how much are small travel trailers

Written by Johnathan R. Smith • February 1, 2021 • 1:13 am • Popular RV Types

10 Best Mini Camper Trailers Under $10,000 in 2022

Now more than ever traveling via RV is the way to go. It gives people the opportunity to get away from the city and go somewhere they can relax, enjoy the fresh air, and reconnect with nature. And it makes more sense during this pandemic because you get to travel without running into crowds of people and it’s also a cheaper way to go on a vacation.

But why rent an RV when you can buy one for less than $10,000? Yes, you read that correctly. You can have your own recreational vehicle with just $10,000 or even less. No more renting. Experience the freedom of going wherever you want to go whenever you feel like taking a break from your busy life.

If you want to find out if RV life is for you, there are affordable travel trailers out there that also come with great features. The key is in downsizing. Mini camper trailers cost less but it doesn’t mean that you’ll have less fun and less value. We’ll tell you all about the best mini camper trailers in this article.

Reviews of the 10 Best Mini Camper Trailers Under 10,000 in 2021

Yes, we’ve done the research for you. We understand that with a budget of $10,000, you feel like there isn’t a lot of options out there. But we’ve chosen the 10 best mini camper trailers which are offered in the market today. These are all made in the USA. And you will realize that there are great deals waiting for you which won’t cost you a fortune.

Here’s a quick rundown of the 10 Best Mini Camper Trailers Under 10,000 in 2021:

Kodiak Campers

Sun-ray 109 mini camper, trailstomper micro trailer, backpacker 2, flagstaff e-pro e12rk, timberleaf kestrel camper, 2021 coachman viking express mini camping trailer, aspen classic mini camper, sylvansport go camper trailer, the anza trailer.

Here are our reviews so that you know which one comes with your needed features that will give you the most value for your money.

Specifications:

• Dry Weight: 1,525 lbs
• Exterior Height: 80.5″
• Interior Height:5 feet
• Interior Width: 5 feet
• Interior Length: 10 feet
• Price: Starts at $9,950

Standard Features:

• Heavy-duty 3,500 lb. rated axle with 15″ tires
• 15″ Tires and Black Steel Rims with full-size spare
• Electric Trailer Brakes
• Foam board insulated roof + radiant barrier for increased R-value
• Stand on 350 lb capacity flat fenders
• Standard 2″ rear receiver for bikes and cargo
• Standard MaxxAir vent/fan
• Deadbolt lock door with screen + window & sunshade
• Dual USB charging ports in the rear
• Front interior power strip with USB ports
• 15 Amp shore power connection

Kodiak Stealth Available Options:

• 15″ All Terrain Tires mounted on black steel rims, upgraded lock n roll style coupler, and raptor lined fenders
• 5,000 BTU A/C
• Battery kit with outside solar port
• Full-roof rack
• Front rack box
• Outside outlet
• Outside table
•  24″ Tall Vinyl Wrap
• 15″ Aluminum Rims
• Upgraded Deluxe MaxxAir Fan

The Stealth model is Kodiak’s bestselling mini camper . It is the only Rustic Trail camper with an amazing gun metal gray painted exterior. It gives it a certain rugged yet classy look.

This teardrop trailer is perfect for your outdoor adventure. It comes with the standard brakes, queen size bed, and dinette seating to make your camping comfortable. It is lightweight coming in at only 1,525 lbs so it can be towed by most small SUVs and vans.

The Kodiak Stealth has heavy duty stand on flat fenders that can hold over 350 lbs. You can bring your man toys with you so that you can enjoy your camping to the fullest. You can upgrade this to have a full-roof rack, front rack and front rack box for more storage solutions.

T0 make you feel more comfortable, you can upgrade to a 5,000 BTU A/C and get the deluxe MaxxAir fan to keep the air circulating all the time. Other options are available to ensure that you make a lot of happy memories with this adventure camper.

Key Specifications:

• Dry Weight: 1,280 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 120 lbs
• GVWR: 2,000 lbs
• Length: 12′
• Interior Height: 53″
• Fresh Water Capacity: 16 gallons
• Price Range: $9,000 – $10,000
• bed size 54 X 74
• dinette bed 54 X 74
• awning length 8’2″
• complete kitchenette

Available Options:

• Can upgrade to model 109-E for the mini RV Sport Package

Sunset Park RV Manufacturing offers the Sun-Ray Classic as an affordable option for those who want to experience the RV life. It is perfect for adventure seekers who are after the thrill and excitement of getting close to nature.

