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10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Of 2022

• RV Trailers and Motorhomes

These lightweight travel trailers are lightweight and easy to tow. Photo courtesy of Little Guy.

Tread Lightly With These 10 Best Small Camper Trailers

The demand for small RVs is at an all-time high, and several RV manufacturers are responding to the demand for lightweight trailers that any car can pull. This list of the best lightweight travel trailers of 2022 spotlights the top-rated RVs for families, solo RVers, and adventure travelers.

• Each small RV trailer weighs less than 5,000 pounds.
• The ultralight trailers often cost less than a passenger car. 
• Each trailer has one of the lightest gross vehicle weight ratings ( GVWR ) around. Just about any size truck or even some larger SUVs can pull them. 

(If you’re looking for 2023 model-year lightweight travel trailers, check out our post 10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers For 2023 .)

Top 10 Picks For Lightweight Travel Trailers (Under 5,000 Pounds GVWR)

Each small RV is listed in order by weight, from lightest to heaviest.

2022 nuCamp TAG XL: The Stargazer

The TAG XL weighs less than 1,500 lbs – even with all of the bells and whistles.

At the top of our super light travel trailers list is the TAG. This small RV is lightweight and easy to tow. Built with custom Ohio-Amish cabinetry, under-bed storage, and an exterior shower, this teardrop trailer is the perfect way to bring some of the comforts of home when you hit the road.

Cook in nature while using the well-equipped rear galley. At night, you’ll climb into a warm and cozy interior. Watch the stars through a large stargazing window.  There’s air conditioning, LED lighting, alloy wheels, electric brakes, and an optional solar roof package. No matter where you go, the TAG teardrop trailer is ready for adventure.

Climb into a warm, cozy interior – complete with a large window for stargazing.

• Hitch weight: 119 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 2,200 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,369 lbs.
• Exterior length: 13′ 7″
• Full exterior height: 6′ 3″
• Exterior width: 7′ 8″
• Interior height: 43″
• Freshwater capacity: 8 gallons
• Optional A/C and heater
• Base MSRP: $24,674

2022 TAXA TigerMoth Overland: The Ultimate Overlanding Vehicle

This rugged overland travel trailer is the ideal adventure home. The TigerMoth Overland Edition is a small RV with big features, including increased ground clearance thanks to the Timbren axle-less suspension with a 4″ lift.

You also get a number of premium accessories including a generous kitchen, roof cargo deck, and an optional tongue-mounted toolbox.

Enjoy 7+ off-grid days or longer

The TigerMoth can take you on a 7-day adventure or longer. The aerodynamic shape is fuel-efficient on the highway, and a generous interior space lets you do more with less. As a bonus, it’s also small enough to fit in a normal garage.

• Hitch weight: 195 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 2,400 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,458 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 942 lbs.
• Exterior length: 12′ 0″
• Full exterior height: 7′
• Exterior width: 6′ 7″
• Freshwater capacity: 5 gallons
• 5 lbs propane tank & mount
• Pre-wired solar input
• Four acrylic, insulated windows with screens & shades
• 16″ alloy wheel with all-terrain tires 
• Base MSRP: $29,350

Go off-grid in comfort.

2022 Travel Lite RV Rove Lite: Lightweight And Easy To Tow

Travel Lite’s new Rove Lite ultra-lightweight travel trailer is one of the most affordable travel trailers on the market (under $20K). It’s light enough to pull behind even the smallest of vehicles. You only need a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. 

The new Rove Lite ultra-lightweight travel trailer is one of the most affordable RV trailers on the market. Photo courtesy of Travel Lite.

Enjoy the sleek Euro-style design made with state-of-the-art composite materials. There’s an aluminum chassis and a seamless poured-resin fiberglass roof. Interior features include a convertible bed and a bath with a shower. This small RV offers space-saving functionality at its best.

The 2022 Travel Lite RV Rove Lite ultra-lightweight travel trailer has a stylish and roomy interior. Photo courtesy of Travel Lite.

• Hitch weight: 160 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 2,500 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,707 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 793 lbs.
• Exterior length: 15′ 4″
• Full exterior height: 8′ 1″
• Exterior width: 7′ 11″
• Freshwater capacity: 10 gallons
• Gray-water capacity: 30 gallons
• Black-water capacity: 5 gallons
• On-demand tankless water heater
• 20,000-BTU furnace
• Base MSRP: $19,424  

Trillium Heritage Bunk 4500: New And Improved

Here’s a unique addition to our list of the best lightweight travel trailers of 2022: the ultralight, 15-foot, all fiberglass Trillium Heritage Bunk 4500 camper from L’air Camper Company in Ontario, Canada.

The L’air Trillium Heritage is an ultra-lightweight travel trailer that can be easily towed by many smaller SUVs and crossovers. Photo courtesy of L’air Camper Co.

This small RV received a complete facelift for 2022. It features dual-pane acrylic windows, a bigger solar panel, a 4.6-cubic-foot fridge with a freezer, and a galley makeover.

With a GVWR of just 2,700 pounds, the Trillium is an easy tow for many smaller SUVs and crossovers. Options abound for personalizing.

The living area of the Trillium Heritage has been updated with an all-new galley and 4.2-cubic-foot fridge. Photo courtesy of L’air Camper Co.

• Hitch weight: 180 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 2,700 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,650 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 1,050 lbs.
• Exterior length: 15′ 2″
• Full exterior height: 6′ 2″
• Exterior width: 78″
• Freshwater capacity: 13 gallons
• Gray-water capacity: 5 gallons
• Single 130W solar panel with charge controller
• Base MSRP: $31,997

Venture Sonic Lite SL150VRB: Surprisingly Spacious

The Venture Sonic Lite SL150VRB has floorplans starting out at a fuel-saving 3,000 pounds! Both Sonic Lite and Sonic are engineered with a one-piece seamless fiberglass roof system. By arching the roof front to back, this system provides a more durable roof. When it rains, the water runs fore and aft.

Sonic Lite trailers are engineered with a one-piece seamless fiberglass roof system.

• Hitch weight: 460 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 3,735 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 3,160 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 575 lbs.
• Exterior length: 19′ 11″
• Full exterior height (with A/C): 9′ 11″
• Exterior width: 90″
• Freshwater capacity: 38 gallons
• Water heater capacity: 6 gallons
• Refrigerator: 8 cu ft
• LP gas capacity: 20 lbs
• Base MSRP: $34,059

2022 Little Guy Micro Max: Fits In Standard Garages

Finding a small travel trailer that can be parked inside a two-car garage isn’t easy unless you check out the new Little Guy Micro Max . This ultra-lightweight, four-season RV camper is a brand-new offering from Little Guy that will be coming out in early 2022.

The Micro Max ultra-lightweight trailer fits inside a standard garage! Photo courtesy Little Guy Trailers.

Some of the features included in this fully equipped micro trailer are an air conditioner, a queen bed in the rear and twin bed up front, two dining areas, an interior galley, and an outdoor shower.

Headroom is a respectable 5′ 8″, which keeps the overall travel trailer height lower than the typical garage-door opening.

The interior of these lightweight travel trailers feels roomy with large windows. Photo courtesy of Little Guy Trailers.

• Hitch weight: 260 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 3,500 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,780 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 1,720 lbs.
• Exterior length: 15′ 11″
• Full exterior height: 6′ 10.5″
• Exterior width: 80″
• Freshwater capacity: 12 gallons
• Gray-water capacity: 8 gallons
• Base MSRP: $25,000  

Apex Nano 16R: Backcountry comfort

Be off-grid-camping ready with the Apex Nano 16R . This lightweight trailer comes with off-road tires and high-clearance suspension.

With a 3,800-pound GVWR, the Apex Nano 16R is compatible with most midsize pickups, SUVs, and some crossovers. Photo courtesy of Coachmen.

With heated freshwater and holding tanks, a 13.5K-BTU A/C, front bike rack, direct vent furnace, and sleeping accommodations for a family of four, the Apex Nano 16R travel trailer from the Coachmen line is a great choice for outdoor adventure-bound RVers. Its 3,800-pound GVWR is compatible with most midsize pickups, SUVs, and some crossovers.  

Coachmen’s Apex Nano 16R offers a 6-cubic-foot gas/electric fridge, two-burner cooktop, and microwave. Photo courtesy of Coachmen.

• Hitch weight: 330 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 3,800 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 2,860 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 940 lbs.
• Exterior length: 19′ 7″
• Full exterior height: 9′ 10″
• Exterior width: 7′
• Freshwater capacity: 50 gallons
• Gray-water capacity: 35 gallons
• Black-water capacity: 35 gallons
• 6-cubic-foot gas/electric fridge
• Two-burner cooktop and microwave
• Base MSRP: $27,731

OPUS OP4: Adventure ready

There’s no other travel trailer setup like the Opus Camper’s OP4. After all, this innovative push-button, air-inflated tent camper inflates in less than two minutes and sleeps six.

There’s no other lightweight travel trailer setup like the Opus Camper’s OP4. Photo courtesy of Opus Camper.

The OP4 has a spacious interior lounge area, high ceiling, and a ton of windows and skylights to make you feel like you’re outdoors. The external kitchen makes cooking for the family easy, and OPUS offers a long list of options, including heating, A/C, solar power, bike racks, and extension rooms to make any RV outing enjoyable.

The external kitchen of the Opus OP4 makes cooking for the family easy. Photo courtesy of Opus Camper.

 Features:

• Hitch weight: 400 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 4,200 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 3,100 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 500 lbs.
• Exterior length: 17′ (closed)/ 21′ 4″ (open)
• Full exterior height: 5′ 4″ (closed)/ 7′ 10″ (open)
• Exterior width: 7′ 2″ (closed)/ 11′ 6″ (open)
• Freshwater capacity 40 gallons
• Cassette toilet
• Base MSRP: $27,999  

Forest River Rpod RP153: Ultra lightweight

The 17-foot floorplan RPOD from Forest River is an ideal size for singles and couples. Photo courtesy of Forest River.

The RPOD is one of the best-selling ultra-lightweight travel trailers on the market. Forest River has expanded the line to seven models by adding a smaller version called the Rpod 153 . The 17-foot model has all the basic features of its bigger brethren, and its slightly smaller floorplan is ideal for singles and couples.

The rear bath is spacious, the galley very functional, and the Murphy bed in the front maximizes interior space. This is an RV camper that’s very well designed, appointed, and engineered. It’s a good match for half-ton pickups, midsize pickups, and SUVs.

The 17-foot RPOD from Forest River is well-designed, appointed, and engineered. Photo courtesy of Forest River.

• Hitch weight: 300 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 4,280 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 2,880 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 1,400 lbs.
• Exterior length: 17′ 3″
• Full exterior height: 9′ 8″
• Exterior width: 8′
• Freshwater capacity: 30 gallons
• Black-water capacity: 30 gallons
• Base MSRP: $25,500

2022 Rockwood Geo Pro 20FBS: Roomy and comfortable

Forest River’s spacious Rockwood Geo Pro 20FBS caught our attention. A walk-around bed is a real rarity in a single-axle travel trailer and a testament to the designers taking to heart what customers have been asking for in years past.

Forest River’s 2022 Rockwood Geo Pro 20FBS comes with a high-clearance axle setup and 15-inch Mud Rover Radial tires. Photo courtesy of Forest River.

The large bathroom across the rear of the RV has an oversized shower, and the 72-inch sofa in the slide-out can rotate into a comfortable hide-a-bed. The Geo Pros also come with a high-clearance axle setup and 15-inch Mud Rover Radial tires well suited for backcountry RV camping.

The 2022 Rockwood Geo Pro 20FBS has a walk-around bed, which is a rarity for a single-axle travel trailer. Photo courtesy of Forest River.

• Gross vehicle weight rating: 4,400 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 3,442 lbs.
• Cargo capacity: 958 lbs.
• Exterior length: 21′ 8″
• Exterior width: 92″
• Freshwater capacity: 31 gallons
• 54″x74″ Full-size bed
• 14-foot awning
• Outside shower
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Base MSRP: $32,675

That’s our list of the most innovative new lightweight travel trailers of 2022. These small RV models are big on affordability, convenience, and amenities.

As a bonus, the features are packaged in a small camper footprint. In most cases, you won’t need to purchase a tow vehicle for these trailers. To find out how much weight your car can pull, open your vehicle’s manual. Look for the maximum trailer towing capacity and you’ll find the answer.

Why lightweight travel trailers are in demand

If you’re thinking about buying one of these lightweight travel trailers, you’re in good company. Demand for big and small RV models is soaring.

For example, according to the latest issue of RV RoadSigns , the quarterly sales forecast published by the RV Industry Association (RVIA), RV manufacturers are still scrambling to meet consumer demand that started in 2020. This year, more than 600,000 new RVs will be sold. These figures are all-time high that will exceed the record-breaking RV sales of 2021.

“The remarkable production from the RV manufacturers and suppliers is nothing like we have ever seen before, and our new forecast shows the record-breaking streak will continue,” said RVIA President and CEO Craig Kirby.

Editor’s note: RV manufacturer materials costs are constantly increasing. The current base costs for the small, light travel trailers on our list may have changed since the time of this writing (Q4 2021).

Connect with other RVers

One of the best parts about RVing is engaging with the community of traveling enthusiasts. iRV2 forums allow folks to chat with other RVers online, and get other perspectives on everything RVing, including products, destinations, RV mods, and much more.

Related articles:

• 10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers For 2023
• 8 Best Small Pull Behind Campers For 2022
• A Look At The New 2022 Keystone Campers

15 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3500 lbs for 2024

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Article Updated 1/9/24

There is a broader range of travel trailers under 3500lbs on the market than ever before! We have toured many of them at RV Shows and dealerships nationwide. If you are looking for a travel trailer that you can tow with a small truck or even an SUV, there are many great options.

We have investigated them all to find the very best ones on the market today. Our list of the 15 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3,500 lbs will give you great ideas to start your search!

Things To Consider When Purchasing a Travel Trailer Under 3,500 lbs?

If you are considering purchasing a Travel Trailer under 3,500 lbs, we recommend two courses of action.

• If you have never owned a small camper before we recommend that you rent one before you buy one. Susan and I did this, and it worked out great for us. We rented a Class C RV for a week and by the end of that week, we knew everything we liked — and didn’t like about that RV. This helped us to purchase the perfect RV for us! And we recommend you “try before you buy” a travel trailer too! It could save you thousands!
• If you are ready to purchase a travel trailer — or any RV — we highly recommend that you use GoRollick to find the best local pricing from dealers near you on new or used RVs!

15 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3,500 lb

Some of these travel trailers under 3500 lbs are truly unique and exciting additions to an already massive market.

With the growing popularity of these economical, versatile, and easy-to-tow travel trailers, you can stake out your next adventure in style and leisure while operating on a smaller footprint.

1. Airstream Basecamp

Our Pros and Cons

✅ Airstream maintains its well-known, incredible aesthetic on the inside as well as out

⛔ Off-road packages are not much of an off-road upgrade, especially with sensitive components

• Length: 16′ 2″
• UVW: 2,650 lbs
• GVWR: 3,500 lbs
• CCC: 850 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 410 lbs

Airstream took its old, classical aesthetic and flipped it around on its head with the Airstream Basecamp . Relaying their classical aluminum exteriors to the interiors is a joy to look at, if you dig shiny walls and a clean, metallic look. The massive, panoramic windows on the front are a huge plus, especially if you take it off-road and find some incredible scenery.

This RV packs everything you need for going off-grid, though you may want to upgrade the underbelly with something a little more resilient to off-road adventures. A standard wet bath, two-burner stove, dining area, bed, counter space, and storage are all packed into a 16-footer.

2. r-pod 171C

✅ Lightweight, highly water-resistant Azdel walls that are lightweight and durable

⛔ Aftermarket options necessary to run the A/C boondocking or off-grid

• Length: 19′
• UVW: 2,449 lbs
• GVWR: 4,725 lbs
• CCC: 2,276 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 325 lbs

Forest River took the classical, DIY teardrop exterior aesthetic and amped it up a notch with their r-pods , which are really just giant teardrops with more of the features on the inside rather than the outside.

The bathroom is a wet bath, but it’s large enough that you don’t have to sit on your toilet to shower.

The refrigerator is large for the size of the camper, with a large, convertible dinette and a sideways queen bed on the opposite end.

Since r-pods went with the Azdel walls, they are far more durable and long-lasting, with less preventative maintenance throughout the seasons.

3. Rockwood Geo Pro G15RD

✅ Dexter Torflex Torsion Axle and indie suspension is standard (Nice!)

⛔ Known for having a loud air conditioner that resounds throughout the RV

• UVW: 2,883 lbs
• GVWR: 4,325 lbs
• CCC: 1,442 lbs

Another Forest River entry on our list is the Rockwood Geo Pro, which sounds pretty bad to the bone for a camper title.

This particular model features a sideways bunk house in the rear and a convertible U-dinette, both of which sleep up to four. It’s an excellent option for short-term family adventures, whether you’re bringing the kids or rocking some big dogs.

The U-dinette fits square against the bunks, with the remainder of the kitchen appliances and furniture continuing with the flow of the U-shape around the RV.

This makes for more room in the center, where all the day-to-day work and activities take place. It’s a smooth idea that really works, keeping you from feeling constrained when indoors for long periods.

4. Palomino Puma Ultra Lite 12FBX

✅ Includes an AlphaPly roof membrane with gutters for catching rainwater

⛔ No bathroom sink

• Length: 18′ 6″
• UVW: 2,839 lbs
• GVWR: 3,910 lbs
• CCC: 1,071 lbs

The Palomino Puma Ultra-Lite 12 FBX may carry the Puma name, but it has the shape and versatility of a bulldog. It’s lightweight, yet wide enough and long enough to accommodate all the features we expect in travel trailers under 3500lbs these days.

It’s the tiny things that count and the lengthy design of the dinette, sideways queen, and corner bathroom all work to maximize the central living space.

This Puma does it a little differently than the previous entry, but it accomplishes the same level of space and comfort where it doesn’t seem like there should be any.

5. Scamp 13

✅ Multiple floorplans with Standard and Deluxe additions to boot

⛔ Air conditioner isn’t standard

• Length: 13′
• GVWR: 1,500 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 150 lbs

The tried and true Scamp 13 is the quintessential travel trailer under 3500lbs. Scamp has been around for a long time and they’re known for constructing fiberglass behemoths writ small, that can take on just about anything you throw at them.

The Scamp 13 features more than one floor plan, with the addition of standard and deluxe models, depending on how bougie you want to get.

The designs are solid and comfortable, and feature the level of customization you want for either long-term use or short and sweet vacations.

6. inTech Sol Eclipse

✅ Large amount of kitchen space for its size

⛔ No dedicated bed, like the Horizon

• Length: 17′
• UVW: 2,775 lbs
• CCC: 770 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 445 lbs

The inTech Sol Eclipse is one of the most exciting and off-grid-ready travel trailers under 3500lbs on the market. There are multiple models under the inTech lineup, with the Eclipse being one of the more popular variations.

Interior space is maximized and simplified, leaving plenty of room for you to make it your own.

The 32-gallon black and gray water tanks, 35-A converter, Dexter torsion axles, all-aluminum triple tube cage frame, 28-gallon freshwater tank, panoramic windshield, and aggressive tread are all combined for the pinnacle in off-road and off-grid adventures. This is the travel trailer you want to pull when going well out into the boonies.

7. Jayco Jay Flight 195RB

✅ Includes electric, self-adjusting brakes

⛔ A/C unit is known for being a little too loud

• Length: 21′ 10″
• UVW: 2,940 lbs
• GVWR: 3,750 lbs
• CCC: 810 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 270 lbs

This Jayco Jay Flight has the interior feel of an RV much larger than typical travel trailers under 3500lbs. The interior is designed with a corner bathroom, a walk-in wardrobe, and a parallel queen, the latter of which features plenty of room to move around.

As a lightweight travel trailer, that feeling of size is an impressive accomplishment. The bathroom is sizeable as well, though Jayco left out a sink next to the shower. It’s a dry bath as well, which is often hard to find in a travel trailer within this class.

8. Venture Sonic Lite SL150VRB

✅ Panoramic automatic window is excellent if you like views and spring breezes

⛔ No dedicated sitting area for dining or entertainment

• Length: 19′ 11″
• UVW: 3,180 lbs
• GVWR: 3,885 lbs
• CCC: 705 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 480 lbs

This little camper features a massive rear bathroom, which takes up roughly 1/3 of the entire RV. However, the Venture Sonic doesn’t skimp on the remaining 2/3 either.

The remaining space is utilized very well, with a parallel Murphy bed (which features a free-standing table for dining), a two-burner stove, sink, and 8 ft³ fridge.

Thanks to the Murphy bed and lack of a traditional dinette, the space in the center of the camper is large and comfortable.

There’s also plenty of cabinetry and storage, with a passthrough on the exterior, a row of overhead cabinets over the stove, and another row of overhead cabinets over the bed.

9. Wildwood 164RBLE

✅ AccessiBelly feature is amazing in terms of protection and accessibility for repair work

⛔ TV mount is at a harsh right angle, over the queen bed in the front

• Length: 20′
• UVW: 2,819 lbs
• GVWR: 3,880 lbs
• CCC: 1,061 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 380 lbs

One of the most attractive qualities of the Wildwood 164RBL E is the bright and cheery interior. Stepping inside is like stepping into a breath of fresh air, even if it’s not a very large travel trailer. As you can see in the above floorplan, a lot is going on inside as well.

The 11 ft³ fridge is a huge benefit, especially if you need the extra food for a lot of boondocking or going off-grid.

The bathroom takes up the back 1/5 of the RV, though there’s plenty of room to keep it a dry bath with a sink, toilet, and sizeable shower.

10. Travel Lite Rove Lite 16RB

✅ Traditional travel trailer at a mind-blowing sub-2,000lbs

⛔ Black tank size is very underwhelming at 5 gallons

• Length: 18′ 9″
• UVW: 2,020 lbs
• CCC: 1,480 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 154 lbs

Sometimes simple is better and, when it comes to travel trailers under 3500lbs, it’s often a good idea to simplify things. The Travel Lite Rove Lite 16RB is both simple and streamlined while retaining a full-featured RV status.

There are some interesting things to get used to in this model, and some that RVers may not like.

For instance, instead of cabinet doors, the Travel Lite features a strong mesh net across all the cabinet openings. There’s also a small black tank instead of a cartridge toilet, which means shorter periods away from home or a campground.

11. Safari Condo Alto 1723

✅ Nearly half the Safari Condo Alto is a wild array of windows

⛔ This is a very different aesthetic and may not be for everyone

• Length: 17′ 3″
• GVWR: 1,867 lbs
• Tongue Weight: N/A

This is easily the most unique-looking RV on our travel trailers under 3500lbs list. The Safari Condo Alto is a window-full masterpiece. If you like to see everything around you while never stepping foot outside, this is the camper for you.

The lightweight frame, compact design, and interesting floorplans make this RV a lot of fun and an interesting choice for those looking at travel trailers in this class.

You can literally eat lunch underneath a driving rain, and this camper isn’t known for leaking either. There are limitations on storage and holding tanks, but this remains an excellent off-road adventure choice for single occupants, couples, and small families.

12. Coachmen Clipper 15CBH

✅ Excellent interior space for travel trailers under 3500lbs

⛔ Lack of windows throughout, with the existing ones being fairly small

• Length: 17′ 10″
• UVW: 2,644 lbs
• GVWR: 3,830 lbs
• CCC: 1,186 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 330 lbs

Coachmen Clippers make for excellent travel trailers under 3500lbs. Unlike most of the other campers on our list, the floorspace on the Clipper is a sideways L-shape, like an elongated hallway that ends in a sizeable bathroom and a very large shower.

The bathroom occupies the corner space while the two bunkbeds take up the opposite corner. All of your typical kitchen amenities are present making this a very complete travel trailer under 3500lbs.

The dinette is a convertible bed with a large shelf above, maximizing the room in the RV while retaining some extra sleeping and storage space.

13. Little Guy Mini Max

✅ Hydraulic life TV is a nice entertainment addition in this class of RV

⛔ No battery monitor

• UVW: 2,406 lbs
• CCC: 1,094 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 240 lbs

The Little Guy Mini Max is one of two campers on our list that approach the true teardrop form (the other is next on the list).

The Little Guy is known for its high-quality interiors, with attention to the finest details throughout. The light tans make for an excellent interior aesthetic and, despite its size, it features all of the major amenities of a traditional camper.

The wet bath is large enough to accommodate both the toilet and shower so as long as you’re not against wet baths it’s a great option.

The entire galley is in the front, which is an interesting change of pace. One of the things people really love about this camper is the number of hidden storage places scattered throughout. If you need to store it, there’s a place for it.

14. Aliner Ranger 12

✅ Very easy to set up as a hybrid pop-up camper

⛔ Dinette bed is not the most comfortable, an understandable lacking in a minimalist design

• Length: 15″
• UVW: 1,450 lbs
• GVWR: 3,000 lbs
• CCC: 1,550 lbs

The Aliner Ranger 12 is another of the teardrop-esque travel trailers under 3500lbs on our list of 15.

Its unique, triangular shape is definitely a conversation starter in any campground get-together. However, it’s more of a pop-up camper, in reality, than it is a teardrop.

The interesting triangular roof creates a spacey-feeling interior that other campers in this class struggle to achieve. However, as cool as it looks, you’ll have to go with an exterior shower or only camp at campgrounds where showers are available.

15. KZ Sportsman Classic 180RBT

✅ Tent beds are well-built and maximize the living space within the travel trailer

⛔ Storage options could be better

• Length: 21′ 9″
• UVW: 3,370 lbs
• GVWR: 4,500 lbs
• CCC: 1,130 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 360 lbs
• Sleeps: 4 to 6

Last on our list of travel trailers under 3500lbs is the KZ Sports man Classic 180RBT. Unlike the other 14, this RV saves space, and expands it, in an entirely different way, by utilizing fold-out tents for beds. Not only does this save space, but it also opens up the interior to a higher sleeping count.

Thanks to three fold-outs, the interior space is enormous for a travel trailer this size. There’s a full, corner dry bath, a sizeable dinette across from a long bench seat, a fridge, a pantry, and a full kitchen amenity range on opposing walls.

There are also plenty of storage options, though this RV uses a large storage door on the exterior, rather than passthrough storage.

Should I Buy an Extended Warranty for My Travel Trailer?

Yes — but not from a dealership! Unfortunately, your odds of suffering a major mechanical breakdown go up with every passing year. Based on RV Warranty claims records, more than 3 out of every 10 RVs will need major repairs in only their second year on the road.

This skyrockets to 8 out of 10 in their fifth year, and virtually ALL of them in their eighth year! Today’s RVs are increasingly more complex, and with more things to go wrong, the need to protect your investment is more important than ever.

