 9, 2021 palomino solaire expandable 147x: sleeps 8, 2021 kz escape e160rbt: sleeps 6, 2021 coachmen clipper ls 107ls: sleeps 6 (no bathroom), 2021 coachmen apex nano 15x: sleeps 4, understanding hybrid campers.

What makes a hybrid camper different from a traditional hard-sided recreational vehicle is the extra pop-out sections on either or both of the front and back as well as on the sides, where the additional sleeping spaces are housed.

This is why a hybrid camper is also commonly called a pop out travel trailer. These pop-out sections are made of fabric and can be opened manually. 

Therefore, in the open position, the pop-outs offer additional sleeping capability, with some models sleeping up to 10 persons, but without requiring a much larger overall length.

This means these hybrid campers are lightweight and more compact than an equivalent hard-sided trailer, thus easier to park and maneuver on the open road, and can fit into a smaller campsite.

A hybrid camper is basically constructed using the same techniques and materials as their hard-sided counterparts. The hard-sided sections of the bodies are the same, and in addition to the pop-outs, hybrid campers can also include slide-outs commonly found in traditional campers to provide additional living space. This type of hybrid camper is also called an expandable travel trailer . 

Just like hard-sided RVs, the windows in a hybrid camper will be placed in the hard-sided sections, while the pop-outs will typically feature mesh screen windows to provide good ventilation that can be closed with zippered panels.

The amenities would often include a small kitchen with a cooktop, a small fridge and a microwave, a dinette table with chairs that can double or triple duty as a workstation, sometimes you can find a comfy sofa in the lounge depending on the floor plan, and a bathroom with a wet bath to maximize space or a standup shower on larger rigs.

Due to their unique design, hybrid campers have distinct pros and cons. You need to be aware of their characteristics to consider whether this type of recreational vehicle suits your budget and camping needs.

Hybrid Camper Pros:

• Offer more sleeping space compared to a hard-sided camper of the same size
• Compact (when the pop-outs are closed), thus opens up off-road travel opportunities 
• Lightweight and tend to slipstream well behind the tow vehicle, thus has better fuel efficiency
• Lightweight, thus easily towed by many SUV’s and smaller trucks
• Lower cost per square feet of sleeping space and lower cost per person

Towability : Since most hybrid campers are relatively lightweight, they can be towed by most SUVs and light trucks (make sure to check the towing capacity of your vehicle), so you might not have to upgrade your vehicle to tow a hybrid camper. 

Sleeping space: Sleeping space per square feet is where hybrid campers shine. The pop-outs house the beds, which can be folded out at bedtime, and neatly stored away to open up interior living space. This allows you to bring along more companions inside a more compact camper compared to traditional hard-sided trailers.

One thing to remember though, that due to the nature of the pop-outs mechanism in a hybrid camper, the mattresses on the fold-out beds are typically thinner and thus less uncomfortable than those you’d find on the hard-sided counterparts. For kids and the less picky and sound sleepers, these might be perfectly okay, but for those who suffer from an achy body or joint pain, these thin mattresses might not offer enough comfort for a good night’s sleep.

Cost per person: Compared to a conventional trailer of the same size, a hybrid camper would demand comparable retail price per unit, which typically range from $18,000 to $40,000 when bought new. That said, when you divide that unit cost by the number of sleeping spaces, a hybrid camper might offer a much higher value for money.

Open up camping possibilities: Although offering more sleeping spaces, a hybrid camper tends to be compact and quite lightweight, thus it’s easier to maneuver through narrow bush tracks leading to the most remote places, and it can fit in tighter parking spots in smaller campsites. This opens up off-roading travel possibilities off the beaten path.

Hybrid Camper Cons:

• Fabric walls offers little protection from extreme weather 
• Due to fabric walls, noisier and less secure than hard-sided campers
• Some parks and campgrounds might restrict hybrid campers
• Cost per unit is comparable with hard-sided counterparts of the same size

Protection from the elements: A hybrid camper is an excellent option for camping in a large group on short trips and in good weather. However, the fact that the pop-outs are made from canvas fabrics means it’s not made to withstand extreme weather and the rigors of heavy, full-time use. It cannot protect you from the harsh elements, either in hot or cold weather, and even drafts of wind can be felt inside. Rainwater leaks are a common problem with this type of camper, which also leads to another headache below.

Moisture Buildup: Rainwater leaks, or the fact that the soft sided pop-outs of hybrid campers means the interior of the rig is susceptible to excess moisture buildup, since it’s not an entirely closed space with walls that keep moisture out completely. Therefore, unless you camp somewhere nice and dry, you’ll most likely have to deal with leaks during the rain, plus mold or mildew buildup. While the best hybrid campers may have moisture-resistant pop-outs, there’s still a higher risk of moisture buildup in wet climates.

Noise and security: Due to the lack of an enclosed space with hard-sided walls, another major downside with hybrid campers is that the canvas walls of the pop-outs sections offer little security as well as noise cancelling properties. If you often camp in a traditional RV park or campground, which should be quite secure, this might not be a problem. However, if you prefer camping off the beaten path, a hybrid camper is easier to break into, and the light sleepers might not get a sense of security to sleep soundly at night.

Lastly, it’s also worth noting that hybrid campers might not be allowed entry into certain state parks or campgrounds for safety reasons. This is not necessarily a downside, since you can check the website of the campground where you intended to stay to see if hybrid campers are allowed.

Best Hybrid Campers For The Money

At 24’ 10”L x 8’W x 10’ 6” H, the Forest River Rockwood 233s is one of the most spacious hybrid campers on the market, both in terms of sleeping space and living plus storage space. 

This hybrid camper can be considered a luxury model, with ample amenities and well appointed features throughout to comfortably sleep and accommodate 10 people. The sleeping quarters include three expendable queen size beds (measuring 60” by 80”) housed in the three pop-out sections, a slide-out in the lounge area featuring a large U-shaped dinette (measuring 44” by 85”) plus a 67-inch flip-out sleeper sofa. For a dry weight of only 5,063 lbs, a 10-person sleeping capacity is truly jaw-dropping.

Regarding amenities, you have everything to camp comfortably on extended trips. The kitchen is made for daily cooking, featuring a 3-burner gas range, a 21” gas oven , a double door gas/electric refrigerator, a microwave, double sink and countertop extension. Other impressive interior features include mildew resistant flooring, full extension residential metal drawer guides, and decorative valances. 

You even get an exterior hot and cold shower to quickly rinse away all the mud and dirt from your trek. Other notable exterior features include side and roof mounted solar prep, sleek tinted frameless windows, and a 17’ power awning with LED lights for lounging outdoors in good weather. 

And while a hybrid camper with canvas-side pop-outs is not made to withstand extreme weather, you surely can camp comfortably in the hot and chilly months in milder climate, thanks to the ducted furnace and a 13,500 BTU air conditioner. In addition to almost four-season camping capabilities, the adequately sized water tanks allow for boondocking trips away from the crowded RV parks and campgrounds. 

Notable Features:

• Sleeping space: three expandable queen size beds, one 44 x 85 U-shaped dinette, one 67” flip out sofa (optional theater seating sofa and tri-fold sofa)
• Interior: 3-burner gas range, 21” gas oven, microwave, fridge, double sink, fireplace , shower skylight
• Exterior: 17’ power awning with LED lights, tinted frameless windows, roof and side solar prep, outside hot and cold shower
• 1 slide-out, ducted furnace, 13,500 BTU air conditioner 

Specifications :

• Sleeping capacity: Up to 10
• Dry weight: 5,063 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 1,645 lbs.
• Length: 24 ft 10
• Exterior height: 10 ft 6
• Width: 8 ft
• Fresh water capacity: 52 gallons
• Black water capacity: 30 gallons
• Grey water capacity: 30 gallons

The Keystone Bullet Crossfire 2190ex is another hybrid camper that stands out with ample sleeping space and a lot of amenities for comfort while still being lightweight and compact. It’s even lighter than the Forest River Rockwood above, with a dry weight of only 4,126 lbs, allowing for unmatched towability. This hybrid trailer offers innovative floor plans, and is designed with a luxurious touch and many well-appointed features inside and out. It deserves to be one of the most luxurious hybrid campers on the market. 

As for sleeping space, the 2190ex sleeps 10, including 3 queen beds housed with spacious underbed storage in the 3 pop-outs, a U-shaped dinette in the slide-out and a fold down sofa with storage underneath. The bathroom features a shower with a full tub.

You will enjoy whipping up piping hot meals for your gang in the fully equipped kitchen, with 6 cu ft fridge, two-burner gas range, microwave, full-depth kitchen cabinets, and a sink with integrated cover for extra countertop space. You also have the option of preparing meals or snacks outside with the exterior kitchen, a great way to take advantage of outdoor living.

Other notable exterior features include a pass-through storage for easy access to frequently used tools or gears, a hot and cold shower, a power awning with LED lights and even speakers so that you can take the party outside in good weather. In addition to the adequately sized water tanks, this camper is also solar prep for off-grid stays, and the 13,500 BTU air conditioner will keep you reasonably comfortable in the warmer months.

Notable Features: 

• Sleeping space: 3 pop-outs with three expandable queen size beds, 1 U-shaped dinette, 1 fold down sofa with storage
• Interior: 6 cu ft fridge, two-burner gas range, microwave, full-depth kitchen cabinets, sink with cover, bathroom with full tub, underbed storage, U-shaped dinette, fold down sofa with storage
• Exterior: outside speakers, outside kitchen. power awning with LED lights, fully walkable roof, passthrough storage, outside hot and cold shower, solar prep 
• 1 slide-out, 13,500 BTU air conditioner

Specifications:

• Gross weight: 4,126 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 2,174 lbs.
• Length: 25 ft 4
• Exterior height: 10 ft 4 to 10 ft 10
• Fresh water capacity: 43 gallons

Another lightweight aluminum model that can sleep an absurd ten people, the Dutchmen Kodiak Ultra-Lite can be towed by most SUV’s, minivans, crossovers, and light trucks. While the Kodiak is heavier than the first two options in this list with the same sleeping capacity, it has consistently received raving reviews for its functionality, construction quality and especially its aesthetically pleasing interior design. Users claim that everywhere you go, it feels almost like a well-done mini apartment. So even if you are frequently on the road, you might not miss the comfort of your home.

The Kodiak offers a queen bed in the private bedroom in each and every one of their floor plans. While most hybrid campers that can sleep 9 to 10 people would typically feature 3 pop-outs, each with a queen bed, a queen bed is housed in the private front bedroom, while the extra sleeping space comes from the second bedroom (housed in a pop-out) with two bunk beds plus another bunk over the sofa. This second bedroom offers more privacy and another place for lounging around, which your kids would love to call their own. There’s also a U-shaped dinette in the slide-out, and should you need extra sleeping space, you can get a large tri-fold sleeper sofa as an option.

The lounge area also features a fireplace for that cozy ambience on a chilly day, a rare luxury feature you wouldn’t normally see in this type of RV. Buyers also praise the oversized dinette window that allows a good view of the scenery. The kitchen is fully equipped, and you even get another outside kitchen with a 2-burner gas range in addition to the 3-burner range inside. The Kodiak also boasts numerous luxury exterior features, including a passthrough storage, a power awning with LED lights and outside speakers.

The underbelly of the Kodiak is completely protected to avoid freezing lines in the winter as well as damages when driving on rough terrains. Should you travel year round, you can upgrade to get the optional 13,500 BTU air conditioner to camp comfortably in different weather conditions.

• Sleeping space: 1 pop-out for second bedroom with 2 bunk beds plus 1 bunk over sofa, 1 queen bed in private bedroom, 1 U-shaped dinette, tri-fold sleeper sofa (optional)
• Interior: 3-burner range, microwave, 10 cu ft fridge, sink, dinette, oversized dinette window, bathroom with shower, fireplace,
• Exterior: power awning with LED lights, outside speakers, outside kitchen with 2-burner gas range, passthrough storage
• 1 slide-out (lounge area), 13,500 BTU air conditioner (optional)

• Sleeps: Up to 10
• GVWR: 7,073 lbs
• Cargo capacity: 2,607 lbs
• Length: 37′ 3″
• Interior Height: 11′ 2″
• Freshwater Capacity: 50 gallons
• Grey Water Capacity: 78 gallons
• Black Water Capacity: 28 gallons

The 2022 KZ Sportsmen Classic 180 RBT can sleep up to 10 people, however it should be noted that the 3 beds housed in the 3 pop-outs are not queen beds like the previous models, but are smaller tent beds, measuring 54” by 74”. In addition to those, you get another 6’ bench seat and a convertible dinette/bed. While this hybrid camper can comfortably sleep 10 people, if your group has more adults than young adults and children (and especially if the lot is mostly of larger build), it might get a bit too cozy at exactly 10 occupants.

The Sportsmen Classic is more lightweight and compact then the previous 3 luxury models, with no slide-out to open up interior living space, thus you can expect to get fewer features too. That said, this trailer is easy to drive to hard-to-reach campsites, and offers great value for money considering the sleeping capacity. If you are the type of outdoorsy adventurer who spends all of your days exploring the outdoors, you might not find such a lack of luxury amenities a downside. 

There is no furnace, but you can get a 13,500 BTU air conditioner on option. However, you still get all the basic amenities to live comfortably on the open road. The interior features a fully equipped kitchen, the main living area includes a bench seat and a dinette for lounging around, and the bathroom comes with a shower (fyi, you will see a minimal model with no bathroom at the end of this list).

• Sleeping space: 3 pop-outs with three 54” x 74” tent beds, 6’ bench seat, convertible dinette/bed
• Interior: 2-burner range, microwave, fridge, sink, dinette, bathroom with shower, 
• Exterior: 13” power awning with LED lights, 
• no slide-out, 13,500 BTU air conditioner (optional)
• UVW: 3290 lbs
• GVWR: 4500 lbs
• Cargo capacity: 1,210 lbs
• Length: 21’ 9”
• Interior Height: 78”
• Freshwater Capacity: 20 gallons
• Grey Water Capacity: 24 gallons
• Black Water Capacity: 32 gallons

This 2022 Jay Feather X23E hybrid camper from Jayco can sleep 9 people, and provide ample living space as well as storage space. If you want to bring the whole family along, and still ensure a high level of comfort on the road, the Jay Feather is a fantastic option, with well-appointed features throughout. 

The Jay Feather X23E features rear, front and side pop-outs with three tent beds, each boasting stronghold vacuum-bonded bed platforms for extra durability. To tackle the typical drawback of canvas-sided pop-outs of hybrid campers, the three pop-outs of the Jay Feather are made from scratch-resistant vinyl tent material with zipper windows and aluminum tread entry steps. Extra sleeping space comes from a jackknife sleeper sofa and a U-shaped dinette in the slide-out.

This well-made hybrid camper is designed with family living in mind. There’s ample storage space from the four exterior storage compartments, a bathroom with standup shower and a fully equipped kitchen with two pantries. This model is also adequately equipped for full-time camping and boondocking trips, thanks to the powerful 30,000 BTU air conditioner and (not too large but) reasonably sized water holding tanks.

• Sleeping space: 3 pop-outs with three beds (stronghold vacuum-bonded bed platforms), jackknife sofa, U-shaped dinette
• Interior: 3-burner range, microwave, fridge, double sink, dinette, bathroom with shower, water-repellent, scratch-resistant Jayco DuraTek™ vinyl tent material with zipper windows
• Exterior: 19” power awning with LED lights, 4 outside storage compartments
• 1 slide-out (lounge area), 30,000 BTU air conditioner 
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 9
• Gross weight: 6,150 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 1,030 lbs.
• Length: 26f ft 8
• Exterior height: 10 ft 10
• Fresh water capacity: 42 gallons
• Black water capacity: 30.5 gallons
• Grey water capacity: 22.5 gallons

The Flagstaff Shamrock by Forest River is one of the most luxurious hybrid campers with generous sleeping space, and among a very few that allow for extended off-grid stays with the optional 190 Watt roof mount solar panel with 1000 Watt inverter (roof and side solar prep comes as standard). Even the standard package is synonymous with quality, craftsmanship and amenities. Both inside and outside the rig are built with the user’s utmost comfort in mind. Among the best hybrid campers on the market, this is probably the closest to residential living that one can get.