This mini RV teardrop trailer is for travelers who are okay with just the basic amenities to allow them to have a comfortable stay outdoors. It has a bed and sofa for two so that you can relax inside when it’s too hot outside. There are cabinets where you can store your travel stuff. You’ll appreciate that it has a complete kitchenette and cabinets at the rea and an awning so that you can cook delicious meals.

Sunset Park RV Manufacturing gives you the option to choose a color or color combination from their portfolio. This adds a touch of fun and personality to your mini camper. If you’re the type who loves to bring along your travel gears such as kayaks or ATVs, you can upgrade to their Sport Package.

• Length (Front to back) – 40″
• Width – 43″
• Height – 26″
• LOAD TOLERANCE: Trailer loads up to 600lbs.
• Base Price: starts at $4, 995

Options or Accessories:

• Rooftop tent mounting
• Slide out tray
• Front Cargo Rack
• Side Boxes and Top Racks
• 17″ spare tire
• Aux Battery/ lights

Sportsrig Microtrailers gives us the TrailStomper – an affordable toy hauler with an option for rooftop tent mounting so that you can go out and enjoy the outdoors whenever you feel like it.

Take your boat, bike, and other travel gears with you as this small trailer has a carrying capacity of up to 600 lbs. It is lightweight and compact which means you can use almost any vehicle to tow it. You can adjust the suspension according to your load so that you can have a more pleasant driving experience whichever road you choose to go.

Sportsrig Microtrailers gives you the opportunity to customize your rig according to your travel needs. You can discuss your options with them so that you can get the most out of the TrailStomper.

• Trailer Weight: 1240 lbs.
• Bumper to Hitch Length: 14′ 6”
• Hitch Weight: approx. 160 lbs.
• Overall Height: 79”
• Interior Height:  60”
• Sleeping Area: 6’8″ L x 52″ W
• Price Range: $8,000 – $9,000
• 2900 lb. Axles
• ST205/75R14 Radial Tires
• Aluminum Fenders
• Aluminum Skin
• Insulated Walls & Ceiling
• 12-volt Battery Ready
• ¾” Plywood Flooring
• LED Tail Lights
• Porch Light
• Detachable Table
• Complete Underbelly
• Double-Barn Door in Rear
• GFI Outlet & 12-volt Outlet
• Large Countertop
• Stainless Steel Sink with Hand Pump
• Drawers (2 each)
• Overhead Cabinet
• 14” x 14” Roof Vent with Fan
• Cherry Wood Cabinets
• 110-volt GFI Outlet (2 each)
• 12-volt Outlet
• 12-volt Lights (2 each)
• Large Entry Door with Window & Screen Door (includes V-blind)
• Large Escape Window
• Aluminum Wheels
• Carpet Flooring
• Extended A-frame w/ Front Storage Box/Cooler
• High-output Fantastic Fan
• Receiver Hitch in Rear
• Spare Tire w/ Rear Carrier

Three Feathers Manufacturing offers everyone a smooth cruiser that can provide you with creature comforts even when you’re on the road. Their Backpacker 2 is lightweight which makes it towable by small trucks and cars. It has a length of less than 15′ that’s why it is easy to drive with this mini camper in tow.

It is perfect for any camper because it comes with a spacious sleeping area, a big kitchen, and have different storage solutions for all your camping gear. You can camp in style and in comfort no matter where you are.

If you’ve got extra funds, you can upgrade it to include a roof rack and an extended A-frame with front storage box or cooler to have more space and storage.

• Hitch Weight: 162 lb.
• UVW: 1252 lb.
• CCC: 710 lb.
• Exterior Length: 11′ 3″
• Exterior Height: 7′ 9″
• Exterior Width: 80″
• Fresh Water: 20 gal.
• Gray Water: 6 gal.