Our RV Warranty plans allow you to change your mind! If you’re looking to sell your RV to a private party, you can absolutely transfer the policy to the new owner. Additionally, if you are trading in your RV, you can cancel your policy for a pro-rated refund.

We bought a warranty through Wholesale Warranties for several reasons:

• We can cancel the warranty at any time and get a pro-rated refund
• We can transfer the warranty to the new owner if we decide to sell our RV
• There are no mileage caps on our policy
• We can use repair shops all across the country
• We can use a mobile repair company right at our campsite
• The price is way better than most dealerships
• We could finance the cost of the warranty
• With parts and labor prices increasing all the time, we have peace of mind

You owe it to yourself to at least check out a warranty and get a free quote to see if it is right for you. It just takes a few minutes, and you will learn a ton about protecting your investment. We only recommend products we use ourselves, and we highly recommend you get a free quote from Wholesale Warranties .

Are Travel Trailers Under 3500lbs Big Enough For Families?

Some of them are, depending on your definition of family size. Some travel trailers under 3500 lbs will accommodate a single-child family, while some will accommodate two. If they are particularly energetic and rambunctious, it may take a class-A motorhome to accommodate them.

It’s safe to say that maybe one or none are fit for extremely long-term family use. Homeschooling kids in an Aliner Ranger 12, which will sleep up to 4, is doable but not the most envious task in the world.

If it works for you, then by all means. At the end of the day, the thing that works and works well is what you should go for.

Final Thoughts About Travel Trailers Under 3500lbs

Travel trailers under 3500 lbs are extremely versatile and much easier to tow. With the improving technologies and truly unique offerings on the market, they’re exciting for off-grid living, off-roading, regular camping, boondocking, and more.

If you’re in the market for a small, economical travel trailer, these 15 travel trailers should be high on your list.

Related Reading:

– 8 Best Fiberglass Travel Trailers – 9 Best Travel Trailers Under 30 Feet – 7 Best Travel Trailers Under 4,000 Lbs – 8 Best Small Campers Under 2,000 lbs. with Bathroom

Mike Scarpignato – Bio

Mike Scarpignato created RVBlogger.com over five years ago in 2018 to share all we have learned about RV camping.

Mike is an avid outdoorsman with decades of experience tent camping and traveling in his 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest Class C RV and 2021 Thor Challenger Class A motorhome.

We attend RV Shows and visit RV dealerships all across the country to tour and review drivable motorhomes and towable trailers to provide the best evaluations of these RVs in our blog articles and YouTube videos.

We are 3/4-time RVers who created RVBlogger.com to provide helpful information about all kinds of RVs and related products, gear, camping memberships, tips, hacks and advice.

7 thoughts on “15 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3500 lbs for 2024”

Most extended warranties start after the regular warranty ends BUT the prorated amount includes the time under the regular warranty. Our original warranty was for 12 months and we got another 12 month extended warranty. After a year we traded for a larger trailer and only got 1/2 of the cost of our extended warranty back, even though it wasn’t going to kick in for another few weeks.

Which of these under 3500 lbs come insulated for cold temperatures 5,500 ft above sealevel? I only have a Subaru Outback turbo that can haul up to 3,500 lbs

I have been looking for an ultra lite trailer under 3500lbs that I can tow with my Nissan Frontier. I would prefer one with bunks and no bed. Also I would like a slide out. Double axle would be great also, but that may be asking for too much.

Good information for one looking for a small trailer. With all of my research, for one looking for a light trailer, the LANCE 1475 is a good one deserving of review. it’s more $$$$ than the afore mentioned unit’s, but it’s really nice.

Good to very good quality used 3500 pounds trailer for a 2018 Chevy Equinox diesel to pull well over the Rockies?

Hey Mike, good article. Did you come across Jayco? …2 full years of warranty. Full shower & tub. This is my third Jayco and I’m happy. I’m cruising in a Jayco Jay flight SLX Baja Edition, 145RB. Dan

Ps: I keep my weight down so I can pull with my Jeep. If I ever get out of a Jeep and into a truck, I’ll keep this article in mind. Thanks.

This was a great grouping of nice smaller trailers! The size is just what an older couple like my husband and I are drawn to. The biggest surprise was the Puma ultra light. It didn’t really stand out from the exterior, but the interior was surprisingly good looking and very functional. I don’t believe I’ve ever seen one before. The Casita, Oliver and Nest are also stunners IMO, but I bet you will have to put your name on a waiting list to get one. I recently camped next to a young couple and their dogs staying in a Wolf Pup that was probably even smaller than the 16FQ and it had a rear entry. It had the same big picture window on the passenger side though. That seems like a really great detail to carry across their floor plans. Thank you for the ‘eye candy’. Happy Travels from Michigan

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Best Family Travel Trailers Under 4500 Pounds

Trailer Specs

• Dry Weight:  3,078 pounds
• Length:  21’5″
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 5

Featuring rear bunks for the kids and a queen bed for the parents, the Coleman Lantern LT 17B is one of the most affordable travel trailers out there. This lightweight travel trailer is easy to tow and can be towed by various vehicles.

It features an electric fireplace, an air conditioning unit, a full-size dinette, and a fully equipped kitchen. There’s also a dry bathroom in the rear, abundant storage under the bottom bunk, and a high-rise faucet over the single-basin kitchen sink.

Check out Lantern LT 17B models at your local Camping World.

Coleman Lantern LT 202RD

• Dry Weight:  4,444 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  594 pounds
• Length:  24’11”
• Height (w/ AC): 10’10”
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 4

The Coleman Lantern LT 202RD is a great family travel trailer because it features a queen bed in the master suite, located at the front of the floorplan. At the back of the trailer, it offers a convertible dinette and a reclining sofa for the kids or guests to sleep on.

The center kitchen features a 10-cubic-foot refrigerator, a two-burner cooktop with an oven below, and a microwave. This travel trailer also features power stabilizing jacks and a power tongue jack, which make it easy to level and stabilize your RV when you arrive at a campground.

Shop Camping World’s Lantern LT 202RD inventory.

Forest River Wolf Pup 16BHS

• Dry Weight:  3,367 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  460 pounds
• Length:  21’9″
• Height (w/ AC): 10’6″

The Forest River Wolf Pup 16BHS is a bunkhouse travel trailer with a family-friendly floorplan. The kids have rear bunks to rest in, and you’ll enjoy a queen-sized bed at the front of the trailer with an overhead shelf for your phone, books, and other small items.

There’s a TV mount above the convertible dinette and a second mounting location on the RV’s exterior. If you mount a TV out there, you won’t miss a second of the action as you lounge underneath the 12-foot power awning. As a bonus, you’ll have a mini fridge accessible in an exterior compartment, so you don’t have to go inside to restock your favorite beverages.

Check out Forest River Wolf Pup models at your local Camping World.

Heartland Mallard Tailwind T180BH

• Dry Weight:  3,949 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  490 pounds
• Length:  22’5.5″
• Height (w/ AC): 10’4″
• Sleeping Capacity:  5-6

Heartland’s Mallard Tailwind T180BH is another bunkhouse model with a modified Murphy bed system to maximize the interior space during the day. It also features a great outdoor kitchen that allows you to split meal prep, so it doesn’t feel cramped inside when cooking.

The double bunks feature queen-sized RV mattresses, the Murphy bed is a queen, and the dinette converts for added sleeping space. Although that would make for a crowded RV with only one bathroom, there is a privacy curtain that allows you to section off the “master suite” from the rest of your trailer.

Discover Camping World’s Heartland Mallard Tailwind selection.

Coleman Light 1905BH

• Dry Weight:  4,486 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  602 pounds
• Length:  23’11”
• Height (w/ AC): 10’8″
• Sleeping Capacity:  3-6

Featuring aluminum framed construction and loaded with amenities, the Coleman Light 1905BH might be lightweight, but it’s heavy on durability. This is the heaviest of the RVs on this list, but it’s full of features that make it perfect for camping with a large family.

We’re talking power stabilizer jacks, a power awning, a slide-out dinette, a queen-size Murphy bed, and pass-through storage for all your recreation equipment and camping gear . Plus, folding up the bed gives you plenty of living area when you all need to be inside on rainy days.

In other words, it’s large enough for the whole family and all the memories you’ll make along the way. Consider it the mama bear of RVs. It’s not too big, but it’s not too small either. It’s just right.

Shop Coleman Light 1905BH RVs .

Forest River Salem FSX 178BHSKX

• Dry Weight: 3,749 pounds
• Hitch Weight:  430 pounds
• Length:  22’11”
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 7

The lightweight Forest River Salem FSX 178BHSKX offers a unique layout that transforms seating space by day into sleeping space at night by incorporating a fold-down, queen-size Murphy bed at the front.

When that bed is folded up, it offers plenty of living space with an open, carpet-free floorplan. At the back, two double bunk beds are perfect for the kids or for extra storage space when traveling as a couple .

The kitchen with a slide-out for the U-shape dinette features a panoramic window, so you’re never without a good view of your surroundings. Or you can ignore the indoor kitchen and cook all your meals in the outdoor kitchen instead. I’m sure no one will complain.

Shop Forest River Salem FSX 178BHSKX RVs .

Forest River Grey Wolf 22MKSE

• Dry Weight:  4,341 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 585 pounds
• Length:  26’9″
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 6

It’s a space-saving family bunkhouse that is easy to fall in love with — the Forest River Grey Wolf 22MKSE . The Grey Wolf has perfected the transition from night to day by featuring a Cherokee Sleep System queen-size bed that can quickly and conveniently fold up to provide a full-size sofa.

Full-size bunks in the rear keep children and guests comfortable and provide space between sleeping areas. There’s also a fold-down dinette if you need additional sleeping space and a shower with a tub, which is a feature not found in many RVs.

There are indoor and outdoor entertainment center hookups, so you never have to worry about anyone missing out on the fun. The Grey Wolf saves space so you can focus on making the most of the quality time spent with your family on the road.

Shop Forest River Grey Wolf 22MKSE .

Jayco Jay Flight SLX 224BH

• Dry Weight:  4,480 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 460 pounds
• Length:  27’1″
• Sleeping Capacity:  Up to 8

The Jayco Jay Flight SLX 224BH is a fantastic family unit thanks to its ample sleeping space, spacious bathroom, plenty of storage, camp-side kitchen, and large dinette for family meals.

A curtain divider pulls across to separate the master bedroom from the rest of the trailer. This floorplan offers a little more privacy than many other small campers .

There’s also an outside kitchen that helps keep the kids outside, so you don’t constantly have to clean the RV floor daily. This is another travel trailer under 5000 lbs., meaning you should be able to tow it with various vehicles.

Shop Jayco Jay Flight SLX 224BH RVs or explore Jayco’s entire RV lineup .

Crossroads Zinger-Lite 18BH

• Dry Weight: 3,362 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 426 pounds
• Length:  21′
• Height (w/ AC): 9’7″

Another good family camper under 5000 lbs. is the Crossroad Zinger 18BH . This high-quality trailer has a camp-side kitchen, a dinette, bunk beds at the rear, and a queen bed at the front. It’s one of the more compact trailers on this list, but that makes it one of the lightest.

It’s prepped for a backup camera to make backing your trailer into a campsite easier. It’s also ready for a solar installation if you’re looking for a trailer that can handle extended boondocking stays.

The Zinger’s construction includes an aerodynamic front end and a rear bumper that’s perfect for securing one of the best bike racks for RVs . Plus, you’ll have the option of adding insulation if you’re interested in extending your camping season.

How to Choose the Best Family Travel Trailer for You

These small trailers are all about maximizing sleeping space for family RVing. You won’t get a king-size bed or theater seating like you might find in some of the best luxury fifth wheels . But you will get a comfortable camper at a much more affordable price.

Here are a few more resources to guide you as you continue your search for the perfect family travel trailer:

• Understanding RV Weight Ratings
• Everything You Need to Hitch & Tow Your RV
• How to Properly Load Your Travel Trailer

We hope these trailers and resources help you find the right camper for your family. Regardless of which RV you decide to hit the road with (and at which price point), the memories you make with your family will undoubtedly be priceless.

Do you have any lightweight travel trailers you’d add to this list? Leave a comment below!

• Comment (10)

I really appreciate the detailed comparisons in this post! We’re looking for a new trailer for our family vacations and this list has given us some great options to consider. The weight range is perfect for our current vehicle, and it’s helpful to see the pros and cons of each trailer. Thanks for the helpful information!

You are most welcome!

Which were your top choices after reading?

Most travel trailers have an average dry weight of 5,000 pounds. Dry weight refers to the trailer’s weight without any additional gear or items.

Looking for a used trailer to sleep 6 while house is being remodeled

Here are a few additional links that might be helpful:

https://rv.campingworld.com/rvclass/used-travel-trailer-rvs

https://www.rvrentals.com/

https://blog.campingworld.com/find-your-rv/rv-buying-guide-buying-a-used-rv/

Hope that helps!

Absolutely, hands down the Lance 1995. A very practical high-end RV with so many practical extras !

Forest River R-Pod is an excellent travel trailer

Not the R-Pod 202…tons of interior storage with the new layout.

Marc, what one do you think is a good option?

R-pod is WAY too narrow. Lacks storage space.

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18 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers in 2023

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The pandemic and resulting boom in the RV industry has resulted in a lot of interest in the best small travel trailers. A light weight travel trailer is an ideal choice for many people. They are cheaper to purchase and own than van life Class B campers and more accessible than Class A or Class C motor homes. Many can be towed with the cars and SUVs we already own, making them a win-win. You can explore the world and live the Instagram life, all while traveling on your terms.

In truth, these lightweight camping trailers have been around for a while. They’ve always enjoyed a small niche corner of the RV market. So you might be surprised by the choices available when looking for an RV under 3500 lbs. You’ll find everything from diminutive teardrops and micro campers to off-road overlanding adventure habitats.

Here’s a look at the various things to look for in the best lightweight travel trailers out there, along with some of the best ultra-lite travel trailers on the market today. 

Table of Contents

Best small travel trailers – traditional rv styles, best small travel trailer teardrop campers, fiberglass eggs – best light weight travel trailer choices.

• Best Lightweight Travel Trailer Choices for Off-Road Adventures 

Lightweight RV Towing 101 – What to Tow With and What Not to Try

Towing weight ratings explained, top reasons to purchase a lightweight travel trailer under 3,500 lbs., pros and cons of small travel trailers, traditional micro rvs, soft-sided pop-ups, a-frame hard side pop-ups, classic teardrop-style ultralights, fiberglass egg style, off-road and adventure micro campers, what do you get in a small travel trailer, owning a small camper, should you buy an extended warranty, common problems with travel trailers, what’re the best lightweight travel trailers for your adventure, lightest travel trailer faqs, best ultra lite travel trailers and rv under 3500 lbs., airstream basecamp 16 – one of the best lightweight travel trailers on the market.

Estimated Empty Weight 2,650 lbs. (Based on GVWR 3,500 lbs.)

One of the most eye-catching and stylish lightweight travel trailers on the market is the tiny Airstream Basecamp. It’s available in 16 and 20-foot lengths, each one retaining signature Airstream styling but with a modern aesthetic. The curved aluminum-skinned exterior includes wrap-around windows and the amenities you’d expect from a high-end manufacturer like Airstream.

The layout of the Basecamp is very similar to other sub-20-foot trailers. There is a walk-through dinette in the rear that converts into a double bunk. Mid-layout, there is an enclosed wet bathroom. In the front of this lightweight travel trailer, there is a u-shaped kitchen with a sink, double-burner stovetop, and small fridge.

The Airstream has entry doors at the rear and on the side. The available Basecamp X upgrade includes off-road upgrades and air conditioning.

KZ Sportsman 130RB and 160QB – Traditional Small RV Trailer with Queen-Sized Sleeping Space

Empty Weights Start at 2,240 lbs.

KZ makes very traditional aluminum-sided RV travel trailers. Their 13-foot model (16-foot 9-inch overall) is designed to sleep two adults and starts well under the 3,500-pound mark. In fact, all of their Sportsman Classic floorplans have unloaded vehicle weights under 3,500 pounds–even the 191BHK with a slide-out dinette. 

If your vehicle can tow it, the best balance is undoubtedly the 160QB (QB as in “queen bed”). This model is one of the best lightweight travel trailers and it ditches the all-too-common convertible dinette in favor of a walk-around bed located upfront. The dinette and kitchen are small but completely adequate for a couple. In the rear, there’s an enclosed bathroom with a separate shower. The amount of amenities they’ve squeezed into this sub-3,000 pound travel trailer is incredible.

Aliner Classic

Empty Weight 1,725 lbs.

Aliner makes several sizes of their hard-sided a-frame pop-up, but the original Classic remains the perfect combination of size, weight, and price. It is one of their medium-sized campers, built in a 12-foot box on a 15-foot-long frame. 

The a-frame pop-up provides lots of headroom in the cabin’s center, where you might stand up to use the kitchen or sink. The front and back are dedicated to the dinette and large bed. The dinette converts into a bunk if you have guests over. The Classic does not have a toilet.

Alternatively, the LXE model includes a dormer pop-up on the forward end, extending standing headroom and moving the kitchen forward. There’s also an enclosed shower with a cassette toilet in this area. But getting this travel trailer means giving up the dedicated bunk and dealing with a convertible dinette instead. The weight difference between the two is negligible; the LXE is only 70 pounds heavier than the Classic.

Forest River Rockwood Hard Side Pop-Up

Empty Weight Starting at 2,120 lbs.

Rockwood by Forest River RV makes some a-frame pop-ups like Aliner, but they are a little heavier and come with a few more features. Rockwood also makes traditional tent-style pop-ups. Like Aliner, they have several models of lightweight travel trailers, some with dormers for more headroom and some with full-sized queen bunks. All of their a-frames have unloaded dry weights between 2,120 and 2,648 pounds. They are built in either 12 or 14-foot long boxes.

Empty Weights Starting at 2,750 lbs.

The Lance 1475 camper could easily count as a lightweight travel trailer if you load it carefully and watch your installed options. If your vehicle is sturdy enough to tow 3,500 pounds reliably, this is one of the nicest appointed trailers. The cabin is only 14 feet, with an overall trailer length of 19-feet 8-inches. The total GVWR for the trailer is 3,700 pounds.

The Lance features a layout that boasts features you are unlikely to find in any other travel trailer of this size. Forward you’ll find a queen-sized bunk. In the center, there is a full-featured kitchenette opposite a small dinette or captain’s lounge chairs. In the back, an enclosed shower and bathroom round out this home away from home. 

With all the living space, it’s easy to forget all the other standard amenities you get with this package. For example, air conditioning and ducted heat also come standard. 

Forest River R-Pod – Loaded with Standard Features

Empty Weights Starting at 3,159 lbs.

Forest River R-Pods are traditional RVs made with a slightly more aerodynamic design. They’re large and heavy when compared to many lightweight trailers, but they offer a more conventional RV experience. The interior features a U shaped dinette that converts into a double bed, a rear bath, and large windows throughout that contribute to a spacious atmosphere.

The smallest R-Pod is the RP-153, which is 17.5 feet long overall. There are multiple layouts and options all the way up to the top-of-the-line RP-195, which features a queen size bed with lots of under bed storage.

Jay Feather Micro 12SRK

Empty Weights Starting at 1,585 lbs.

RV giant Jayco isn’t to be left out of the ultra-small camper fun. Their Feather Micro 12SRK is one of the smallest and lightest traditional travel trailers out there. It’s an interesting little trailer–while it looks like a diminutive travel trailer, it’s functionally more like a large teardrop. 

You see, the 12SRK includes an exterior kitchenette. A 12-volt cooler and griddle are accessed from the rear of the trailer. Inside the small cabin, there is only a futon and some storage nooks.

NüCamp TAG and TAB RV Teardrops

Empty Weights Start at 1,269 lbs. (TAG); 1,946 lbs. (TAB 320S Model)

NüCamp makes two different size teardrop campers. The smaller TAG and TAG XL are classic small teardrops. There is no standing headroom in these small and easy-to-tow travel trailers, but there is a full-featured exterior kitchenette around the back. Inside, you’ll find a queen-sized bunk, ample storage, and a really cool stargazing window. Both the TAG and TAG XL are the same length, but the XL is one foot wider.

The TAB 320 is a larger travel trailer that retains the teardrop profile. This camper has standing headroom inside, with an enclosed wet bath and kitchenette forward and a convertible dinette in the rear. It’s a slick, useable layout packed into a very small package. It provides space to hang out when the weather stinks, or you just want to sit comfortably and gaze out the large side windows. But it easily swaps into a bed space each night. 

Little Guy Teardrop

Empty Weights Starting at 1,785 lbs. (Micro Max Model)

This “Little Guy” is similar to the TAB 320–it’s a larger teardrop designed to give amenities that more closely resemble a larger trailer. Three lengths are available, from the smallest and lightest Micro Max at just under 16-feet long to the 21-foot-long Little Guy Max (GVWR 4,200 pounds).

If you’re looking for a basic and easier to tow teardrop and into an ultra lightweight travel trailer, you’ve got to check out the Little Guy MyPod. This 100-percent fiberglass teardrop is sleeker than any other on the road and has a dry weight of only 840 pounds. It also has a unique rear-door entry, which allows for an exterior tent to hook up to add living space. However, unlike other teardrops, it does not come with space for a kitchenette.

Polydrop – Space Age Teardrop with Style

Empty Weight Starting at 820 lbs.

The fact that the Polydrop’s promo photos show it being towed by a Tesla Model 3 is telling. If the Polydrop trailer looks like it came from outer space, that’s because it almost has. This compact travel trailer is a conventional teardrop that was beamed in from the 21st century. The company has studied the design in wind tunnels to get the shape just right, molded the interior to suit a modern aesthetic, and kitted it out with state-of-the-art lithium batteries and solar panels.

The upgraded model, the P17A All-Electric, comes with 260 watts of solar power, 2.4kWh of Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries, a 2,500-watt inverter, induction cooktop, and an electric air conditioner that works off the grid.

Scamp 13 – Fiberglass Ultralight Trailers

Empty Weights Between 1,200 and 1,500 lbs.

The Scamp design has been around for a long time, originally built in Canada under the Boler name. That’s good news because there are some available on the used market. But like most of the small fiberglass campers you’ll find, these Scamps have a loyal fan club and values on used campers stay relatively high. 

The Scamp comes in two versions–standard and deluxe. The only real difference between the two is the furnishings–the standard is basic, with fiberglass walls and minimal equipment. This not only keeps it less expensive but lighter for towing. 

This lightweight travel trailer has a convertible dinette in the rear, a small kitchen area in the center, and the forward area comes as either bunk beds or as an enclosed toilet, shower, and closet. If you’re looking for a little more space, the Scamp is also available in a 16-foot extended version and a unique 19-foot-long fifth wheel. 

Happier Camper – High Quality Lightweight Travel Trailers

Empty Weights – HC1 1,100 lbs.; HCT 1,800 lbs.

The Happier Camper has fantastically updated the fiberglass egg design. These beautiful little travel trailers have everything you’re looking for in a micro-camper–classic looks, robust and versatile designs, and adventure-ready features. The HC1 has a 10-foot cabin, while the HCT (Traveler) has a 14-foot cabin.

You cannot deny that one look at a Happier Camper will sell you on the concept. They’re modern yet retro, with two-tone paint schemes and an aerodynamic profile. There is also an off-road upgrade with larger tires and increased ground clearance.

The classic jalousie windows are of particular note in the design, which let plenty of airflow through but doesn’t allow rain in. The rear liftgate is also a welcome addition since it makes the living space easily flow outside.

The interior of this lightweight travel trailers is a cleverly-designed modular system that HC calls Adaptiv. It’s made of removable, rearrangeable, and interchangeable fiberglass 20-inch cubes. There are various cubes, including storage nooks, bench/beds, coolers, a toilet, and a kitchenette. You can rearrange your Happier Camper into any layout you like, customized for any adventure you like. You can also leave space for bikes or other gear, like your own little toy hauler. That’s something no other lightweight travel trailer this size offers.

Dub Box and Dinky Dub Retro Adventure Campers

Empty Weights Start at 2,300 lbs. and 1,100 lbs., respectively

If you have ever dreamed of setting off in a classic VW pop-top camper van, the Dub Box trailer will give you your chance. These new lightweight travel trailers, available in two sizes, mimic the looks of a classic Volkswagen microbus travel trailer perfectly. They include a crank-up pop-top to add standing headroom, a convertible dinette, and kitchenette options. Unfortunately, they don’t include an enclosed bathroom, but they do include a dedicated cabinet for a portapotty.

Check out this tour of this amazing little camper.

The Dinky Dub is only nine feet long, or 14-feet with the tongue. The regular Dub Box Adventure Camper is 12 feet long, 17 feet overall. The exterior shell is molded fiberglass for long life and easy maintenance. They are built in Oregon.

Casita Fiberglass Travel Trailers

Empty Weights Start at 2,210 lbs. (Standard Version)

The Texas-made Casita is very similar in appearance to the Scamp 16, with a slightly more modern design and more amenities. This fiberglass travel trailer has a two-shell design for extra protection from the elements and have been built since 1981. They are very similar to a smaller and lighter travel trailer – Oliver.

The Casita comes in standard and deluxe versions and has several layout choices. The shells are always the same, however–a 17-foot-long cabin. In most cases, the deluxe models sleep fewer people but include enclosed toilet and shower compartments. 

Best Lightweight Travel Trailer Choices for Off-Road Adventures

Bean trailer fiberglass off-road teardrops.

Empty Weights Starting at 1,650 lbs. (Classic Bean Roadster)

Bean–could there be a better name for a teardrop manufacturer?–makes travel trailers that are between 14 and 16 feet long. They are kitted out for either regular camp use (Bean Stalk and Classic Bean) or for off-road overlanding (Mean, Meaner, and Black Beans).

Bean Travel Trailers are configurable in every detail, perfect for a travel trailer this size. After all, every person who buys a Bean will likely be using it slightly differently.

Escapod TOPO and TOPO2 Off-Road Teardrops

Empty Weights TOPO 1,750 lbs.; TOPO2 1,500 lbs.

Escapod started by building an off-road capable teardrop, still available and called the TOPO. The original TOPO is a great lightweight travel trailer with nice specs–it has a wonderful kitchenette in the rear for camp cooking, an upscale interior with lots of storage and tech options, and a rugged but good-looking design that immediately feels at home off-road.

The TOPO2 is the camper that Escaped built after they learned all the off-road teardrop lessons they could. Thanks to a fiberglass shell and upgraded chassis, it’s lighter than the original. It’s got room for all the gear you want to take along and lots of little touches that make sure you know that real sportsmen built it in Utah. In short, it’s hard to find a cooler teardrop if you want to leave the pavement behind.

Hiker Trailers

Empty Weights 800 to 1,350 lbs.