There are 6 floor plans to choose from. You can get 3 queen beds in the 3 pop-outs or drop-down bunks, and on top of these, a flip sleeper sofa and a large U-shaped dinette to complete sleeping spaces for 9 people. A rare luxury feature that allows for winter camping is the heated mattresses that will keep you warm and toasty, in addition to the 35,000 BTU furnace, which is more powerful than most hybrid campers on the market. The A/C unit will make sure you can live comfortably in the summer too.

When you’re not exploring the outdoors, you can take it slow in the cozy lounge area, which features a fireplace, an entertainment center, a flip sofa and a U-shaped dinette. This luxury hybrid camper comes with a fully equipped kitchen with solid surface countertops, while a bathroom is complete with a shower, shower skylight, and a linen closet.

One slide-out which houses the dinette greatly expands interior living space. As for the exterior, you will appreciate the four storage compartments for bringing along everything you would need on an extended trip, an awning with LED lights for lounging under the stars, as well as outside speakers and a hot and cold shower. Last but not least, the easy lube axles coupled with Nev-R adjustable braking allows for smooth towing.

• Sleeping space: 3 pop-outs with three queen beds (heated mattresses!), flip sofa, U-shaped dinette
• Interior: 3-burner range, gas oven, microwave, fridge, double sink, solid surface countertops, dinette, hardwood cabinetry, bathroom with shower and linen closet, shower skylight, fireplace, entertainment center
• Exterior: 12” power awning with LED lights, 4 outside storage compartments, roof and side solar prep (optional 190W Roof Mount Solar Panel w/ 1000W Inverter), outside hot and cold shower, outside speakers 
• 1 slide-out (lounge area), 13,500 BTU air conditioner, 35,000 BTU furnace

• Sleeping capacity: up to 9
• Exterior height: 10 ft 5
• Fresh water capacity: 58 gallons

This hybrid camper is on the minimal side when it comes to amenities, and might be ideal for short weekend trips, when certain residential comfort can be sacrificed, such as a TV in the lounge area. If a lightweight hybrid is still of utmost importance, but you wish for a slightly higher sleeping capacity, the Solaire Expandable 147X comes highly recommended. This ultra-light 2022 hybrid trailer weighs 3,234 lbs. only and sleeps up to eight people. 

The Solaire Expandable 147X comes with notable luxuries such as two-self-supporting full queen-size beds featuring heated mattresses. This hybrid camper also has a dropdown booth dinette featuring overhead cabinets and under dinette seats. A jackknife sofa with underneath storage has also been tacked away neatly across from the dinette. The camper also has a fully enclosed 3-pc bathroom.

Main specifications aside, this hybrid camper has features such as an outside shower, high gloss gel coated fiberglass exterior, bumper-mounted outdoor barbeque, double door fridge, and power awning featuring built-in LED lights.

• Sleeping space: two pop-outs with 60” x 80” beds (heated bunk mattresses), 68” sleeper sofa, convertible dinette/bed
• Interior: microwave, solid surface countertops, 11 cu ft fridge, bathroom with shower, (24” LED TV on option)
• Exterior: power awning with LED lights 
• no slide-out, 13,500 BTU air conditioner

• Sleeping capacity: up to 8
• Dry weight: 3,073 lbs.
• Length: 14 ft
• Exterior width: 96” 
• Exterior height: 10 ft 1
• Fresh water capacity: 44 gallons

Another great hybrid camper from KZ is the mid-sized Escape E160RBT that can accommodate six people. It features two pop-outs with 54” x 74” tent beds, a booth dinette, and a sleeper sofa. 

Despite being smaller than the previous model, the Escape E160RBT boasts smart design and well-appointed features to make the most out of the floor plan. The cleverly-designed corner bathroom frees up more living space and features a standup shower, while the front trunk door offers adequate storage space, and the compact kitchen packs everything you’d need to prepare healthy meals daily.

This compact and lightweight camper is constructed with durability and protection from the elements in mind, including the special Aqualon Edge material and Alum-a-Tough roofing. You will get a lot of use out of this trailer, and camping year-round in milder climates is possible with 13,500 BTU air conditioner and the 20,000 BTU furnace. 

It is solar prep, and you can also get the optional Off-Road Package that comes with 100 Watt roof mounted solar panels with 1,000 Watt inverter, as well as extra ground clearance, bike racks and heavy-duty wheels and mud tires. This, together with the modest water tanks, allows for short off-grid trips.

• Sleeping space: two pop-outs with 54” x 74” tent beds, 1 dinette, 1 sleeper sofa 
• Interior: 2-burner cooktop, microwave, sink, 8 cu ft fridge, bathroom with shower 
• Exterior: 10’ power awning, outside speakers, solar prep (optional 100 Watt roof mounted solar panels with 1,000 Watt inverter with Off-Road Package) 
• 13,500 BTU air conditioner, 20,000 BTU furnace 

• Sleeping capacity: Up to 6
• Dry weight: 2,760 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 740 lbs.
• Length: 19’
• Exterior height: 8’ 11”
• Fresh water capacity: 20 gallons
• Black water capacity: 24 gallons
• Grey water capacity: 32 gallons

The 2022 Coachmen Clipper LS 107LS sure is minimal, with no bathroom, no dinette and no water tanks, plus a pretty bare lounge area with only two sleeper sofas. It has little storage space, and of course there’s no fancy amenities like an outdoor hot and cold shower. 

That said, this basic floor plan allows it to be super compact and lightweight, thus ideal for the outdoorsy, adventurous campers who mostly spend time in the wild anyway and are willing to sacrifice comfort for more off-road travel possibilities. 

One smart feature in particular is that the two pop-outs which house the two queen size beds are located at the front and the rear, so while the hybrid camper is a little over 20 feet long when fully extended, it’s only over 13 feet when closed. This means it is closer in size to a car, which makes maneuvering and parking much more manageable. This is a great feature if you prefer to camp in the smaller campsites off the beaten path, and/or if you’re new to RV-ing and find the idea of towing a hulking gorilla behind intimidating. 

With no slide-out, the interior living space and storage space is quite limited. The kitchen is also compact, but it still comes with a fridge, a sink and a two-burner cooktop, so you can whip up daily meals for your family and friends. This minimalist hybrid camper is more suited for minimalist campers though, who would only return to the trailer to sleep, since the lounge area is basically bare, with only two 70” gauchos as the extra sleeping space (a gaucho is a convertible sofa/bed that pulls outward from beneath the sofa, just like opening a drawer). 

Being minimal as it is, you can get an optional 13,500 BTU A/C (it’s prep for A/C) and an optional 40 Watt or 80 Watt solar panel, in addition to the standard 20,000 BTU furnace.

• Sleeping space: 2 pop-outs with two queen beds (insulated bunk bed platforms) at the front and rear, two 70” gauchos (pull-out sofa/bed)
• Interior: 2-burner cooktop, sink, fridge, small storage, no bathroom, only gauchos in lounge area
• No slide-out, pre-braced for air conditioner (optional 13,500 BTU A/C), 20,000 BTU furnace, optional 40 Watt or 80 Watt solar panel
• GVWR: 2938 lbs
• Closed Length: 13’ 2”
• Open Length: 20’ 5”
• Width: 85” 
• Closed Height: 4′ 10″
• Fresh water capacity: none
• Black water capacity: none
• Grey water capacity: none

Another hybrid camper with no slide-out with less sleeping space than the rest of the list is the Coachmen Apex Nano 15X, but it is not minimalist in any way. It’s packed with everything you would expect from a larger, more luxurious travel trailer, despite being more compact and lightweight than the rest in this list.

Although this hybrid camper only sleeps 4 as advertised, you can bring along 2 to 3 small kids who can sleep comfortably on the full-size dinette and sofa. Despite not offering a lot of sleeping space, this hybrid travel trailer offers a decent level of comfort (and far more amenities than, say, the super minimal Coachmen Clipper LS 107LS above). The two pop-outs also feature overhead bedroom cabinets for additional storage.

There is plenty of space to lounge around indoors on the dinette and sofa, and the interior living space can be kept comfortable thanks to the 13,500 BTU A/C and the vent furnace. The kitchen is fully equipped with a three burner stovetop, a microwave, a fridge and a sink. Next to the kitchen is the bathroom which includes a standup shower and shower skylight, a toilet, a vanity sink, and a medicine cabinet for your toiletries.

Despite being compact, this hybrid camper comes with luxury features on the exterior as well, including a passthrough storage compartment for frequently access tools and gears, a hot and cold shower, outside speakers and an optional outside kitchen to free up interior space. All in all, this hybrid camper is easy to drive on the open road, comes packed with good amenities and sleeping space plus storage space per square foot, is reasonably adequate for four-season camping, and can allow off-grid stays should you opt for the Off Grid Package with a 100 Watt solar panel with 10 Amp control charger.

• Sleeping space: 2 pop-outs with 2 queen beds, 
• Interior: full-size dinette, kitchen sink, 2-burner cooktop, microwave, sofa, entertainment center, bathroom with shower and shower skylight,  overhead bedroom cabinet
• Exterior: 12’ awning, passthrough storage compartment, outside hot and cold shower, outside speakers, solar prep (100 Watt Solar Panel with 10 Amp Control Charger with Off Grid Package), optional outside kitchen
• No slide-out, 13,500 BTU A/C, vent furnace 
• UVW: 2940 lbs
• GVWR: 3800 lbs
• Length: 18’ 8”
• Height: 9’ 9”
• Freshwater Capacity: 30 gallons
• Grey Water Capacity: 30 gallons
• Black Water Capacity: 30 gallons

About Peter Wade

Peter Wade is a co-ordinator and writer at www.RVTalk.net. His hobbies are coffee, RV camping and photography. He now enjoys exploring the U.S. by RV with his two dogs. After obtaining a MA degree in Public Relations and Journalism, he had 8 years of experience working for the R&D Department of Outdoorsy. Peter provides a unique look and insightful knowledge about the RV lifestyle, and fills his blog with everything from RV camping guides to reviews about necessary RV accessories. If you are an RV enthusiast and want to get the most-updated trends of the RV industry, Peter’s articles are the must-visit contents.

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The Savvy Campers

Best Expandable Travel Trailers Under 3,500 lbs

Expandable travel trailers are the perfect hybrid between a traditional travel trailer and a pop-up trailer. The expandable trailer offers the right balance between needing a travel trailer but still wanting the feel of outdoor camping. Most expandable sides convert to a bed that is open to the rest of the trailer and the walls are made out of a canvas tent-like material. This allows you to have the tent windows open, revealing mesh material, that allows the outside air to flow in. However, you still have the option of running your travel trailer’s A/C and closing the windows, if that is what you prefer. There are many options for expandable travel trailers under 3,500 lbs. Enjoy finding the perfect one for you!

16RBD Explore Clipper Ultra-Lite by Coachmen

The 16RBD Explore Clipper Ultra-Lite by Coachmen has all of the luxuries of a full-sized travel trailer but it is smaller and more compact. The Explore Clipper has a beautiful interior with its rich dark wood finish and faux wood flooring that is easy to keep clean. One of the interior walls has many cabinets expanding the length of the trailer, perfect for storage. On that same interior wall, there is a compact kitchen consisting of a sink, a two-burner stove, and a microwave. Across from the kitchen is a floor to ceiling refrigerator/freezer. Beside the refrigerator is a large floor to ceiling pantry or it could be used as a closet for hanging clothes.

There are two sleeping options in this trailer. Both sleeping options expand out from the trailer. One option is a full-sized bed that can easily sleep two adults. The other bed is a bit smaller in width but it is the same length as the other bed. This bed is perfect for two children or one adult. Both sleep areas expand out of the trailer and are enclosed by breathable tent material. There are two windows on each side of the bed. You can cut the A/C off in the trailer and have the breeze of the night cool you off as if you were sleeping in a tent. When the beds are not in use, they easily fold up and disappear for a tidy looking trailer. 

There are also additional features to this trailer that are important to note. The interior of the trailer is large enough to have a sofa, a dining area with two bench seats, and a full-sized bathroom. The bathroom has a privacy door concealing the standup shower, separate toilet, and vanity with a sink. The sofa appears to be long enough for a child to sleep on but it doesn’t fold out to a regular bed. There is also a Bluetooth speaker that can play music either inside or outside of the trailer. Don’t forget about the retractable awning that extends out over the entry of the trailer. It is large enough to sit under to shade yourself from the hot sun.

This trailer is beautifully designed and offers many sleeping options for a family. Please see additional specs about the trailer below.

Escape E160RBT by KZ Recreational Vehicles

The Escape E160RBT by KZ is a travel trailer with two expandable sides. Each bed can easily sleep two people allowing for more people to sleep in this trailer. There is also a privacy curtain for each expandable bed, creating a more private feel.

There is a full-sized bathroom in this trailer, consisting of a stand-up shower, separate toilet and a vanity with a sink and storage. The remaining interior consists of a kitchen, dinette, and sofa. The kitchen is spacious with plenty of overhead storage, a sink, a two-burner stove, a microwave, and a large refrigerator/freezer. There is additional storage below and beside the refrigerator. The dinette is on the smaller side but the sofa is spacious enough for three people to sit comfortably. Although, there is a cool feature to the sofa. If only two people are sitting on the sofa, the middle seat folds down into an armrest with cupholders. This is a nice feature like a sofa from home.

The exterior also has features including additional storage under the trailer and a 10’ awning. This trailer is perfect for a family or group of friends and can be pulled behind any large SUV or pick-up truck with enough towing compacity. Please see additional specs about the trailer below.

Classic 12 by Black Series

The Classic 12 by Black Series looks like something created for the military. This trailer is perfect for the off-road enthusiast. The Black Series prides itself on its suspension. They have built a sturdy suspension that is meant to be ridden on rough terrain. This trailer also comes equipped with off-road tires. The exterior has a square design that has an extendable tent roof. This trailer is not a pop-up trailer but is an expandable trailer. However, unlike the traditional expandable sides, the roof expands up but just by two feet. This allows fresh air to come into the trailer through the mesh windows. Although, if you do not want the outside air in, the windows can be closed and you can use the A/C to cool or furnace to heat the trailer. There is also one expandable side in the rear of the trailer.

The interior of the trailer can sleep up to three people. There is a double-sized bed, which is the expandable side, perfect for two. There is also one bunk that can only sleep one person. This trailer has a mini bathroom consisting of a stand-up shower with a toilet. There is a sink with plenty of countertop space located outside of the bathroom.

The exterior houses the kitchen. The sink and stovetop slide out from a compartment on the left, rear side of the trailer. On the same side of the trailer, but towards the front of the trailer, is another compartment for storage and a fold-out dining table.

If you like to camp off the grid, then this is the trailer for you. Please see additional specs below.

CampLite CL11FK by Livin’ Lite

CampLite by Livin’ Lite is the lightest and most compact expandable travel trailer on this list. Even though it is the smallest, it can sleep four people comfortably. The interior is cozy and has warm wood tones throughout the cabin making it feel like home.

As you walk inside, you will see the dinette with U-shaped bench seating. This area can be turned into a double-sized bed. The wall behind the dinette expands out creating a second sleeping area. This sleeping area is also large enough to sleep two people. The expandable side is made from tent material with mesh windows that allow in the fresh air. However, there is an A/C unit that can be used inside the trailer if you do not want the outside air in.

The interior also consists of a compact kitchen including a sink, a two-burner stove, and a 6 cubic foot refrigerator. There is an additional storage closet and overhead cabinets for all camping necessitates. The private bathroom is just large big enough for a shower/toilet combination. 

CampLite can be towed by any SUV or truck, with enough towing compacity and is a great trailer for a family of four. Please see additional specs below.