Standard Features Include:

• Aluminum Cage Dinette Base
• 6 Sided Aluminum Cage Construction
• Vacuum Laminated Roof and Walls
• 5/8″ tongue and groove plywood flooring
• 2 Frame Mounted Stabilizer Jacks
• Torsion Axle, Rubber-Ryde Suspension
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Magnetic Baggage Door Catches
• 12V Refrigerator
• Spare Tire W/ Carrier
• 13,500 Roof A/C
• 15” Mud Rover Radial Tires and a lift Kit (Step extension on the 12RK and 12SRK)
• Foot Flush Toilets
• Chill Chaser Heat Strip For A/C
• Manual Awning
• CSA (Canadian Standards)
• Pro Rac Mounting Bars
• Pro Rac Kayak, Bike, Tie Downs, Etc. Accessories
• Tongue Mount Bike Rack
• Maxxair® Ventilation Fan and Vent Cover

Just go ahead and travel across the country in comfort and style with Forest River Flagstaff E-pro . It’s got the basic essentials that you need on the road – a nice full bed to crash into after an exciting outdoor adventure and a full kitchen so that you can cook your favorite meals even when you’re miles away from home.

With a weight of less than 1,300 lbs, you can take these Forest River Flagstaff E-pro small travel trailers along using any small SUV. Its exterior length is less than 12′ so you have an improved maneuverability while driving and it’s easier to store. It will probably fit in your garage so you get to save on storage fees.

Its standard features also offer quality appliances to make your camping more comfortable and convenient. The Forest River Flagstaff E-pro comes with a gas griddle, outside sink, microwave, TV, and refrigerator. Or if you’re the type of camper who likes to bring along your man toys, you have the option to have racks and mounting bars installed.

• Base Weight: 860 pounds
• Base Price: $7,800
• R-7 Insulated ceiling
• .040 clear anodized aluminum roof
• .040 custom painted aluminum sides
• Passive roof vent
• Three AA-powered LED cabin lights
• LED running lights & tail lights
• Baltic Birch plywood on all exposed surfaces
• Cabin cabinets and headboard with sliding doors
• Two 14-inch x 16-inch venting windows with screens
• Two 26-inch x 36-inch doors with vented windows
• Full Size Mattress – 6-inch foam
• All wood finished in 100% zero-VOC Polyurethane
• 205/75r15 spare tire
• 2,000lb torsion axle
• 205/75r15 trailer tires
• 15″ aluminum wheels
• Round smooth aluminum fenders
• Standard 2″ ball coupler
• Standard Package: 2,000lb torsion axle, 205/75r15 trailer tires, 15″ aluminum wheels, round smooth aluminum fenders, standard 2″ ball coupler.
• All-Road Package: Timbren Axle-Less suspension, 3500lb independant suspension, electric drum brakes, 30×9.5r15 all terrain tires, 15″ polished aluminum wheels, aluminum Jeep-style diamond plate fenders, Max-Coupler articulating hitch
• Off-Road Package: Timbren Axle-Less suspension, 3500lb independent suspension, 4″ lift electric drum brakes, 31×10.5×15 BFGoodrich KO2 tires, 15″ polished aluminum wheels, custom jeep-style HD fenders w/ integrated corner steps , front corner rock sliders made of 1.5″x.120″ HREW Max-Coupler articulating hitch

Timberleaf offers us The Kestrel – an ultra lightweight, budget-friendly camper that will let you experience ultimate comfort while camping.

It is minimalist coming in with 2 doors, 2 windows, a roof vent, and a 6-inch mattress. It is suited for campers who just need the basic necessities when they’re on the road.

It has no built-in power system but Timberleaf gives you the opportunity to upgrade your camper by getting their Standard, All-Road, or Off-Road Package so that you can make your camper suit your camping style.

• Hitch Weight: 77 lb.
• GVWR: 1,277 lb.
• UVW: 761 lb.
• CCC: 516 lb.
• Box Size: 8.75′
• Exterior Open Length: 8′ 2″
• Exterior Closed Height: 4′ 3″
• Exterior Closed Length: 12′ 10″
• Exterior Width: 79″
• Price Range: $6,000 – $10,000
• E -Coated Tubular Steel Frame
• Heavy-Duty Tongue Jack w/Wheel
• Wide Trac Ultra Lube Spring Axle
• Electric Brakes
• Radial Tires
• (4) Heavy Duty Scissor Style Jacks
• Laminated Aluminum Skin Walls
• LED Exterior Lights
• Aqua-Shield Tenting Material
• 100% Adhesion Residential Grade Linoleum
• Dark Ash Cabinetry
• Residential Laminated Countertops
• 12V LED Interior Lights
• Spare Tire & Carrier
• Flex Rod Tech Add A Room
• “Jack It” Bike Rack
• “Toylok” Cargo Security System
• 5000 BTU Air Conditioner

Coachmen manufactured the Viking Camping Trailer to offer us an easy way to travel in RV style. It is easy to set up once you reach your campsite because it features Coachmen’s patent pending Glide-N-Lock system. The waterproof tent is durable and will give you protection from different weather conditions. It is easy to use because it is minimalist. It comes with the most basic things you need- a 54×75 bed to rest on and a dinette so you can eat comfortably.