Hiker Trailers are built in Indiana and Colorado, and they present a unique value for those looking for an overlanding lightweight travel trailer. These travel trailers aren’t fancy–they look more or less like small cargo trailers. But they are extremely lightweight, and they are inexpensive enough for most camping budgets. 

Trailers are ranked in four different classes , from “highway deluxe” for regular campsite use to “extreme off-road.” These can go anywhere you can get the trailer to tow to. Upgrades to each model include beefier axles, better suspension, and better ground clearance. If you want a truly off-road trailer–not just one with bigger tires–then the Hiker off-road is hard to beat.

Each rated travel trailer can be spaced out on either a 5×8, 5×9, or 5×10 box. Prices start at just under $6,000 for a 5×8 Highway Deluxe.

Taxa Outdoors Habitats

Empty Weights Starting at 1,270 lbs. (Woolly Bear RTT model) or 1,800 lbs. (Cricket Pop-Top Camper)

Taxa Outdoors makes a few different versions of off-road friendly overlanding “habitats.” These are small, easy-to-tow trailers with varying levels of accommodations. 

At one end, you have the Woolly Bear. This is basically a small but robust ultralight travel trailer built with a frame that supports a rooftop tent (RTT). The trailer’s slick drawers and storage compartments reveal a full exterior kitchenette, complete with a two-burner camp stove and Yeti cooler. 

On the other end of Taxa’s lineup are the Tiger Moth, Cricket, and Mantis travel trailers. The Tigermoth is an updated take on the teardrop, while the Cricket and Mantis are low-profile and lightweight travel trailers that add headroom with a clever pop-top tent. Trailers are available in regular or upgraded overland configurations.

What are Lightweight Travel Trailers?

There are no travel trailers that you can truly tow with any car. So every trailer owner chooses–what is the biggest, most comfortable travel trailer you can tow with your vehicle?

Not everyone can afford to (or wants to) upgrade to a full-size pickup or a motor home. What’s more, many people are looking for a minimalist, simple camping experience. The point for them is not to have recliners and a big-screen TV–the point is to travel, to collect experiences and memories. 

The folks interested in lightweight travel trailers are more likely to be younger couples. Some are occasionally camping throughout the year, and others stay in their campers for months.

From this description, it should be apparent that luxury is not the theme when you shop for an RV under 3,500 lbs. These travel trailers can be towed by many larger cars or mid-sized SUVs, but they will be smaller and more basic than other travel trailers, vans, or motor homes.

If you’re shopping for a lightweight travel trailer, chances are it is because you want to tow it with a small vehicle. Maybe that’s because you already own a car or SUV you’d like to keep, or maybe it’s because you don’t want to sacrifice your vehicle’s good gas mileage or comfort. 

Every car and truck sold comes with a maximum recommended tow weight published by the manufacturer. The number varies depending on your country and how the manufacturer calculates the number. It is always best to stay within this safety limit. Doing otherwise could void your vehicle’s warranty. Worse still, if an accident resulted, you could be found at fault for overloading your tow vehicle.

Keep in mind that a car maker will rate the vehicle for towing based on many criteria. It’s not just the power available from the engine – it’s also the brakes’ quality and the transmission’s robustness, but also the towing bar you choose. Here are a few maximum towing ratings for new vehicles sold in the United States. This should provide some idea of the size trailer you could expect to tow.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)

This is the maximum allowable weight for the travel trailer. It’s a designed-in limit, and the manufacturer is telling you not to load it heavier than this. The number includes everything on the rig – the frame, the cabin, all your stuff, appliances, batteries, and even water in the water tank.

What if your trailer has a GVWR of 3,500 pounds while your tow vehicle is only rated to tow 3,000 pounds? While some trailers are built right to the limit and use nearly all of their GVWR, others are not. Some trailers, especially those built to be lightweight from the start, may have a GVWR rating that allows carrying a bunch of gear. But since the cabin and appliances are light, much of that is available for your gear. As long as the actual tow weight is less than 3,000 pounds, you might be good to go.

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)

Each axle of the vehicle is rated to support only so much weight. This is how a trailer manufacturer comes up with the allowable GVWR. 

Dry Weight, Empty Weight, or UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)

This is the exact weight of your trailer, as weighed when it leaves the factory. As you can imagine, it varies with every trailer a company makes. Options like extra travel trailer batteries or better appliances will add to the weight.

It’s a hard number to pin down when shopping for a trailer. The trailer you come home with will have its own number, so you’ll only be getting rough estimates for what it will be before then. Any numbers you see online, including those used in this guide, are likely to be on the low end.

Net Carrying Capacity, or CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)

If you take your maximum allowable weight (GVWR) and subtract out the trailer’s dry empty weight, you are left with how much extra gear you can put in it. This is the net carrying capacity.

Tongue Weight

The tongue weight is important because it’s the weight that the rear of your tow vehicle must support. The heavier and sturdier your tow platform, the more tongue weight you can have.

A properly loaded trailer’s tongue weight is around 10 percent of its total weight. Any more than this could result in poor tow performance. Therefore, car and truck makers publish the maximum tow rating for the vehicle and the maximum tongue weight. 

Actual Tow Weight

A number you would only know if you either do the math or weigh the trailer is the actual tow weight. If you know the trailer’s weight when it left the factory and the weights of everything you’ve added, you should have a solid idea of what the tow weight is. 

This is the most critical number to know–because it is this number that you must apply to your vehicle’s tow rating . You’re good to go as long as this number is less than the car’s limit.

Why Choose Lightweight Camping Trailers?

For most folks shopping for light travel trailers, the appeal is that it’s better than a tent. If you have been camping in a tent for years and want a little bit of an upgrade–just a little more storage and more privacy – then a small travel trailer might be the answer. 

What these tiny campers are not is an entry point into RV living . Most of the trailers under 3,500 lbs and 20 feet long will not provide the accommodations and living space you’re looking for. So if you’re shopping for a light travel trailer as an inexpensive way to get an RV with the car you already own, you might be disappointed by the results. If this sounds like you, consider a Class B or Class C motor home that doesn’t require a tow vehicle before downsizing into a minimal trailer.

• Can be towed with smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles
• Cheaper to tow – requires less fuel no matter the vehicle
• Easier for boondocking and off-road use
• Lower purchase and upkeep costs
• More outdoor opportunities than larger RVs–exterior kitchens and rear hatches, for example
• Minimalist styling and living
• Can be stored inside a garage or storage shed
• Easy to add more storage and sleeping space if you already tent camp
• Less living space than larger RVs
• Less storage space for gear
• Less privacy than larger RVs have
• Weight limited – can carry less gear
• Fewer appliances and amenities
• Very small and simple kitchenettes
• Cramped bathrooms and showers (if it even has one!)
• Smaller beds or convertible dinettes
• Less insulation and all-weather potential than luxury RVs

Types of Travel Trailers Under 3500 lbs

While being extremely weight-conscious, it is possible to find a traditional-looking and feeling travel trailer that fits the definition of “lightweight.” Don’t expect these campers to be as luxurious or as big as other choices–generally, we are talking about campers whose cabins are only 10 to 13 feet long. In that space, it’s possible to have a dinette that converts to a bunk, maybe an enclosed bathroom, and a small kitchen with a sink, tiny fridge, and maybe a single-burner stove.

It’s this type of RV that can easily get overweight. It’s very important to look at the GVWR for the trailer and exactly how much gear you’re going to be putting in it. Can your car really tow it? If you’re still car shopping, how much more towing capacity would you need?

Outside of specialized designs built for light towing, the RV industry hasn’t put much effort into small camper designs. The money comes from the big ones, and once they’ve convinced their customers that they need to buy a full-size truck to have a comfortable camper, there is little bonus for them to go back and work on lightweight designs. 

However, many recent startups and a boom in the popularity of travel trailers have resulted in a little forward movement. The major trailer manufacturers are working on micro designs that are comfortable and noteworthy. One such example is the Airstream Basecamp.

You can’t discuss lightweight travel trailers without mentioning pop-up campers. These hybrid tent campers are built like traditional trailers but lack walls. Instead, a robust tent with vinyl plastic windows and bug screens is installed on a frame. 

Pop-up campers are an interesting concept, but they pose some problems. The experience isn’t very different from camping in a tent. The soft sides provide very little protection from the elements. They offer little privacy or shelter from cold weather or winds that hard-sided RVs do. 

Another problem is that they tend to be on the heavy side. The travel trailer is low profile but still relatively heavy when folded down in towing mode. 

It’s also worth noting that you can’t camp in soft-sided campers in some parts of the world. For example, in bear country, you need to keep your food, dishes, and kitchen area separate from your living and sleeping accommodations. These are all combined inside the same tent in a pop-up, making for a potentially dangerous combination.

Finally, remember that pop-ups are made of fabric and canvas, which will not last forever. New tents are expensive, so the resale value of soft side pop-ups decreases rapidly. 

A modern take on the pop-up camper is the pop-up a-frame. These campers use standard RV wall material that folds to make an A-shaped RV with standing headroom in the middle. It’s a unique take that solves many of the problems with a pop-up and retains the small trailer size and minimalist design.

Only a few companies make a-frames, most notably Aliner. 

Teardrops have a distinctive aerodynamic shape that makes them appeal to those towing behind a car. Their curved profile means less air resistance, but it also means less room to move around on the inside. Most teardrops are very small, and many even lack standing headroom.

These small teardrops nearly always share a similar layout. The interior cabin has a large padded bunk–and nothing else. Some have added shelves, and some even allow you to sit at a small table. The kitchen area is exterior and accessed through a lifting trunk on the back of the trailer. The inside of the camper is nothing more than an off-the-ground tent. All cooking, eating, and socialization are likely to happen outdoors behind the camper. Also note: most teardrops do not have a toilet at all.

There are also a group of teardrops that are slightly larger and have more amenities, like an enclosed bathroom and an interior kitchen. These are much larger and resemble the vintage “Canned Ham”-style trailers of the 1950s. They are comparable to a fiberglass egg-style camper, with a convertible dinette/bed, a small sink and fridge, and a cramped bathroom compartment.

There’s nothing too complicated about a classic teardrop trailer. Many people opt to save money by building their own, like CLC’s stitch-and-glue plywood teardrop or our very own DIY teardrop trailer .

While many big RVs claim to be made from fi b erglass , they are just made of pre-fab fiberglass paneling in the same method as an aluminum-sided RV. The fiberglass campers described here are completely different–they are laid up in molds, just like the hull of a boat. That means they can have complex curves and sleeker shapes than conventional RVs, but they do cost more to make.

However, they also last much longer and hold their value much better. Fiberglass eggs are some of the most popular micro-sized travel trailers out there. They’re cute as a button and very functional. And in many cases, they weigh far less than a conventional camper.

The epitome of the fiberglass egg is the Scamp. These 13-foot lightweight travel trailers come in several layouts and are light enough to be towed with most sedans and small SUVs. 

Overlanding and boondocking enthusiasts love the versatilities that a camper can offer. But they don’t want a bloated RV that requires a less-than-nimble tow vehicle. Instead, they need something compact, lightweight for towing, and agile enough to follow their truck anywhere.

What Features Provide Off-Road Capabilities?

High ground clearance.

The number one thing that sets an overlanding trailer apart is its increased ground clearance. This isn’t just that the trailer is raised–it also applies to its overhangs. Many highway travel trailers have very low clearance and enormous overhangs to maximize the living space inside the cabin. 

An overlanding trailer is more likely to offer minimal accommodations with smaller overhangs. This is one reason why teardrop trailers are perfect for the job–there’s no expectation of standing headroom inside, and the outdoor kitchen area means the rear can be kept well off the ground.

Stable, Low-Profile Design

Another important factor to consider is the trailer’s overall stability–how hard is it to tip over? While most four-season RV campers are top-heavy, an off-road trailer needs to remain upright at extreme angles should the terrain get sportier. This favors shorter designs, with more weight nearer the axle. The wider the trailer and axle, the better.

Oversized All-Terrain Tires

Knobbly off-road tires not only look cool, but they also get a better grip on difficult terrain and provide the traction needed to make it up inclines. They’re also less likely to get punctured accidentally on rocks and debris. 

Rugged Chassis and Heavy Duty Suspension

All that bouncing along will take its toll quickly on a standard trailer chassis. Aluminum frames, often used on lightweight campers, are too weak to take the stress. Ideally, a galvanized steel frame is where it’s at. 

Suspension on the trailer axle also deserves some consideration. The best offroad travel trailers have robust shocks and springs to help the trailer remain stable and tow well over any surface.

Off-the-Grid Capable

If you’re in the market for a lightweight travel trailer like this, you will want something that is just as comfortable away from hookups as it is with access to them. Most of these campers have battery systems with a small solar panel, a small quantity of freshwater stored in tanks, and not much else needed to have a good time.

Gear Hauling Options

Off-road travel trailers are adventure machines–so what adventure inspires you? Hunting, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, skiing/snowboarding, or fill in the blank here–your camper can take you there; just make sure it has storage space and options to carry your gear.

Modern Teardrops and Micro Campers

While the idea of a teardrop is not new, many companies are combining the idea of a modern fiberglass ultralight camper with the classic designs for a teardrop. This site is excellent for boondocking and adventuring offroad. Add on oversized all-terrain tires and a beefed-up chassis, and you’ve got yourself an adventure machine.

Trailer Tents

Another popular option for boondockers is the rooftop tent (RTT). But these tents are heavy–usually over 100 pounds–and pretty awkward to get on and off your car. Some companies have engineered small trailers that hold gear and an RTT. They can be towed by anything and can carry all sorts of gear. 

You can apply this idea with some DIY skills to a classic Jeep trailer or even a $100 Harbor Freight utility trailer. RTTs aren’t cheap, but you can often find them used on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Many also have enclosed annexes for showers, portapotties, or changing areas. When you combine this with awnings and the amenities built into the trailer, you have a great campsite ready-made to go anywhere.

Trailers Under 3500 lbs. – Features and Ownership Issues

Here’s a tour video of the Scamp 16, one of the larger campers you can get in this size range. It goes through the various layouts you can choose and gives you a great idea of what the space is like in one of these small lightweight travel trailers.

Owning a lightweight trailer isn’t much different from owning any other travel trailer, except that your overall ownership experience is easier and cheaper. These travel trailers are naturally less expensive than larger models that have more features. But with that plus comes another bonus–smaller trailers have less maintenance and fewer systems to keep working. All of this equals a lower cost of ownership in the long run. 

Small campers are simple items with very little maintenance or warranty problems. You’ll have to look at the camper you choose and evaluate its construction and materials. It pays to scope out owners’ forums online, where you can connect with long-term owners and find out if they’ve experienced any problems. From these details and the cost, you can evaluate the true benefit of an extended warranty.

The only moving parts of a trailer are the wheels and axles. While these have a life span, most will never find it. The biggest danger to the longevity of a simple travel trailer comes from corrosion or rust on the axle and chassis frame. Always tend to any rust immediately to prevent further damage. 

Traditional campers are made from paneled sides made from plywood, aluminum, or thin fiberglass sheets–or a combination of these things. They are framed together with wood or aluminum supports and generally hold up to the elements very well. 

Alternatively, some modern travel trailers use all fiberglass construction. In this case, the camper shell is made in a mold, just like you would make the hull of a boat. This type of camper has a few benefits. They tend to be lightweight and long-lasting. They have more aerodynamic designs since the mold can produce complex curves. And they hold their value better than traditional travel trailers since they have very few maintenance requirements. 

If you’re shopping in the used market, most upgrades will be simple additions you can DIY. Maybe you want to add better batteries, solar, or other off-road options. 

When speccing out a new trailer from the manufacturer, you’ll likely be given many choices. Do you want air conditioning or heat? Do you want upgraded batteries and solar panels? Do you need that pressure water system , or is a jerry can good enough? Of course, all of these choices depend greatly on how you will ultimately use the trailer. 

The only way to determine if an upgrade is valuable to you is to break out a spreadsheet and see how much it really costs. If you’re handy, chances are you can DIY most RV upgrades for less money than they would come from the factory. But, of course, if you’re financing it, it might make more sense just to spec the camper how you want it and make the monthly payment.

Finally, keep in mind that some things are harder or more expensive to add after the fact. If you want an overlanding lightweight travel trailer with extra ground clearance, sturdier suspension, and off-road tires, it’s best to buy this new. Otherwise, you’ll be buying the basic package and all the upgrades, too.

Generally, the smaller and simpler the camper, the fewer problems you will have. The more options and systems you add, the more complex the plumbing and the easier to stop up the drain, so to speak. 

This logic applies to every system in the travel trailer. Simple teardrops usually have camp stoves and jerry cans for water. If that sounds like roughing it to you, you’ll want a built-in freshwater tank with fill and vent. Then, you’ll also need the hose and plumbing to run a 12-volt water pump. And, of course, you’ll need a 12-volt electric system to power that pump. A proper propane cooktop will require propane tanks and hoses, and the stove itself will cost four times as much as a good-quality camp stove.

Every RVer must strike a balance between how complex they want their travel trailer to be and how much time and money they’re willing to spend making it all work. These plumbing and electrical appliances add their complications and, of course, are all things that can and will break down and need replacing one day.

Running water and gas cooktops might sound complicated, but it sure is nice to turn the faucet and have running water. In your efforts to keep it simple, lightweight, and inexpensive, don’t undervalue the comforts of home.

As you can see, there are a lot of choices out there. And thankfully, more lightweight camping trailers pop up on the market every year. There’s probably the perfect adventure camper ready for the mission, no matter where the road takes you.

What is the largest lightweight travel trailer?

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Mike leads research, writes, and keeps the site up and running. He's worked on upgrades to an old class A Winnebago, vans, and other homes - wherever they are.

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How to Choose the Best Family Travel Trailer RV: A Guide to Finding the Perfect Fit

Published on January 8th, 2021 by Ray & Tammy Roman This post was updated on March 19th, 2024

Buying any kind of camper is confusing. Our list of nine best family travel trailer RVs can cut through the noise. In this article we also explain the top seven questions to ask so that you can choose the best RV for families like yours.

From how to buy the right travel trailer for your needs, to great features of the newest models on the market, any of these family trailers help make fun camping memories for everyone on board. 

But before we can address the big question of what travel trailer is best for families, let’s review the four types of travel trailers made by RV manufacturers in 2023. Each can be perfect for families, depending on how the RV will be used for camping.

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The four types of travel trailers, pop-up campers.

Pop-up trailerss are the most affordable RVs. They can be towed with any car, even a small SUV or electric vehicle with a towing hitch. Pop-up campers are compact, but expand to provide good living space and storage.

Travel Trailers

Want the affordability of a pop-up trailer, with travel trailer living space? Hybrid trailers have hard sides that fold up, like a pop-up camper. When fully open, they can provide as much space as a travel trailer. Their folding ability allows for easy towing by small tow vehicles.

Hybrid Campers

Heavier than pop-up campers but lighter than 5th wheels, travel trailers are also called “bumper pulls.” They are the most popular type of towable RV, made with hundreds of floor plans and models ranging from simple to luxurious. Most travel trailer layouts work for part-time or full-time RVing.

Fifth Wheels

Fifth wheel trailers for full-time RVing are a popular option. They have lots of living space, high-end features and amenities such as large bathrooms, master bedrooms, kitchens, and storage. But fifth wheels are big, expensive, and require a 3/4-ton or 1-ton tow truck to pull them.

Top Seven Questions to Ask Before Buying a Family Travel Trailer

Now that you know the different types of travel trailers, it’s time to narrow down your options. The problem is that choosing the best family travel trailer RV for your tribe feels like a ton of work. And it can be! Just visit an RV show and you’ll find dozens of RV floor plans and styles. Some trailers are great, some not so great. But all require you to ask important questions, such as:

1. What type of family travel trailer works best for our camping needs?

Travel trailers are non-motorized RVs. They tend to be the most affordable campers because there is no motor, drive train, or complicated RV systems to factor in. Towable travel trailers break down into four types of RVs pulled with a tow vehicle. Each has different pros and cons of ownership depending on how your family will use it throughout the year. 

2. How will we use our family travel trailer?

Think about how you and your family want to use the trailer.

Some folks use their family travel trailer RVs for the weekend and don’t mind tight quarters. Others want lots of space and amenities for extended RV road trips. And today many families are full-time RVing with travel trailers . Some prefer being outside most of the time. Others just like to curl up with a good book on a comfortable RV bed.

Where and how will you use your family travel trailer?

3. Will we take short or long RV trips?

Do you see family as weekend warriors? Or are you dreaming of  full-time RV living  as a family? If your travel trailer becomes your family’s second residence or even primary home, residential-type amenities are a must. Features of the best family travel trailer RVs for long-term living include large storage compartments, a residential refrigerator, big food pantry, and spacious bathroom.

Where will you and your family go RVing? And for how long?

4. How many people will sleep in the trailer?

Nearly any small travel trailer works for a couple. But if you are an RVing family of three or more, a travel trailer with multiple beds is necessary. Do you have young kids? They require less privacy than families who go RVing with teenagers. Consider a bunkhouse travel trailer for older kids in the camper.

What family members need a bed? And what kind do they need?

5. How much weight can your vehicle tow?

If you have a light truck like a Ford F-150, you can easily tow over 8,000 lbs. But small trucks like a Toyota Tacoma can safely tow much less. And if your tow vehicle will be even smaller, like a small SUV, your towing capabilities are even more limited.

Don’t put your vehicle transmission or your life at risk by towing with a vehicle that is too light for the trailer. Some RV sales people will say anything for you to buy a family travel trailer.

Do you understand everything about “GVWR” (Gross Vehicle Weight Ratio) for travel trailers ?

6. What kind of trailer bathroom works for your family?

Some travel trailer floor plans with two bathrooms exist. These two-bathroom trailers are great for family RV trips and full-time RVing with kids, but they tend to be large and require heavy duty trucks. Many travel trailer floorplans include split bathrooms. The sink and shower or bathtub are in one compartment, and the RV toilet is in another. These RV floor plans make it easy to RV with multiple family members.

What is the best RV bathroom for your family? Split? Single? Dual?

7. What is my RV shopping budget?

Last but not least, the RV shopping budget is an important factor in finding the best family travel trailer for your needs. Buying an RV in 2023 is not like RV shopping during the pandemic. There are a LOT of RVs on the market, and it’s a buyer’s marketplace at the moment. You have plenty of leverage to get a good price, but it’s still important to know if you can actually afford to make payments or buy a new or used RV  in cash. If you don’t have a good grasp on your finances, get one before you are stuck in a bad RV financing deal .

Our 9 Best Family Travel Trailer RVs

You now have a better understanding of the bumper-pull trailer your family needs. Let’s start shopping!

We selected nine best family travel trailer RVs based on the following criteria:

• Large floor plans with generous sleeping capacity
• Bathrooms must be a dry bath, multiple bathrooms a plus
• Plenty of USB outlets to charge electronics
• Large amounts of storage space
• Bunkbeds when possible

If you are an RV camping family of four or more people, consider these nine top-rated travel trailer RVs for families.

Best RV for Two Adults and Two Young Kids: Lance 1995 Travel Trailer

• Dry Weight (lbs): 4,265
• Length: 19′ 2″
• Width: 96-3/8″
• Sleeping Capacity: 4
• Starting Price: $49,877

Lance Campers are one of our favorite travel trailer brands . They make excellent family travel trailer RVs, and the Lance 1995 is no exception.

The 1995 travel trailer easily sleeps 4 with the convertible dinette. It has large windows and skylights, making it feel open and roomy.

It’s exterior walls are made from Azdel composite . The cabinets are made using Lite-Ply, giving them strength but keeping them lightweight.

The fridge is seven cubic feet. It’s not full-size but sufficient for a camping family of four. It has a three-burner range that you can optionally upgrade to a high output range with an oven. One of the features Tammy and I like is the walk-around queen bed.

The Lance 1995 travel trailer works well as a small travel trailer for a family of four with young children. That’s if you don’t mind the kids sleeping in the dinette/bed.

Learn more about the Lance 1995 Travel Trailer

Best travel trailer for large family of 6: the grand design transcend xplor 247bh.

Dry Weight (lbs): 5,392 Length: 29′ 11″ Width: Not specified Sleeping Capacity: 6 Starting Price: $34,000

The Grand Design Transcend Xpor 247BH is a full-featured family-friendly travel trailer that easily sleeps two adults in the walk-around queen bed, two kids in the rear bunk beds, and two more guests on the 69′ roll-over sofa.

Features include a 3-burner stove, USB ports, residential countertops, and good size refrigerator. It has many more excellent features and amenities. You’ll even find a per drawer below the fridge to store all of your pet’s stuff.

There is lots of storage space in the Transcend. You’ll love the pass-through storage outside and overhead storage inside the camper.

In our opinion and based on Grand Design’s excellent reputation, we consider the Transcend one of the best family travel trailers for up to six people.

Learn more about The Grand Design Transcend Xplor 247BH

Best family camper for 5: keystone passport sl 229rkwe.

Dry Weight (lbs): 5,178 Length: 27′ 4″ Width: Not specified Sleeping Capacity: 5 Starting Price: $44,513

The Keystone Passport SL 229RKW E is made to sleep a family of five. It includes a walk-around queen bed, tri-fold sofa sleeper, dinette/bed conversion, and entertainment center.

The double door fridge is eight cubic feet. Enjoy a stainless steel kitchen sink, seamless countertops, plenty of USB charging ports, and LED lighting.

The Passport SL 229RKWE also features Keystone’s extended season camping packing with an enclosed polypropylene heated under-belly.

In our opinion, this Keystone is one of the best campers for a family of 5.

Learn more about the Keystone Passport SL 229RKWE

Best travel trailer for family of five: jayco jay feather micro 171bh.

Dry Weight (lbs): 3,865 Length: 20′ 3″ Width: 90″ Sleeping Capacity: 5 Starting Price: $34,911

The Jayco Jay Feather Micro line is one of our favorites. We think the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH is one of the best family travel trailer RVs.

This camper is great for four to five people. We like that it has bunk beds towards the rear of the camper, away from the main sleeping area at the front.

The dinette converts to a bed for additional sleeping capacity. The queen bed has a nightstand and a folding door for privacy. The fridge is 6-cubic feet, but can be upgraded to an 8-cubit foot model.

Also included is a 32″ LED 12V TV with built-in soundbar. The trailer has standard 16″ Goodyear off-road tires, and a rubber torsion Dexter axle. The walls are Azdel which makes this family-friendly camper even more appealing.

This is one of the best lightweight travel trailers for a family of five.

Learn more about the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH

Best lightweight travel trailer for family of 5: winnebago micro minnie 2100bh.

Dry Weight (lbs): 3,860 Length: 21′ 11″ Width: 7′ Sleeping Capacity: 5 Starting Price: $37,182

The Micro Minnie 2100BH is a very capable and well-featured lightweight travel trailer for families. This model is available in a brilliant silver exterior color and features a modern interior design.