Vast by Sylvansport

The Vast by Sylvansport is made for the adventurous camper or camping family. This expandable travel trailer is currently taking pre-orders, as it is the newest member of the Sylvansport family. This trailer is a cross between a toy hauler and an expandable trailer. This unique trailer has so many features that make it stand out compared to its competitors.

The Vast is the only travel trailer that I have seen that has a hard-side expandable kitchen. This indoor/outdoor kitchen is what makes this trailer unique. If you would like to cook inside the trailer, you can do just that. There is a full-sized functioning kitchen equipped with a sink, a two-burner stove, and a mini-refrigerator/freezer. However, let’s say it’s a nice night and you would like to cook outside. All you have to do is press a button and the entire kitchen slides down and out of the trailer. You can use the same kitchen outside. There is also a retractable awning that covers the length of the outdoor kitchen for shade.

The rear of the trailer opens like a toy hauler. While towing the travel trailer, bicycles can be stored in the back behind the sofa/dinette. When the trailer is parked, the bicycles can be removed and the seating area slides back to the rear door for extra interior space. This seating area can then be converted to a queen-sized bed. Above the queen-sized bed is another bed that lowers turning the sleeping area into bunk beds. This is plenty of space for four people to sleep comfortably.

The remaining interior of the cabin consists of the bathroom. The bathroom is unique. The toilet is concealed in a separate room with a privacy door. However, to use the shower, the kitchen must be in its outdoor location. Once the kitchen is outside, this area converts to a standup shower.

On the exterior of the trailer, there are additional features including 18 cubic feet of storage located on the front of the trailer. There is also a large window, on the same side as the expandable kitchen, that opens completely. There are no windows on the other side of the trailer. It is a blank wall with a side-mount that is meant to be used to store your kayaks, canoes or other outdoor gear.

This trailer is great for an outdoor camper and has plenty of space for all of your camping gear. You definitely need to check this one out. Please see additional specs below.

 X17Z Jay Feather by Jayco

The Jayco Company has a large variety of travel trailers, toy haulers, pop-up trailers and motor homes.  Their brand is widely known for their upgrades and quality materials and these features carried over to their expandable trailers.

The interior of the X17Z Jay Feather has that feel of home with the beautiful wood features, marble looking kitchen countertops, and stunning grey faux-leather fabric on the couch and dinette benches. The kitchen comes fully equipped with a three-burner stove, oven, two-compartment deep sink, microwave, and a refrigerator/freezer. Above and below the kitchen are plenty of cabinets for storage. There is also a hood above the stove for ventilation. The two-compartment sink comes with a tall, curved residential-sized faucet. Across from the kitchen is the dinette with bench seating. There is also a plush sofa large enough for three people to sit comfortably.

On both ends of the trailer are the expandable sides. Both sides expand out to queen-sized beds. The expandable sides are made from canvas tent material. There are windows on each expandable side that can be opened or closed depending on if you want to use the A/C or just the cool night air for air conditioning. Both sleeping areas do come with privacy curtains.

The last feature in the interior of the cabin is the bathroom. The bathroom is full-sized with a privacy door. The bathroom includes a stand-up shower with a curtain, a separate toilet, and a separate vanity with a sink. Above the vanity is a large mirrored medicine cabinet for additional storage.  

The exterior of the trailer has a large 10′ retractable awning. There is additional pass-through storage under the trailer spanning the width of the trailer. There is also an outdoor shower option for hosing off before entering the trailer. This trailer also comes standard with Goodyear tires. Having a set of good brand name tires on a new trailer will keep you from replacing them after 1-2 years after the cheap ones fail.

You can’t go wrong with a Jayco. They are a nationally known brand, offer an industry leading 2 year warranty, and live up to their expectations. Please see additional specs below.

G17PR Explore Rockwood Geo Pro by Forest River

The G17PR Explore Rockwood Geo Pro by Forest River has one expandable side in the rear allowing for the remaining interior to have all the features of a standard travel trailer. However even though there is only one expandable side, this trailer can sleep four people comfortably.

As you walk into the cabin, you will see the full-sized sofa to the right. The sofa converts to a murphy bed that can sleep two people. There is also storage on either side of the sofa/murphy bed.

Across from the sofa is a wall-mounted TV that can be angled in any direction. Just below the TV is the kitchen. This kitchen is long with plenty of countertop space. The kitchen includes a stainless-steel sink, three-burner stove, microwave, and refrigerator/freezer. There is also plenty of cabinets above and below the countertop.

This trailer does come with plenty of storage. There are several floor to ceiling cabinets and wardrobes for camping essentials.

The rear of the trailer houses the expandable tent side. This area is large enough for a queen-sized mattress. The expandable sides are made from tent material allowing the feel of outdoor camping. However, like many other expandable trailers, there are zip-up windows on either side of the bed allowing for the night breeze to come into the trailer or they can be closed allowing you to use the A/C.

Finally, there is a full-sized bathroom inside the trailer. This bathroom is a bit larger than most. Also, in my opinion, it is configured better than other bathrooms. As you walk into the bathroom you will notice the long vanity that is large enough for two sinks. However, there is just one sink in this model but there is plenty of countertop space if you wanted a second sink.

There is storage below the sink with a mirrored medicine cabinet above. They have also added in a few extras like a built-in toothbrush holder, a bar soap holder, and a hand towel holder. There is also a storage shelf near the ceiling with a roped wall keeping all items in place.

The stand-up shower is very large and has built-in shelves for shampoo/conditioner bottles. Lastly, there is a separate toilet.

This trailer is beautifully designed and has all of the upgrades and features of a traditional travel trailer.

Please see additional specs below.

Coleman Light LX 1601EXP by Dutchmen

The Coleman Light XL 1601EXP by Dutchmen is perfect for a large family. This travel trailer has four different sleeping options, ideal for a family or group of seven to eight people.  The spacious interior has two separate expandable tent sides, one in the front and one in the rear. Both expandable sides covert to queen-sized beds. There is a privacy curtain for each expandable side. There is also a long, plush sofa can seat three people comfortably. The sofa can fold out to a mattress large enough for two people. Across from the sofa is the dinette. The dining table is surrounded by two bench seats. The dinette transitions into another sleeping area, perfect for two children or one adult.

The Coleman Light has plenty of storage. There are cabinets surrounding the inside cabin along the ceiling. There are also storage units under the bench seats in the dining area and in the kitchen. The kitchen is compact and includes a two-burner stove, a microwave, a refrigerator/freezer, and a wide, deep sink. The sink is extremely wide for a travel trailer and includes a very tall, industrial-sized faucet. This travel trailer also includes a private bathroom. The bathroom consists of a stand-up shower, separate toilet, and a vanity with sink.

If you have a large family or like to camp with many of your friends, this is the trailer for you. There are so many different sleeping areas. Please see additional specs below.  

1650EX Crossfire by Keystone RV

The Crossfire by Keystone RV is another great expandable travel trailer for a large family or group of friends. This travel trailer has two expandable sides and additional sleeping areas inside the cabin allowing for seven or eight people to sleep comfortably. Both expandable sides create queen-sized beds, great for a total of four people. The dinette with bench seating and the sofa both convert to mattresses allowing for an additional three or four people to sleep comfortably.

The interior of this cabin is beautifully designed with its beach feel. The light grey cabinets complement the marble looking kitchen countertops. The sink, microwave, and refrigerator are all stainless steel. The kitchen comes equipped with a two-burner stove. The floors have a natural-looking wood finish. The marble looking countertops continue into the bathroom. The bathroom counter is extremely long with a sink on the end. Below the counter is quite a bit of storage for a small travel trailer bathroom. There is a separate toilet and shower. The shower is a stand-up shower with a tub. However, the tub is small but could be used to bathe a toddler.

This travel trailer has all of the amenities and space for a fun family camping trip. Please see additional specs below.

Explore Solaire Expandable 147x by Palomino

The Explore Solaire by Palomino is another great option of an expandable travel trailer for a large family.

This trailer has two expandable sides that both convert to queen-sized beds. Both sleeping areas can be concealed by privacy curtains. There are two additional sleeping areas, which are the sofa and dinette. Both of these areas convert into mattresses.

Some unique features make this trailer stand out. One unique feature is the front door. The front door has an option of a screen door. The hard door will stay open while a separate screen door can be used. Another unique feature is the expandable side mattresses. Both mattresses come standard with a heated blanket built into the mattress, great for those cold nights.  

This trailer also has a spacious kitchen including a wide, deep stainless-steel sink, a three-burner stove, oven, microwave, and refrigerator/freezer. Across from the kitchen is the compact bathroom. The bathroom is just large enough for a stand-up shower, a toilet, and a vanity with a sink. There is a privacy door separating the bathroom from the rest of the trailer.

This is an excellent trailer for a family on the go. Please see additional specs below.

Enjoy choosing the perfect expandable travel trailer for you and your family.

Happy Camping!

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Crow Survival

Outdoor Discovery

9 of Our Favorite Hybrid Travel Trailers and Campers

Jonathan Holmes 5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 45 reviews)

Thank you for reading our post, please rate this article at the end.

Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Shera Mae Torollo

Table of Contents

Hybrid travel trailers and campers are designed to offer the best of both worlds with their unique features, making them an ideal choice for adventure seekers who seek comfort without compromising on the authentic camping experience.

• The solid body offers protection with pop-out canvas sections.
• Features include amenities like a fridge, stove, and sleeping spaces.
• Lightweight design enhances towing and fuel efficiency benefits.
• Versatility allows for various living arrangements based on needs.
• Surprisingly spacious interiors once pop-outs are extended.
• Canvas pop-outs can challenge temperature control in extremes.
• Maintenance is required to prevent mold and mildew buildup.

One of the best feelings is getting out and hitting the road on a long, adventurous road trip. When doing so, review 10 of our favorite hybrid travel trailers and campers for the best options.

There’s no better way to see the country than traveling with a camper in tow – allowing you to set up shop wherever you are and simply camp, sleep – and most importantly maximize your time in any given location.

This is especially important for those taking a family trip – what better way to get several people across the country than to pack a trailer and hit the road ?

These days, people want to feel like they’re experiencing something. A hybrid travel trailer lets you get most of the benefits of a traditional RV trailer while allowing you to feel still like you’re camping in a conventional tent setup. It’s the best of a few different worlds.

When you are looking at purchasing a hybrid camper, you need to ask some serious questions because this is such a big investment.

Does this hybrid trailer match your needs as far as how much space and how many people you’ll be bringing?

How much weight can your vehicle support? How much weight will you be adding to your hybrid trailer?

What additional features will you want to be included in your trailer?

There are many quality options on the marketplace, and trying to pick one from your variety of options can be a tough decision.

It’s essential to think about your specific needs, what things you’ll be willing to sacrifice, and what features you might be willing to pay extra for.

The following are our favorite options to help slim things down so you can make a purchasing decision and become a happy camper.

Best Hybrid Travel Trailers & Campers

1. opus 15 off-road hybrid caravan.

The Opus 15 hybrid travel trailer is a revolutionary addition to the world of recreational vehicles, offering an exciting blend of comfort, functionality, and thoughtful design.

This mobile home on wheels combines the best of both worlds, providing the mobility of a trailer with the spaciousness and amenities of a traditional house.

The standard features of the Opus 15 hybrid travel trailer are impressive, starting with its robust exterior. The exterior is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and rugged terrains, ensuring safety and durability during travel.

The trailer comfortably sleeps four people, making it an ideal choice for families or friends looking for an adventurous getaway.

The outdoor kitchen is another highlight of this travel trailer. Equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, it allows you to cook your meals while enjoying the beauty of nature.

The power water tanks, another standard feature, ensure a continuous clean water supply, adding convenience to your outdoor living experience.

The interior of the Opus 15 hybrid travel trailer is equally impressive. It boasts a well-equipped bathroom, providing all the comforts of a home bathroom in a compact space.

Additionally, off-grid options are available for those who wish to venture further into the wilderness without compromising on their basic needs.

In terms of optional features, the Opus 15 hybrid travel trailer offers a variety of upgrades and additions to enhance your travel experience.

From advanced security systems to additional storage spaces and luxury fittings, these optional features allow you to customize your trailer according to your specific requirements and preferences.

The Opus 15 hybrid travel trailer is an innovative solution for modern-day travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and adventure in one package. Its standard and optional features are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable outdoor living experience.

Whether you are an avid adventurer seeking off-grid options or a family looking for a comfortable and convenient mobile home for your vacations, the Opus 15 hybrid travel trailer is a worthy investment.

2. Rockwood Roo Travel Trailers

Forest River is a premium name for the trailer industry, and its hybrid offering is called the “Rockwood Roo.”

The high-quality trailer company is one of the best in the game so you know when you purchase from them you’re getting a serious product that you’ll be able to use for a long time.

As far as the Rockwood Roo goes, this model is an absolute beast. I dare anyone to check one of these out in person and not fall in love with the idea of traveling around the country in this bad boy.

The Rockwood Roo could be considered a hybrid plus. It has tons of space for anything you need, and you’ll be living comfortably with it. There’s no doubt about it.

The quality of materials on the inside and the outside are at the highest level – you feel the luxury while you’re inside it, and everyone on the outside will admire it from afar.

The interior is made with driftwood, giving it a homey feel. It just looks nicer than almost any other camper you’ll find out there.

Some of the other interior features are amazing – you must be prepared to live in luxury if you consider buying this trailer model.

First, the trailer’s interior also has maple throughout, giving it an excellent finish.

But the real perks start when you get into the electronics area. This trailer has a mounted LCD TV – great for rainy days, those who need to stay connected, or families that need a little break from the rugged outdoors.

On top of that, you have various audio capabilities at your fingertips as well. Options to play the standard radio and hook up to music players like an iPod or your phone are available.

As we talk about technology, there’s even a WiFi extension to get some connection if anyone in your family has a business that needs to be attended to – a realistic part of life on the road at this point.

You’ve got an outdoor shower to keep everybody clean – another essential aspect of living outdoors together for an extended period .

The floorplans can vary for these trailer models, but these hybrids are all similar enough to discuss spacing throughout.

The living areas are quite spacious – especially for what you might expect from living out of a vehicle.

Family dinettes are included in most models and give you a lot of space for you and your loved ones to eat comfortably.

On top of the dinette area, because this is a hybrid model, you have that extra area for bed space that is utilized quite well.

If you need much space to sleep in, you’ll be happy with what you’ve got here regarding beds.

The sidewalls made of laminated fiberglass are also an extra benefit, as you will be protected from whatever life throws at your trailer. As we’ve said, the roofing is also entirely secure – everything on this model is built for perfection.

Overall, this Forest River model is unbelievable. Plenty of features are stacked to give your family the ultimate comfort when traveling in a hybrid trailer .

The Rockwood Roo provides a ton of space and a high luxury for traveling on the road. You still feel that you’re out camping because of the design, and the different floorplans make sure your model matches your needs. It would be best if you had more than enough space than you need

Some hard-side models can be heavy, and the Rockwood Roo is a premium model.

3. Aerolite Hybrid Travel Trailers

The Aerolite comes to us from the folks at Dutchmen. Dutchmen is an excellent brand offering premium products, and I think the Aerolite hybrid trailer is no exception to this rule.

Everything from the seating to the exterior is built with a premium experience in mind so consumers can be sure they’re getting the best.

This beautiful trailer has been painstakingly designed to function quite well in the environments you’ll be taking it out into. Still, its designers also wanted it to look beautiful, and I believe they succeeded.

On top of the fact that they have a beautiful design, the people from Dutchmen have created something with a lot of technology included and is excellent for those families who have some people who need to take care of business while on the road.

Another surprising feature in the Aerolite is their tub shower, which is incredible in a travel trailer like this.

While we’re in the bathroom, the fact that this model has a porcelain toilet is impressive, and what better way to feel right at home than comfort from home in the bath?

The design of all the appliances is stainless steel, which gives a sharp look inside the trailer.