It is easy to tow because it is lightweight and features an aerodynamic design. It is easy to store since it is compact. It will fit in your garage when you’re not using it.

Coachmen has made the Viking to be practical but they ensured that it still comes with a stunning style and offers campers ultimate comfort on the road which have been their trademark through the years.

You’ll also love that you can add a room to your Viking camping trailer when you need more space for your family and add a 5,000 BTU air conditioner for a more comfortable camping experience. You can also install a bike rack and cargo security system so that you can bring your bikes with you so you can enjoy the outdoors even more.

• Closed dimensions: 47” W x 72” L x 38” H
• Open dimensions: 150” L x 72” W x 86” H
• Bed Size: 72” W x 84” L (King)
• Room Size: 72” W x 66” L
• Weight (empty): 350 lbs.
• Storage Capacity: 25 cubic feet
• Tongue weight: 24 lbs. (empty)
• Price Range: $3,000 – $5,000
• Single-piece, re-enforced fiberglass body available in white, black or gray with basement level for added storage.
• Storage compartment accessible both while traveling or inside tent
• Full perimeter 2″ deep box-tube, sealed welded & black powdered-coated frame. A tri-angulated tongue is utilized for maximum stability
• Dexter Torflex suspension with electric brakes option
• Four adjustable jack stands at perimeter of frame
• 1 7/8″ standard ball hitch. A swivel hitch available as an upgrade
• 4.80 x 12″ bias ply tires with white wheels are standard. Chrome and aluminum rims are available upgrades as well radial tires.
• Durable travel cover with 2.5 cubic ft. zippered pocket
• LED trailer lighting for safe, long lasting performance
• 6-pin trailer plug standard. Other plug styles are available
• Interior telescoping galvanized steel tent bows
• Spring rear loaded bed bow for easy set-up.
• Aluma-Core Bed Panels with insulation for maximum strength & weight (rated for 600 lbs.)
• Single piece seamless white roof
• Eight-inch high pan-rolled floor that positions seam above ground level.
• Tents are seam sealed & water tested
• Zippered storm flap that can double as a canopy fly (poles sold separately)
• Zippered pocket for cooler/tongue access from inside the tent
• A/C duct flap for optional addition of your own AC unit
• Dual zippered rear bed window for full access through the rear of the tent.
• Rear window awning with flexible rod to allow for additional privacy and water shed.
• Foam mattresses with cleanable covers.
• 1 year warranty on parts
• 10 year warranty on axle
• A/C duct kit
• Clear view window panel
• Continental kit
• Cooler rack and cover
• Coupler handle
• Extended tongue
• Framing kit
• Privacy skirt
• Reflector bar
• Screen room
• Sun-rain canopy
• Swivel coupler
• Tongue stand
• Window awning

Although as of January 2020, Aspen has officially stopped making trailers, you might be able to score their Classic Mini Trailer from other dealers. You can still buy the parts and accessories that you need from Aspen so that you can upgrade its look and functionality.

The Aspen Classic features ample space and storage for campers. You can rest on the foam mattresses shielded by a heavy duty tent. It is very lightweight. In fact, you can use a motorcycle or a small car to tow it. It is easy to set up once you reach your camping destination which is a good thing because you’d want to start your vacation right away. Should the weather condition turn bad, you can take down this mini camper with no hassle.

• Standing height 6′ 5”
• 80” long by 116” wide
• Interior height expands from 17” to 48”
• Deck size 48″ wide x 84″ deep
• Loading height: 53″
• Max carrying capacity: 960 lbs
• Starting Price: $9,995
• equipment rack
• crank handle
• 8 frame pins
• 3 tent poles
• 2 bed panels
• 4 sleeping pads
• 4 bed support poles
• 2 table panels
• tailgate step
• tailgate bungee
• storage box
• 2 storage box keys
• stabilizer jack rod
• 4 ratchet straps
• tent awning
• deck cushion
• drill adaptor
• hanging organizer
• storage net
• camper cover
• 2 air mattresses
• 2 trekking poles
• screen room
• breezeway connector
• camp kitchen
• 2 single sleeping bags

SylvanSport Go is a clear manifestation of innovative design and engineering techniques in the construction of recreational vehicles to make them more affordable.