The galley has plenty of space and includes a sink, a 10.3 cubic feet double-door fridge, a convection microwave, and a recessed 3-burner cooktop.

The cooktop has backlit knobs and a glass cover. There is an option to get a slightly smaller eight-cubic feet refrigerator that runs on gas or electricity.

There is a full-size bed at the front of the Micro Minnie and bunk beds in the rear. The dinette also converts to a bed. You have the option to replace the dinette with a sleeper sofa if you like, at an additional cost.

Learn more about the Winnebago Micro Minnie 2100BH

Best rv for family of 4: coachmen apex nano 194bhs.

Dry Weight (lbs): 3,634 Length: 22′ 8″ Width: 90″ Sleeping Capacity: 5* Starting Price: $36,036

The Coachmen Apex Nano 194BHS floorplan makes an excellent family travel trailer RV. It features a queen bed at the front of the camper and 30″ x 74″ bunk beds with 4-inch foam mattresses in the rear. The slide-out dinette converts into a bed that can sleep two more.

You’ll find a dry bath with a tub/shower combination, a medicine cabinet, and wardrobe storage in the bathroom.

The galley has a flush-mount dual-burner stove, microwave, a six cubic feet double door refrigerator, and a pantry. The sink is a single bowl stainless steel model with a flush mount cover.

The exterior includes pass-through storage, outside speakers, and an outdoor cooking area. The Coachmen Apex Nano offers sufficient space and amenities for a family of 4-6 people.

*NOTE: Even though the Coachmen Apex can sleep 4-6, we believe it is an excellent unit and one of the best small camper trailers for a family of four. It is easy to tow at approximately 22 feet in length, and we like the outdoor camp kitchen.

Learn more about the Coachmen Apex Nano 194BHS

Best airstream trailer for family of 4: caravel 20fb.

Dry Weight (lbs): 5,000 Length: 20′ 8″ Width: 7’7″ Sleeping Capacity: 4 Starting Price: $75,000

The best Airstream for a family of four is the Caravel 20FB . Assuming your family of four consists of two adults and two kids, it’s easy for the two kids to sleep on the dinette that converts to a bed.

The Airstream Caravel is not cheap, but has many features that make it an excellent family camper.

You will find a stainless steel gas stove with cast iron burners and a convection microwave oven in the kitchen. Baking and roasting are easy in a convection microwave.

Like all Airstreams, you get a gorgeous panoramic window for amazing outside views. With a spacious rear bath and Ultraleather seating, the Caravel is the most comfortable travel trailer for small families and everyone else.

Learn More About the Airstream Caravel 20FB .

Best travel trailer rv for large families of 8: rockwood ultra lite 2911bs.

Dry Weight (lbs): 9,270 Length: 36’6″ Width: 96″ Sleeping Capacity: 8-10 Starting Price: $46,000

The Rockwood Ultra Lite 2911BS fits the bill for those looking for a large family camper that can easily sleep eight people. This travel trailer is enormous both in features and size.

All-season features include a six-sided aluminum framed unit (side walls, end wall, front, floor and roof), radiant foil insulated underbelly and slide out floors, enclosed underbelly, electronically controlled heated holding tanks, and so much more.

Inside is where the Rockwood travel trailer shines. The bunk beds are larger than normal and may allow you to sleep with two small kids in 2 of the larger bunk beds.

In the master bedroom, you’ll find a walk-around queen-size bed with a wardrobe and optional entertainment/TV center.

There is tons of exterior storage space for all your belongings. Also, you’ll find an outside kitchen and a 20-foot awning.

This is not a small RV. But if you are looking for a large RV for your crew, you can’t go wrong with this Rockwood travel trailer for a family of eight.

Learn More About The Rockwood Ultra Lite 2911BS

Best 4-season trailer for family of six: northwood arctic fox 25y.

Dry Weight (lbs): 6,640 Length: 30′ Width: 8’6″ Sleeping Capacity: 6 Starting Price: $46,000

The Northwood Manufacturing Arctic Fox 25Y is a great-looking, very-well appointed family travel trailer. It easily sleeps six people with plenty of interior room due to its long slide-out.

The Arctic Fox 25Y is an all-season camper built on a Northwood-built, independently certified, off-road chassis.

It has a thick-wall aluminum-framed construction, all fully welded. These are some of the best travel trailers for year-round camping.

You also find heated holding tanks, R-15 reflective foil insulation, and an arched cathedral ceiling. Northwood includes a high-output 3-burner range in the galley with an oven. The large 10-cu. ft. refrigerator is a nice size with wooden door panels.

The queen bed, which sits at the front of the camper, has wardrobes on either side and overhead storage. You can easily walk around this bed and not have to crawl over your partner to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

Family Travel Trailer Reviews Summary

The RV lifestyle is something Tammy and I say is to be shared with family and friends. There are many fine family RVS to choose from, and too many to cover in one review article.

What’s most important to know is this: when purchasing a camper for your family, choose one that will suit your family’s camping needs and your budget.

We didn’t include any tent campers in our list simply because most don’t have bathrooms. They just aren’t convenient for a family with kids. However, if you are interested in them, check out our list of some of the best pop-up campers available.

Want a little more adventure? These seven off-road towable trailer campers may be more to your liking.

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12 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers and Campers Under 3,000 lbs in 2024

• Last Updated: May 28, 2024
• 24 minutes read

Searching for the ultimate best campers under 3000 lbs can feel like navigating a maze, especially with the myriad of options available.

However, having tested over a dozen of these lightweight travel trailers myself, I can confidently guide you through this landscape.

My journey through assessing each camper focused on not just the under 3000 lbs criterion but also on quality, durability, and the array of amenities these compact powerhouses offer.

The standout in my evaluation is the Jayco Jay Sport ​camping trailer, primarily due to its unmatched blend of comfort, functionality, and ease of towing.

It brilliantly balances the lightweight nature with the robust features most sought after by RV enthusiasts like myself, making it the top choice for anyone looking to hit the road without the weight dragging them down.

Based on my experience, the top campers are:

• Jayco Jay Sport : Best overall for its perfect balance of weight and features.
• Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro 19FD Travel Trailer : Great for eco-conscious travelers looking for modern amenities.
• Scamp 13’ Standard Trailer : Top pick for singles or couples, easy to tow with virtually any vehicle.
• United RV iCamp Elite : Excellent choice for stylish campers seeking a unique design.
• Barefoot Caravans Travel Trailer : Ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics and comfort in a compact form.
• Casita Travel Trailers Spirit Deluxe : Perfect small travel trailer for a family adventure, known for its durability.
• Happier Camper HC1 : Highly customizable, suiting diverse camping needs with a retro flair.
• Taxa Cricket Pop-up : Best for adventurers looking for pop-up roof flexibility and mobility.
• Lance 1575 Ultra Light Weight Trailer : Superior lightweight option for long road trips, without compromising on space.
• KZ Spree Escape Mini : Ideal for budget-minded travelers, offering essential features in a small package.
• Airstream Sport Travel Trailer : Luxurious and iconic, for those who want to travel in style.
• Taxa Mantis Trek Camper : Suited for the rugged explorer, blending comfort with off-road capability.

IN THIS ARTICLE

How We Selected The Best lightweight camper trailers Under 3,000 Lbs

Our top criteria for choosing the best small and light-weight travel trailers under 3,000 pounds was for a dry weight of less than 3,000 pounds.

The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) may be higher for some of the trailers on this list, but the capacity and actual weight will depend on the weight of the water and gear that you carry.

With a dry weight of less than 3,000 lbs, all of these amazing travel trailers are lightweight, even with standard equipment and features.

Just pack your cargo and fill up your fluids, and you’re ready to hit the road!

We also considered some important aspects of these lightweight travel trailers, beyond their low dry weight.

Some of the criteria we looked at included:

• Floorplan options for living and sleeping space (whether slide outs were available)
• Interior height and full trailer length
• Design features and upgrade options
• Quality of construction and interior materials
• Past customer reviews and experiences

12 Best Small And Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3,000 Lbs In 2021

There are lots of small travel trailers that have a dry weight of less than 3,000 pounds. For this list, I found a dozen of the best options, based on features, layouts and more. 

let’s take a look at the top 12 best Lightweight Travel Trailers and campers Under 3,000 Pounds on the market today.

1. Jayco Jay Sport Camping Tent Trailer

Most of the travel trailers on this list are hard campers, although some have slide-outs or pop-up rooftops.

The Jayco Jay Sport is a bit unusual, since it’s a tent trailer, which travels compact and then the ceiling pops up and sleeping bunks pop out at your campsite. 

A tent trailer can be far more lightweight than other trailers, and provides the added benefit of unrestricted views (fewer blind spots) through your rear-view mirror as you travel.

The Jayco Jay Sport has four available floor-plans, with different lengths of living spaces and interior configurations.

All of the floor-plans have a galley kitchen, two pop-out sleeping bunks, a convertible dinette (two dinettes are offered on the 12UD model), and different options for storage. The 12SC model has an additional sofa bed and pop-out.

All Jay Sport travel trailers have a dry weight of under 2,500 lbs, and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for the largest floorplan is still very low, at 3,375 pounds.

The drawback for this popup camper is that there’s no bathroom, however there is a porta-potti storage cabinet built in.

The 12SC model has an option for a shower/toilet combo available.

Jayco’s Jay Sport trailers feature wall-to-wall BeauFlor® flooring, 75-pound capacity drawers with ball-bearing guides, DuraTek™ water-repellant and sectionalized tents, and 1,050-pound rated beds.

Plus, the frame, roof, floor, tents, bed platform and lifter system are all backed by Jayco’s 5-year warranties.

Some of the cool add-on features for the Jay Sport trailer include an optional exterior grill and 10- or 12-foot screen room with privacy panels for an enclosed outdoor space.

In addition to the Jay Sport, Jayco has two other travel trailers that weigh less than 3,000; the Jay Flight SLX 195RB and the Jayco Hummingbird 17RB.

Key Features:

• Heavy-duty, corrosion resistant frame construction
• One piece fiberglass roof for better water runoff and superior leak prevention
• Residential cabinetry with doors and drawers
• Tinted vinyl windows with fine mesh screening
• Auxiliary 12V jack and privacy curtains for bunk ends
• 4″ one-piece heated bed mats
• Price: Starting at $9,500

2. Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro 19FD Travel Trailer

If you’re looking for light-weight camper trailer with lots of storage and versatile living space, look no further than the Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro 19FD model.

This small camper trailer has everything you need in a compact space at 20-feet long. The dry weight is 3,233 pounds , and has capacity for over 1,000 additional pounds for cargo, liquids, and people.

This trailer excels with design for maximum storage in a small space, with plenty of exterior storage beneath the interior wardrobe storage at the front of the trailer.

The Flagstaff E-Pro 19FD has a main queen sized bed that converts from a sofa into a murphy bed with a heated mattress for comfortable and versatile design.

The dinette is convertible into a secondary sleeping area that’s perfect for two kids or one adult.

You’ll have all of the kitchen amenities and bathroom facilities you need for comfort and convenience on the road with the Flagstaff E-Pro 19FD.

There’s a gas/electric water heater with quick recovery, a Water-Pur filtration system, and a complete kitchen with a gas oven, convection microwave, recessed 3-burner cooktop with flush mount cover and an auto gas/electric refrigerator.

The bathroom is a great size, with a toilet, sink and tub/shower combo for different bathing options. There’s also a linen closet.

Enjoy the great outdoors with the Flagstaff E-Pro 19FD’s thoughtfully-planned outdoor amenities, which include a 13-foot awning, an exterior gas griddle for cooking outdoors, and exterior speakers.

• 6-sided aluminum cage construction
• Vacuum-laminated roof and walls
• Spacious bathroom with a tub and linen closet
• Roof-mount solar panel
• WiFi Ranger Sky 4 WiFi booster, LTE-ready
• Price: Starting at $19,877

3. Scamp 13’ Standard Light Weight Travel Trailer

Select your Scamp 13′ travel trailer for extra sleeping accommodations or an indoor bathroom. 

There are two available layouts with a convertible dinette for either a standard or large main bed.

With one layout, you get a 2-bunk sleeping area at the front of the trailer, while the other offers an included bathroom with a toilet and shower and additional closet.

This compact, 13-foot travel trailer is extremely lightweight at only 1,200 pounds dry and 2,200 GVWR. It’s also one of the smallest and lightest trailers on this list. 

Despite the tiny size, there’s plenty of storage space with under-seat compartments and closets.

The kitchen features a two-burner propane stove, sink with flush cover, refrigerator and galley storage as well.

If you need more space or require both a bathroom and additional sleeping areas, Scamp’s 16’ trailer (1,750 – 2,000 lbs) or 19’ trailer (2,000 – 2,400 lbs) may be the ideal lightweight camper for you.

• Fiberglass construction
• Super insulation (R15)
• 11 gauge steel tube frame
• Plenty of storage in closet and under dinette seats, which converts to a bed
• Toilet and shower included with some floorplans
• Price: Starting at $11,500

4. United RV iCamp Elite Camper

One of the cutest travel trailers under 3,000 lbs I found on the market is the iCamp Elite from United Recreational Vehicles.

The body of this fully-laminated trailer is reinforced with aluminum tubing frames to keep it lightweight yet still incredibly durable.

The dry weight is 2,366 pounds and the GVWR is still under 3,000 pounds . It has a lovely Gelcoat high-gloss fiberglass exterior skin. 

Front pulling handles make it easy to maneuver the trailer into place over your towing hitch.

The iCamp Elite has a funky, retro interior design with wallpaper and high-grade plywood cabinetry that is finished with semi-gloss PU paint for durability and style.

Four layer laminated floors are installed throughout the trailer to improve insulation and also provide attractive visuals.

The iCamp Elite furniture is sandwich-structured with solid wood and high-grade plywood, and curved in design to allow maximum interior space.

In addition to offering fully-equipped trailer travel facilities, the iCamp Elite has a one-piece modular bathroom complete with a toilet and shower.

The kitchen has overhead cabinets for storage, with all of the necessary galley functions including a fridge, stainless steel sink, and two-burner cooktop with more storage below.

The single floorplan converts from a living area by day to a comfortable sleeping room at night. There’s an optional digital video/audio system as well.

• Aluminum tube framing reinforces the body
• Structural styrofoam laminated fiberglass exterior
• Overhead cabinets and wardrobe
• Modular fiberglass bathroom with a marine toilet
• Cool Cat 2-in-1 A/C and Heat Pump unit

5. Barefoot Caravans Travel Trailer

Barefoot Caravans is based in Great Britain, but they can ship their unique travel trailers to the U.S.

Since these camper trailers offer a one-of-a-kind design and comprehensive customization options, it may be worth the cost to bring your Barefoot trailer stateside.

The Barefoot travel trailer has attractive retro styling in a modern, classic caravan.

Each trailer is hand built with fiberglass on a specially designed chassis for lightweight, high-quality construction.

The caravan has a curved body for aerodynamics and beautiful style, and it’s available in a variety of colors. Inside, the floorplan is designed for convenience with a free-flowing, open layout.

Each Barefoot caravan is fully-equipped with all of the comforts of home, including a full galley kitchen with a combo sink and 2-burner stove, refrigerator and solid oak countertop space for food prep.

There’s a delightfully curved bathroom with a Dometic cassette toilet, basin, shower, cupboard, and mirror.

In the living space, there is plenty of storage and a wardrobe, USB charging stations and sockets, heating and hot water. 

The sofa converts into a large 6 x 6 foot bed to transform your living area into a comfortable sleeping area at night.

• Iconic British Design and a lovely range of available exterior and interior colors
• Truma Combi 4e heating and hot water system that works from gas or electric
• Polyvision Eco windows with fly screens and blinds, a polycarbonate front window, and a 400 x 400 MPK ventilated roof light
• Comprehensive electrical system including two 230 v sockets, a 12v socket, and a USB port
• LED lighting, ceiling lights, reading lights and floor lighting
• Price: Starting at £21,950

6. Casita Travel Trailers Spirit Deluxe small Travel Trailer

The Casita Spirit travel trailer  offers modern luxury in a tiny space. It’s in the middle of the line in terms of length and price, and with a dry weight of as little as 1,970 pounds and a GVWR of 3,500 pounds, this is a very lightweight and versatile trailer you can buy.

There are two dinette tables and both convert into sleeping areas, so there is comfortable seating and sleeping for up to six people.

The rear dinette converts into a double bed, while the side dinette has a large, fully-operational screened picture window to augment your dining experience.

The Casita Spirit has two different models and floorplans. The Standard model sleeps up to six, but it doesn’t have a bathroom.

The Deluxe model sleeps up to four people, and features a spacious bath and shower.

In the Deluxe model, the shower and toilet areas are separated to provide optimal privacy and functional convenience, since the shower and toilet can be in use by two people at the same time.

For bathroom ventilation, there are mesh screen windows and an industrial strength power fan roof vent.

Both Casita Spirit models have a three-burner stove, sink and refrigerator in the galley kitchen.

The spacious separate sitting and dining area with plush upholstered swiveling chairs provides a comfortable retreat for dining, reading, or even a mobile office.

• Marine-grade, two-piece fiberglass shell construction
• Heavy-duty steel frame and insulated interior
• Lightweight fiberglass interior furniture
• Nearly 50 cu. ft. of storage
• Option to add a 180-watt or 230-watt solar panel system
• Price: Starting at $18,424

7. Happier Camper HC1

Ultralight and compact, the Happier Camper is a fully-equipped lightweight travel trailer that offers ultimate flexibility and versatile use. 

With a dry weight of 1,100 pounds and capacity for up to 3,500 pounds of cargo, liquids and people, Happier Camper is one of the lightest camper trailer on the market which you can tow with it just about any vehicle.

The Happier Camper’s appeal is the highly flexible Adaptiv™ ecosystem design, which enables you to customize your trailer easily and quickly.

The interior can be reconfigured for camping, hauling, working and even vending at a farmer’s market.

The Adaptiv™ floor panels have frame-mounted D-ring tie-downs and table bases to rearrange the floorplan’s modular components with ease.

Each component is made from durable materials so that you can arrange them as you wish, stack them inside the camper, or even use them outdoors to expand your living space.

Ultimate customization makes the Happier Camper a perfect trailer for flexible living.

It comes equipped with 20” x 20” stackable storage cubes, a cushioned bench that converts into a bed, a convertible couch and bunk bed, a nesting table top, a cooler cube, countertops, a standard kitchenette and toilet.

• 100% double-hull insulated fiberglass shell
• Large rear hatch door makes it easy to load and unload supplies
• Ample storage throughout
• Panoramic Jalousie windows
• Off-grid and solar-ready
• Price: Starting at $24,950

8. Taxa Cricket Pop-up roof Camper

The cool modular design and aerodynamic construction of the Cricket Camper from TAXA offers a highly functional and flexible compact travel trailer for couples and families.

Taxa Cricket Pop-Up Roof Camper is one of the most lightweight trailers on this list, with a maximum capacity of 2,500 lbs even when packed with all of your cargo. The dry weight is 1,800 pounds.

It’s towable for most four-cylinder vehicles, and has everything you need in a compact space.

There’s a full-sized bed with storage underneath, a convertible cafe table with bench seats, refrigerator and stove/sink combo.

You can add several other options to make it more functional for your needs, including a portable toilet, shower tent, awning, up to two kids’ berths, an upgraded Dometic® refrigerator, THULE® load bars, a 5000 BTU window AC, and more.

The Cricket features TAXA’s NASA-inspired design with integrated plumbing and electrical systems, four swing windows with shades and screens and five mesh windows in the upper tent panels to allow wide-open views and a fresh breeze.

• Pop-up roof for optimized ventilation and protection
• Kynar-painted Aluminum Composite Panels (Aluminum alloy ASTM B 209)
• Acrylic, Insulated 32” x 20” panoramic windows with Screens & Shades
• 16.3 cu. ft. of under bed storage and 6 large cubbies in the kitchen for prep, cooking and storage
• Exterior shower with hot and cold water
• Solar input pre-wired with SAE light
• Price: Starting at $34,983

9. Lance 1575 Ultra Light Weight Travel Trailer

LANCE offers superior engineering and lightweight design with each of their travel trailers.

There are large windows and skylights to bring in nature and light, making the small space feel larger.

Equipped with LANCE’s “Super Slide” dinette, the 1575 model offers all of the features you need in a small, well-planned layout at just 2,775 lbs dry weight.

The Lance 1575 travel trailer is constructed with solid Azdel™ engineering to keep it lightweight, with Lite-Ply™ to keep the walls and cabinets durable and still low-weight. 

The interior is completely redesigned with glazed cabinet doors, stunning table and countertops.

LANCE offers an interactive decor selector so that you can customize your travel trailer’s interior.

In addition to the “Super Slide” dinette, the floorplan has a fully equipped galley kitchen with a flush-mounted three-burner cooktop, stainless steel range hood with a light and fan, 5 cu. ft. double-door fridge, residential-style single undermount sink with pull-out sprayer and cover, and overhead cabinetry with accent lighting.

The bed has a Dlx queen innerspring pillow top mattress, and the bathroom has an adjustable slide bar shower head, marine toilet with foot pedal, black tank flush and skylight.

• Aluminum Framed Sidewalls/Floor/Ceiling
• Azdel Interior Panel Walls
• Block Foam Insulation Throughout
• Tapered Exterior Roof Design
• 12V/USB Charging Port(s), AM/FM/DVD Stereo with Interior and Exterior Speakers
• Price: Starting at $27,995

10. KZ Spree Escape Mini Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailer

The KZ Spree Escape Mini is a lightweight travel trailer that offers everything you could want in an RV, without the heavy towing to slow you down.

At just over 2,800 pounds dry weight and a 3,500-lbs GVWR maximum capacity, you can enjoy the flexibility of comfortable living on the road without having to haul a heavy trailer.

There are four available floorplans, with different sized bathrooms and options for a dinette or sofa in the living space.

The convertible dining area has a sizable tabletop and wide window views. In the kitchenette, there’s a two-burner gas cooktop, convection microwave, pantry, and 4 CU FT refrigerator.

Tinted windows have pleated shades for privacy, maple wood interior construction makes the trailer feel like home, and residential linoleum resists temperature extremes so you can travel comfortably in most environments.

KZ’s Spree Escape Mini has a full bath with a foot-flush toilet, shower, sink and vanity, counter space, storage, outlet access, and skylight for  ventilation and natural light.

If you’re traveling with your Spree Escape Mini in remote destinations, you might consider KZ’s off-road package, which includes 15″ mud tires, extra ground clearance, an electronically-controlled heated holding tank, and a double entry step.

Key Features: 

• Power Awning w/LED Light Strip
• Tinted Windows
• R-7 Insulation
• Amish-Crafted Rustic Maple Cabinets and Rail-Style Cabinet Doors with Modern Handles
• Mesh Storage Pockets
• Price: Starting at $12,725

11. Airstream Sport Travel Trailer

Airstream has been building quality travel trailers for decades, and RVers love the sleek design and functional travel living features.

The Airstream Sport is the compact version, offering all of Airstream’s advantages in a smaller, lighter design at 2,860 pounds dry weight.

There are two floorplans available for the Airstream Sport. However, the 22FB model has a dry weight of 3,634 and is therefore on the heavier end of the travel trailers featured on this list.

So, the 16RB model would be better if you want a small and lightweight travel trailer that’s under 3,000 lbs.

Both floorplans offer a dedicated sleeping space, convertible dinette for additional sleeping capacity, an on-board bathroom and a kitchenette equipped with all of the essentials.

There’s a built-in refrigerator, two-burner stove and sink with covers to extend your prep space.

The Airstream Sport comes with a microwave, and there’s an option to have a convection microwave instead to expand your cooking abilities for roasting and grilling.

The overhead lockers, lower cabinets and drawers offer convenient and spacious storage for cooking ware, dishes, and utensils.

The larger (and heavier) Airstream Sport 22FB has a large bathroom in the rear of the trailer, complete with a shower, built-in shower seat, vanity with cabinets and toilet.

The 16RB trailer has a European-style bathroom with a shower, toilet, and sink and features a pass-through door in the exterior wall to enable shower use indoors and out.

The Airstream Sport travel trailer gives you plenty of versatility and storage so that you can maximize your time in the great outdoors with a retractable awning and an exterior storage locker for your gear.

• Fluorocarbon Treated UV Protected Aluminum Exterior with Handcrafted Welded Extruded Aluminum Window Frames
• Ultraleather Seating and pillow-top memory foam mattress
• Strategically placed USB ports and 110V outlets
• DVD player and JVC Stereo with Bluetooth®
• Optional 90w Solar Package with Interior Monitor and AGM Battery
• Price: Starting at $48,900

12. Taxa Mantis Trek Camper

In addition to the Cricket, TAXA has another small travel trailer model that comes in at less than 3,000 pounds dry weight.

The Mantis Trek Camper is a bit longer at 19 feet, with more interior space for sleeping, cooking, dining and relaxing.

The living space features convertible lounge seating with storage underneath, which transforms into a full-sized bed.

There are two bunks at the front of the trailer to accommodate two more adults, and the Mantis has the capacity to sleep up to six people with the roof-top tent.

Other features of the Mantis include 12V USB accessory outlets inside and out, an 8-foot patio awning, and a rear door hatch for each access and ventilation.

The Mantis has a birch wood kitchen complete with a Dometic® sink and two-burner stove combo, fridge, and hot water system.

There’s a wet bath with a cassette toilet, and the trailer even has an exterior shower with both hot and cold water.

• Kynar-painted Aluminum Composite Panel construction
• Laser Cut Powder Coated Steel Skeleton
• Acrylic, Insulated Windows with Screens & Shades
• Pop-up roof for optimized ventilation, roof-top tent
• Solar Input Pre-Wired with SAE Light
• Price: Starting at $46,167

Advantages Of A Travel Trailer Under 3000 Lbs

The primary advantage of lightweight travel trailers that weigh less than 3,000 pounds is that you can tow them with a smaller SUV or van.

In some cases, the smaller and more lightweight trailers like the Happier Camper HC1 can even be towed by a sedan.

All of the travel trailers on this list come in at less than 3,000 pounds dry weight, so that you don’t have to upgrade your towing vehicle and you can still travel in comfort.

The only real difference is size, but these travel trailers are specially designed to make the most of a tiny space with versatile features and functions.

Many components can be transformed or used for multiple purposes, and therefore minimize the amount of stuff taking up space.

Some of the other benefits of a lighter camper include:

Easier driving and maneuvering

Functional, comfortable living space that fits into any campsite

Improved gas mileage due to less towing weight

Affordability (reduced up-front investment)

Enhanced off-road capability

Have You Picked Your Favorite Ultra-Lightweight Travel Trailer?