The height of the trailer gives even the tallest members of your family a lot of room to breathe, and you should be comfortable no matter what size you are.

Speaking of space – this Aerolite model features a ton of it. The queen bed size means you won’t be sleeping in any discomfort at all.

The fridge is a double-door model that gives you loads of room for your food, keeping your family eating healthy and eating well on your long trips.

The Aerolite features many items that give you a ton of comfort. The technology involved in this camper just can’t be beaten.

If you’re looking for tunes to relax or break up the silence of the wilderness, you’re covered with a Bluetooth stereo hook-up. Most people are familiar with Bluetooth, so hook-up should take minutes.

You also can watch TV through cable or satellite with their booster hook-up. While I can’t imagine you’ll be spending a ton of time with the tube, it’s a nice feature for those with younger children or those who need a bit of catching up to the “real world”.

The patio and power awning give you a great and protected place to hang out outside the camper, and if you’re feeling a nice night out like a campfire setting or something, you’ve got outside speakers to keep the party going as long as you need.

The remote system from the Aerolite is one of the best I’ve seen. This touchscreen model gives you control over your Aerolite from one place and the entirety of your model.

You’ve got control over the lights, awnings, and slide-outs, honestly, everything you need is in one place which makes this convenient for families who don’t want to spend a ton of time setting everything up, taking it down, and getting ready to set something up the next day.  

You also won’t be fumbling around in the dark for light switches or trying to find the one button you need in an awkward space.

You may be interested in some other features, such as aluminum wheels for durability or the patented StabiliTrak suspension rig that will keep your Aerolite stable and comfy no matter where you take it.

Aerolite has a great shower area; many will be impressed by that specific part of the trailer. The outdoor area is lovely, with a patio and power awning. The trailer is built to be quite sturdy and holds up over time.

The Aerolite offers a bit less protection than the traditional full hard-side model. Some may not love the design of the trailer.

4. Coleman Hybrid Travel Trailers

Coleman is a well-known name in the trailer business, and this specific model is an excellent offering from Dutchmen.

You have two different models here with the Coleman name, you have a “Light” and a “Lantern”.  While you’ll want to check your specific needs, the features discussed here are spread across these slight variations and should still help you decide what you need.

The Coleman Lantern models have a fantastic claim – they can sleep up to 10 people!

That’s a considerable number that even the most prominent families will enjoy. If you were looking for a hybrid trailer that could fit the cousins, too, you’re staring at it right here.

One of the best features that Coleman boasts is that it uses a Power Tongue Jack and a stabilizer. This is a big deal because now you’re going to spend less time setting things up and more time doing whatever it is you came to do in the first place.

You also have an absurd amount of USB plug-ins in this trailer. When you think about it, this design makes a lot of sense.

In today’s society, if you can sleep up to 10 people in a trailer, you better have some heavy USB capability because you might need ten plugs (or more) for those ten people.

The dinette has a lot of storage space, and to be honest, there’s a vast amount of storage space throughout the trailer, so your family should have space for any toys, clothing, camping gear, or anything they need to bring.

The Coleman RV trailers are stunning on the inside. The interior design has been done by people who know what they’re doing.

When you see the inside of this trailer, you’ll be surprised that it’s not a whole house – it feels that much like you’re right at home.

You even have features such as a medicine cabinet to add to the homey feel.

The Coleman model is appropriate for camping in all four seasons due to the insulated bottom of the trailer. It’s completely enclosed, so you don’t have to worry about freezing or other problems.

Overall, this model is a thing of beauty. The different variants give different families everything they need from a hybrid trailer, and if you purchase one of these models, you’ll be sure to be happy with what you get.

The Coleman models are well-designed for today’s society, and USB plugs are essentially everywhere. The design looks great and I think anyone would feel at home in these models.

The number of hours you sleep may depend on what model you buy. Even though models are built for four seasons, you’ll want to ensure everything is handled correctly.

5. Kodiak Hybrid Travel Trailers

Kodiak is another version of a hybrid trailer that doesn’t sacrifice much to earn its status.

The Kodiak can sleep an absurd ten people, and although you may not believe that – it just means that a family of 6 or even 8 should have a ton of space since you could feasibly get ten into the trailer.

This is a lighter unit that most SUVs can tow. It’s incredible to think about. You can live out of a vehicle like an SUV but still have room for up to 10 people! That’s the kind of efficiency some family leaders can only dream of when planning a trip across the country.

Dutchmen offers its custom-made “iN-command” remote operating system with this model. What that does is allow for everything to be controlled out of one convenient position.

Everything is controlled from this “home base,” including the indoor and outdoor lights, which is a nice plus. But you also control things from this remote, such as awnings or generator settings.

The Kodiak has an excellent feature for those who need a lot of sleeping room – they have queen beds on every one of their floor plans.

The 60 x 80-bed size gives couples room to breathe, and if you’re a single sleeper, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out across the whole mattress. Comfort matters when you’re in a trailer, and the queen beds in a Kodiak receive high marks.

Another thing that Kodiak does right is to ensure they have sturdy entry steps. They’re made of aluminum, so if you have elderly or young family members getting in and out of your camper, they will feel entirely secure using these entry steps.

They’ll also last as long as the trailer does; there are no concerns about durability.

The underbelly of the Kodiak is wholly protected. If you’re camping in the cold, that’s an essential factor you shouldn’t overlook.

Freezing lines can be a huge deal, and your whole plans will be ruined, but that won’t happen here with the Kodiak. On top of that, if you hit some literal unexpected bumps in the road, you won’t do any damage to this premium trailer.

The décor of the interior design has three different options, and they’re all quite beautiful. It’s incredible when you think about the attention to detail that Dutchmen has put into this hybrid trailer, and it shows when you’re walking through the interior.

These look that you get whether you’re in the bed area, the dinette, or even the kitchen – it could feel a bit almost like a well-done regular apartment. That’s fantastic value for those on the road and living in this unit.

The remote system allows you to control everything from one spot, is easy to control, and feels very intuitive. The interior design shines through and allows for a hybrid trailer that feels like home. There’s plenty of space and storage throughout

It may not be quite as heavy-duty as some are looking for. A premium product so may not fit everyone’s budget.

6. Flagstaff Shamrock Travel Trailers

Forest River is at the top of the line for travel trailers, and I believe this Flagstaff Shamrock is one of the top in the industry.

A lot is going on regarding hybrid trailers, but Forest River has been able to check all the boxes.

The expanded interior means you and your family will have plenty of space – especially when utilizing the bunk beds. While some think bunk beds mean no comfort, that’s not the case here.

I like the comfort throughout the trailer and think the whole family will feel at home.

The Flagstaff Shamrock is designed to be used throughout all four seasons and has heated mattresses for that specific reason.

Looking around the inside, you see some fantastic interior design sights. The interior is made from driftwood, and you can choose maple glaze finishes on some cabinetry parts.

I can’t even begin to describe how at home this can make you feel when on the road for a long time.

You know how important it can be for those with young children to have a TV with them for those rainy sessions – and the Flagstaff Shamrock has you covered here.

The mounted LCD TV is excellent for settling those fussy children or just tuning in to see the news for a brief catch-up. I’ve known families to take cheaper video game systems on the road for some old-school fun.

Depending on the model and floorplan you choose, the dinette can be a bit different, but either way, it usually feels quite spacious.

While talking about technology, the trailer has a WiFi booster to stay connected even closer while you’re even farther away.

As we move outside the trailer, it’s great that you have magnetic door locks so the outside stays outside. That’s a great feature that is utilized well with young children.

The power awning system is fantastic because it clears you up to do more important tasks like making food or building a fire after a long day out – you won’t want to adjust and deal with the hassle of a manual awning.

The entry step is built to be relatively stable and durable, so you won’t have any concerns, no matter how old or young some of your family may be.

The ceilings and walls are all insulated and built with your comfort in mind, so no matter what season, you will be pretty comfortable with the excellent technology that Forest River has used to build this trailer.

On top of this, you get some great basic features like a microwave oven and a kitchen sink with a double bowl design. Those little things keep you closer to home.

This model is a big win for Forest River; it’s an excellent hybrid truck trailer that will keep you happy no matter what the wilderness throws.

Has a high level of technology so those families who want a mix of home and outdoors won’t be afraid to hit the road.  The kitchen has appliances that fit the space quite well, and quality is apparent from top to bottom – inside & out.

Could be heavy for what some are looking for, may need to look for something with less weight.

7. Starcraft RV Mossy Oak

Starcraft RV is a well-known name in the trailer industry, and if you’re looking for hybrid trailers, it makes a lot of sense to check their offerings out.

While it’s named for a tree, you’ll have a lot more comfort than just pitching a hammock up and bracing the outdoors – Starcraft is a premium name in comfort.

The construction in this trailer is outstanding. The biggest plus of the Mossy Oak is that it uses fiberglass insulation to keep you comfortable no matter what is happening outside your trailer – a big deal if you’re planning to deal with inclement weather.

You also have a roof that can be easily walked on, which is a big draw for those who need to get up and on top of their trailer.

The cabinetry inside the trailer is quite fantastic and has this excellent hardwood look that will make it seem like you’re inside a premium home.

The kitchen is good, but not great; you have a fridge with a lot of storage coming in with six cubic feet. That’s not the highest I’ve seen – but it should hold plenty of food for you and your family.

As we move through the interior, you’ve got some great technology to keep your family engaged.

Today’s society probably wants a TV in some capacity, and the Mossy Oak has you covered with a cable hook-up and a satellite one.

Any light or control switches are all in one coordinated area, which means no stumbling through the dark.

The trailer shines in its exterior construction. Everything feels sturdy and durable, so you’ll have a long-lasting trailer.

I like the Mossy Oak and what it offers for those looking for a nice, sturdy trailer that gives them a lot of comfort.

This is built to be a long-lasting trailer that you can be sure will be with your family for a long time. The construction in this trailer is incredible. Technology aspects are solid, so you should be covered in them. It feels nice throughout the trailer.

You may want to see some better “action” in the kitchen for such a premium product. That might not live up to some’s expectations.

8. SolAire Expandable Travel Trailers

Palomino has been making RVs since 1968 – that’s a long time to be improving your product and listening to customer feedback.

That’s good news for you as a consumer, as their new SolAire models are designed to be made with a lot of quality and comfort with everything they’ve learned.

There are different floorplans to choose from so that you have precisely what you need, but all models are made with a strong frame of full aluminum . That will keep your trailer chugging along for a long time.

Not only that, but the floor you see available at the least will offer a queen-sized bed in every scenario, and since rest is so essential on the road, that’s a nice thing to see.

The expandable trailer models come with cabinetry made of walnut – a nice-looking wood with a premium feel.

The spacing in the trailer feels excellent due to a skylight in the kitchen lighting things up during the day. In the kitchen, the countertops feel pretty solid, and the double-door fridge has a considerable amount of storage, with eight cubic feet.

With that fridge space, you also get some extra dinette space to go along with that. Families should feel comfortable (or as comfortable as you can) eating in the trailer with all that space.

As far as comfort goes, you have a lot of indoor lights (LED) that light up space quite well. USB charging ports will keep your family powered up and connected to the world.

As we move outside the trailer, the eXpandable is well-equipped for durability.

The doors are magnetically latched so that you know they’re closed when they’re closed, and nothing can be damaged by slamming doors or anything crazy like that. It also adds a level of security to your hybrid trailer.

The walls and roofs are laminated for extra protection from inclement weather and to keep the trailer safe from the elements.

Multiple floorplans allow you to get a model appropriate for your family. The kitchen, fridge, and dinette areas all have a lot of space, so if you eat out of your trailer, you’ll be quite happy with this offering.

It may not have the most high-tech available for families who find that necessary. Some may not like the design from the outside

9. The TrailManor 2720 Series

This is not your traditional popup camper with tent/fabric foldouts. Hardshell slide-outs are the standard. Ten years of testing and prototypes went into the

design before the first TrailManor was delivered to a dealer .

Only after the ground-breaking TrailManor design had undergone extensive testing was it made public.

William J. Hulsey, the founder of TrailManor, holds a Ph.D. in Metallurgical Engineering and has over 25 years of experience creating high-tech materials and goods.

He incorporated this understanding into the TrailManor design to create a trailer that is lightweight, simple to tow, engineered to last, has a high resale value, and is entertaining to use as soon as you pull out of your driveway.

His wife was unhappy with the family’s tent camper, so he built the FIRST TrailManor for her. She desired a bathroom and an upright travel trailer with solid walls.

Bill used his technical experience and knowledge to design a travel trailer that was light in weight, simple to tow, had hard walls, and a bathroom because he didn’t want to buy or tow a big travel trailer.

These campers are very light and quick to set up. You can tow these trailers with a properly equipped minivan, crossover, or SUV without needing a large tow vehicle. The trailers from the 2518 Series fit neatly in a typical garage.

Unlike tent campers, these units are simple to set up and can be done in the rain without the interior getting wet. Towing these trailers 100 miles requires just one extra gallon of gas and is essentially effortless.

Because it is the smallest trailer in our collection, you have more options for towing and storage.

Standard Exterior Features:

• Swing hitch
• Krystal Kote exterior
• 110-volt outside receptacle
• Twin 20 lb. gas bottles with automatic changeover
• LED tail and running lights
• Outside patio light
• Stabilizer jacks
• Radial tires
• 6-gallon DSI gas/electric water heater
• Alloy wheels (excludes spare)
• Spare tire package
• Outside shower
• Park cable hookup
• Fire extinguisher
• 12-v power in living area
• Dry bath with cassette toilet and shower
• 2 burner stove
• 3-way 3 cu. ft. refrigerator
• TV/cable outlet
• LED interior lights
• Marble look countertops
• Fantastic Vent ceiling fan
• Suburban 20,000 BTU furnace
• Bedroom privacy curtain
• Monitor panel
• Smoke detector , CO & LP gas detector
• Preinstalled wiring for radio/ stereo
• Power front slide out (Slide out models only)

Are Hybrid Travel Trailers and Campers Worth It?

Hybrid travel trailers and campers offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and flexibility for outdoor enthusiasts.

They combine the best attributes of traditional travel trailers with the added benefits of expandable tent sections, providing more living space.

Their lightweight design makes towing more accessible and fuel-efficient, while their compact size allows access to a wider range of camping sites.

The versatility and cost-effectiveness of hybrid travel trailers and campers can significantly enhance the camping experience, making them a worthwhile investment for many.

However, the value proposition may vary depending on individual needs and preferences, so it’s essential to thoroughly evaluate these factors before deciding.

Hybrid travel trailers and campers offer an exciting balance between the comfort of hard-bodied trailers and the adventurous edge of tent camping.

These units feature a solid body structure providing robust protection, while offering the flexibility of pop-out canvas sections, adding to the living space when stationed.

These pop-out sections can be conveniently folded back in when the trailer is on the move, making it lightweight and more fuel-efficient while towing.

One of the distinct advantages of hybrid travel trailers and campers is their versatility. The design allows for a range of living arrangements, customizable to an individual’s needs.

They have amenities such as a fridge and stove, ensuring a comfortable camping experience. The interiors, though compact when on the road, prove to be surprisingly spacious once the canvas pop-outs are extended.

However, like any other product, hybrid trailers do have specific challenges. The canvas pop-outs can make temperature control difficult in extreme weather conditions.

Additionally, they require regular maintenance to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Nevertheless, with proper care and maintenance, hybrid travel trailers and campers can offer an unparalleled camping experience that combines comfort and adventure.

If you liked this article, on hybrid campers you might also want to check out our other travel trailer recommendations here or learn more about RVs here.

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Hybrid Camper Trailers: What’s So Trendy About? (And Some Models We Like)

• Last Updated: September 11, 2024
• 15 minutes read

If you are searching for an RV that offers a lot of living space, but you don’t want to deal with the excessive weight and size of a large travel trailer of a fifth wheel, then a hybrid travel trailer might be the perfect thing to meet your family’s needs. 