This camper is versatile. You can tow it using smaller vehicles yet you can bring your outdoor sports equipment and cargo with you.

This camper is comfortable. It provides a spacious shelter for 2 to 4 people. The ride itself is made more enjoyable with its maneuverability and torsion trailer axle.

This camper is durable. It gives you more value for your money because it is built to last. Its premium construction features heavy duty tent materials and powder coated aluminum body.

SylvanSport offers upgrade packages to make your camping more comfortable and convenient.

• 5 ft. x 8 ft. off-road trailer unit
• 31” wheels and tires
• Price: Starts at $10,500
• Stand on the fenders and batwing step
• All LED lighting includes 2 interior magnetic LED puck lights
• Dual 5000 lb. rear stabilizer jacks, and a 2000 lb. tongue jack. 2” receiver on the rear for a bike rack, cargo rack, etc. Not to exceed 75 lbs
• ¾” plywood walls with exterior sheet metal skin (choice of colors) and 2 x 4 ribs in the insulated roof
• A welded chassis using 2 x 2 square tubing 120 walls
• A welded tongue using 3 x 3 square tubing
• Integrated step for accessing the stand-on fenders
• Two doors with adjustable screened windows
• A wall vent
• Carpeted walls and floor
• 6-plug power strip on the rear interior
• Awning Sunseeker
• Curt Basket Roof Rack
• Curt Basket Roof Rack and extension
• Kayak Rack, mounted (Needs simple roof rack)
• Cubbyhole Storage
• Window (24“ x 14“) Slider with screen, each
• Rear Door (23“ x 37“)
• Large Rear Door (45“ x 40“)
• Diamond Plate Rock Guard (Not needed with full sized tongue box)
• Spare Tire (Bigfoot) (Unmounted)
• Foxwing Awning (Mounted)
• MaxSonic Stereo System with 2 speakers/ 4 speakers
• Mounted Propane Tank
• Bunks: Carpeted Shelf, aluminum cleats on wall, 2 ft. deep x width of trailer, each
• Rear Cabinet
• Waterport Pressurized Water Tank/Spray Unit
• ClimateRite Heating and A/C unit (CR 2500)
• 31“ Wheel/Tire Upgrade
• Black Wheel/Tire Upgrade

Although its base price is a little over $10,000, The Anza is also worth considering. C.A.R.P. Expedition is giving us the opportunity to go on an off-road adventure whenever you feel the urge to reconnect with nature.

The standard features of this open cabin teardrop camper makes you ready for any kind of expedition. The Anza comes with dual 5000 lb. rear stabilizer jacks and a 2000 lb. tongue jack with 2” receiver on the rear for your bike rack , cargo rack, etc. so you can bring your travel gears with you.

The Anza gives you lots of options to upgrade your unit to make you more comfortable in your travel, provide you with more storage solutions, and make your camper look more handsome so you can camp in style.

There you have it! The 10 best mini camper trailers of 2021 all under $10,000. Have you chosen which one you like the best? If not, we encourage you to read on so that you’ll know more about mini camper trailers to help you in choosing the best one for you.

What is a mini camper trailer?

A mini camper trailer is a compact and lightweight travel trailer. Their length is usually under 15 feet. It is a recreational vehicle that’s towable by smaller vehicles with the help of hitches.

Most of the time, a mini camper trailer can only accommodate two adults. The most common amenities that you can find in this small travel trailer are a sleeping area, dinette, and kitchen.

But manufacturers of these recreational vehicles provide you with options to build your own camper or choose which other amenities you find essential and want to have in your camper. This includes a bathroom, an awning, or cargo racks. Of course, each one will come with additional costs but they will make your travel more comfortable.

Benefits of a mini camper trailer

Mini camper trailers will make you realize that bigger isn’t always better. While they are at the low end of the price range when it comes to recreational vehicles, they have a lot to offer.

There’s something to love about the idea of traveling with your spouse or friend and having them in close proximity to you. You’re spending quality time together, catching up or just enjoying what nature has to offer.