All of the lightweight travel trailers on this list are equipped with the most important components for comfortable living on the road.

Your choice will really come down to your needs regarding sleeping capacity, the GVWR and your towing vehicle’s capabilities, and your budget.

There are dozens of add-on features and upgrades offered with these travel trailers, enabling you to create the perfect mobile environment for living and adventuring on the road.

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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I am new at Lite RVing. Just purchased a Coleman 17B which I intend to pull with my 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness. I also have a Toyota Tundra V8, 2002. I have been a long time Tent Camper age 76. I am looking for Camping off road. I plan on hitting all the State Parks in Texas along with the National Parks. I am a retired Disabled Marine, who has slowed down a bit, but grew up in hills of Kentucky and the Smokey Mountain region. I have never lost my love for adventure and nature. Hugh

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6 Great Small Campers for Families of 5

by Annie Thomas | Mar 31, 2021 | Family Travel , Resources , RV Travel | 0 comments

There is no denying that RVs have increased in popularity since 2020 had us all rethinking what travel would mean for the future.  Jumping into a new hobby with a purchase in the tens of $1000s can be intimidating to anyone. A few considerations before heading to the RV dealer or buying from a previous owner:

• If you are pulling a camper, do your own research to understand the weight your vehicle should pull is important for the long term health of that vehicle and your towing experience
• Study what will work for your family for at least the next few years in terms of beds and layout.
• Resist the urge to go bigger and longer with your first towing experience unless you know you and your vehicle are comfortable with it.
• When you find a particular model you like, always look it up on the company website to see if there is a variation that is similar but even more your preference in the current or recent years of models.
• Depending on where you plan to camp, you may want to keep your camper under 25 feet to fit in some national parks
• If you are purchasing an RV with an engine (Class A, B or C), do your research on where you can get repairs done, what warranties are available and what to expect in your first several years for maintenance.

If you are new the RV world, you may be surprised to find there are many types of campers.  In this article, I’m sharing the following styles:

• Coachmen Freedom Ultra Lite  238BHS
• Grey Wolf 19SM
• Keystone Outback Ultra Lite 21 OURS
• Grand Design Imagine XLS 24 MPR
• Keystone Bullet Crossfire 1650EX
• Gulf Stream Conquest 6237

There are also a few acronyms listed below that require explaining:

• Hitch Weight:  (aka tongue weight) is the weight applied at point the tongue (coupler) of the trailer meets the hitch of the towing vehicle.  This is very important to consider before purchasing a trailer for smooth pulling and wear on your towing vehicle.
• UVW:  Unloaded Vehicle Weight is the dry (no fluids) weight when completed by manufacturer
• GVWR:  Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the maximum loaded weight of the camper including fluids
• CCC:  Cargo Carrying Capacity (approximately GVWR – UVW) is the maximum weight that can be added to the camper for safe travel

Please use these recent models to test out your towing math and consider different layouts that may work for your family of five as they grow:

Coachmen Freedom Ultra Lite Travel Trailer 238BHS

What to Love:

• Murphy Bed option for Master bed that gives extra hang out space for families
• Plenty of dining space with an 88″ dinette that can become a nearly full size bed
• Pantry and storage space creatively tucked into most corners
• Optional outdoor sink and cooktop
• Flip up kitchen countertop extensions
• 40″ Swivel TV maximizes family use
• “Night light” features under dinette and stove knobs to get around in the dark
• Solid outdoor steps
• Comfortable seating with cup holders and USB ports
• Movable dining table for ease of use
• Bunks have outlets and USB ports

• Little privacy for master
• Inconvenience of putting the murphy bed up/down
• Not at all seating may have best TV view
• Kids using bunk beds will need to create storage system below bunks or in main area

Grey Wolf 19SM Travel Trailer

• Devoted beds for five with room to sleep three more on dinette and sofa
• Bathroom cabinet
• Wide single bowl farm style sink with cutting board countertop extender
• Movable faucet with built in soap pump at kitchen sink
• Additional cutting board that stores behind stove
• Three burner stove
• Sturdy entry steps
• Nice size windows around bed
• Cargo rack on back for bikes, etc
• Backup Camera
• Charging stations around beds
• Optional “Juice Pack” with rooftop solar panels

• Dinette will not accommodate 5 people, but sofa is in proximity for additional seating
• Curtains for privacy for bedrooms in small trailers
• No built in TV
• No exterior cooking option
• Bunk queen is RV queen (53″ x 75″), but master is full queen (60″ x 80″)

Keystone Outback Ultra Lite 21 OURS Travel Trailer

• King size bed slide out
• Wide single bowl sink with drying rack
• Fold up bunk for additional storage access
• Storage in the bathroom
• TV visible from master bed
• Good ratio of storage to space
• Bicycle storage door
• Two decor color schemes
• 60 gallon fresh water tank
• up to 10 cubic foot fridge capacity

• Two single bunks means a third child will need to use the sofa sleeper
• Dining is ok for four people (certainly of two are children), but will likely also use couch for seating
• No exterior kitchen option

Grand Design Imagine XLS 24 MPR – Toy Hauler

• Large gray water tank allows for more dish washing, showering and casual water use
• Prepped for back up camera
• Quick recovery water heater
• Deep stainless steel sink and pull down sprayer faucet
• Extendable countertop
• Off road tires
• Solid, aluminum exterior steps
• Full size residential walk in shower and bathroom with counter and cabinet space
• Sliding door into garage area
• Sink and storage area within garage for bunk users

• Smaller fresh water tank means you’ll need to consider proximity to water source and length of use
• Dinette is telescoping (meaning it folds out of the way for more space), but also means there is no traditional dinette
• In order to have a toy hauler of this size, there will be less storage within the non-garage portion of the trailer
• This size and weight of trailer is probably best for someone with some towing confidence
• Due to murphy bed configuration, there is minimal privacy in this trailer

Keystone Bullet Crossfire 1650EX – Pop Out Trailer

• Standard power tongue jack
• Hot and Cold outdoor shower
• Power Awning, outdoor speakers, and LED lights
• Pop out queen nearest door has curtain, individual light and USB and 110 Volt plug in
• Shower contains small tub for smaller kids
• Bathroom counter space
• Stove top comes covered for increased counter space
• Larger fridge/freezer space than traditional pop outs

• Reduced storage inside and out compared to larger models
• Less fresh water tank space than other trailer models
• This type of unit is meant to encourage time outside and discourages kids having permanent, private space within camper
• If price point is the goal, this is still near other small travel trailers, but it’s difficult to find this much bed space for the size/price.

Gulf Stream Conquest 6237 Class C Motorhome

• Raised master queen bed and bath area that break up small space for feeling of privacy
• Spacious horseshoe dinette that converts to bed
• Storage built in overhead in master bed, over dinette, around cab, in bunk area, kitchen cabinets and a wardrobe with closet space and drawers
• Large exterior storage in back
• Foldable stove covering to maximize countertop
• Overhead reading lights and plug in options at top of master bed

What to Consider:

• Class C Motorhomes are equipped with seatbelts in the banquet to allow everyone to travel inside.  Do your research on how this works for the size, age and weight of your child and car seat needs.
• This model is not new and older versions are available.  When assessing a Class C, you’re considering not only how the space works, but also the health and age of the engine and other upkeep required.
• Class C is a much larger investment than a trailer and consideration not only in price point, but how long you believe the model can serve your family is important

Happy Camper Shopping

I hope this gives you a comparison of what “smaller” campers are available that can still serve a family of 5 or more.  If you currently drive or pull a fantastic small camper that fits this criteria, let me know so I can add it to this list.  And, of course, Happy Camping!

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Best Lightweight Travel Trailers

Looking for a lightweight travel trailer to accompany you on your road trips? They're the perfect towable trailer that pretty much any car can take along for the ride.

Of course lightweight trailers compromise on certain things, such as space and luxuries, but they make up on many other aspects, including getting into areas where bigger, more family-sized travel trailers can't.

They're equipped with beds and a kitchen and various other features that vary from model to model, and they give you a base to crash when you really want to get away from it all. 

But which are the best lightweight travel trailers? And why do they stand out? In this review, we look at some of the best models on the market. We've also included a guide in what to look for when shopping for one.

And if you have any unanswered questions we've added an FAQ section dedicated to all things lightweight travel trailers. 

What we love

• Integrated electric, plumbing, and pre-wired solar input
• Stove and large counters for cooking, prepping and eating
• Holding capacity of 15 gallons fresh and 16 gallons grey water in the tanks
• Pop-up roof for enhanced cross ventilation to avoid stuffy indoor situations
• Easily towable with a 4 cylinder vehicle including small trucks, SUVs or even a Sedan

Quick Specs

• Sleeps: 2 adults and 2 kids
• Number of Floorplans: 1 story
• Length: 15’
• Width: 6'7"
• Weight: 1800lbs.

The TAXA Cricket Camper is an incredible travel trailer . It is 15’ long and could be easily parked in a garage or in camping spaces. It is structured with Aluminum Composite panels and features a non-slip patterned flooring, which gives it a strong and dependable laser cut design. 

The design elements are stylish, lightweight, and sturdy. The Cricket is equipped with a combo furnace, a water heater, and a refrigerator . The café table is large enough to hold family meals or other activities. 12V USB onboard outlets are suitable for charging and powering devices. 

The pop-up roof is a great addition that allows cross ventilation and keeps the temperature inside the trailer pleasant with the help of a 12V exhaust fan. The interior is equipped with LED lighting and reading lights illuminating the insides when needed. 

It has full-sized beds as well as facing seats for a wide and broad sitting area. The trailer is secured with electric brakes as well as wireless brake controllers to avoid bumping into the towing car and mishaps. 

Runner-up: Happier Camper HC1

• 100% 1.5” honeycomb fiberglass construction
• Multiple windows and large rear hatch for breezy ventilation
• Solar power enabled trailer ready to function off-grid as well
• Customizable interior with modular components are suited to needs
• Towable with most standard cars and can be parked in a single parking spot
• Sleeps: 5 people
• Number of Floorplans: Unlimited, you can design the interiors however you want
• Number of Slide-Outs: Depends on your choice of added components
• Length: 10’
• Width: 6’6”
• Weight: 110-150lbs.

At first, the small size of the Happier Camper HC1 may seem insufficient, but once you take a deeper look, it is anything but. The small and compact size is made of very durable fiberglass that has a high strength to weight ratio. There are multiple shaded windows to give you a view of the outside. 

Secondly, the HC1 is incredibly versatile. You can change it into anything you want it to. With the modular components, the interior could be designed whichever way you desire to suit your needs. Select the right equipment, components, and interior objects to make it suitable for anything from camping and hauling to a guest quarter. 

The grooved floor design holds the customizable components securely in place like pieces of Lego. The HC1 is super exciting to travel in. You can make use of the space however you want. It combines form and function into one trailer and gives you an authentic camping experience.

Best for the Money: Winnebago Micro Minnie

• Solar prepped with LED lighting for interior
• Pet-friendly with enough space and mounted bowls for food and water
• A great number of safety measures make your stay safe and enjoyable
• Azdel Fiberglass construction with welded aluminum sidewalls and floor
• Fully equipped bathroom and kitchen along with water heaters, a TV and a wall-mounted thermostat
• Sleeps: Variable; minimum 3
• Number of Floorplans: 16
• Number of Slide-Outs: 1; Exterior Sliding/Removable Outside Kitchen in select models.
• Length: Varies; smallest 18’4”.
• Weight: Varies; lightest 2437 lb.

Forest River R-Pod understands when you say safety and utility like home. This trailer is versatile and fully secure. It has strong locks to block out any unwelcome intruders, a smoke alarm, a CO detector, and an LP detector to warn against potential leaks. 

Other than that, it has all the interior equipment to make it as comfortable for you as possible with a TV , a thermostat to regulate temperature, a central vacuum, and an air conditioner . In addition to a wet bath available on all models, some models also carry a dry bath. In some models, the kitchen may also be extended out. The queen-sized beds are comfortable and large enough to sleep up to 3 people. 

Additionally, the lightweight travel trailer has a wide dinette for comfortable meals, which may also be used for various other activities. The camper also boasts a premium look to it with a stylish interior and sturdy exterior. Overall, this model will go where you want it to and take care of your needs while you enjoy your time.

Best Lightweight Fiberglass Travel Trailer: Aliner Travel Trailer

Lightweight Travel Trailers - Compact, Cozy and Cool Campers

Travel trailers are a modern travel solution. Lightweight trailers are gaining popularity due to their ease of maintenance, versatility, and fully functional experiences.

Many lightweight models are available with innumerable choices to select from according to the traveler’s needs. We recommend all of the above, but don't let this be your only research. After all, it's a big investment, not just in money, but you want to get it right, because you'll hopefully be spending a lot of time in it.

Whichever lightweight camper you go for, we're sure you'll love its versatility. Happy camping!

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Top 7 Lightweight Travel Trailers

Do you prefer a lightweight camper compared to a heavy and more difficult to tow RV? Lightweight travel trailers offer a tow weight less than 3,500 pounds making it an easy to tow trailer while still being packed with features that make for a comfortable, relaxing and fun camping adventure.

In this blog, we discuss six different lightweight trailer floor plans that offer plenty of features and are built with quality construction so everyone can find the perfect lightweight RV that fits their needs.

7 Best Lightweight Travel Trailer RVs Under 3,500 Pounds

• Winnebago Hike 170S
• Prime Time RV Avenger LT 16BH
• Keystone RV Springdale 1750RD
• Gulf Stream RV Friendship 199DD
• Forest River RV Cherokee Wolf Pup 16TS
• Coachmen RV Apex Nano 185BH
• Forest River RV Rockwood GEO Pro 19BH

Winnebago Hike 170S – Starts at $36,097

The Winnebago Hike is a small travel trailer with a dry weight of 3,260 pounds and is 20’7.5” in length. It comes standard with desirable features that make it a luxury, but lightweight camper.

It comes with off-road tires and fenders which provide an easier experience when traveling through rocky or difficult roads. The exoskeleton allows for kayaks, bikes and more to be attached to the roof of the RV so your favorite gear can always go wherever you are. The Hike offers a modern interior that is inviting and stylish.

Other features include an LED TV, wireless phone charger, USB charge ports, WiFi prep and more. Start shopping for the Winnebago Hike here . 

Prime Time RV Avenger LT 16BH – Starts at $21,139

The Prime Time Avenger is a great starter RV for small families or campers who prefer a smaller and more lightweight RV. It weighs 3,033 pounds and is 20’7” long.

This model offers a double bed and bunks for extra sleeping space, a two-burner cooktop and a small kitchen sink and bathroom. The bed area has one nightstand that features a USB port and 110V power outlets. There is overhead cabinet storage as well as large under-bed storage for more storage space.

The Avenger also comes with safety glass windows, 12V electrical system with 40 AMP and oversized holding tanks. The freshwater tank holds 38 gallons and the gray and black water tanks each hold 30 gallons.  Shop for the Prime Time Avenger here at Campers Inn RV !

Keystone RV Springdale 1750RD – Starts at $27,002

The Keystone Springdale is 3,414 pounds and 21’5” in length and can sleep up to four people. It has a queen-sized bed and a u-shaped dinette offering plenty of space for families or couples camping together.

The kitchen galley space comes with lots of storage including a pantry. There are pressed countertops and a single basin undermount sink with a stainless-steel drying rack and a high-rise spring pull-out kitchen faucet. If the Keystone Springdale is right for you, start shopping here . 

Gulf Stream RV Friendship 199DD– Starts at $23,683

The Gulf Stream Friendship is a 20’11” long, 3,100-pound travel trailer. Its standard features include 30 AMP svc with 45 AMP converter/charger, monitor panel, safety chains and more.

This floorplan offers a corner, queen bed, full bath, booth style dinette and overhead storage throughout the RV as well as a shelf and shirt closet in the bedroom and vinyl flooring.

The kitchen features laminated countertops, craft-made cabinetry, and a high-rise kitchen faucet with a white sink. Some amenities showcased include a microwave oven, an electric refrigerator and a two-burner gas cook-top

The Gulf Stream Friendship 199DD has many features and amenities packed into this ultra-lite travel trailer. Shop for the Gulf Stream Friendship here ! 

Forest River RV Cherokee Wolf Pup 16TS – Starts at $25,912

The Forest River Cherokee Wolf Pup offers a compact floorplan that combines comfort and efficiency. The dry weight is 3,204 pounds and it is 21’9” in length. Because this is a lightweight unit, it can have smaller tow vehicles compared to large trucks.

It has a small bathroom, queen bed, kitchen and a dinette. This model is a smaller trailer, so it is ideal for couples or solo travelers. The overhead cabinets throughout the interior offer plenty of storage.

The exterior of the Cherokee Wolf Pup comes with a full-size power awning, LED lighting, RV quick connect and more. Start shopping for a Cherokee Wolf Pup here . 

Coachmen RV Apex Nano 185BH – Starts at $25,568

The Coachmen Apex Nano is a great RV for campers with a tow vehicle that has a low tow weight. It is just under 3,000 pounds at 2,870 pounds and is 20’7” long. It is perfect for small families, couples or solo travelers.

There is a double bed in the front and bunks in the bath. There is a small bathroom, kitchen and a dinette. The kitchen features a stainless-steel single bowl sink with flush mount cover, flush-mount two-burner cooktop, 6 cubic foot double door fridge and a microwave. These appliances give campers the ability to cook their meals on the road and store all ingredients and leftovers as well.

It is built with an aluma-cage construction, vacuum-bonded, aluminum trussed roof and safety glass windows. Start shopping for the Apex Nano here . 

Forest River RV Rockwood GEO Pro 19BH – Starts at $31,536

This floorplan offers a 54-inch by 74-inch full bed, 26-inch by 74-inch bunk beds, full bath and a 32-inch dinette. There is overhead storage throughout the RV as well as a shelf with netting above the bed.

Some exterior features this RV has to offer include magnetic baggage doors, an outdoor shower, griddle with LP hookup, speakers, power awning, tinted frameless windows and more.

The Rockwood Geo Pro has many features and amenities pack ed into this travel trailer. Start shopping for your Rockwood Geo Pro 19BH here ! 

Additional Resources

RVers just want to find the best RV for them. Something that fits their lifestyle, budget and towing restrictions. These lightweight travel trailers give campers the opportunity to experience awesome adventures at a low weight and budget-friendly price.

If you have a vehicle with a higher tow weight but are still interested in travel trailers, check out The Best Travel Trailers for Families . 

Do you prefer a larger RV? Learn more about the 5 Top of the Line Fifth Wheel RV Brands . 

Tags: RV Shopping , Travel Trailer

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13 Best Travel Trailers for Road Trips and Camping

Hit the open road and camp in comfort with the best travel trailers.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

With so many brands, sizes, and amenities to choose from, it can be difficult to know which travel trailer is right for your next adventure in the great outdoors . Paige Bouma, executive vice president of sales and operations of Trader Interactive, knows a thing or two about RV travel. She has been taking RV vacations with her family for years, often traveling for 30 weekends a year. According to Bouma, towable RVs (like travel trailers) are great for camping , and there are a number of choices to consider. "Families looking to experience the great outdoors have several choices when it comes to trailers they can tow behind their car, SUV, or pickup," she said. "The traditional travel trailer comes in a variety of lengths and weights, and provides a multitude of amenities and a sleeping capacity for any size family to go camping."

With this in mind, we've rounded up 13 of the best travel trailers so you can plan your next road trip . Whether you're a first-timer looking for tips to get started or a frequent traveler trying to decide on your next RV rental , this list includes fan favorites like Airstream, Winnebago, and Jayco travel trailers, ranging from luxury vehicles to small and lightweight campers.

1. Airstream Classic Smart Trailer

Airstream travel trailers are among the most luxurious, spacious, and advanced towable RVs. They say not to mess with a good thing, but Airstream's new and improved Classic Travel Trailer is an exception. This elegant and roomy travel trailer is best for long trips, with lots of space and innovative amenities, like a heated bathroom and handcrafted cabinetry. Now, this iconic trailer has smart-control technology, allowing you to adjust the lights, awning, and air-conditioning as well as monitor propane, battery, and tank levels from your phone. This trailer can be between 30 and 33 feet long and can sleep up to five people with four different floor plans. Airstream is currently working on more improvements for future RVs, including off-road capabilities and advanced electric vehicle compatibility.

2. Winnebago Micro Minnie

Winnebago travel trailers are beloved in the RV world, and the Winnebago Micro Minnie is one of their most popular options, even winning the RV News Top Lightweight Towable Trailers Award in 2021. This compact, seven-foot-wide trailer offers a number of floor plans to choose from, with features like a spacious kitchen with a sink, a double-door refrigerator, a microwave, and a cooktop. Each floor plan also has windows designed for cross ventilation. With a starting weight of 3,360 pounds , the Micro Minnie is the perfect tow for electric vehicle owners. It also comes solar-ready, with a spacious, walkable roof. With certain packages, the trailer even includes off-road tires, perfect for the boondock explorer. Once you've settled into your campground, take the fun outside with its patio speakers and a power awning featuring LED lighting.

3. Jayco Jay Flight

The Jayco Jay Flight has been a family favorite for years. This travel trailer has a large range of floor plans, offering options with luxurious kitchens featuring stainless steel appliances, comfortable seating, spacious lounge areas, and more. Jayco's elite package offers solar prep, which, depending on your rig, comes with corresponding batteries, inverters, and Go Power! kits for sidewall and roof-mount prep. It's important to keep in mind that certain floor plans may exceed an electric vehicle's towable weight limit. Jayco prides itself on its craftsmanship and construction so you know this trailer can handle any adventure you embark upon.

4. TAB Teardrop Camper

If you're looking for a small travel trailer, the TAB Teardrop Trailer might be the best choice for you. This nuCamp RV is perfect if you're traveling alone or with a partner. It is compact, but still has amenities such as a wet bath, a kitchen, and a dining area that converts to beds. Available with the TAB Teardrop Trailer is the Boondock Package, which includes everything for your off-roading needs, including the Boondock Aluminum Platform, aggressive off-road tires, heady duty entry door step, and much more. The Convenience Package comes with a solar roof package, perfect for electric vehicles.

5. Happier Camper Traveler

The new, lightweight Traveler trailer from Happier Camper has vintage vibes and flexible, modular seating to accommodate the needs of anyone hitting the road. This travel trailer has a floor grid and Adaptiv components so you can customize your space with areas for sleeping, dining, lounging, and more. Plus, it's towable by standard cars so you don't need a large SUV. The Happier Camper Traveler is 17 feet long with 85 square feet of walkable floor space — the layout is up to you, thanks to the modular design.

6. KZ Durango Half-Ton

The KZ Durango Half-Ton RV is a fifth wheel trailer that offers eight unique floor plans, complete with a washer and dryer, maple-glazed farmhouse-style carpentry, an electric fireplace, a double-door refrigerator, and so much more. KZ offers an "Off The Grid" package, which includes solar panels for their already solar-ready roof. The Durango Half-Ton is perfect for full-time traveling or a weekend getaway with the whole family.

7. Casita Spirit

As far as lightweight travel trailers go, the Casita Spirit is a great option for families on the go. This trailer can sleep three to five people, with dinettes that convert into double and single beds. The Spirit comes in two 17-foot models, while add-on options include roller shades, a furnace, and more. Casita offers a plethora of internal and external add-ons, including — but not limited to — solar panels, a surge protector, and an Anderson "No Sway" Distribution Hitch, as well as a maintenance tool kit to be used inside or outside the trailer.

8. Keystone Hideout

Keystone touts the Hideout as a perfect travel trailer for first-timers. The Hideout has several sizes and floor plans, and it comes with a three-year limited structural warranty, LTE and Wi-Fi antenna, tinted windows, high-quality kitchen appliances, and more. Most floorplans are towable by standard cars, however, the model's heft makes it durable to sustain off-road bumps and swerves. The Hideout features a walkable roof and multiple options for SolarFlex™ solar panels, providing high-quality energy great for electric vehicles.

9. Forest River Alpha Wolf

The lightweight Alpha Wolf trailer from Forest River's Cherokee line was named "Best in Show" by RV News in 2018. According to the Forest River site, the Cherokee Alpha Wolf "offers the best mix of floor plan diversity and top-shelf amenities while at the same time creating a tougher, lighter, better insulated shell." The interiors of this travel trailer look beautiful and modern while providing areas to cook, relax, and dine. Alpha offers multiple packages to personalize your trailer experience, including the Juice Package for all your solar needs.

10. Grand Design Reflection

If you're looking for a towable luxury RV with great value, the Reflection by Grand Design might be right for you. This trailer offers a beautifully designed kitchen, a spacious shower with a glass door, and more. The RV comes with a mandatory Solar Package, 4-Season Protection Package, Peace of Mind Package, and the Ultimate Power Package, with additional add-on packages available to make your Reflections RV experiences as comfortable as possible. This RV is great for owners of electric SUVs and for those who wish to go off-road.

11. Opus OP 15 Hybrid

Looking for a spacious, lightweight, off-road trailer? Then look no further than the Opus OP 15. This hybrid, family-friendly trailer comes fully loaded with a king-size bed, twin bunk beds, an indoor bathroom, a four-burner stove, off-road and alloy tires, and solar panels. The interior is decorated with bamboo cabinetry and features 6'6'' of headroom. The Opus OP 15 was designed specifically to be an off-road, off-grid getaway while remaining easy to use for families and first-timers.

12. Alto Series F2414

Alto's Series F2414 travel trailer is designed to make hitch traveling with an electric vehicle easier than ever before. The trailer comes packed with four beds that can be converted to dining/lounge areas, a full kitchen, a small bathroom, and furniture that can be moved for outdoor fun. It sleeps five comfortably, six with the purchase of an additional electric bed. The interior design takes some inspiration from European trailers while maintaining an all-American flair. Solar panels can be purchased for an additional cost. The F2414 is towable by most SUVs.

13. Polydrops P17A

If you're looking to travel in something high-tech that will undoubtedly turn heads, look no further than Polydrop's P17A1 trailer. This California-made vehicle is specifically engineered to be the most aerodynamic travel trailer on the market. Its unique design and lightweight frame lend it to unlimited possibilities. The P17A's minimalist design comes fully insulated with built-in solar panels, storage, built-in speakers, a kitchenette, an awning, a control panel (for LEDs, air conditioning, chargers, and more), and a full-size mattress. This trailer was made to work hand-in-hand with electric vehicles, with its design specifically created to use less electricity, allowing for more travel and less charging time. Though one of the smaller trailers on this list, the P17A1 is sure to impress even the most traditional trailer travelers.

Related Articles

10 Best Travel Trailers For A Family of 5

Looking for a big travel trailer that can accommodate your entire family during the day and during the night? Well, look no more. We have done the research and compiled a list below of the best travel trailers for those with a family of five.

Let’s begin. 