Hybrid travel trailers are essentially a cross between a traditional travel trailer and a tent pop-up camper. Sometimes referred to as “Expandable Trailers” they offer lightweight towing characteristics with extra interior space and versatility.

These unique RVs have folding sections in the front, back or side walls that transform into tent covered beds.

This gives you more sleeping space, while also opening up the interior floor plan with more functional living area. 

While they certainly have a lot of strengths, Hybrid campers also have a few drawbacks that might not make them perfect for everyone. 

Is a hybrid camper is perfect RV for your family’s adventure needs —and if so, which one you should get?

To help you to determine we decided to dive headlong into this ever-expanding niche to create an ultimate guide Along the way, we will ask and answer some key questions. 

This includes looking at some key features as well as reviewing some of the best hybrid campers on the market today.

IN THIS ARTICLE

What Are Hybrid Campers?

A hybrid camper trailer is essentially a cross between a hard-sided travel trailer and a popup camper, Most have two or more ends that pull out to provide more sleeping room, while also helping to maximize the interior living space.

Some can sleep as many as 10 people at a time, which makes them very appealing to larger families who also need to be mindful of their budget. 

A Hybrid camper looks very much like a compact hard-sided travel trailer when it’s parked up in your backyard or being towed down the road.

When you get to your campsite or RV park, you can set it up and then one or more sides “Pop Out” to expand the interior living and sleeping space. 

Hybrid campers tend to be lighter, andgeneral more affordable than traditional hard-sided travel trailers.

Most of the best hybrid travel trailers can even be towed by many popular family vehicles like mini-vans or SUVs.

What Are The Pros & Cons Of A Hybrid Camper Trailers?

There are a few benefits and a few arguable drawbacks to a hybrid camper that are worth exploring before deciding that it’s perfect for you. 

The Benefits Of A Hybrid Camper

• Lightweight – Most hybrid campers weigh less than a similar model with the same interior square footage. Some of the lightest hybrid campers can have a dry weight as low as 2,500-pounds, which makes for easy towing with a mid-size SUV or perhaps a minivan with a towing package installed. 
• Alternative To Power Slide-Outs – The expandable sections don’t have all the heavy materials, hardware, and drive components that you find with traditional RV slide-out sections. 
• Affordable – Since they don’t have as many complex components, frames, and technical features the initial purchase price tends to be lower than a similar travel trailer with the same interior space. 
• Easier To Reverse Into Place – Backing a large travel trailer into a tight camping spot can be a frustrating challenge. With a hybrid camper you can slip it into place, and then expand it by hand to fit tightly in place, without asking the driver to pull off a lot of complicated reversing moves.
• More Space – When they are set up hybrid campers offer more floor space as well as sleeping space in the expanded pop-out sections.  

The Drawbacks Of A Hybrid Camper

• Temperature Sensitive – Since it essentially has thick canvas tent walls in the expanded sections, hybrid campers tend to be more sensitive to changes in temperature. This can be a noticeable inconvenience if you are camping in the mountains, the desert, or during a particularly hot stretch of weather. 
• Condensation – The temperature sensitivity of the camper and the potential for poor ventilation when you seal everything up can cause condensation buildup in the expanded tent sections.
• Potential Rips & Tears – The canvas material used for the expanding sections might be “Heavy-Duty” but it is still prone to rips or tears. Especially if you set it up and take it down frequently or you aren’t fastidious with winterizing it and storing it out of the elements. 

How Much Does A Hybrid Camper Weigh?

Hybrid campers can vary in size and weight. Though most of the popular models weigh between 3,000 to 6,000 pounds with some of the lightest models only tipping the scales around 2,500-pounds.

Some of the largest hybrid campers can tip the scales by as much as 8,500 pounds. 

How Much Does A Hybrid Camper Cost?

The average hybrid camper costs around $18,000. Though this is a relatively barebones model equipped with basic features and not a whole lot of bells and whistles.

A larger hybrid camper with a lot of optional creature comforts selected via the manufacturer can cost as much as $40,000.

5 Of The Best Hybrid Camper Trailers On The Market

While reviewing hybrid campers we tried to keep an eye out for material build quality, especially in the expanding tent section fabric, as well as the number of people it can sleep.

We also tried to include a few models that appeal to niche-specific interests such as families who like to boondock off the grid, and need a hybrid camper that can support them. 

With all that in mind, here are five of the best hybrid camper trailers that are worthy of your consideration :

• Forest River Rockwood Roo 233S Expandable Travel Trailer
• 2021 Jayco Jay Feather Hybrid X23E
• 2021 Palomino SolAire EXpandable 147X
• 2021 Forest River Flagstaff Shamrock 19 Hybrid Trailer
• 2021 Keystone Bullet Crossfire 2190EX

1. Forest River Rockwood Roo 233S  Expandable Travel Trailer

• Dry Weight of 5,063 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,587 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 650 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 54.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 30.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30.0 gallons
• 3 Expandable sections
• 1 Slide-out section
• Sleeps up to 10 people
• 13,500 BTU air conditioner

The Forest River – Rockwood Roo 233S is a larger hybrid camper meant to accommodate larger families.

It has three expandable pop-out sections to maximize the internal sleeping area.

It also has a modest slide-out section to accommodate a family dinette.

With a dry weight of just over 5,000-pounds and a hitch weight of 650, it could be towed by a robust mid-size SUV with a towing package installed. 

One of the impressive things about the Forest River – Rockwood Roo 233S is the fact that it has a dry bath with a separated shower and toilet, as well as a small sink with a vanity mirror.

It also comes with modest waste and fresh water storage tanks, which are handy for a family that likes to camp off the grid for multiple days at a time, and needs water available for things like bathing and washing dishes. 

2. 2021 Jayco Jay Feather Hybrid X23E

• Dry Weight of 5,120 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,030 lbs.
• GVWR of 6,150 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 600 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 22 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 42.5 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30.5 gallons

The Jay Feather is one of Jayco’s most popular travel trailer camper platforms. It has many highly successful permutations, which you see in the spacious interior space of the Jayco – Jay Feather X23E.

It has three expandable pop-out sections that help maximize the sleeping area, as well as a family dinette built into a modest slide-out section. 

All this room also allows for a complete “Dry Bath” bathroom where the shower and the toilet are separate entities.

It also allows for a spacious kitchen with an impressive pantry and the kind of functional living space that has helped make hybrid campers increasingly popular. 

3. 2021 Palomino SolAire eXpandable 147X

• Dry Weight of 3,073 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 742 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,815 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 315 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 44 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 30 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30 gallons
• 2 Expandable sections
• Sleeps up to 8 people

The Palomino – Solaire 147X resides on the lighter end of the hybrid camper spectrum.

With a gross vehicle weight rating of just over 3,800-pounds and a hitch weight of just 315-pounds, it is easily towable by a mid-size SUV with a robust towing package installed.

When you also consider that its dual pop-out sections give it the ability to sleep up to 8 people, it might just be the best option for a family who wants their SUV to work for its living on the weekends. 

The Palomino – Solaire 147X also has robust waste and fresh water storage tanks for a relatively small hybrid camper .

This gives it the ability to support a family for multiple days of boondocking without needing to refill or empty the tanks. 

4. 2021 Forest River Flagstaff Shamrock 19 Hybrid Trailer

• Dry Weight of 4,137 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,591 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 448 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 54 gallons

Forest River is one of the best RV manufacturers in the industry, with well-designed models in every niche, to meet just about any family camping need.

So it comes as little surprise that the Forest River Flagstaff Shamrock 19 is one of the most popular hybrid campers on the market today. 

This hybrid camper has two pop-out expandable sections to maximize the living space, while also making the most of the interior with a thoughtful floor plan.

Though one of the really impressive things about it is the large fresh water storage tank that is paired with a set of 30 gallon black and gray water tanks.

This makes the Forest River Flagstaff Shamrock 19 one of the best hybrid campers for boondocking off the beaten path. Just make sure to bring a generator along with you. 

5. 2021 Keystone Bullet Crossfire 2190EX

• Dry Weight of 4,515 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,785 lbs.
• GVWR of 6,300
• Hitch Weight of 610 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 43 gallons
• 1 Power slide-out section

The Keystone – Bullet Crossfire 2190EX is another high-quality hybrid camper that was designed to accommodate families that need to sleep a lot of heads.

With its three large expandable pop-out sections and the power slide-out dinette area, it can sleep up to 10 people on paper, though 7 to 8 is probably a more realistically comfortable number. 

Of course, all this convertible sleeping space also means that the Keystone – Bullet Crossfire 2190EX’s floor plan allows room for a relatively spacious dry bath with a separate toilet and shower.

It’s all supported by some impressively large fresh and wastewater storage tanks. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are hybrid campers any good.

Hybrid campers are good for families who need to sleep a lot of heads but still need to travel on a reasonable budget.

They are also great for people who have SUVs or a powerful minivan and don’t want to invest in a gas-guzzling full size pickup truck just to tow a travel trailer.

Yet hybrid campers also aren’t as durable as some of their hard-sided siblings.

Though with proper care and indoor storage in the winter they can certainly last 10 to 15 years of more, which is sure to offer you a good return on your investment. 

How Many People Can You Sleep In A Hybrid Camper?

The average number of people you can sleep in an average-size hybrid camper is around 6 to 8.

Though this can vary depending on how much elbow room everyone needs and how willing people are to double up in the expanded beds.

Larger campers and families that are comfortable with a little cuddling might be able to sleep up to 10 or possibly even 12 people. 

Do Hybrid Campers Leak?

The seam where the heavy-duty canvas of the pop-out tent sections meet the roof and side walls of the hard-sided travel trailer frame do have a tendency to develop leaks over time.

Being careful while setting up camp, and winterizing your camper for indoor storage out of the elements can reduce the long-term risk of developing leaks.

Minor leaks can be repaired is they are caught early.

Some of the best hybrid camper manufacturers also offer replacement tents at a relatively friendly price point.

How Many Expanding Pop-Out Sections Does A Hybrid Camper Have?

Most hybrid campers have two pop-out or “Expanding” sections. Though some models might only have one.

It all depends on the size and the manufacturer’s design. A few of the best hybrid campers for families might have three or even a modest-size power-retractable slide-out section. 

Do Hybrid Campers Have Bathrooms?

Small to medium hybrid campers might have a wet bath that combines the toilet and shower into one facility.

Though this isn’t always the case. Some might only have a cassette toilet, and you are left to fend for your own bathing needs.

A few of the larger hybrid campers do manage to fit a “Dry Bath” which has a toilet and separate shower. 

Do Hybrid Campers Come With Air Conditioning?

Most hybrid campers come with some form of built-in air conditioning, though not all do.

Fortunately, they do have superior airflow compared to a hard-sided travel trailer of roughly the same size.

Parking in a shady spot and strategically using the open windows to allow a breeze to blow through will go a long way toward helping keep the interior cool, while also reducing the need to use the energy-intensive air conditioner. 

The hybrid camper concept has really taken off in recent years thanks to its ability to combine the sturdiness of a hard-sided travel trailer with the lightweight and maximum sleeping space of a popup camper.

The fact that most of them can be easily towed by a mid-size SUV or a light-duty pickup truck with a tow package installed only adds to their popularity with families who love to travel. 

If you have a larger family and a dedicated midsize SUV to serve as your tow vehicle, then the Palomino – Solaire 147X might be the best hybrid camper to meet your needs. It is lightweight yet sturdy and can sleep up to 8 people.

If you are a family that loves to get off the grid for some boondocking and you prioritize a dry bath with a separate shower and toilet, then the Forest River Flagstaff Shamrock 19 might be the best hybrid camper on this list.

It has a huge freshwater storage tank as well as big gray and black water storage tanks to support a family off the grid for several days at a time.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Expandable Travel Trailers: Why Hybrid Travel Trailers a Great Choice

Published on November 15th, 2023 by Rene Agredano This post was updated on November 27th, 2023

Do you have a friend or family member who is looking for a low-cost way to get into the fun RV lifestyle? Expandable travel trailers are a great option if someone is brand new to RVing. Are you that person? These towable trailers (also known as “hybrids” or “pop-ups”) are a great choice for weekend RV camping trips and vacations. They have low maintenance requirements, can often be stored in a garage, and don’t usually require a higher-priced heavy duty truck for towing.

If you or someone you know is in the market for a low commitment RV, why not consider buying a hybrid camper? Let’s review the pros and cons, and examples of expandable travel trailers at every price point.

What is a Hybrid Travel Trailer?

A hybrid travel trailer is like the Swiss Army knife of the RV world. Imagine combining the robust chassis of a traditional bumper-pull travel trailer with the soft, expandable segments of a tent. You get a solid structure complete with amenities and a versatile space that brings you closer to nature when expanded. The pop-out sections can serve as extra sleeping quarters or additional space to stretch out. A hybrid trailer is also lighter than traditional travel trailers. 

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In other words, a hybrid travel trailer gives you a rolling hotel room up front, and a breathable, sky-gazing platform in back. It all comes in a package that is lighter and easier for towing with smaller vehicles.

The Pros and Cons of Hybrid Travel Trailers

Like all RVs, hybrid travel trailer pros and cons need to be considered before you make the leap into RVing. There is no perfect camper out there, because every RV buyer’s situation is different. What is affordable to one may not be to another, and the vehicle that is safe for trailer towing might be hazardous for another model. Let’s look at the advantages of pop-up campers first.

Some Advantages of Buying an Expandable Travel Trailer

The 3 Biggest Disadvantages of Expandable Travel Trailers

Like anything, buying a hybrid travel trailer comes with some downsides, too. If you are a casual RVer, cons like their  RV depreciation values might not be enough to convince you to avoid buying one, but it’s important to look at all pop-up disadvantages before deciding. Here are the top three disadvantages of pop-up trailers to consider.

Other hassles of pop-up travel trailers cited by owners include the care required to maintain the canvas tent material, and the physical act of setting up the trailer at a campsite. But, if you compare these expandable trailer cons to what it takes to buy, own, use, and maintain other types of RVs, you’ll probably find that they’re a wash.

Three Best Examples of Expandable Hybrid Travel Trailers

RV manufacturers know that hybrid travel trailers are a popular way for people to get into the RV lifestyle. The marketplace is full of innovative designs to suit different needs. Whether you buy a new or used pop-up, you will always have a long list of choices in every price point. Here are just some of our favorites.

Coachmen Clipper 

The Coachmen company prides itself on offering one of the largest selections of pop-up camper models. In 2023 the company’s line of Clippers included Teardrops as well as the LS, Epic, Escape, Express, Explore, TD XL, TD Max, and TD Pro. Combined, these trailers offered over a dozen different models to suit every camping style. A few models weigh less than 1400 pounds unloaded, making them perfect matches to small SUVs and some passenger cars. The Coachmen Clipper features most models share in common include:

Four layer insulated roof

Cable-supported bed system (no clunky poles), 30-second roof raising via dual drive winch, widest stance of any hybrid (more stability on the road), learn more about coachmen clipper hybrid teardrops, rockwood roo.

Rockwood’s Roo expandable travel trailer is one of the most well-known and popular hybrids in the industry. Made by Forest River, the Roo is an ideal choice for small families and couples who want a bit more room than the average expandable travel trailer offers. The unloaded vehicle weight of 2024 models starts at 4,259 pounds for their smallest 21-foot model, the Roo 183, and weights go up from there. You’ll need a larger SUV or light truck to tow any Roo hybrid trailer , but in return you 3njoy high quality features that include:

Azdel composite wall construction

200 watt roof-mounted solar panel with 30-amp controller and 1800 watt inverter, 15,000 btu air conditioner, tst tire pressure monitor system and dexter® torflex® axles, learn more about rockwood roo hybrid travel trailers, aliner a-frame pop-ups.

Made by an independent Pennsylvania manufacturer that’s more than 40 years old, Aliner pop-up trailers are unique in the expandable travel trailer marketplace. Their hard-sided walls are the exception, and allow you to safely camp in places where bears are a concern. Plus, their 13 to 18-foot long frames make Aliners a good choice for storing in a typical suburban house garage. With a starting dry weight of  1,300 lbs, Aliner makes the perfect entry-level RV for camping couples and small families. Each pop-up includes basic features like:

120 volt/12 volt Electrical System

Electric trailer brakes with break away safety switch, led interior lights and fantastic fan, optional galley appliances including a fresh water tank, compact refrigerator, and/or 2-burner stove, learn more about aliner pop-up trailers, some things to consider when shopping for an expandable travel trailer.

Before you start visiting RV dealers in search of your ultimate pop-up travel trailer, it’s smart to know exactly what you want to get out of one. Some important things to consider when looking at any towable RV include:

• Overall Weight. Do you know what camper your vehicle can tow ? Will the camper’s weight exceed your tow car’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating?
• Number of Passengers. Who will use the pop-up? And how often will you have guests?
• Your Must-have Amenities. What trailer amenities are a must? Is lack of an indoor toilet dealbreaker? Can you live with an outdoor kitchen? Which RV amenities can you do without?
• The Budget. Don’t just think about the purchase price of your camper, but how much it will cost to maintain and store the unit.

Expandable travel trailers can give you an ideal combination of creature comforts and outdoor experience if you love the idea of camping but prefer a soft bed, more living space, and a weather-resistant shelter. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler looking for a lighter alternative or new to the RV world, a hybrid could be your perfect choice for short-term adventures. Whether you buy new or used, expandable travel trailers offer a convenient, low-commitment entry into the RV lifestyle for very little cost compared to traditional full-size RVs.

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About the author:.

In 2007 Rene Agredano embarked on full-time RVing with her husband and three-legged dog, and never looked back. Through her work as a small business owner, writer, metalsmith, and animal advocate, she loves sharing RV knowledge with other nomads here at Let’s RV, and on her website at LiveWorkDream.

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Rockwood Roo Expandable Hybrid Travel Trailers

AN IRRESISTIBLE VALUE THAT WILL EXCITE YOU! Your perfect trailer awaits, tailored precisely to your needs. If you seek the allure of extended interior room, complete with lavish drop-down bunks featuring heated mattresses, the Rockwood Roo stands ready to exceed your expectations with its superior quality and abundant amenities. Rockwood effortlessly molds the comforts of home living with the enchantment of the great outdoors.

2025 Rockwood Roo Floorplans

Roo expandable travel trailers.

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Specifications Definitions

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum permissible weight, including cargo, fluids, optional equipment and accessories that can be safely supported by a combination of all axles.

UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)* - is the typical weight of the unit as manufactured at the factory. It includes all weight at the unit’s axle(s) and tongue or pin and LP Gas. The UVW does not include cargo, fresh potable water, additional optional equipment or dealer installed accessories. *Estimated Average based on standard build optional equipment.

CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)** - is the amount of weight available for fresh potable water, cargo, additional optional equipment and accessories. CCC is equal to GVWR minus UVW. Available CCC should accommodate fresh potable water (8.3 lbs per gallon). Before filling the fresh water tank, empty the black and gray tanks to provide for more cargo capacity. **Estimated Average based on standard build optional equipment.

Each Forest River RV is weighed at the manufacturing facility prior to shipping. A label identifying the unloaded vehicle weight of the actual unit and the cargo carrying capacity is applied to every Forest River RV prior to leaving our facilities.

The load capacity of your unit is designated by weight, not by volume, so you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading your unit.

May Show Optional Features. Features and Options Subject to Change Without Notice.

2025 Rockwood Roo Features & Options

* Due to the current environment, our features and options are subject to change due to material availability.

Exterior Features

• Easy To Reach Lockable Bed Latch System
• Solid Entry, Strut Assist Fold Out Entry Steps (N/A 17E 233S)
• Exterior Battery Disconnect Switch
• Power Awning w/ Adjustable Rain Dump & LED Lighting
• Tinted Framed Windows
• Magnetic Compartment Door Catches
• Cable & Satellite Hookup
• Outside Griddle w/ LP Hook Up
• Friction Hinge Entrance Door with Window Shade & ScreenShot Screen Door
• Large, Foldable Grab Handles (All Entrance Doors)
• Outside Antifreeze Station
• Black Tank Flush
• 360 Siphon Vent Cap On All Black Tanks
• Power Tongue Jack
• Outside Speakers
• Keyed Alike Locks
• Electronically Controlled Heated Holding Tanks
• 2" Accessory Hitch
• Laminated White with Alloy Band Fiberglass Sidewalls
• Outside Spray Port
• AIR 360+ Omnidirectional Antenna / with WiFi Prep
• 200W Roof Solar Panel with 1800W Inverter
• Side Solar Prep

Interior Features

• Screwed & Glued, Solid Wood Cabinet Doors & Drawers With Hidden Hinges, Metal Drawer Glides & Residential-Style Hardware
• Carbon Monoxide Detector
• Interior 12V USB Outlet
• Monitor Panel Switch Station with OneControl App
• 55 AMP Converter with Charger
• Ceiling LED 12V Interior Lighting
• Fireplace (235S Only)
• Quick Recovery Water Heater w/ Interior Gas/Electric Switches
• Bunk Fan/Light Combo w/ Each Bed
• Two Maxxair Ventilation Fans & Covers
• Heated Mattress
• 35K BTU Ducted Furnace
• 15,000 BTU Ducted Air Conditioner
• Night Roller Shades
• Marine Grade Carpet in slides
• Sedona Wood Cabinetry
• Deluxe Tri-Fold Sleeper Sofa (235S)
• 12V Smart Entertainment TV w/stereo

Construction Features

• Aluminum Cage Dinette & Bed Base
• 6 Sided Aluminum Framed (Side Walls, End Wall, Front, Floor & Roof)
• 5/8" Plywood Tongue & Groove Subfloor
• Insulation Factors R-7 Side Wall, R-12 Floor & R-14 Ceiling
• Radiant Foil Insulated Underbelly & Slide Out Floors
• Enclosed Underbelly
• Radius Roof w/ Interior Vaulted Ceilings
• Vinyl/Rubber Composite Roofing Membrane
• Vacuum Laminated One Piece Roof & Walls
• Square Bunk Ends w/ Permanently Attached Tents
• Aircraft Grade Cable Supports For Bed Ends
• Interior & Exterior Composite Sidewall Construction

Towing Features

• Rear Observation Camera Prep w/ Molded Mounting Plate
• Easy Lube Axles & Nev-R Adjust Brakes
• Torsion Axle, Rubber-Ryde Suspension
• Nitrogen Filled, Goodyear Endurance Tires w/ Balancing Beads
• TST Tire Pressure Monitor System w/ Monitor
• Spare Tire w/ Carrier & Cover
• 2 5/16" Ball
• Polished Alloy Wheels

Kitchen Features

• Three Burner High Output Gas 21" Oven w/Flush Mount Glass Top Cover
• Under Mount Double Bowl Kitchen Sink w/ Residential-Style Faucet
• Microwave Oven
• Seamless Kitchen Countertops
• 12V Refrigerator
• Water Filter Supplied

Bathroom Features

• Showermiser Water Saving System
• Bathroom Skylight
• Water Heater By-Pass Kit
• Foot Flush Toilets
• Maxxair Ventilation Fan & Cover
• Slide Toppers
• Second roof mount solar panel
• Theater Seat in Place of Sofa (only 235S)
• Dual Soft Start 13.5K A/C (On Select Models)

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Hybrid travel trailers.

Hybrid travel trailers (or HTTs) combine some of the convenience of regular travel trailers with some of the roominess of pop up tent trailers. Here's how to decide if these expandable trailers are for you.

What is a hybrid travel trailer?

A hybrid travel trailer looks like a regular travel trailer - until it is set up.

Then you notice a canvas projection on one or both ends - just like on a pop up tent trailer. 



There are beds in the projections, giving the trailer additional sleeping space without adding significantly to its weight.

Advantages of HTTs

Lots of sleeping space.

A HTT has more room for its weight than a hard sided RV does. There can be lots of beds in a relatively small unit.

Spacious feeling

Since the beds are outside the floor area of the trailer, the trailer feels roomy.

Weather protection

An HTT has a solid roof and walls.

It gives more protection from the elements than a tent trailer does.

Fuel economy

Since it weighs less, pulling an HTT takes less gas than pulling a standard travel trailer with the same amount of usable space.

Ease of set-up

Compared to a tent trailer, hybrid camping trailers are easy to set up.

Set up is very quick with two people working together: one on the outside and one on the inside.

It's even possible for one person to do it alone, especially if she or he is tall and strong!

Flexibility

What if you arrive at your campground late in the evening - or in the rain?

If you have a tent trailer, you must do your set up before you can get into your shelter.

With a hybrid, you can go inside without opening up the beds - a practice known as "turtling".

Depending on your floor plan, you may be able to sleep on the couch or the fold down dinette.

This is crowded and less comfortable, of course, but when you arrive at your campground in the pouring rain it's nice to know that you have the option of scurrying indoors without doing any setup.

Disadvantages of HTTs

Some owners of older model hybrids have issues with leaking around the tent ends - both when the ends are open and when they are closed. If you are buying a used HTT, be sure to check carefully for signs of water damage around the ends.

Condensation and temperature

In cool weather, many hybrid owners report issues with condensation. Moisture from people's breathing collects on the inside of the fabric walls, just as it does in a tent.

Leaving a window open overnight can help, just as it does in a tent. That means that you'll have cold air coming in, though.

And remember - the tent ends are not insulated . If being toasty warm is essential to you, you may prefer a hard sided trailer.

Of course, an HTT requires more set up than a regular travel trailer does.

Security concerns

A canvas-sided shelter cannot be as secure as a hard-sided trailer. If you will be traveling in areas where crime may be an issue, you might prefer a fully secure RV.

Limited camping options

There are a few campgrounds in the United States and elsewhere that do not allow tents or tent trailers, because of bear issues . They don't allow hybrid travel trailers either.

If you're worried about potential bear encounters , read this - and relax.

Other hybrids

You are probably familiar with the camper vans with beds that pop up out of the roof.

There are also truck campers with pop out beds.

Like hybrid travel trailers, these options provide additional sleeping space without sacrificing floor space or fuel economy .

The bottom line

If you want the convenience of a travel trailer with some of the fuel economy and spaciousness of a tent trailer, a hybrid might be the perfect solution!

Now that you know about hybrid travel trailers, you might want to read about all of the different types of RV campers .

Planning a camping trip? Visit The Camping Family home page for practical help with every part of your trip.

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7 Of Our Favorite Hybrid Travel Trailers

Let’s say you’re ready to graduate from tent camping, but you’ll miss all the sounds and scents of the great outdoors. In this case, we would recommend shopping for a hybrid travel trailer.

These travel trailers allow you to get a good night’s sleep without sacrificing the wilderness experience. They have numerous other perks as well, but in our opinion, this is the best reason to invest in one.

Let’s take a look at some of the best hybrid campers on the market.

2017 Forest River Rockwood Roo 24WS

2020 palomino solaire expandable 163x, 2020 jayco jay feather x23e, 2017 keystone bullet crossfire 2190ex, 2017 dutchmen aerolite 204es, 2020 dutchmen kodiak cub 179e, 2019 coleman light lt 1601exp.

Table of Contents

About Hybrid Travel Trailers

A hybrid travel trailer is a towable recreational vehicle that’s outfitted with pop-outs made of tent material. These pop-outs offer additional living space without adding to the towing weight and length of the rig, so they’re a great fit for vehicles with limited towing capacities.

As we mentioned, hybrids combine the rustic feel of tent camping with the comfort of sleeping in a real bed. You can hear the birds, smell the trees, and wake up every morning to magnificent views, all without worrying about damp sleeping bags and roots poking into your back.

You can also expect to spend a great deal less on a hybrid travel trailer than you would on a regular hard-sided RV. That’s another benefit that makes these units so attractive to first-time buyers.

Be forewarned, however, that some parks don’t allow hybrid campers. These regulations are put in place to ensure the safety of campers and wildlife alike, but they could be a hindrance if you prefer off-grid RVing to traditional campgrounds.

It’s also more difficult to keep a hybrid camper warm at night, owing to the flimsy tent-style pop-outs. For the same reason, they’re not really suitable for winter camping. Keep this in mind before you make any major decisions.

7 Great Hybrid Travel Trailers

The Forest River Rockwood Roo is one of the best-known hybrid travel trailers out there. The 24WS model stands as an excellent example of what this type of rig can offer.

With a sleeping capacity of 6 people, the Roo 24WS features two pop-out sleeping areas in the front and rear. The sofa makes for a comfortable bed as well, but the sixth option is a small bench that’s best suited for young children.

The bathroom can be found near the rear of the trailer, and it features a corner stall shower and a linen closet. There’s also an impressive amount of storage for a trailer this size, including several outdoor compartments for stowing recreational gear.

The galley-style kitchen offers a refrigerator, a three-burner stovetop, and double sink. These amenities are in close proximity to one another, and the 30-inch TV is located right alongside them. The sofa and dinette can be found on the opposite wall.

If you’d prefer to do most of your cooking outdoors, Forest River offers an outside gas grill option with this model. There’s also a 19-foot awning that stretches along the passenger-side wall, allowing for plenty of shade.

Manufacturers Website

Palomino makes a number of hybrid campers, but the SolAire eXpandable 163X is one of our favorites. The layout is fairly standard, but it makes the most out of the available space—something that all hybrids should strive for.

Like the Rockwood Roo, this one features a tent pop-out on either end. Each one offers a sleeping area measuring 60 by 80 inches. The sofa also doubles as a bed, and the convertible dinette brings the maximum sleeping count up to 8.

The bathroom facilities can be found next to the rear pop-out and include a generously-sized shower. In the kitchen, you’ll find a stovetop, sink, microwave, refrigerator, and overhead storage.

The television is situated in the kitchen and dining area as well, just above the dinette. It can be awkward to view the TV from any place but the sleeper sofa, but anyone who buys a hybrid camper is probably spending most of their time outside anyway.

Jayco offers a sterling lineup of hard-sided travel trailers. This entry into the hybrid camper race is no less impressive, boasting a rear-and side-bunk combination that makes it a superb choice for families.

The 2020 version of the Jayco Jay Feather X23E offers a 60×76-inch sleeping area in the front-facing pop-out. The additional bunks measure 58 by 76 inches, so they’re nearly as large. Additional sleeping space can be found in the main cabin by converting the U-shaped dinette and sofa, giving this model a sleeping capacity of 10.

The bathroom includes a stall shower and is conveniently located in the rear, in close proximity to both bunks. Kitchen appliances consist of a double sink, three-burner stovetop, microwave, refrigerator, and two pantries. One pantry can be transformed into a wardrobe if you need more room for clothing than for food supplies.

The dinette and sofa are configured to allow for easy conversation, but we would recommend stretching out beneath the 19-foot awning instead. When this unit is filled to capacity, the space can feel claustrophobic in spite of the cleverly designed sleeping areas. For families of 6 to 8, however, we think it’s a perfect fit.

If you’re looking for a hybrid camper that provides reasonably private sleeping space for no fewer than 3 couples, the Keystone Bullet Crossfire 2190EX should fit the bill. All of the pop-outs are equipped with queen-sized sleeping areas, so it’s a solid option for groups of friends who enjoy traveling together.

The pop-outs are situated in the front, rear, and driver’s side of the camper, giving everyone plenty of room to stretch out. The bathroom is located on the rear passenger side and includes a tub/shower combination. Be forewarned that the freshwater tank holds only 43 gallons, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on it if you’re traveling with the 10 people that Jayco claims as the capacity.

The kitchen is snug yet serviceable, making room for a sink and three-burner range in addition to the refrigerator. A U-style dinette and fold-down sofa round out the sleeping options.