Table of Contents

Top Travel Trailers For A Family of 5

Coachmen clipper 17bhs .

This is one of the greatest trailers for families because it can sleep five adults if you like. How? It has a massive full bed, two bunks, plus a convertible dinette.

Several things stand out about this trailer. They include a large bathroom that comes with a toilet and a shower. This is perfect as it allows you to go to the toilet at any time of the day (no need to visit a campground toilet in the middle of the night). It also allows you to take a shower at any time of the day. 

This trailer’s kitchen also stands out because of its many features including a large dinette, laminated countertops, a deep sink, a two-burner stove, a microwave, and a refrigerator (3 cu. ft.).

This machine has a freshwater capacity of 33 gallons. This may be the only thing you need to upgrade if you want to enjoy camping with a large family in this camper.

Prime Time Xtreme 170BHS (2019)

This is a big and spacious 22-feet long trailer. It is fantastic for families as it has six sleeping zones. The sleeping zones include a front bedroom with a big bed for two and large bunk beds for your kids.

You or your partner can easily prepare food for everyone in this vehicle’s spacious kitchen. The kitchen is not only spacious but also has excellent features including a microwave, a big refrigerator, a two-burner cooktop, and large countertops. On top of the kitchen, there is a skylight that provides plenty of natural lighting.

There are two showers in this vehicle – one is interior and the other is exterior.

Another highlight of this RV is its exterior pass-through storage that allows you to carry all that you need.

Prime Time Navi 16BH (2019)

This Prime Time trailer is perfect for small families just like the one above. Five people can sleep in comfort in it – two on the main bed, two on the two bunks, and one on the dinette.

One thing that is in plenty in this trailer apart from sleeping areas is storage. This trailer has plenty of storage areas including cabinets all around the trailer and an oversized shelf.

There is a large window by this trailer’s dinette that makes the dinette perfect eating and relaxing corner.

There is an indoor BT soundbar that allows you to play music from any Bluetooth-capable smartphone. 

Like the Prime Time model above, this too has an interior and an exterior shower.

Other highlights of this RV include a vinyl tile floor, a 2-burner cooker, a 2-door fridge, and a microwave.

You can tow this vehicle using virtually any decent SUV or minivan.

Transcend 26RLS (2019) by Grand Design 

This award-winning trailer by Grand Design is a work of art and the perfect home away from home. It is a camper made for large families since it has enough sleeping spaces for 5 persons. The spaces include a big queen bed and a trifold sofa.

Many things stand out about this trailer but probably the most significant one is its kitchen. The kitchen is large and has the standard kitchen features include a 3-burner range, a microwave, a refrigerator, a big sink and a faucet, and a large booth dinette. 

The entertainment in this RV is provided by a stereo and a big 32-inch LED television. 

Like most high-quality RVs, this one too comes with a bathroom. The bathroom has a walk-through plan and an enclosed shower.

This camper also comes with a big 19’ awning for maximum shade.

Forest River Rockwood 2911BS

While it costs more than all the above trailers, this trailer has features and amenities that totally justify its high price tag.

First, it has enough sleeping spaces for eight. The spaces include a big queen bed, a hide-a-bed sofa, a sofa bunk, and a flip bunk. There are plenty of spaces for everyone.

Second, to ensure all your family members are happy, this vehicle has a big LED screen and a stereo. You can watch sports, news, or simply play video games

Third, it has pretty brilliant features including a water filtration system, a large dinette, a large oven, a three-burner cooker, and a microwave.

Lastly, this Forest River has a bathroom that comes with everything you would expect from a bathroom e.g. a foot flush toilet, a glass-enclosed shower, and a skylight. 

This vehicle also has an outdoor kitchen, a power awning, and outside speakers.

Grand Design Reflection 297RSTS (2019)

There is nothing not to love about this travel trailer . It is absolutely perfect for large families as it is roomy and has five sleeping zones.

In terms of storage, this trailer has multiple storage areas including a linen storage zone in the bathroom, kitchen cabinets, and a massive storage area under the bed.

The sleeping zones in this Grand design vehicle include a massive queen bed and a sofa that can be converted into a bed.

One of the things you will quickly love about this trailer is its bathroom. It is a roomy bathroom with a skylight which makes it feel very airy and spacious. The bathroom has an enclosed shower and a toilet.

You will also quickly love this vehicle’s living area. The reason why is that it comes with a sizeable sofa, theater seating, a furnace, and a big TV.

And you definitely cannot hate this machine’s kitchen as it comes with a small pantry, a 3-burner stove, a sink, and a big oven.

Forest River Vibe 33RK travel trailer

This is an absolutely brilliant modern travel trailer that is perfect for a large family. It has absolutely everything you would expect from a travel trailer including a kitchen, a private master bedroom, a roomy living area, and a bathroom. 

The kitchen in this RV is quite spacious. It includes a sink, a high faucet, a countertop, a burner range, an oven, and under-sink storage. 

An exterior kitchen also exists for BBQs or quick meals in the outdoors.

The living area in this Forest River machine is similarly spacious. It has got a massive TV, a fireplace, a stereo, speakers, a sofa seat, and theater seating. There are two opposite slide-outs that expand this living area and make it even more spacious.

There are sleeping spaces for six people in this machine and two entry doors.

XLR Hyper Lite 2715

This RV is a toy hauler and a family-friendly camper. 

It has a big garage that measures 15’ in length. This plus its ramp door makes it perfect for taking your ATVs , bikes, bicycles, surfboards, or snowmobiles with you to wherever your heart desires. 

It also has a master suite that is complete with a big bed, multiple storage areas, and direct access to the bathroom. 

As mentioned a few moments ago, this is a family-friendly trailer. This is because it has sleeping spaces for six individuals. If you intend to travel with a big family, you should not carry anything in this hauler’s garage. This is because two people can sleep comfortably in this garage so carrying anything will make it difficult to sleep people in this garage.

Palomino SolAire 217BH

This is an extremely lightweight trailer. It comes with multiple features that make it one of the most amazing lightweight campers in the world. 

Probably the most exciting thing about this trailer is the fact that it can accommodate seven people at night. This is because its sleeping arrangements include a Murphy bed, two double-size bunks, and a sofa. 

Because this machine is lightweight, it is relatively easy to tow.

Its interior features include a full kitchen with a refrigerator, a burner, and a microwave, a living area with comfy seats and big windows, and a front windshield. 

Its other notable features include a power awning, an exterior kitchen, and external storage.

Forest River Salem Grand Villa 42FLDL

This is a special kind of travel trailer . It is a destination trailer. It is a machine that is built to provide you with next-level luxury. You cannot experience much better camping than camping in this RV.

One of the best things about this vehicle is its front windows. They are wide and panoramic making them perfect for viewing the outside even when the elements are not very friendly (e.g. it is very cold or rainy).

This vehicle’s top features also include a private bedroom. a kitchen island, a large loft, two entry/exit doors, opposing living area slides, multiple cabinets, a double-door residential refrigerator, and a microwave.

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12 Best Travel Trailers For Families

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Travel trailers for families have always been popular since they’re great for loved ones to hit the open road together. The reason is simple: travel trailers offer all the comforts of home on wheels, making them the perfect base camp for exploring the great outdoors together. 

But with so many travel trailers on the market, it’s tough to know which one is right for your family. To help narrow down your options, we’ve compiled a list of the twelve best travel trailers for families. 

From lightweight models for small families, longer units for large families, and spacious travel trailers for full-time families, there’s sure to be a travel trailer perfect for your next family adventure. 

Best Travel Trailers for Families of 4

Smaller, lightweight travel trailers are great for families of four or fewer. They’re easy to tow, and you can store them in smaller spaces when not in use. In addition, their smaller size makes them more fuel-efficient, which is great for long road trips.

1. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 174BH

Our Pros and Cons

✅ We like how Jayco cleared up the confusion by consolidating the SLX Series!

⛔ Not having a bathroom sink makes roughing it a little more inconvenient.

• UVW: 3,145 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 325 lbs.
• Length: 21.8 ft.
• GVWR: 4,150 lbs.
• CCC: 1,005 lbs.

The Jayco Jay Flight SLX 174BH travel trailer is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a lightweight and budget-friendly RV. And because it’s a travel trailer under 5,000 pounds, you can tow it with most mid-size SUVs. 

For 2023, Jayco took all the best features of the SLX, SLX 7, and SLX 8 Series and condensed them into one incredible lineup. The 174BH may be a non-slide-out travel trailer, but you can trust Jayco’s decades-long experience; they know how to maximize space.

2. Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite 266BHS 

✅ The storage system under the master bed increases the capacity and versatility!

⛔ Yep, that’s carpet on the slideout.

• UVW: 6,080 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 934 lbs.
• Length: 32.11 ft.
• GVWR: 7,600 lbs.
• CCC: 1,520 lbs.

Proud to be the winner of the RV-Pro Best New Model for 2022, the Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite 266BHS travel trailer is ready to take your family of four on your next camping trip. 

This 8-feet wide RV has double bunk beds perfect for kids. And you can fold the 68-inch jack knife sofa into an expanded tabletop. Coachmen also create all the storage you need behind the entertainment center, under the master bed, and add a large 12v refrigerator.

Best Travel Trailers for Families of 5

If you have a larger family of five or often travel with guests, you’ll want to consider a travel trailer that offers more space.

3. Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Bunk

✅The lower bunk measures to an RV queen!

⛔While Airstreams are built to last, they aren’t entry-level travel trailers.

• UVW: 6,422 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 885 lbs.
• Length: 30.10 ft.
• GVWR: 8,800 lbs.
• CCC: 2,378 lbs.

The Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Bunk travel trailer is ideal for a family of five. With two bunk beds, a queen-size bed, and a convertible dinette, everyone has plenty of room to sleep comfortably. This travel trailer also features a fully equipped kitchen, making it easy to whip up meals on the go. 

And with its iconic exterior and spacious interior, the Airstream Flying Cloud will turn heads wherever you go. Despite the recent popularity of its sister office model, the 30FB Bunk is one of the most popular Flying Clouds on the market.

4. Forest River Vibe 32BH

✅Pet friendly with wall-mounted vents and other features!

⛔You may want to add or upgrade your house batteries.

• UVW: 7,836 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 1,074 lbs.
• Length: 38.3 ft.
• GVWR: 9,874 lbs.
• CCC: 2,038 lbs.
• Sleep: 4-10

The first thing you notice about the Forest River Vibe 32BH travel trailer is its stylish exterior. But it’s not just about good looks. This trailer provides ample space for a family of five, with a queen-size bed in the front, double bunks in the rear, and two large slide-outs. 

In addition, plenty of storage and a fully equipped kitchen makes this travel trailer great for long-term camping trips. During those trips, you’ll find that the Vibe is chock full of features.

The RV builders even thought about making it safe for your four-legged family members that come with you. Claws won’t get caught in floor vents since they’re mounted on the sidewalls. The wide walkways even give them enough room if they are struck with a case of the “zoomies.”

Best Travel Trailers for Families of 6

If you have a family of six or more, you’ll want to consider a travel trailer that offers even more space. The travel trailers below are just a few of the best options on the market for larger families.

5. Grand Design Reflection 150 278BH

✅ We are big fans of the long kitchen counter space!

⛔ This half-ton fifth wheel will require a 250/2500 series truck!

• UVW: 8,295 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 1,338 lbs.
• GVWR: 10,195 lbs.
• CCC: 1,900 lbs.

When you walk inside the Grand Design Reflection 150 278BH , you’ll understand why it’s the best mid-profile fifth wheel for a family of six. With plenty of room to sleep, eat, and live, this travel trailer has everything you need to make the most of your time on the road. 

The 278BH floor plan features a private bedroom with a queen-sized bed and a bunkhouse that can sleep up to four. You’ll find a spacious living area with a large sofa and a convertible dinette for additional sleeping accommodations. 

Grand Design’s commitment to quality construction and customer satisfaction is apparent in every detail of the Reflection 150 278BH travel trailer.

6. Keystone Outback 342CG

✅ This coach defines versatility as a bunkhouse, motorcycle garage, mobility accessible, and more!

⛔ The built-in pet kennel is ideal for small and toy dog breeds.

• UVW: 8,030 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 960 lbs.
• Length: 38 ft.
• GVWR: 10,500 lbs.
• CCC: 2,470 lbs.

Keystone’s new Outback 342CG travel trailer is the perfect solution for families looking for a flat-floor mobility-accessible travel trailer. Yet, the unique design includes a ramp into a front garage wide enough to store your motorcycle or use extra sleeping space with the two twin bunks.

The Outback Series is known for its built-in pet kennel under the master bed. Keystone continues the true versatility with the standard 12v or optional 3-way fridge. Whether you want to plug in or go off-grid, this travel trailer for families works for virtually everyone.

7. Venture Stratus 291VQB

✅ Use the flex bunk room’s as an office, king bed, storage, or pet palace!

⛔ The bins under the dinette benches are okay, but some folks like drawers.

• UVW: 6,710 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 860 lbs.
• Length: 33.11 ft.
• GVWR: 9,290 lbs.
• CCC: 2,580 lbs.
• Sleep: 4- 12

The ultra-light Venture Stratus 291VQB includes a versatile bunkhouse that can sleep up to eight, making it one of the best travel trailers adapted to the size of your family and guests.

You can convert the four bunks into additional storage, a desk, and even a queen-size bed. The lower bunks can be bridged together for a full-width king bed.

With a convertible dinette, there’s never an excuse not to invite friends along for the ride. The 291VQB has a fully equipped kitchen, an RV outdoor kitchen, and plenty of storage.

Therefore, the Stratus 291VQB travel trailer has everything you need to travel in style. Just make sure you hang your coat in the closet next to the door.

8. Cherokee Arctic Wolf 327MB

✅ The middle bunk space has triple bunks with storage for each space!

⛔ Reaching over from the bunks to the same-level cabinet can be a falling hazard.

• UVW: 9,178 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 1,540 lbs.
• Length: 37.10 ft.
• GVWR: 11,740 lbs.
• CCC: 2,562 lbs.
• Sleep: 5- 7

The Arctic Wolf 327MB fifth wheel by Forest River RV is a uniquely designed multi-sleeper with features that set it apart from other camping trailers. Your kids will love camping in this travel trailer with a treehouse-style mid-bunk that includes triple bunks.

The Master bedroom features start with a comfortable residential queen-size bed, and the living area comprises a sofa, a dinette, and a fireplace. This floor plan won’t let you swap out the theater seating because the rear tri-fold sofa can fully expand for extra sleeping space.

Best Full-Time Travel Trailers for Families

When you’re a full-time family, the RV you choose needs to be spacious and packed with features that make life on the road easier. Below are some of the best travel trailers for full-time families.

9. Forest River Alpha Wolf 33BH-L

✅ The half bath for the bunkhouse also acts as a mudroom with the second entry!

⛔ Some like having TVs provided; this one lets you choose your own LED TVs.

• UVW: 7,986 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 953 lbs.
• Length: 37.4 ft.
• GVWR: 9,863 lbs.
• CCC: 1,877 lbs.
• Sleep: 4- 10

The Forest River Alpha Wolf 33BH-L is the best bunkhouse travel trailer for full-time families. With three slides, this travel trailer provides plenty of room for a large family to live comfortably. 

Forest River’s Alpha Wolf Series gives you all the full-size features but are travel trailers under 40 feet. Having a 38-foot travel trailer can make a big difference when it comes to maneuvering a tight angle.

The bedroom has a queen-size bed, and the rear bunkhouse can sleep up to six people. Additional sleeping options include the living room’s jackknife sofa and convertible dinette. Thanks to the dual slides, the kitchen is open and spacious, with plenty of room to move around.

This fifth wheel’s RV outdoor kitchen for 2023 now comes standard with dual tall dorm-size fridges. Before you load them up with all the carbonated drinks possible, don’t forget you may need to store some food in there too.

10. Jayco White Hawk 32BH

✅ Half-ton trucks with heavy tow packages can tow this one!

⛔ Some may not like how the kitchen counter space was sacrificed for the room in the master bedroom.

• UVW: 8,145 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 1,125 lbs.
• GVWR: 9,995 lbs.
• CCC: 1,815 lbs.

Check out the Jayco White Hawk 32BH , the best travel trailer bunkhouse for families with one and a half bathrooms. The half bathroom is in the rear bunkhouse, making it convenient for kids to use without going through the main living area. 

This double slide-out travel trailer can accommodate up to ten people, making it the perfect option for large families and friends. The bedroom has a queen-size bed (king option), and the rear bunkhouse includes a set of bunks and a tri-fold sofa.

Jayco made the 32BH versatile to full-timers’ needs. Change the dinette out with a bench and two chairs or fully freestanding with four chairs. The tri-fold sofa can be swapped out with theater seats that have trays.

Best Overall Travel Trailers for Families 

There are a lot of great travel trailers on the market, but some rise to the top as the best overall travel trailers for families.

11. Airstream Classic

✅ Your great-grandkids will enjoy your Classic. They’re built that well!

⛔ The end of the master bedroom can be tight for some.

• UVW: 8,261 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 1,175 lbs.
• Length: 33.3 ft.
• GVWR: 10,000 lbs.
• CCC: 1,739 lbs.

The Airstream Classic travel trailer is one of the best overall travel trailers for families because of its iconic design, spacious interior, and features. With 2 floorplans to choose from, there’s a Classic travel trailer to fit your family’s needs. 

In addition, they fully equipped the Classic travel trailer with a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping accommodations for up to eight people. Airstream even added an RV workspace with a chair opposite the sofa.

Thanks to the spacious interior and multiple windows, the Airstream Classic travel trailer feels bright and open, making it an excellent option for spending time on the road with your family. Don’t let the layout photo fool you; the Classic’s interior space is bigger on the inside.

12. Jayco Eagle

✅ The Eagle Fifth Wheel is a mid-profile with full-profile features!

⛔ Boondocking features are mostly optional with this one (like the 3-way fridge).

• UVW: 10,740 lbs.
• Tongue Weight: 1,980 lbs.
• Length: 36.4 ft.
• GVWR: 12,900 lbs.
• CCC: 2,160 lbs.

Our last best travel trailer for families is the Jayco Eagle model. This family-friendly fifth wheel has several stylish floorplans.

Each one has a spacious interior and plenty of sleep accommodations. Owners enjoy the standard king bed, 21 cu. ft. residential fridge and wide open living room space. Jayco did a great job making the Eagle mid-profile fifth wheel feel like a full profile.

If you’re looking for a fiver-style travel trailer, look into their counterpart Eagle Travel Trailers with many of the same floorplans.

6 Things to Look for in a Travel Trailer for Families 

When looking for a travel trailer for your family, choose one packed with features and accommodations that makes life on the road easier. 

The best travel trailers for families have spacious interiors, multiple sleeping options, and a variety of amenities. 

So, before you buy, be sure to consider the following factors.

The best travel trailers for families have spacious interiors and open floorplans. This allows everyone in the family to move around comfortably and provides plenty of storage space. A travel trailer with a rear bunkhouse works well for families with kids, as it allows for a separate area to sleep and play.

2. Separate Sleeping Quarters 

When traveling with a large group, it’s essential to have a travel trailer to accommodate everyone comfortably. That’s why separate sleeping quarters are a must-have feature. Not only will it give everyone a place to sleep, but it also provides much-needed privacy, especially for teens.

3. The Intended Use 

It’s important to consider how you’ll use your travel trailer before making a purchase. For example, do you envision yourself mainly using it for weekend getaways? Or can you see it as more of a home away from home for extended stays?

There are a variety of travel trailers on the market, and the one that’s right for you will depend on your intended use.

A smaller, lighter trailer may be all you need if you’re primarily looking for a comfortable place to crash after a long day of exploring.

However, suppose you’re planning on spending extended periods in your trailer. In that case, you’ll need to look for one with more amenities and better equipped for a nicer indoor living experience.

4. Tech and Amenities 

There’s no question that travel trailers have come a long way in recent years. You can now find them equipped with many tech and amenities, from self-leveling jacks to Bluetooth speakers.

Of course, all this tech and luxury comes at a price. Travel trailers with all the bells and whistles can climb in price. But if you’re willing to pay the expense, you’ll be able to enjoy a level of comfort and convenience that was once unthinkable.

5. Shower or Tub Space 

With RV bathrooms, one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why travel trailers with shower or tub space are valuable to families. However, when traveling with a group, having a wet bath instead of a shower or tub space becomes old fast. 

You want to have the option of taking a luxurious shower after a long day of hiking or being on the beach. The last thing you want is for your kids to be stuck in a cramped bathroom with no shower or tub.

When considering travel trailers for your family, choose one with a spacious and well-appointed bathroom. It’ll make all the difference for everyone’s comfort and enjoyment.

6. Towing Capacity of Your Vehicle 

Before buying a travel trailer, you must ensure your vehicle can safely tow it. The last thing you want is to be stuck on the side of the road with a trailer that’s too heavy for your car or truck.

Check your tow vehicle’s owner’s manual if you’re unsure what your SUV or truck’s maximum towing capacity. You can also find this information online or by contacting your local dealership’s service department.

What’s the Most Reliable Travel Trailer for Families? 

Some people think bigger is always better for travel trailers. But that’s not necessarily the case. A larger trailer might have more space and features, but it can also be more difficult to tow and maneuver.

The sweet spot for families is a trailer around 30- 35 feet long. Owning an RV this size gives you plenty of room for your family, but it’s still small enough to tow and maneuver easily.

When choosing the most reliable travel trailer, look for something you can manageably maintain. Every brand has high manufacturing standards. The real question is how can you fix and service.

One extreme is a brand new model that will have its maintenance routine. The other is buying one that needs a DIY overhaul. Only you can decide where you fall on the scale.

Is a Travel Trailer the Best Type of RV for Families? 

There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding what type of RV is best for your family. For example, travel trailers come in a wide range of sizes, from compact models you can pull with an SUV to massive fifth wheels that require a heavy-duty truck to tow.

Travel trailers offer many enhancing camping experience amenities, such as slideouts, bunk beds, and outdoor kitchens.

Travel trailers for families have one significant advantage over other RVs: their size. Most travel trailers can accommodate families of four or more, making them ideal for family vacations. 

Towable trailers also typically have more storage space than other RVs so that you can bring your gear along. And for full-time families, a travel trailer can be a great way to see the country while having all the comforts of home.

How Long Will Travel Trailers Last? 

A travel trailer can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. The average lifespan of a travel trailer is around twenty years. Still, some trailers, such as the Airstream models, have lasted much longer.

How Many People Can Comfortably Live in a Travel Trailer? 

The number of people who can comfortably live in a travel trailer varies depending on the size and layout of the trailer. For example, most travel trailers can accommodate four to six people, but bunkhouse travel trailers can sleep more than eight people.

When choosing a travel trailer for your family, be sure to pick one that’s the right size for your group. You don’t want to be cramped up in a small trailer. Yet you also don’t want to have a rig that’s bigger than you can handle.

Which Travel Trailer for Families Will You Choose? 

Now that you know more about the best travel trailers for families, it’s time to shop. But first, keep a few things in mind as you narrow your choices.

First, think about how many people will travel with you. If you have a large family, you’ll need a trailer that provides plenty of sleeping and living space. 

Second, consider your budget. Travel trailers can vary widely in price, so it’s crucial to find one that fits your financial needs. 

Finally, decide what type of features you want in a trailer. For example, some families prefer trailers with full kitchens and bathrooms, while others prefer more straightforward designs.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you’ll be ready to choose the perfect travel trailer for your family’s next adventure.

Related Reading:

– 12 Best Camper Trailers Under 25 Feet – 10 Travel Trailers With High Ceilings Perfect For Tall People – 10 Best Travel Trailer Toy Haulers

About the Author:

Mike Scarpignato is an avid RVer who owns a Class C RV and a Class A RV. He loves to travel with his wife Susan and write blog articles about the RV lifestyle.

Mike and Susan also make YouTube videos on the RVBlogger YouTube channel.

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10 Best Travel Trailers For Families Of 6: (Walkthrough Tours)

A travel trailer can be a great investment for a family. Even people who don’t usually enjoy camping are sure to appreciate the freedom and comfort that can provide.

However, travel trailers come in many different shapes and sizes, and not all of them are suitable for families.

Before you begin your search, take a look at the following list. In our opinion, these are the ten best travel trailers for families on the current market. Read on to find out why.

Table of Contents

What Families Should Look For In A Travel Trailer

Large families of 5 or more should look for a trailer that measures at least 25 feet long, while smaller groups could probably get by with a 20-foot camper.

On the subject of height, check the state regulations for the areas that are of greatest interest to you. Generally speaking, travel trailers can’t be taller than 13 feet 6 inches tall , but it’s best to make sure before you hit the road.

Sleeping Capacity

For obvious reasons, you’ll want a camper that has a comfortable sleeping space for the entire family. You might even want to consider a unit that has an extra bed or bunk beds, just in case if your a large family.

Remember that the children will grow, but the camper will stay the same size. It’s best to invest in one that will be able to accommodate everyone right from the start.

When shopping for a travel trailer, pay close attention to the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This number refers to the maximum loaded weight of the travel trailer, including cargo and passengers.

You’ll want to make sure the GVWR is lower than the overall towing capacity of your vehicle. Otherwise, you won’t be able to safely transport the trailer.

Personal Appeal

Do you enjoy cooking most of your meals outdoors? Would you prefer a bathroom with a full tub, or would you be happy with a stall shower? What about the configuration of the sleeping areas or a tri fold sofa?

With so many different floor plans, only you can determine whether the layout and features of a certain trailer will suit your family’s needs.

Best Travel Trailers For Families: Product Review Guide

In this guide, we’ll provide brief reviews of each model listed, explaining why we believe they’d be a good fit for a family unit. See the table below for a list of basic specifications.

*For travel purposes, these numbers refer to the length and exterior height of the Jay Sport 12UD when the camper is in the “closed” position.

Minnie Plus 27BHSS

If you’re looking for creature comforts, the Minnie Plus 27BHSS has you covered. This unit features an outdoor kitchen, an entertainment center, and plenty of storage. A queen bed and double bunks round out the sleeping options.

Manufacturers Website

Livin’ Lite Camplite CL23RLS

Livin’ Lite’s CL23RLS model has a sleekly attractive exterior and a cozy yet roomy interior, capable of sleeping 6 people.

The dinette converts into a bed, as does the comfortable sofa. A queen bed gives the parents room to stretch out, but be forewarned that the bed area isn’t closed off from the living space.

The outdoor kitchen is well-appointed, with ample hooks for storing all your tools.

Jayco Jay Flight SLX 8 224 BHW

The Jay Flight offers several different floor plans, but we think the SLX8 224BHW is the most convenient choice for families.

With a master bedroom located in the front, a central living area, and a rear bunkhouse, the layout is convenient for everyone. The shower is especially spacious, a huge plus if there are teenagers in your party.