Aside from the bathtub and oversized pop-outs, this rig doesn’t offer much in the way of creature comforts. However, as hybrids go, the 2190EX fits the bill nicely. If your goal is to enjoy nature without sacrificing the use of kitchen or bathroom facilities, this could be the model for you.

Slightly smaller but still spacious, the 2017 Dutchmen Aerolite 204ES is a classic example of a hybrid travel trailer.

The two tent beds each measure 60 by 80 inches and are located in the front and the rear, so campers can go to bed at different times without disturbing one another. This makes the unit a great choice for families with teenagers or two couples traveling together.

Additional sleeping space can be found in the main living area, which consists of a convertible sofa and sizable dinette.

There’s a decent amount of wardrobe space, a pantry in the kitchen, and a linen closet in the bathroom, so you can pack along all your gear without worrying. The bathroom also includes a tub, which is a nice perk if there are young children in your party.

The Aerolite 204ES doesn’t have much going for it on the exterior. If outdoor amenities like awnings and open-air kitchens rank high on your hit parade, this might not be the rig for you. Fortunately, the indoor kitchen is more than adequate.

Campers who want a small and lightweight camper should give the Dutchmen Kodiak Cub 179E a closer look. Like all great hybrid travel trailers , this unit makes excellent use of the tent pop-outs to maximize the available floor space.

All three of the tent beds measure 60 by 80 inches, and can be found in the front, rear, and rear driver’s side of the camper. There’s plenty of storage space included with each one, so there’s no need to worry about everyone’s gear getting mixed up. The bathroom is more convenient to the rear bunks than the front-facing one, but since this rig measures only 21 feet 8 inches long, that’s not a dire issue.

Thanks to the convertible dinette, the Kodiak Cub 179E can sleep up to 8 people. The open floor plan feels very spacious, despite the unit’s relatively diminutive size.

A creative kitchen configuration puts the microwave, refrigerator, sink, and stovetop within arm’s reach of one another, so meal preparation is a cinch. A small TV set can be found near the small pantry on the opposite side.

While this unit lacks the fancy amenities that come standard with larger hard-sided RVs, as a glorified tent, it’s pretty impressive. Even if you don’t need the extra sleeping space, this could be an excellent choice for first-time buyers.

Coleman is one of those instantly recognizable names that comes with a built-in reputation. Even if you didn’t realize that they made travel trailers in addition to other camping equipment, you’re bound to be familiar with the brand.

The Coleman Light LT 1601EXP comes with pop-outs in both the front and the rear. Each of these tent beds measures 60 by 80 inches, so they’re suitable for both children and adults.

Bathroom facilities are located in the rear and include a shower, toilet, and vanity. The area is fairly snug, but considering the fact that this rig measures just 18 feet 10 inches long, we think it’s a small miracle that it has a bathroom at all. The freshwater capacity is 52 gallons, too, which is similarly generous.

The kitchen places the sink and three-burner range on the passenger side and the refrigerator on the opposite wall, next to the dinette. This is convenient, as it allows campers to grab themselves a beverage from the fridge without interfering with dinner preparation.

Both the dinette and sofa can be converted to create extra sleeping space, so the 1601EXP can house 8 people in a pinch. While we don’t recommend packing it to capacity, the camper is more than adequate for groups of 4 to 6.

In Conclusion

If you’ve never owned an RV but are ready to take the plunge, a hybrid camper could be a great place to start. They’re convenient, affordable, and efficient, and their lightweight nature makes for easy towing.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a camper on a budget, or the owner of a light-duty pickup or SUV, there’s a good chance that one of these hybrid RVs could be your next home-away-from home.

Best of luck, and happy camping!

Check out our article on: 8 Great Travel Trailers Under 5000 LBS

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5 Best Hybrid Travel Trailers with Bathrooms

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When you make the decision to purchase a hybrid travel trailer there’s a lot you need to consider. First, you need to think about what your personal needs are in a hybrid travel trailer. Then you need to search for the trailer that best matches your needs. To make your search a little easier we rounded up our list of the 6 Best Hybrid Travel Trailers with Bathrooms and they are all under 4,000 lbs too!

During your search, you might realize that purchasing a lighter hybrid travel trailer is more cost effective. Specifically, you’ll notice that hybrid travel trailers with bathrooms under 4,000 pounds are far more cost effective. Since these trailers are lighter, they don’t use as much gas. They’re lighter, so less energy is required to push the trailer forward. If you plan on using your trailer frequently, this will save you a lot of money in the long term.

However, before you make any purchase you should make sure that you do the proper research. It’s important to consider a plethora of options before deciding on the best hybrid travel trailer for you. This is especially important when you’re making a significant financial investment like you are here. The last thing you’d want is to purchase a trailer only to find out it doesn’t fit your needs because you didn’t research it properly. So, do your research, take your time, and you won’t have any problems.

If you are considering buying a Hybrid Travel Trailer we highly recommend that you rent one first. You can rent a Hybrid Travel Trailer for a week and learn everything you like and don’t like about it so when you are ready to buy you will know exactly what you want! To learn more about how to rent a Hybrid Travel Trailer please check out our article called The Ultimate Guide to Renting an RV .

5 Best Hybrid Travel Trailer with Bathrooms and Under 4000 lbs

Here we’ll look at trailers that are in contention to be the best hybrid travel trailer under 4000 pounds. You should note that although this is a numbered list, we did not rank the products. Instead, the trailers are in a completely random order. So, any of the six trailers below could be a great option for you.

1. Flagstaff Shamrock 183

Main Specs:

• Length:  21’2″
• UVW or unloaded weight:  4,179 lbs
• How many it sleeps:  up to 7
• MSRP (price):  $22,900

The first hybrid travel trailer we’ll be looking at comes from Forest River . The trailer has an unloaded vehicle weight of 4179. This is slightly above the 4000-pound cut-off, but it’s close enough that we wanted to feature it anyway. The trailer is 21 feet and 2 inches in length, giving you enough space for a small group to travel with you. As it comes with three beds, the trailer can sleep up to six people depending on your willingness to share a bed with your travel companions.

If this sounds like a good option for you, the trailer has an MSRP of $22,900. This is a very solid price for someone looking for a hybrid travel trailer within a budget. You won’t be breaking the bank with a price like that. However, you’ll still get all the essentials you need in a hybrid travel trailer.

The trailer comes with all the amenities you will need for a long road trip. As we mentioned, there are three beds available for your use. There is also a functioning kitchen with a fridge, stovetop, and plenty of counter space. There is also a shower built-in to the trailer, so you don’t need to worry about staying clean. If this sounds like a good option for you, you can purchase the trailer on the Forest River website, or you can search for used vehicles online and possibly get a better offer.

2. Jayco X17

• Length:  18′ 7″
• UVW or unloaded weight:  3,285 lbs
• How many it sleeps:  up to 6
• MSRP (price):  $26,910

The next hybrid travel trailer we’ll be looking at comes from Jayco. The Jayco X17 is a great option if you’re looking for a lightweight travel trailer. With its unloaded vehicle weight only being 3285 pounds, you should save lots of money on gas long term with this trailer.

Since the trailer is so light, that means that it’s also a lot smaller than many other trailers. As a result, it’s only 18 feet and 7 inches long. This makes it one of the smaller options that you’ll come across. It also is only 9 feet and 6 inches tall.

However, the smaller size doesn’t mean you can’t fit a medium sized group of people in the trailer. The trailer is built to provide several people with sleeping space. As a result, it has a sleeping capacity of six to seven people. So, if you want to bring your family or friends on a trip with you, you don’t need to worry about finding a place for them to sleep. Instead, they can stay in the trailer with you.

If this sounds like a good option for you, the MSRP of this hybrid travel trailer is $26,910. At this price, you won’t find many options better than this trailer from Jayco. You should note that the MSRP does not take into account freight or dealer prep charges. So, you’ll need to account for those extra charges in your budget before you make the purchase.

If you’re willing to increase the price a little bit, you can add features onto the trailer to better customize it to fit your needs. Some popular features include the 24-inch LED TV, the exterior grill, and the main entry fold down aluminum step.

3. Palomino Solaire Expandable 163X

• Length:  20′ 6″
• UVW or unloaded weight:  3,633 lbs
• MSRP (price):  $38,047

The next trailer we’ll be looking at comes from Palomino . This trailer has an unloaded vehicle weight of 3,633 pounds, making it another great lightweight option for you. It is very cost effective thanks to its lower weight. It is slightly longer than the previous trailer as it is 20 feet and 6 inches long. This should give you adequate space inside the trailer.

If you’re worried about there not being enough space, the trailer has enough sleeping space for six people to sleep comfortably. This should be enough for you to bring your family and a friend or two with you on a nice road trip. Or, you could bring a medium sized group of friends out for a fun trip.

If this sounds like a good option for you, the retail price for the trailer is $38,047. However, you can purchase the trailer for much cheaper if you buy it used. Some sellers are willing to part from their RV for nearly $10,000 under the retail price. So, make sure you look around thoroughly before you make a purchase. You wouldn’t want to spend more money than you need to.

4. Intech Explore Flyer 10.5

• Length:  10′
• UVW or unloaded weight:  1,900 lbs
• How many it sleeps:  up to 2
• MSRP (price):  $23,135

If you’re looking for a very small hybrid travel trailer, this is one of the best options for you. This trailer is only 10 feet in length, making it one of the cheapest and most cost-effective options available. It also has an unloaded vehicle weight of just 1900 pounds. This makes it the lightest option by far.

Unfortunately, since the trailer is so small, it only has the space to sleep two people. So, you won’t be able to bring your whole family on a trip with this trailer. However, you could have a nice weekend getaway with your spouse. This shouldn’t be a problem, because if you’re purchasing a trailer this small, you probably weren’t trying to get a trailer for big family trips.

If this sounds like the type of trailer you want, it has an MSRP of $23,135. This makes it an incredibly cheap and cost-effective option for you. The money you save on the trailer you can spend on other things to help improve future vacations. You can also find it for thousands of dollars less than the MSRP if you find the right dealer. There are many people looking to sell their RVs for cheap prices, you just need to do the research and find those offers.

5. Keystone RV Bullet 1650EX Crossfire

• Length:  19′ 6″
• UVW or unloaded weight:  3,459 lbs
• MSRP (price):  $22,337

The final hybrid travel trailer we’ll be looking at comes from Keystone RV Company . The Bullet 1650EX Crossfire is an excellent option for anyone that’s looking for a cost-effective trailer that can fit a decent group of people. The trailer has an unloaded vehicle weight of 3,459 pounds. It’s also 19 feet and 6 inches long.

Since the trailer has a substantial amount of space, there’s enough sleeping space to accommodate up to seven people. This should be enough to bring your family and a few friends.

If this sounds like a good option for you, the trailer has an MSRP of $22,337. This should be within the price range for people looking for a small, lightweight, hybrid travel trailer. However, you should note that the MSRP does not include freight, title, tax, options, or dealer fees. As a result, you will need to account for those extra charges in your budget.

Finding the Best Hybrid Travel Trailer for You

After reading, we hope that we’ve given you enough information to get you close to purchasing the perfect hybrid travel trailer for you. We know that there’s a lot to consider, but all the information above should be helpful. Even if you don’t end up purchasing any of the trailers above, the knowledge you gained from reading about those trailers should help you in your search for the perfect trailer for you.

We wish we could tell you what the best option is for you. Unfortunately, everyone has different needs when it comes to hybrid travel trailers, and for us to assume we knew yours would be irresponsible. However, we can say with confidence that all the hybrid travel trailers listed above are good options that have been well received by consumers. You can’t go wrong with any of the options above.

If you don’t plan on purchasing any of the trailers listed above, you should make sure that you continue to research each trailer thoroughly. Take the information that you learned from this article and apply it to other trailers you look at. With the knowledge you have now, you won’t be far from finding your perfect fit.

Have you bought a hybrid travel trailer before? What do you think is the best option for all the trailers listed above? Do you think you’ll be purchasing one of the trailers we featured? Let us know in the comments!

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Click here to check out our article called 10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3500 lbs to find some great Travel trailers with Bathrooms under 3,500 lbs!

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12 Best Small Travel Trailers for a Family of 4

Small travel trailers come in all different shapes, sizes, and configurations.

But if you’re looking for a small travel trailer that can fit a family of four , this is not always an easy task.

As many small campers are not designed or set up for a family of four to comfortably live and sleep inside the trailer. 

So we did a ton of research and created this list of the best small travel trailers for a family of 4 .

To showcase some of the best options, if you’re looking for a small travel trailer designed for families .  

Best Small Travel Trailers for Family of 4 (Least to Most Expensive)

1. braxton creek bushwhacker plus 17fd, quick specs.

• Average Cost :  $14,000
• Length :  18 Feet
• Dry Weight :  2,240 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity :  4
• Bathroom :  2-Piece Wet Bath
• Slide Outs :  None

One of the smallest and cheapest small traveler trailers on the market for a family of four is the Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD .

Making the trailer perfect for first-time RVers or anyone shopping for a new RV on a budget that still needs to sleep four.

While you’re not going to find too many bells and whistles on this basic small trailer, you do have everything you need for a weekend camping trip with the family .

Including such amenities as a kitchen with a two-burner propane cooktop, sink, and mini-fridge, as well as a small wet bath, a convertible dinette booth, and a rear queen bed.  

Why It’s Great for a Family of 4

• Can sleep four campers at a time with two separate sleeping areas. 
• Has a four-person dinette booth so the whole family can sit down to enjoy a meal together.
• Offers a well-equipped kitchen making meal prep and cooking for the family easy.

To see other cheap campers, check out our blog post “ Top 10 Budget Travel Trailers Under 20K (With Video) “.

2. Scamp 13 Standard Trailer

• Average Cost :  $17,000
• Length :  13 Feet
• Dry Weight :  1,200 or 1,500 Pounds (Depending on Floorplan)
• Bathroom :  3-Piece Wet Bath (Optional)

One of my personal favorites when it comes to small travel trailers is the Scamp 13 Standard Trailer because of its super short length, lightweight design, and affordable price point.  

But there’s a catch if you want this trailer to sleep four, as you have to option the trailer without a bathroom.

This is because the front of the 13-Foot Scamp Trailer can either be optioned with a convertible sofa that converts into bunk beds or a wet bath. 

But if you choose the wet bath, the only place to sleep in this small camper is the convertible dinette booth that can only sleep two.

If you can camp without a bathroom though, you won’t find a smaller or lighter travel trailer that can actually sleep four campers at a time.  

• Equipped with a convertible four-person dinette booth, providing a great space for mealtime or family activities like board games.  
• Front bunk beds make a great place for two kids to sleep.
• Versatile interior, allowing you to set the trailer up to best suit your family’s needs.  

3. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 174BH

• Average Cost :  $18,000
• Length :  21 Feet 8 Inches
• Dry Weight :  3,145 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity :  5
• Bathroom :  2-Piece Dry Bath

The Jayco Jay Flight SLX 174BH is one of the cheapest bunkhouse travel trailers you can buy.  

Making it ideal for families of four, as this camper offers rear bunk beds, a small convertible dinette booth, and a front RV queen bed .

Providing not only a five-person sleeping capacity but also four separate sleeping areas.

And with an average price of only $18,000, this little travel trailer makes a great camper for a family of 4 shopping on a budget.  

• Can sleep five campers at a time with four separate sleeping areas. 
• Equipped with bunk beds, which are great for kids.
• Lots of overhead cabinets provide plenty of storage space.
• The bathroom offers a tub/shower combo, which is great for smaller kids.  

4. Coachmen Clipper 17CBH

• Average Cost :  $18,500
• Length :  20 Feet 5 Inches
• Dry Weight :  2 ,840 Pounds

The Coachmen Clipper 17BH has a very similar floor plan and price compared to the above Jayco Jay Flight SLX 174BH, which is nice.

As it allows you to choose either the Coachmen or Jayco version of the camper, based on their design and individual features.

Plus, like the Jay Flight , this popular Clipper has the ability to comfortably sleep up to five campers at a time , thanks to its front queen bed, convertible dinette, and rear bunk beds .