Forest River Alpha Wolf

The Alpha Wolf features a walk-in pantry and outdoor kitchen, making it a great choice for cooking enthusiasts who like to hone their skills on vacation

. Some later models also include a rear bath with full tub—a luxurious touch that’s sure to come in handy after long days spent in the woods.

Coachmen Keystone Bullet Crossfire 1650EX

The Bullet Crossfire 1650EX is an expandable trailer, offering a queen-sized bed on one end and an optional foldout with an additional queen bed on the other.

The sofa and dinette can be converted to sleeping space for a large family, but the extension is a nice option for smaller groups who prefer to keep the living space as-is for the duration of your trip.

Heartland Trail Runner 27 ODK

The outdoor kitchen on the Trail Runner 27ODK is made all the more appealing with the addition of outdoor speakers, which allow chefs to groove to their favorite tunes while they cook.

The indoor kitchen is also conveniently laid out, with a good-sized refrigerator and freezer. There’s a queen bed in the master bedroom, as well as a fold-out sofa.

Keystone Outback Ultra Lite 210URS

The king-sized bed and tub/shower combo make this an especially appealing option. Consider the Outback Ultra Lite 210URS if you would prefer private sleeping areas for both the children and the adults.

Bear in mind that if there are more than two kids in the party, one of them will have to crash on the sofa sleeper just outside the master bedroom.

Shasta Oasis 18BH

The Oasis 18BH is a particularly stylish trailer, with a fully equipped kitchen and roomy storage spaces. Like the Keystone Outback, it features a separate bedroom with a queen-sized bed with a bunkhouse on the other end. Some layouts even offer a full bathtub.

Forest River Salem 31KQBTS

This model is equipped with two entertainment centers, one of which is located in the master suite. No need for the kids to fight with the parents over the remote on rainy days—everyone can have their own space.

Note that the Salem 31KQBTS measures over 36 feet in length, meaning that it may be too large for some campgrounds and RV parks. Parking and maneuvering could be difficult as well.

Jayco Jay Sport 12UD

Unlike the other units we’ve listed, this is a pop up camper rather than a full-sized travel trailer. However, privacy curtains and separate sleeping areas located on each end of the camper make it feel more spacious than it looks.

Families who are apprehensive about towing a full-sized camper would do well to consider the Jay Sport 12UD before investing in a larger unit.

In Conclusion

While the final choice rests with the consumer, we would strongly recommend the Keystone Outback Ultra Lite 210URS . At just 23 feet long, with a GVWR of 6,500, it’s small and light enough for easy maneuvering, but provides all the comforts of home. For families of 6 or more, it could get a bit cramped, but for anyone else, it’s a clear winner.

Good luck, and happy camping!

Check out are article on: Best Bunkhouse Travel Trailers Under 26 FT

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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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12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living (& Brands To Avoid)

This article summarizes recommendations and important information before buying any travel trailer, especially if you plan to live there. Throughout this post, we will explain some differences to remember when families, couples, and single people are looking for the 12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living . This video is just a sneak peek at the 12 top picks featured in this extensive review.

So, you will see that we have divided the article’s content into general considerations to think about beforehand. We explain what you should analyze and why we chose the campers we chose as the Best Travel Trailer for Full Time Living with a Family, Small Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living for a Single Person and couples, and the best Destination Travel Trailer for live-in full-time.

With our years of RV living experience, we will guide you in this process now that you have decided to live full-time in a camper trailer. Also, we have added some tips explaining what kind of floor plans (and even brands) of travel trailers you should avoid for full-time living and why . These are the best campers to live in full-time.

Table of Contents

12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living: Small, Luxury, 4-Season, For Singles, Couples, and Families on the Current Market

This summarizes the 12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living in the current market. This review includes small and lightweight travel trailers, luxury and 4-season travel trailers, destination travel trailers, and features such as washer and dryer connections, outdoor kitchens, etc. As usual, we classify floor plans as suitable or recommended for a single person, couples and senior couples, and families of 4, 6, or more people.

• Terra Rover Travel Trailer by inTech: Perfect Small 4-Season Camper
• Alta LE 1600MRB Small Travel Trailer by East and West RV
• No Boundaries NB19.1: Toy Hauler under 5,000 lbs. for Full-Time Living by Forest River
• Reflection 312BHTS: 2-Bedroom Luxury 4-Season Travel Trailer with Bunks

Palomino Solaire 320TSBH: Master King Bedroom and Bunk Travel Trailer

• Rockwood Signature 8336BH: 4 Slides Out Travel Trailer

Imagine 3210BH: Rear Quad Bunkhouse Room Travel Trailer

2023 jay flight 331bts: dinette inside the bunk room, 2023 puma 32mbds mid-bunk travel trailer for families.

• 2-Bathroom Travel Trailer: 2023 Jayco White Hawk 32BH
• Jay Flight Bungalow 40DLFT: 3 Twin Beds-Loft Above King Master Bedroom
• Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA Loft Travel Trailer Opposite the Master Bedroom

Let’s see the list of the Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living that we recommend to you and why we choose them.

Best Small Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living for a Single Person or Couples

• Terra Rover Travel Trailer by inTech: Best Small Camper to Live in 4-Season
• Alta LE 1600MRB: Small Travel Trailer by East and West RV

Terra Rover 4-Season Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living

inTech Terra Rover Travel Trailer, available in the USA and Canada, is a lightweight fantastic trailer for single people and couples pursuing full-time camper living during the 4-seasons.

The main difference between Terra Rover and the rest of the travel trailers suggested in this article is the structure, materials, exquisite interior design, and how well-prepared this travel trailer is for a 4-season full-time living.

Buying a four-season-ready RV for full-time living offers numerous advantages, such as making it possible (and easy) to live safely and comfortably during severe weather. Foremost, it reduces energy consumption and provides cost-effective insulation. Also, it offers flexible living arrangements and the freedom to move and explore different places; because one may live off-grid and reduce dependency on outside resources, it fosters a sense of self-sufficiency and self-reliance. Last but not least, it provides a distinctive and exciting living experience, with chances to explore nature and lead a more eco-friendly and sustainable existence. Definitely, Terra Rover Tby inTech is one of the best campers to live in cold weather .

Even though this travel trailer is meant for 4 people, I would recommend the inTech Rover as one of the best travel trailers for single people or couples for full-time living and establishing their workstation in the front 93″ x 48″ dinette.

Unlike most RVs, the Terra Rover features a bathroom and shower in separate cubicles with its own ventilation. With no slides-out, it’s spacious enough for 1 or 2 people and even the company of your four-legged friend. And at the same time, the dinette can easily be converted into a guest room. With an indoor and outdoor kitchen, it allows you to enjoy your meals and cook in comfort.

Good materials and furniture finishes. Excellent quality and customer service. Lightweight (GVWR 7,500 lbs.) and durable due to the structure and high-quality materials used.  

The capacity of the tanks is adequate for the number of people proposed in this review (fresh water tank of 44 gallons, gray water tank of 39 gallons, black water tank of 39 gallons).

Another advantage that allows full-time living independent of external temperature is that it has a furnace, air-conditioning, water heater, heated underbelly, etc. You get into a Terra Rover and never get out again! Here are some details of the specifications, furnace of 25K BTU, A/C of 15K BTU ducted, water heater of 6 gallons (electric or gas), insulation bubble foil in walls and ceiling, tank insulation heated underbelly, 12v line heaters, tank heat pads, etc.

As if that wasn’t enough, you enjoy a genuine 60″ x 80″ queen size bed in the bedroom, with storage space.

If all this hasn’t convinced you or if this RV brand is new to you, I recommend you watch this video to learn more about the Rover Terra travel trailer by inTech and its possibilities as a 4-season trailer for full-time living.

The only disadvantage I will mention, but I must clarify that it is not necessarily a disadvantage for all RVers who plan to live full time in a camper, is that it is unprepared for a washer and dryer. You will hardly find available space on the floor plan for its installation.

Alta 1600MRB Small Camper to Live In for Singles and Couples

Alta LE 1600MRB by East to West RV is one of the best campers to live in . It is an excellent option for a full-time living travel trailer for a single person or couples looking to work remotely, as the booth dinette offers a great working space area for 2 people with laptops.

As you can see in the floor plan below, this Alta LE 1600MRB Travel Trailer has the propane low-pressure quick connection available for your outside grill to prepare your meals outside under a 14 ft powered awning with LED lights. The exterior also has massive pass-thru storage compartments, a ladder in the back to access the trailer roof, and a shower with hot and cold water.

At the left of the entry door, you will find a large booth dinette with space to store under the seats and prepared for an optional 32” Smart LED TV. Across from there is a fully kitchen-equipped area with a 3-burner top stove, a large kitchen sink, a microwave oven, a refrigerator, and drawers and cabinets. 

The rear full dry bath is opposite the front Queen-size Murphy bed and sofa. The full bath is dry and includes a hand basin, a foot flushable toilet, skylights and vent, a linen closet, and a shower with skylight.

Between wardrobes, cabinets, the exterior storage compartment, and the large dinette, this travel trailer, only 23 feet in length and under 6,000 pounds, offers plenty of space and is perfect for full-time living for a single person or couples.

• Small Camper to live in
• UVW: 3,960 lbs.
• GVWR: 5,632 lbs.
• CCC: 1,672 lbs.
• Exterior Length: 22 feet, 8 inches.
• Fresh Water: 46 gallons.
• Gray Water: 30 gallons.
• Black Water: 30 gallons.
• No washer and dryer connections

No Boundaries NB19.1: A Toy Hauler for Full-Time Living

Is it possible to live full-time in a toy hauler? Of course you can! This particular lightweight toy hauler, under 25 feet, may be the perfect choice for a single person or couples looking for a small travel trailer for full-time living at the same time that provides the space for your outdoor gear and favorite toys.

Let’s see the 2023 No Boundaries NB19.1 Toy Hauler by Forest River RV.

2023 NB19.1 is a lightweight toy hauler under 5000 pounds (UVW) with a cargo capacity of almost 3000 lbs. and 10 ½ feet of front-to-back garage area.

As you can see in the floor plan below, the No Boundaries NB19.1 Toy Hauler trailer has an outside kitchen under a 16 feet-length powered awning.

At the right of the entry door, you will find a mounted TV and a fully kitchen-equipped area. The kitchen is equipped with a 2-burner glass recessed cooktop, a stainless-steel sink, and a refrigerator. The pantry is located across from there.

The full dry bath is located in front of the kitchen area. Consists of a small dry bath with a medicine cabinet, a mirror, a hand basin, a toilet, shower with skylights, a fan, and vents.

The queen-sized bed is in a private front bedroom opposite the huge 10 ½ feet garage area. This toy hauler has a 13.5 BTU low profile air conditioning and a roof-mounted solar prep, which make this RV a perfect option for singles and couples pursuing adventure while living full-time in a travel trailer.

More options to consider when looking for campers for full-time living:

• 2023 Pop Up Campers with Bathroom
• Treehouse pop-top by Snap Outfitters
• Kimbo Camper
• Best Travel Trailers for Couples to Live Full-time

Best Travel Trailer for Full Time Living with a Family

Let’s see some of the Best Travel Trailers for families living full-time, prepared for a washer and dryer combo, on the current market.

• Reflection 312BHTS : 2-Bedroom Luxury 4-Season Travel Trailer with Bunks
• Rockwood Signature 8336BH : 4 Slides Out Best Camper to Live In

Reflection 312BHTS 2-Bedroom Luxury 4-Season Travel Trailer with Bunks

Grand Design RV comes to mind when we talk about high-quality travel trailers that are built for last. Unquestionably synonymous with luxury, it solely sells premium travel trailers and luxury fifth wheels, perfect options for full time living with a family in a comfortable environment .

Luxury travel trailers are often more expensive than comparable models, but they are well worth the extra cost. Even if it costs more, you receive a lot of fantastic features. There are several beautiful layouts in the Grand Design Reflection series, but the 312BHTS is one of the most excellent luxury travel trailers for full-time living .

We began this article by stating that we will place particular emphasis on specific features that will make our full-time living travel trailer more comfortable , such as the kitchen location, ventilation while cooking, space for cooking, washer and dryer prep, pantry space, over the head cabinets and exterior storage, residential-sized appliances, king-sized bed, easy winterization or four-season features, and so on.

If the budget is not an obstacle, families thinking of moving permanently into an RV to live full-time should consider these mentioned points, and Reflection 312BHTS is a 2-Bedroom travel trailer by Grand Design RV that covers all these desirable features in one of the best luxury travel trailers for full time living with a family.

The 2-Bedroom travel trailer Reflection 312BHTS is completely equipped with everything you need and want for long-term RV life, as seen in the layout below.

To enjoy the outside, there is a large awning (21′) and a deluxe outdoor kitchen equipped with a griddle, sink, mini refrigerator, and low-pressure quick hookups. A large pass-through exterior storage compartment will help you keep the inside of your trailer tidy. Also, it is equipped with a functional outside shower.

Moreover, the Reflection series is prepared for full-time living during the 4-season. Some of the features in the winterization package of this 4-season travel trailer include the heated and enclosed dump valves and the underbelly with recirculating heat, both of them recommended to face extreme temperatures. Additionally, the insulated walls and slide-out floors, the thermo-foil insulation under holding tanks, and the EZ winterization valve will help you to preserve the RV energy expended in heating the trailer. Furthermore, the furnace and the fireplace are good features. Exactly what a family needs to live full-time.

As soon as you cross the entry door, you will find the fantastic full-dry bathroom of this trailer . The bathroom includes a large medicine cabinet with a mirror, a large vanity top with a deep hand sink, a porcelain foot-flushable toilet, and a spacious 30” x 36” shower with a sliding glass door and expansive view skylight over the shower, and a vent fan.

The front queen master bedroom is located to the right of the main door and features a dresser, over-the-head cabinets, drawers, and a wardrobe closet prepared with washing and dryer combo connections. The queen mattress is 60” x 80” with a residential bedspread and includes oversized bed base storage. This room is set up to accommodate a TV on the wall-mounted TV provided.

As you go through this RV, it is easy to understand why we propose the Reflection 312BHTS as one of the best travel trailers for full-time living.

Using only beds and bunks, the sleeping capacity of this trailer is up to 4 people. Depending on your options, you may fold down sofas and the dinette, increasing the sleeping space up to 7-8 people when receiving visitors.

At the left of the entry door, you will find the first of the 3 slides out and one of the biggest living rooms with a fireplace and kitchen you may find in a travel trailer. Atypical for a travel trailer, this floor plan seems like a fifth-wheel trailer from the inside.

The slide-out closer to the entry door proposes locating a booth dinette and a theatre seating. An optional free-standing dinette and a tri-fold sofa could replace the section.

The nice island kitchen improves the space to prep gourmet meals and serves to connect a fully equipped slide-out kitchen with residential appliances, moving you around the entertainment center.

Finally, at the rear of this family bunk travel trailer is located in the private second bedroom. The rear bunk room for 4 people with two bunk beds, a tri-fold sofa, an entertainment center, drawers, and a wardrobe closet is perfect for families pursuing full-time camper living.

The Reflection 312BHTS is perfect for families looking for a 2-bedroom (queen and rear bunk) travel trailer. It is a massive trailer under 40 feet, 3 slides out, an island kitchen with washer and dryer hookups, 2 entertainment centers, a fireplace, and a deluxe outdoor kitchen. Definitely, the best travel trailer for full-time living with a family.

Let’s see some brief specifications of the Reflection 312BHTS 2-Bedroom Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living:

• Exterior Length 37 feet, 4 inches.
• UVW     9,432 lbs.
• GVWR   11,295 lbs.
• Fresh Water Capacity     54 gallons.
• Grey Water Capacity      86 gallons.
• Waste Water Capacity   43 gallons.

Enjoy the 360-Tour of One of the Best Travel Trailers for Full Time Living with a Family  

Our next floor plan is a desirable upgrade for many RVers: a King size bed.

Why is this camper one of the best travel trailers for full time living? It is easy to find everything you need for a full-time living in the Solaire 320TSBH. Let’s see a few details of this floor plan.

The front section of this travel trailer has the main king bedroom. This contains a real king-size bed 70” x 80”, nightstands, a dresser, a large closet with space and connections for a washer and a dryer, and a spacious storage compartment inside the room.

The center section has the combined kitchen and living room. There is a slide-out that contains a booth dinette (42” x 72”) and a 68” sofa sleeper. The kitchen has all the essential appliances and enough space to prepare your meals. The entertainment center completes this space.

At the rear is located the magnificent bunk room of this travel trailer and the full bathroom. The bunkhouse offers two bunk beds, a sofa sleeper with an ottoman, and drawers to organize the room.

The exterior of the Solaire 320TSBH comes with a 21-foot awning, a large storage compartment, and an outdoor kitchen. This travel trailer has 3 slides out.

Rockwood Signature 8336BH: 4 Slides Out Best Camper To Live In

What’s better than having a lot of space, right? You’re going to love our next recommended best camper to live in. With a floor plan similar to the previous two featured, the Rockwood Signature 8336BH is one of our recommended travel trailers from our list containing the Best Travel Trailers for Full-time Living .

It features 2 bedrooms, sleeping capacity for families of 4 to 6 members, a master bedroom that can be queen or king of your choice, large closets with space and connections to fit a washer and dryer RV combo easily, 4 slides out (instead of 3 like the previous floor plans mentioned), an island kitchen in a kitchen and living room area, a fireplace, and entertainment centers, plus the possibility of having a TV mounted in every room of this great RV.

In the exterior of this luxury trailer, you will find a ladder in the back to access the trailer roof, an outdoor kitchen with a grill, a mini refrigerator and a pair of burners, a 10-foot-powered awning, and two exterior storage compartments.

Let’s see some brief specifications of the 2023 Rockwood Signature 8336BH Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living:

• Best camper to live in with family of 4 to 6 people
• Exterior Length 36 feet, 8 inches.
• UVW     9,669 lbs.
• GVWR   11,320 lbs.
• Grey Water Capacity      130 gallons.
• Waste Water Capacity   50 gallons.

Video Tour Rockwood Signature 8336BH Travel Trailer

Rockwood Signature  8336BH Travel Trailer has a floor plan similar to the Salem Hemisphere 314BUD floor plan, another option to consider for full-time living.

Excellent Floor Plans for Families but Not Prep for Washer and Dryer

In our search and review of old and new floor plans, we created this list with our recommended travel trailers with excellent floor plans for families but without laundry connections or dedicated space.

• Imagine 3210BH: Quad Rear Bunk Travel Trailer
• 2023 Puma 32MBDS: Mid-Bunk Travel Trailer for Families

If you like the Reflection 312BHTS we reviewed in the previous paragraphs, but you are looking for a rear quad bunk travel trailer, 2023 Imagine 3210BH by Grand Design RV could be your best choice.

One of the differences between this floor plan and the previously reviewed, Reflection 312BHTS, is the Imagine 3210BH does not include washer and dryer hookups. However, both floor plans are one of the best campers to live in cold weather .

One of the things we loved in the new Jay Flight 331BTS travel trailer is the dinette inside the private bunkhouse room.

With 2 entertainment centers, a luxury outside kitchen, 2 bedrooms (a front queen master bedroom and the rear bunk), 3 slides out, an island kitchen, and 2 dinettes, this is one of the best options to consider when looking for a travel trailer for full-time living.

The 2023 Puma 32MBDS Travel Trailer by Palomino RV offers a private mid-bunkhouse room next to a full dry bath, a master front queen bedroom, and a rear kitchen fully equipped with a vast living room area.

The U-shaped booth dinette is the perfect size for a full-time family living in this luxury travel trailer . A fireplace and an outside kitchen are optional features.

In the exterior of this unit, you will find a powered 15-foot awning shadowing the area next to the optional outside kitchen and a large pass-thru storage compartment.

Let’s see some brief specifications of the 2023 Puma 32MBDS Mid-Bunk Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living:

• Exterior Length 38 feet, 9 inches.
• UVW     8,833 lbs.
• GVWR   10,553 lbs.
• Fresh Water Capacity     43 gallons.
• Grey Water Capacity      35 gallons.
• Waste Water Capacity   35 gallons.

2-Bathroom Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living: 2023 Jayco White Hawk 32BH

The 2023 White Hawk 32BH is a slide-out bunk travel trailer with a master king bedroom and one and a half bathrooms, a feature not very easy to find in a travel trailer floorplan.

Destination Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living

Jay flight bungalow 40dlft: 3 twin beds-loft above king master bedroom.

The 2023 Jay Flight Bungalow 40DLFT is one of our recommended destination travel trailers for full-time living .

It offers a 3-twin-bed loft above a king master bedroom, a fully equipped central kitchen in a large living room, and a full dry bathroom.

If, on the contrary, you are looking for the loft location opposite the master bedroom, our next trailer is your best choice.

Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA Destination Travel Trailer

The Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA is a destination travel trailer with a loft opposite the master bedroom, and it is the final option in this review with the best travel trailers for full-time living on the current market.

This destination travel trailer has two full bathrooms , which is an excellent feature for full-time living. The loft only has two twin mats (instead of a 3-twin bed as mentioned for the Jay Flight Bungalow 40DLFT loft trailer), and the queen-size bed in the master bedroom is standard with no optional king-size mattress to change.

This trailer with two full baths and two private bedrooms in an RV is truly a home away from home and perfect for full-time living. The Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA offers a master suite closet and its own bathroom.

This destination travel trailer offers 3 entry doors. The second full bathroom may be separated from the main living spaces throughout the day with an outdoor entrance. Families can utilize the loft bedroom equipped with 2 twin mats, a closet, and space for an entertainment center.

Video Tour Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA Destination Travel Trailer with Loft for Full-Time Living

Check out the Video Tour Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA Destination Travel Trailer with Loft for Full-Time Living.

What Travel Trailers to Avoid for Full-Time Living and Why

Here are the campers to avoid for live in full-time.

Alpha Wolf Floor plans are not recommended for full-time living but are great for traveling.

Although the Cherokee Alpha Wolf line offers excellent value for the price, they are spacious, well-finished, and often our recommended floor plans. In this case, we believe they are not the Forest River floor plans we would recommend for families with children who choose to live full-time in a travel trailer. 

Certain features are recommended for full-time living in a travel trailer; an entertainment center in the bunkhouse is essential and gives parents significant advantages in separating activities and privacy. Also, we mentioned earlier how important it is for the booth dinette to provide the right size for the number of people in the RV.

For example, the 2023 Cherokee Alpha Wolf 30RDB-L has two bunk beds in a bunk room. However, no entertainment center is located inside the bunk room. The Alpha Wolf 30DBH-L has the same issue. So, you will need to jump to the floor plan of Alpha Wolf 33BH-L, which includes the entertainment center appreciated when living full-time in a travel trailer with kids. However, in this model, the dinette is short-sized for only four people.

Don’t get me wrong. Alpha Wolf travel trailers are great for vacation. They are a good choice in other circumstances but not recommended for full-time living.

According to owners, Winnebago Travel Trailers are not recommended for full-time living.

It is expensive, common, and without any of the features necessary for comfortable RV living. Many RVers may have decided on this camper to establish their full-time lifestyle. But if you have the budget, go for other models and floor plans that offer what will be a priority for camper living.

Airstream Travel Trailers: Lack of Comfort for Families

Users after RV renting manifest Airstream Travel Trailers are too expensive without any comfort for a family. You pay for excellent design (if you like something super retro) and the publicity Airstream spends to appear in Hollywood in every movie they can. But you don’t pay for comfort, versatility, and high quality of life. It makes sense because they are not designed for full-time living.

We recently had our chance to rent an Airstream Classic 33FB for a week, a very long 33+ feet and a heavy 10,000 pounds.  Even for a couple like us, with no grandchildren to accompany us on this occasion, both of us working sporadically on our laptops, the cramped interior was tedious. It is impossible to prepare anything other than a simple meal because the lack of space is appalling. The absence of slides-out worsens the circulation, and we are lucky to be slim. Otherwise, using the shower or even sharing the circulation in a corridor is complicated.

How expensive? For 2023, the Airstream Classic 33FB has a starting price of $206,500, and the International 30RB is $137,400, Flying Cloud® 30FB Bunk, suitable for a family with kids, has a starting price of $124,500.

Possible RV Brands to Avoid for Not a Great Customer Service

Chinook RV and Gulf Stream’s top the list of worst customer services in RVers’ forum surveys.

However, any company can change and improve in this area. A couple of years ago, Keystone RV did not offer good customer service. However, they changed radically, and today are one of the best companies with plenty of floor plans to recommend.

We hope you find this article reviewing the 12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living handy to learn more about the critical decision you are about to take.

Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments:

• Which of these 12 travel trailers is your favorite for full-time living?
• What kind of RV is the best for full-timers?

🫶We’d love to hear from you!

Kindly share this post with the best campers to live in if you think this may be valuable for more RVers. See you in our next post!

About John Smith

For more than 30 years I worked in the exciting world of RV manufacturing. I liked knowing that I could improve the campers with customer feedback and see the improvements and upgrades on floor plans, delivering the best designs and the best quality RVs, year after year. After traveling with my family in RVs and small rented campers across the USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and even North Africa, I feel that I must share personal experiences, guidance, concerns, tips, and news. At Camper Outdoor, we share our biggest passion, weekend getaways in a camper, RV vacations, extended stays in RV parks, the quiet life of senior couples who choose to spend more time enjoying their RV, and boondocking experiences (which as in the beginning was unsuccessful, we have good tips to avoid the same thing happening to you!). Enjoy this website created just for you!

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Written by Johnathan R. Smith • May 3, 2019 • 12:17 am • Travel Trailers

Best Family Travel Trailers (4-5 People)

Many parents subscribe to the false notion that once you have kids, your adventuring days are over. You couldn’t possibly take a long vacation with a young child, let alone more than one of them.

This seems to be especially true if your dream vacation includes traveling across the country in an RV or a trailer.

Fortunate for you and your family, that idea isn’t true.

With the use of a large trailer, you can plan the ultimate family vacation with enough space for everyone.

Trailers are a great way to get out and see the world on your own terms and schedule, or even to park at a campground for a high-class camping trip.

Trailers make it easy to go wherever you want, stopping along the way to see any interest sights you come across or activities your family is fond of.

And during all of this travel, you don’t have to book flights or hotels or even stop for bathroom breaks.

If you’re seriously considering purchasing a large trailer for your family for the first time, you may find yourself lost in a sea of internet options and dealer websites.

We’re here to help you make your choice with helpful information and no confusion with our list of the best large trailers.

The Best Large Trailers for Families of 5 Plus

1. Coachmen Freedom Express Travel Trailer 2. Palomino Puma 28-FQDB Travel Trailer 3. Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 23DBH 4. Jayco Eagle Premier 375 BHFS Travel Trailer 5. Keystone Hideout 272LHS Travel Trailer

How We Selected The Best Trailers For Families

There are a few key things you should consider before you buy just any trailer. First off, since you have a family with children, it’s important to pick a trailer with a large floor plan and enough beds.