In addition, Coachmen also included several upgrades not typically found on entry-level trailers, including certified green construction, extra soft teddy bear bunk mats, and a standard 12-foot power awning with LED lighting.   

• Can comfortably sleep five campers at a time.
• Has four separate sleeping spaces, allowing for a wide range of sleeping options.
• Equipped with bunk beds that are great for kids.
• Offers a built-in four-person dinette booth providing a very flexible space for the whole family to hang out together.  
• Plenty of overhead cabinets provide a lot of storage capacity.

5. Keystone Bullet Crossfire 1900RD

• Average Cost :  $25,000
• Length :  21 Feet 11 Inches
• Dry Weight :  3,892 Pounds
• Bathroom :  3-Piece Dry Bath

When you’re ready to move beyond the basic entry-level small travel trailer, a great option to consider is the Keystone Bullet Crossfire 1900RD .

As this compact trailer has a full exterior fiberglass body, as well as many features throughout that, give it an upgraded premium feel .

Including such features as multiple large windows, a full three-piece dry bath, a large U-shaped convertible dinette, and an upgraded and modern interior. 

And as is the case with all campers on this list, this small travel trailer is also great for a family of four.

As the camper can comfortably sleep four campers at a time, thanks to a front queen bed and a large U-shaped dinette booth in the rear . 

Keystone also did a nice job on the interior cabinetry and finishes on this trailer as well, which really gives it a fresh and modern feel. 

• Has sleeping space for four campers at a time.
• Offers a well-equipped kitchen with a full-size refrigerator making food storage, prep, and cooking a breeze.  
• Equipped with a separate 3-piece dry bath making getting ready for the day much easier.  
• The bathroom has a tub/shower combo, which is great for smaller kids.  

6. KZ RV Escape E17 Hatch

• Average Cost : $27,000
• Length : 22 Feet
• Dry Weight : 3,320 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity : 4
• Bathroom : 2-Piece Dry Bath
• Slide Outs : None

The KZ RV Escape E17 Hatch is like no other camper on this list.

Thanks to the trailer’s unique hybrid toy hauler/travel trailer design, which features a large rear flip-up hatch and a versatile open cargo area.

Allowing the trailer to act as both a standard travel trailer as well a toy hauler .

Which makes this camper super popular with RVers that enjoy outdoor activities and sports, such as fishing, biking, kayaking, etc…

Just because this camper from KZ RV offers toy hauler capability though doesn’t mean it lacks the usual travel trailer creature comforts.

As the Escape E17 Hatch has all the standard RV amenities.

Including a four-person sleeping capacity, a bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a convertible fold-up dinette booth.

• Offers a built-in four-person dinette booth that provides flex space for the whole family to hang out together.  
• Toy hauler design provides unmatched storage capacity.
• Has a well-appointed kitchen, making prepping and cooking meals a breeze.

7. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G20BHS

• Average Cost :  $27,500
• Length :  21 Feet 2 Inches
• Dry Weight :  3,547 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity :  6
• Bathroom :  Hybrid 3-Piece Wet/Dry Bath
• Slide Outs :  1

A popular small travel trailer that’s great for families is the Rockwood Geo Pro by Forest River.

And they released a new trim level in 2021 called the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G20BHS , featured here, which is absolutely perfect for families or anyone that needs a lot of sleeping capacity .  

As this roomy travel trailer has a front full bed, a large convertible dinette booth, and rear bunk beds.

Giving this small camper the ability to sleep six campers at a time, which is pretty amazing, considering this trailer is only 21 feet long.  

And thanks to the trailer’s slide-out, the inside of the camper has a roomy feel inside, allowing four people to comfortably move around without bumping into each other.

• Can sleep up to 6 campers at a time.
• Has four separate sleeping spaces allowing for a wide range of sleeping options.  
• Built-in bunk beds are great for kids.
• Slide-out provides more interior space for people to move around inside the trailer.
• Has a large dinette booth that provides nice flex space for eating and entertainment.  

8. Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH

• Average Cost :  $28,000
• Length :  18 Feet 6 Inches
• Dry Weight :  3,280 Pounds

If you liked the above Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G20BHS but looking for a smaller lighter bunkhouse option, you might want to check out the Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH .

As this Flagstaff E-Pro, which is the sister RV to the Rockwood Geo Pro, offers a bunkhouse floorplan and is over 2 feet shorter and 200 pounds lighter.

Making it one of the smallest bunkhouse campers available, and ideal for less capable tow vehicles, such as SUVs and small trucks .

Despite the trailer’s smaller size though, it still feels surprisingly spacious inside, thanks to its kitchen slide-out, which helps to open up the interior.

At just under $30,000, this small bunkhouse trailer doesn’t come cheap though, as it actually costs more than the larger Rockwood Geo Pro from above, due to its desirability and scarcity.

• Can sleep up to 4 campers at a time.
• Offers a large U-shaped dinette booth that provides a great place for the whole family to hang out. 
• Equipped with a full 3-piece dry bath, providing plenty of room for everyone to get ready in the morning.  
• Ample overhead cabinets provide lots of storage options.

To see other campers under $30K, check out our blog post “ Top 10 Travel Trailers Under $30,000 (With Pricing & Video) “.

9. Winnebago Micro Minnie 2100BH

• Average Cost :  $30,000
• Dry Weight :  4,088 Pounds

The Winnebago Micro Minnie 2100BH is the first true four-season trailer on this list.

As the trailer can be optioned with an all-weather insulation package, heated tanks, and a heated/enclosed underbelly .

Allowing you to camp year-round with this family-friendly travel trailer.  

This compact travel trailer by Winnebago also has many upgrades as well, including a double axle , power tongue jack, powered 13-foot awning, dual propane tanks, and an available off-road package.  

Another nice feature of the Micro Minnie 2100BH is that it includes what Winnebago refers to as an exterior pack-N-play, which is a rear access door that allows you to use the lower bunk as cargo space while traveling .  

And of course, this small travel trailer also makes a great camper for four.

Thanks to the trailer’s five-person sleeping capacity that includes a front full bed, convertible dinette booth, and rear bunk beds. 

• Can sleep up to 5 campers at a time.
• Four separate sleeping spaces allow for multiple sleeping arrangements.
• Slide-out provides extra interior space and a more open floor plan for easier movement inside the trailer.

10. Lance 1685

• Average Cost :  $ 5 0,000
• Length :  21 Feet 5 Inches
• Dry Weight :  4,690 Pounds

While there’s nothing cheap about Lance travel trailers, as this Lance 1685 is definitely towards the top of the small travel trailer price range , when it comes to quality and craftsmanship it’s hard to beat a Lance. 

As Lance makes some of the most well-built and high-end travel trailers on the market today .

What Lance trailers are best known for though is their four-season capability , which is second to none in the RV industry.  

This is because Lance includes a wide array of cold-weather and four-season features on their trailers to handle not only the coldest days of winter but also the hottest days of summer.

There’s more to Lance trailers though than just their four-season capability.

As Lance trailers are also some of the most well-appointed and feature-rich small travel trailers on the road today as well.

As they offer all-aluminum framing, Azdel walls , ducted heat, high-end cabinetry with accent lighting, and upgraded appliances. 

• The large U-shaped dinette provides a great place for the whole family to eat and play games together.  
• Equipped with larger holding tanks, including a 45-gallon fresh, grey, and black tank, allowing a family of four to boondock for longer.

11. Airstream Basecamp 20X

• Average Cost : $58,000
• Length : 20 Feet 2 Inches
• Dry Weight : 3,500 Pounds
• Bathroom : 2-Piece Wet Bath

If you need a four-person sleeping capacity and like adventure and getting off the beaten path, one of the best options out there is the Airstream Basecamp 20X .

As this compact Airstream Basecamp makes the perfect adventure trailer .

Thanks to numerous off-grid and off-road features, including a 300W roof-mounted solar package, good-size holding tanks, an enclosed/insulated heated underbelly, 12V tank heaters, a 3-inch lift kit, Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tires, and stainless steel front stone guards.

Just because this trailer is built for adventure though doesn’t mean it lacks RV comfort and convenience features.

As the camper offers a wide range of amenities, such as two convertible dinette booths, a fully functional kitchen, a self-contained wet bath, a four-person sleeping capacity, and plenty of flexible storage.

• Front and rear convertible dinettes provide flexible space for the family to spread out inside the camper.
• Offers a well-appointed kitchen, making prepping and cooking meals a breeze.

12. Airstream Bambi 19CB

• Average Cost :  $65,000
• Length :  19 Feet 1 Inch
• Dry Weight :  3,650 Pounds

While Airstream trailers come with a hefty price tag, there is no other small camper on the market that is more iconic than the classic Airstream travel trailer.  

And one of the most popular Airstream travel trailers is the small Airstream Bambi , which includes four different floorplans and trailer lengths, ranging from 16 to 22 feet.

However, the Bambi we’re focussed on here is the Airstream Bambi 19CB , which is the smallest Bambi that can still accommodate a family of four . 

This small travel trailer from Airstream is perfect for a family of four, thanks to its sizeable rear bed and front dinette booth that can be converted into additional sleeping space for kids.

In addition, this well-equipped small trailer also has a full three-piece dry bath and a nicely appointed kitchen as well.

• Equipped with a full three-piece dry bath providing plenty of room for everyone to get ready in the morning.  
• Offers a large front dinette booth that provides an excellent place for the whole family to hang out together. 

Wrap-Up   

Finding a small travel trailer for a family of four is no easy task, due to the size constraints of small campers.

However, we hope we’ve shown you what’s possible by highlighting 12 of the most popular options.

As these compact four-person trailers offer a level of comfort and convenience that’s hard to find in small trailers.

And because we ranked them from least to most expensive, it’s easy to find the best options for your family as well as your budget.

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight simple option or a luxurious feature-packed option.

Remember though, the best small travel trailer is the one that aligns not only with your budget but also your needs.

So take your time, do your research, and make sure to visit your local RV dealerships to see these trailers in person.

To find the perfect match for your family.

Regardless of which camper you choose though, you can be sure that investing in a small travel trailer will allow your family to create lasting memories, explore new destinations, and embark on unforgettable adventures together for years to come.

Happy travels!

If you’re new to RVing, then you have to check out our blog post “ 20 Important Beginner RV Tips No One Tells You “.

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

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THOR Industries and Harbinger Collaborate to Deliver the World's First Hybrid Class A Motorhome

Debut of the hybrid medium-duty chassis highlights THOR's leadership in innovation and commitment to electrifying the future of RVs

●       Built on Harbinger's electric medium-duty chassis, the hybrid platform delivers an estimated 500 miles of range

●       Confident and powerful acceleration for merging and mountain driving  

●       Smooth ride, handling, and steering via independent double-wishbone front suspension and steer-by-wire system  

●       Thoughtful and highly integrated power system simplifying energy management and extending time off grid

●       Ability to serve as a home backup power source and charge other battery powered devices, including eBikes and power tools  

ELKHART, Ind. and GARDEN GROVE, Calif. , Sept. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- THOR Industries, Inc.  (NYSE: THO) reinforced its position as the recreational vehicle (RV) industry innovation leader by unveiling the world's first hybrid Class A motorhome, the THOR Test Vehicle. The vehicle is built on an electric vehicle (EV) platform developed by EV manufacturer Harbinger . THOR and Harbinger collaborated to integrate a low-emissions gasoline range extender that can recharge the electric battery system, delivering an estimated 500 miles of range. RVs utilizing the hybrid platform will be commercially available in 2025 from the THOR family of companies and are expected to qualify as a Near-Zero Emission Vehicle (NZEV) under the Advanced Clean Truck legislation, adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

"Electrification will play a central role in the future of mobility, including RVing," said THOR Industries President and CEO Bob Martin . "This first-of-its-kind hybrid platform and our ongoing collaboration with Harbinger are reinforcing THOR's leadership in this segment and creating major points of product differentiation for our family of companies."

THOR's Test Vehicle is a demonstration hybrid RV constructed on a Harbinger platform, which was purpose-built for the unique range requirements of the RV industry, exclusively for THOR. This is the first electrified chassis explicitly designed to power Class A motorhomes and was designed to alleviate range anxiety and deliver the ultimate in travel freedom and sustainability.

The hybrid chassis is powered by a 140-kWh battery pack, a low-emissions gasoline range extender that recharges the battery, and solar rooftop. The platform's 800-volt electrical architecture allows for rapid charging at DC Fast Charger locations, which facilitates more time on the road. The batteries can also be charged at traditional campsites, via the range extender, and solar power, whether on the road or off-grid camping.

The hybrid platform can also serve as a backup home power source and could one day allow owners to sell power stored in the vehicle back to the grid.  

The Test Vehicle's electric powertrain delivers excellent acceleration and torque, offering up to twice the torque of a diesel engine, for confident highway driving on mountain roads and through rough terrain.

The platform's design innovations go beyond the powertrain. Harbinger's chassis includes all major vehicle systems of an electric vehicle, including drivetrain, high voltage battery system, steering, brakes, and more. Its double-wishbone front suspension, steer-by-wire system, and class-leading Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features provide a safe, smooth ride and excellent handling, even in a large vehicle.

"We founded Harbinger with a mission to modernize the medium-duty vehicle industry with our world-class electric chassis," said Harbinger CEO and Co-Founder John Harris . "Our collaboration with THOR and their family of companies allows us to help advance the RV sector and lay the groundwork for products that will enhance the RVing experience."

The THOR Test Vehicle is available for dealer test drives on THOR's RV Experience Track at the Elkhart Dealer Open House, the largest dealer event in North America , starting Monday, Sept. 23, 2024 in Elkhart, Indiana . RV dealers from across the continent will have the opportunity to experience the future of RVing and help guide the path to market for this exclusive product.

The THOR-Harbinger partnership and the world's first hybrid Class A platform will truly allow RVers to Go Everywhere. Stay Anywhere®.

Please find media assets here .

About THOR Industries THOR Industries is the sole owner of operating companies which, combined, represent the world's largest RV manufacturer. For more information on the Company and its products, please visit   https://www.thorindustries.com/ .

About Harbinger Harbinger is a commercial electric vehicle (EV) company on a mission to transform an industry starving for innovation. Harbinger's best-in-class team of EV, battery, and drivetrain experts have pooled their deep experience to support the growing demand for medium-duty EVs. Leveraging a foundation of proprietary, in-house developed vehicle technologies designed specifically for commercial and specialty vehicles, Harbinger is bringing a first-of-its-kind EV platform to market, priced at parity to traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles. Harbinger: familiar form, revolutionary foundation.

To learn more about Harbinger, please visit  www.harbingermotors.com . You can find the company press kit HERE .

SOURCE THOR Industries

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Rvs - By Owner for sale in Lewiston / Clarkston

• Solid older model trailer $2,500 Winchester
• 2001 National Class A Motorhome $16,000 Juliaetta
• 2000 Fleetwood Tioga $8,500 Lewiston, Idaho
• Camper 1998 24' Komfort $6,500 Weippe
• Campers must go $1,000 Winchester
• Travel trailer 26 foot $7,000 Lenore
• 78 Kit camper $1,900 Pierce
• Beautiful TimberRidge 250RDS $23,400 Asotin
• Truck camper $9,500 Lewiston
• 2018 Outdoor rv creek side 23 rbs mountain lite series $24,000 Kamiah
• Nash 17' 2001 RV trailer $13,000 Clarkston
• 2007 Dutchman Four Winds $5,500 Kamiah
• 2018 Forest River 32 ft Sandpiper HT 5th Wheel $35,000 Kamiah
• 2006 Keystone Outback $7,000 Kendrick, ID
• 2019 Heartland Cyclone Toy Hauler $72,250 Bonners Ferry
• 2007 Gulf Stream 24TRTH toyhauler $12,000 Lewiston
• 2015 Blackstone Outdoor RV $25,000
• 2018 Flagstaff 19FD $14,250 Clarkston, WA