Many trailers have unique ways of storing hidden beds that you can pull out at night, but save space during the day. Not only this, but we looked for a variety in floor plans along with noteworthy features.

Though this typically isn’t an issue in modern-day trailers, you should still take into consideration your bathroom options. Most trailers will have fully functional bathrooms, but larger ones can have two. You’ll pay more, but if you have a large family, it may be worth it. We find that large families have a lot of devices, so it’s good to have a trailer with plenty of outlets. We also looked for good kitchens that feature a refrigerator and freezer. You’re going to need plenty of dining options for your kids, so a fully operational kitchen is essential. With that in mind, we looked for trailers that include appliances.

Finally, along with your entire family comes all of their stuff. We looked for trailers that could not only fit all of your family members but everything they bring with them. Storage space will be important.

Here are a few extra features that are nice to have, but not necessary: • Cable hookup/TV • Internet • Extra dining space • Hardwood floor • Windows • Washer/Dryer

Coachmen Freedom Express Trailer

Durable Travel with Lots of Options Excellent size, space, and features make the Freedom Express series an obvious choice for large families. Coachmen has four models that are great for families, including the Freedom Express Blast, the Freedom Express Liberty Edition, the Freedom Express Ultra Lite, and the Freedom Express Select.

Why We Recommend Coachmen Freedom Express Series Among the four models we mentioned above, you get to choose from 26 unique floor plans. While the range for sleeping for these plans is 4 to 10 people, more than 17 of the 26 floorplans can sleep more than 6. You’ll have plenty of options to suit your large family.

The Freedom Express series offers a wide range of features that will absolutely wow you. The larger floorplans include bunk beds and a pullout couch as well as a queen-sized bed. The kitchens provide a refrigerator along with other appliances, and these bigger sizes often have wide, U-shaped dinettes to suit larger families.

With these models, buyers have the option of selecting the leisure package, which includes a 32” TV , a power tongue jack, and an LED awning light along with a powerful air conditioner. However, many of these models and plans include several additional features, like radial tires with steel wheels, a spare tire, tinted safety glass windows, a detachable power cord , and so much more.

Key Features • 26 available floor plans • Exterior and interior speakers • AM/FM/Bluetooth Receiver • Kitchen appliances • Power Awning • Height: 10’ 3” to 11’ • Length: 20’ 4” to 35’ 7” • Width: 96” • Hitch weight: 508 to 720 pounds • Price: From $18,995

Palomino Puma 28-FQDB Travel Trailer

Durable, Spacious, and Convenient Travel Puma is a fairly well-known travel vehicle manufacturer with a great reputation. Durable and spacious designs make this brand stand out against competitors for large family trailers.

Why We Recommend the Palomino Puma 28-FQDB Travel Trailer Aside from its reputable name, the Palomino Puma series offers 43 different floor plans that sleep anywhere from 4 to 10 people. Specifically, though, the 28-FDQB Travel Trailer sleeps 7—a great size for a large family.

What we love about this particular model is the efforts taken towards safety. The vehicle includes smoke detectors, carbon monoxide sensors, tinted safety windows, and other great safety features.

With plenty of space for dining and sleeping, you’ll find that this trailer has a U-shaped dinette that fits everyone for family dinners as well as a set of bunk beds for additional sleeping space. The full-sized bathroom is another huge positive that families (especially mom and dad) will love.

Key Features • Refrigerator included • Plenty of storage • Three cooktop burners • Pass-through compartment • LED Lighting • Full Shower • Many optional upgrades • Length: 33’ • Width: 8’ • Height: 11’ 1” • Sleeps: 7 • Hitch weight: 664 pounds • Price: From $20,000

Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 23DBH

A Homey Space for On-the-Go Families The comfortable look of this trailer is just the beginning of its great features for families vacationing on the road. It’s not surprising that this model made our list of the best with a manufacturer that has been in the business since 1996.

Why We Recommend the Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 23DBH With plenty of space for a large group like your family, the Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 23DBH sleeps eight and features double bed bunk beds along with an available queen bed option.

With a U-shaped dinette and exterior storage, you’ll find you have just the right amount of space to accommodate your trip comfortably.

Two entry doors make for easy access to the outdoors. The kitchen has everything you need, including a double door refrigerator, three cooktop burners, and plenty of large overhead cabinets. Comfortable internal furnishing ties this piece together as your home away from home. There is even a cozy fireplace by the dinette.

As for the outside, this trailer is designed with an aerodynamic radius front, which means it is meant to be easier to tow. The power tongue jack makes hitching easy, featuring its own light.

Key Features • Length: 29’ 2” • Width: 8’ • Height: 10’5” • Hitch weight: 613 pounds • Two bunks beds • Queen bed available • Double door refrigerator • Three cooktop burners • Tub/shower combo • U-Dinette • Sleeps: 8 • Exterior storage • Two entry doors • Fireplace • Price: From $27,900

Jayco Eagle Premier 375 BHFS Travel Trailer

Space Enough for 10 Don’t be fooled by the age of this model. While it may be a few years old, this travel trailer has the size to accommodate any large family—plus a couple of friends—could ever need, as well as excellent upgrades and features.

Why We Recommend the Jayco Eagle Premier 375 BHFS Travel Trailer One of the clear and obvious positive points about the Jayco Eagles Premier 375 BHFS Travel Trailer is its size. This travel trailer can sleep up to 10 people, which is likely plenty of space for your family and maybe a few stragglers who decide to come along for the ride.

The beautiful and large kitchen boasts a double door fridge, a stove with an above-stove microwave, a fireplace, and an island featuring a deep sink. There’s even a spot for a large TV over the fireplace for additional comfort and relaxation.

This trailer has a rear bunk house with four bunk-style beds and tons of cabinet space. In the middle, there’s a place to mount another television. The other end of the trailer has a dinette and a sofa that stores another bed as well as an entertainment center.

What’s even greater about this model is that it houses not just one bath, but a bath and a half. While one bathroom features a linen cabinet, a shower, toilet, sink, and medicine cabinet, the other is a simple half bath that is found off of the bunkhouse—excellent for the kids.

Wrap this beauty up with a queen bed and a walk-in closet with a washer-dryer space, and you have your dream trailer.

Key Features • Sleeps: 10 • 1.5 bathrooms • Bunkhouse • Several TV locations • Queen bedroom • Walk-in closet • Washer/dryer ready • Plenty of overhead cabinets • Kitchen appliances • Kitchen Island • Fireplace • Exterior Storage • Smaller, outdoor kitchen option • Length: 44’ • Width: 8’ • Height: 14’ • Price: $45,000

Keystone Hideout 272LHS Travel Trailer

Luxury Living on Wheels There are 44 different floor plans in the Keystone Hideout series, and 33 of those sleep 6 or more people. This model is one of those 33 large options, and its amazing design and features astound us.

Why We Recommend the Keystone Hideout 272LHS Travel Trailer The beautiful wood furnishings and hardwood floors are just the beginning of all the reasons we love the Keystone Hideout 272LHS Travel Trailer. Functionality and style come together in this excellent trailer.

Sleeping up to 9 people, this trailer holds double-size bunk beds, a private bedroom, and a pull-out sofa. The booth-style dinette gives you plenty of seating for meals, while the couch is great for lounging and viewing the wall-mounted TV. Not to mention, the trailer is equipped with surround sound speakers and a Bluetooth DVD/CD/MP3 stereo.

The lovely kitchen has a large refrigerator for storing the trip’s food necessities and has a high-rise kitchen faucet as well as a hi-output burner range and a stove. One of the great things about this trailer is that while it has all the features you could need, like a full-sized bathroom, it is designed to be lightweight and easy to hook up and tow anywhere.

Key Features • Kitchen appliances • Sleeps: 9 • Private queen bedroom • Drawer and cabinet storage throughout • Booth dinette • Double sized bunk beds • Two entry doors • Entertainment center • Length: 30’ 8” • Width: 8’ • Height: 11’ 1” • Hitch weight: 780 pounds • Price: $20,000

Final Thoughts on Trailers for Large Families (5 plus)

If what you want is a comfortable travel vehicle that makes you feel like home on the road, you will certainly want to take a look into some of these large travel trailers. With these family size trailers, you get well-designed spaces with smart layouts that make the most of a small area. Everything you need is inside, with enough room to bring along your kids and even some guests. It can be tough to make a big decision like this, and we want to make sure your money is going to good use. Any one of these trailers could be the right choice for you. Hold onto this guide and use it to pick the best large trailer for your family. We are confident that these are some of the best models out there, and you won’t be disappointed in an investment in one of them.

Recommended RV Articles

• 4 Best Travel Trailers for Couples in 2021
• Travel Trailers Under 2000 Pounds
• Travel Trailers Under 4000 Pounds
• Travel Trailers Under 5000 Pounds
• 5 Great Luxury Travel Trailers (High End RV Models)
• Best Four Season Travel Trailers (Extreme Cold Weather Trailers)
• RV Brands to Avoid

About the Author / Johnathan R. Smith

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The 8 Best RV Generators Give You Go-Anywhere Power

To make a mobile home truly feel like an actual home, it helps to have a great generator.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

An RV generator is a big investment, but an important one. We’ll help you find the right option for your setup–walk you through the shopping process and recommend the best models we’ve found and tested. With our picks, you can keep the power flowing wherever you roam.

The Best RV Generators

• Best Overall: Champion Power Equipment 4500W Wireless Start Inverter Generator
• Best Value: Genkins GK2300i Portable Inverter Generator
• Best Solar: Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro
• Best Dual Fuel: Pulsar GD400BN 4000W Dual Fuel Generator
• Best Portable: Honda EU2200i 2200W Portable Generator

The Expert: Over the past decade I’ve reviewed portable generators, power stations and other gear for publications like Popular Mechanics , Popular Science , The Daily Beast , Thrillist and more. Not only have I spent over 30 years camping in RVs, but I’ve used just about every type of portable generator in a variety of vehicles, including RVs and converted vans.

Looking for more backup power solutions? Here are our review of the best portable generators , the best solar-powered generators , and the best home generators .

What to Consider in an RV Generator

How to tell if a generator is rv-ready.

Brands don’t make official, task-specific “RV generators,” but there are a couple of specific features they should have to make sense in that role. Most RVs feature a 30-amp (A) outlet, which enables you to power your entire RV, charging its batteries while running everything from lights to the air conditioner. If your generator doesn’t have a matching 30-amp plug, then it isn’t really the right tool for this job.

Generator size also matters: Ideally, it should be large enough to power your RV for a couple days, but also needs to be light enough to move around and compact enough to fit inside, either through the door or into an exterior cargo hold if you have one. It definitely helps to figure out where you plan to store your generator ahead of time and measure that space so you know what will and won’t work for your setup.

Wattage and Capacity

Size matters–in watts (W), that is. While RV setup is different, we’d generally suggest that most RVs need at least 2,000 watts at any given time, which is enough to power an air conditioner, fridge, lights, and a few devices. Campers should be comfortable at the low end of the spectrum: With 2,000 watts, you’ll have to be careful about using your a/c and making sure to unplug appliances when they aren’t in use, but that shouldn’t be a problem if you plan to spend most of your time outside. If you’re spending a fair amount of time inside and plan to use your a/c often, you should look for a larger generator that can put out upwards of 3,500 watts.

If you’re using a solar generator , you also need to consider your generator’s capacity, or its ability to store energy that’s been harnessed by a solar panel . To power an RV, you should look for a generator that can store at least 3,000 watt-hours (Wh), which is enough to power a fridge, lights, devices, and small appliances for a couple of days. And it needs to have an output of at least 2,000 watts, which allows it to power said essentials simultaneously. Keep in mind that solar generators generally cannot generate as much juice as gas or electricity: Unless you have an extraordinary solar panel array and perfect sun to keep the power flowing, you probably won’t be able to power a full suite of appliances on solar alone.

Most RV generators run on gasoline. There are also dual-fuel generators that use gas or propane: Generators tend to run more quietly when using propane, so it’s a useful option when you set up in a crowded area.

Solar generators are an increasingly popular and attractive option, as well. While it takes time to fully charge a generator via solar panels, they are more sustainable and work well if you’re camping off-grid. Worst case, you can plug them into a house or building power to charge them quickly.

It is never safe to run a gas or propane generator inside your RV. Likewise, do not attempt to fill the gas tank while it’s running, which could start a fire. Solar generators are safe to use indoors.

Portability

There’s no “set it and forget it” RV generator: You will need to move it around fairly often, so it needs light enough for 1-2 people to carry in and out. In general, lighter is better here, but I’d generally look for one around 40-50 pounds for a 2,000-watt generator, or 50-100 pounds for 3,000-4,000 watts. Some generators feature built-in wheels and handles, which can make life a lot easier when you need to move them around.

An oft-overlooked cousin of portability is volume, because you don’t want to be the camper who brings excessive noise pollution to a campground where everyone’s looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Smaller, more portable generators will generally generate less noise. Keep in mind, though, that some manufacturers make their generators lighter by shedding insulation that keeps them quiet. In the end, it’s up to you to find a balance between the two.

In addition to the standard 30-amp/120-volt outlet that you want to properly hook up your RV, the best RV generators will have a variety of plugs that will allow you to power or charge other devices directly. We usually look for standard AC outlets, like you’d find at home, which come in handy for plugging in power tools, outdoor appliances, or whatever else. Many generators also come with USB-A and USB-C ports to charge laptops, phones and other tech.

If you plan on running everything off your RV, port variety may not be as important. But it’s a very nice value add if you plan to use the generator away from your RV.

Since you have to lug your generator in and out of your RV, it needs to be durable enough to take a few bumps here and there. Plus, you want it to last as long as possible without needing repairs. It’s hard to gauge durability on spec, but certain brands have reputations for strong build quality and sturdy construction. Even then, it always pays to look at user reviews and find out if your pick has a reputation for holding up over time.

How We Selected The Best RV Generators

I’ve used RV generators in all shapes and sizes for decades, and have been rigorously testing new models from both top manufacturers and up-and-coming startups for the past five years: My selections are the result of all that experience. To supplement my experience, I compared my findings against a variety of expert reviews and those from real-world buyers at retailers like Amazon.

The recommendations below span a range of price points, portability and operating specs, and situational needs, and after much testing and consideration I can assert with confidence that they are truly the best RV generators you can buy right now.

Champion Power Equipment 4500W Wireless Start Inverter Generator

This rock-solid block of generator excellence from Champion is about as perfect for RVing as it gets. Its 4,500-watt output is more than enough to run your entire RV, air conditioner included. At the same time, it’s surprisingly quiet, clocking in at just 61 decibels—about the same volume as a dishwasher.

The build quality is also outstanding, offering the kind of durability you want for many years of outdoor use. While it’s definitely heavy, it's fairly compact—about the size of a couple of car batteries—and an integrated handle and wheels make it fairly easy to move around.

Champion has a whole line of inverter generators, some of which are less expensive: I’m recommending this one because it features a remote starter, which I really appreciate when I don’t feel like messing around with a generator in the cold or dark.

Genkins GK2300i Portable Inverter Generator

This Genkins generator offers a surprising amount of functionality at a very low price. Its 2,300-watt output should be adequate for most, it’s extremely lightweight and portable, and its 53-58 decibel range is quiet as can be. The company didn’t skimp on safety features, as is sometimes the case with other lower-cost generators, so you can run it with peace of mind. It even offers a little luxury, in the form of a couple of USB-A ports.

The plastic casing doesn’t feel as substantial as pricier models, but that’s to be expected at such a bargain price. If you’re looking for a budget generator that will get the job done, this is hard to beat.

Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro

Solar generators come in all shapes and sizes these days, but I think the Jackery 3000 Pro is the best option for RV-owners, since it offers a lot of capacity without completely sacrificing mobility. What’s more, I’ve knocked one around more than a good bit and have been impressed with its durability. It’s my go-to when I’m road-tripping someplace like Moab, Utah, where sunshine is plentiful and I need a fairly portable setup.

While there are larger capacity options out there, including the EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra below, the 3000 Pro’s 3,000-watt/3,024-watt-hour performance should keep most RVs going for a couple of days, and it recharges fast assuming you have the right solar panels. If you’re new to solar, the bundle we recommend (and link to above) includes two of Jackery’s excellent 200-watt SolarSaga panels, which are more than capable of keeping you powered up.

While its near-100-pound weight isn’t exactly light, the burly integrated wheels and retractable handle make it easy to move around. There’s even an app that allows you to monitor its power levels and output from your phone. What’s more, I’ve knocked one around more than a good bit and have been impressed with its durability. For most on-the-go solar goals, this will deliver.

Pulsar GD400BN 4000W Super-Quiet Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator

Dual-fuel generators are very nice to have on an RV, because the two types work well in different scenarios: Running gas is easy to obtain just about everywhere you go, which makes it great for long, isolated trips or living off-grid, but makes a lot of noise. While propane isn’t quite as accessible, using it allows your generator to run more quietly. With two complementary modes, generators like the Pulsar GD400BN give you the ability to customize your generator’s performance to match your needs in the moment.

We like the GD400BN specifically because it's powerful, quiet and portable. With its 4,000-watt output, it’s more than capable of powering your entire rig, with the air conditioner, but it’s built solid and weighs less than 50 pounds. Another plug or two would’ve been nice–its single AC outlet limits things a bit if you have any reason to plug in power tools or equipment. For all intents and purposes, this is a very nice dual-fuel generator, and comes at a decent price to boot.

Honda EU2200i 2200W Portable Generator

At this point, the Honda EU2200i is nothing short of a campsite icon. You see them all the time at campsites, and with good reason: They are renowned for doing pretty much everything right.

Weighing in at just over 46 pounds and not much larger than a couple of stacked shoeboxes, this is about as portable as RV-capable generators get. It’s also one of the quietest options in its class, purring along at 47-58 decibels, or about the same volume as a normal conversation. Popular Mechanics Test Editor Brad Ford found the same thing in his testing, calling the EU2200i “remarkably quiet.”

“The EU2200i is ideal for camping and other outdoor events where generator noise might be frowned on,” he wrote in our guide to the best portable generators .

And its durability is outright famous: I have personally spent years on end bumping and bashing one all over the place and it just won’t break.

The primary downside is its 2,200-watt outage, which makes sense for its size but is relatively small if you’re powering an RV. Still, given how often you see it around, RVers are clearly okay working around its limitations.

EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra

I can report from firsthand experience that theEcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra is an absolute performance monster, with massive output (7,500 watts) and enormous capacity (6,500 watt-hours), which you can expand further by adding extra 6,000-watt-hour batteries . I recently had one along for a cloudy camping trip where solar panels would have been useless, but it didn’t matter because its charge lasted a solid three days (though it was cool weather and I wasn’t using my a/c—for that you’ll need solar). It also charges very quickly: I charged mine via a wall outlet in about 2 hours. I could easily use this generator to back up my entire house so, needless to say, it can store and produce enough energy to handily power an a/c and everything else you may need in your RV—particularly with a good solar setup.

The downside to carrying a generator like this around—more capacity means more weight. At just over 180 pounds, it’s too heavy to move in or out of an RV solo. It’s more portable than you might think, though: You can remove the batteries from the generator, then carry it out in more manageable parts. Plus, the power station has wheels to help you move it around. Ultimately, the Delta Pro Ultra is probably overkill for most RVers, but it pushes the boundaries on what you can expect from an RV-compatible generator.

Bluetti AC200L Portable Power Station

Bluetti has a penchant for putting lots of performance into sturdy, outdoor-tough packages, and the new AC200L “yes ands” that by adding a ton of outlet options. Its 2,400-watt output is plenty for most RVs, and its 2,048-watt-hour capacity is decent if modest, but is expandable up to 8,192-watt-hour using the company’s stackable add-on batteries.

As for outlets, it’s got plenty of AC, DC, and USB ports. I tend to pack along a lot of cameras, drones, and other gadgets, and I’ve found that this generator is ideal for keeping everything charged in addition to offering all the core ports I need for the RV. Its compact portability and port-abundance also make it perfect for moving throughout camp whenever I need to power something outdoors. It charges extremely fast, going from 0-to-100 percent in about an hour when plugged into a wall socket or as fast as 2 hours with the right solar setup.

It’s a bit heavy for its modest size, but I love the AC200L’s outstanding durability. I brought one along to juice up e-bikes on a recent mountain biking trip. Gear tends to get used pretty hard at the trailhead, but this generator took it like a champ.

Westinghouse 4,500W Generator

If you want to be a good neighbor at your campsite, this generator from Westinghouse keeps the rumble to a minimum. Thanks to a special throttling system that only produces as much power as needed, it spins down when you aren’t drawing much rather than constantly roaring at full speed. That keeps the volume down, dropping to a decibel level akin to generators half its size at low usage. I’ve used older versions of what were essentially the same model; they were very quiet then, and reviews indicate the volume has gone down even more.

Its hefty 4,500-watt output is substantial, considering the lack of racket, and capable of powering an entire RV without issue. It also has a remote starter, which allows me to fire it up from the comfort of indoors.

This Westinghouse is fairly heavy, though a retractable handle, wheels, and lifting handles make it easier to move around. And its relatively compact shape passes through an RV door without too much trouble. All in all it provides ample power while keeping the noise to a minimum.

Q+A WIth Our Experts

How long can I continuously run my RV generator?

Portable gas generators can typically run anywhere from 6-18 hours depending on their fuel capacity. When properly well-maintained, you should be able to run it until the tank runs dry, fill it back up, then start all over.

Remember: You should never attempt to refill the gas tank while the generator is running, which can lead to fires.

Where should I put my generator when I set it up outside?

You can keep it pretty close: Various experts recommend anywhere from 5-25 feet, but I’ve found that 5-10 feet is about right.

If you use a gas or propane generator, your primary concern is to keep the generator clear of doors and windows, as you don’t want to run the risk of carbon monoxide blowing into the RV. You also shouldn’t push up against a wall or other gear–keep well-ventilated on all sides.

Solar generators don’t have this issue, set it up wherever you need to for the best solar panel placement.

Can I run an RV generator in the rain?

You can but you shouldn’t. Electricity and water don’t mix, and running a generator in the rain can have unpredictable results. At best, it may fry the generator or your RV electrical system. At worst it could cause a fire or electrocute someone.

Nick Hilden is a writer, globetrotter, and jack-of-many-talents who has written gear reviews for the likes of  Runner’s World , Popular Science , Men’s Health , Thrillist , the Daily Beast , the Los Angeles Times , Greatist , and the Manual , and his lifestyle, culture, and tech writing has also appeared in Scientific American , Afar , Salon , Vice , Healthline , and many others. Before entering journalism some 15 years ago, he worked as a bartender, brewery manager, sound engineer, recording and touring musician, cook, teacher, and in a variety of other trades. These days, he lives all over the world, performs music sporadically, and spends a lot of time thinking how to best improve his Honda Element conversion.

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My family of 4 travels the US in a small motorhome. Here are 11 things we get at Aldi for simple, affordable meals.

My family travels the US full-time in a motorhome, so we have limited storage space and no oven.

We like shopping at Aldi for low-cost, balanced meals.

We love buying items like the Fusia frozen sushi, Bake Shop cakes, and Southern Grove trail mix.

My wife and I are content creators who travel full time with our 9- and 12-year-old kids.

Although we love to travel the world, we get around in our 25-foot motorhome when we're stateside. This means grocery shopping can sometimes get tricky, as we have limited storage space and no oven.

Like a quarter of US consumers , we like to shop at Aldi for low-cost, balanced meals. Here are 11 items from Aldi that help us enjoy dining on the road on a budget.

The Fusia frozen sushi packs turn our RV into a sushi café.

As much as we adore sushi, we rarely dine out, and trying to roll our own is tricky in the motorhome.

These simple thaw-and-serve Fusia sushi rolls may not take us back to Japan, but they give us an easy way to enjoy a meal we love.

We always have a bag of Cosmic Crisp apples available.

My family loves the Cosmic Crisp apples from Aldi. We always keep (at least) a bag's worth washed and ready to crunch into, especially on driving days. They also made a great bedtime snack.

Priano's shelf-stable filled pasta is a versatile, easy dinner staple.

Two packs of the Priano cheese tortelloni can feed our entire family. Sometimes, my wife and I like to grab the mushroom variety.

Along with a jarred marinara sauce or pesto, we can serve a tasty dinner, often augmented with sautéed ground meat and veggies.

Aldi's salad kits make great lunches.

Aldi's salad kits include a delicious range of fixings, from corn to cashews. We prefer mixes with a cabbage base instead of lettuce, as we find they last longer, stay crisper, and can have a broader nutritional value . Plus, Aldi's kits are more affordable than many others we've seen.

Sweet bell peppers are great raw or cooked.

Aldi's three-packs of sweet bell peppers generally include a red, an orange, and a yellow pepper.

Along with raw carrots, cucumbers, radishes, or cabbage, we often set out sliced peppers on a platter as a snack or appetizer.

Sometimes, my wife and I even like to sauté a diced pepper or two.

Since we don't have an oven, we rely on the Bake Shop cakes.

Since our motorhome lacks an oven, sometimes we really miss baking. Thankfully, Aldi's Bake Shop triple-chocolate crème cake satisfies our cravings for baked goods.

The Specially Selected Italian loaf is a versatile staple.

The Specially Selected Italian loaf makes great grilled-cheese sandwiches or skillet-toasted "fried slices." Whenever we visit Aldi, we also look for a loaf of our favorite Specially Selected everything sourdough.

The Season's Choice frozen cherry-berry blend is great in oatmeal and yogurt.

Whether stirred into oatmeal or yogurt, frozen fruit is a motorhome mainstay. With lots of cherries in every scoop, the Season's Choice frozen cherry-berry blend helps elevate our breakfast meals.

The Southern Grove trail mix is our go-to driving-day snack.

Behind our RV's passenger seat, a rope basket holds our stash of driving-day snacks.

One of our staples is Aldi's Southern Grove Unwind Trail Mix, which is a delightful combination of almonds, cashews, pineapple, cherries, and cranberries.

The nuts pack in protein and healthy fats, and the dried fruit is tangy and sweet.

Our daughter makes nachos using Clancy's tortilla chips.

Having a microwave in our RV means we can always melt shredded cheese on tortilla chips when we're hooked up to power.

Nachos are our daughter's comfort food, and Clancy's restaurant-style tortilla chips pack a delicious crunch at a great price.

We love the Earthly Grains pre-seasoned rice.

The Earthly Grains rice mixes are easy to store, cost-efficient, and simple to cook. Since they're pre-seasoned with different herbs and spices, they have a great flavor right out of the box.

Click to keep reading Aldi diaries like this one .

Read the original article on Business Insider

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