When you have a bigger camper, you most probably will end up in your own rooms doing your own thing. In a mini camper trailer, you cherish the togetherness.

Easy to Maintain

Since they are smaller, there are fewer parts and amenities to maintain. There are less appliances that would need repair or replacement from time to time. Maintenance of a mini camper trailer is so much simpler.

Mini camper trailers cost less to store, maintain, and repair. These are also cost-savers when it comes to gas since they are lightweight and more aerodynamic .

Can be towed by smaller vehicles

This is one of the best things about mini camper trailers. Because they are lightweight, chances are you can use the vehicle that you’re using now to tow this thing so you don’t have to worry about your towing vehicle anymore.

Easier to Drive

Because they are shorter, these small campers are easier to drive and maneuver on the road. Finding a parking space is also much easier since they don’t take up too much space.

Easy to Store

These mini camper trailers can be stored in a standard garage. They come in a compact size which makes it easy for you to find a place for them in your garage. This means you don’t have to spend on storage fees when you’re not using your travel trailer.

Offer Amenities

Don’t be deceived by their size. There’s more than what meets the eye for these mini camper trailers. Most manufacturers allow you to customize your small-sized RV so that you can include the amenities and some luxuries that you want to enjoy while traveling. There are many different upgrade options to choose from. You can go from basic to sophisticated depending on what you want to have in your camper.

Indeed, there are many things to love about a mini camper trailer. It keeps things simple, fun, practical, and flexible.

Tips For Purchasing a Mini Camper Trailer Under $10,000

Here are the factors that you should consider when you’re on the lookout for the best mini camper trailer.

Adventure Style

There are different models to choose from. If you enjoy off-road camping or love bringing your man toys with you when you travel, there’s a model out there that’ll suit your kind of adventure. Choose a camper that suits your hobbies so that you’ll be a happy camper all the time.

Number of People

How many people would you like to bring during your travels? Most mini camper trailers have sleeping space for 2 adults but there are models out there that will allow you to add an extra mattress or two. It’s all about being able to maximize and customize the space

Another thing that you need to consider is the space. Is there enough storage for all your stuff? How can you maximize the space to be able to fit in everything you need? Do you need extra storage solutions such as racks for your travel gears?

You have to understand that most mini camper trailers will come as basic as they can get. Check the floor plan so that you will have an idea how you will use the given space.

It is understandable that mini camper trailers come as basic as they can get. There would be a sleeping area and a dinette, that’s about it. But as you’ve seen earlier, many RV manufacturers now offer more features for you to enjoy camping and allow you to customize your camper so that you can choose the amenities and appliances that matter to you.

Wrap Up: What is the best small RV trailer?

As we always say, the best choice is one that suits your personal needs and travel requirements. There are lots of options out there for small RV trailers . Choose the mini camper trailer that suits your budget and makes you feel the most comfortable when you go camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the smallest travel trailers.

Some of the smallest travel trailers which are available in the market today are:

• Hiker Trailer Highway Model which is available in three sizes: 5 x 8, 5 x 9, and 5 x 10;
• Scamp trailers have campers with a length 13 foot;
• the Happier Camper HC1 which is also has a length 13 feet long with an interior height of 6’1″ and weighs in at 3500 lbs;
• and Taxa Outdoors Cricket Camper which comes in at only 15 feet in length.

How much are small camper trailers?

Brand new small camper trailers can cost between $8,000 and $23,000. The price would depend on the manufacturer, model, features, and size of the campers. Since they are smaller, they are a lot more affordable than large motorhomes and travel trailers. Price will go higher with more features and options for upgrade that you choose to get for your camper.

What is the best small travel trailer with bathroom?

Even the smallest of rigs can come with a bathroom. You’d be surprised to know that they are many options to choose from. There’s the Scamp 13′ Deluxe, 16′ Casita Deluxe Spirit , Airstream 2021 Basecamp, Forest River R-pod RP-180, and Winnebago Micro Mini.

These are just 5 of the best and smallest out there. They are self-contained and have complete amenities to make you feel comfortable in your home away from home. You can enjoy the convenience of having your own wet bath, two burner stove, adequate living space and ample storage space. You’ve got to check their specific floorplans and features to make sure that you choose which of these teardrop trailers is the best for you!

About the Author / Johnathan R. Smith

Comments are closed.

• Affiliate Disclosure
• Privacy Policy

• More Networks

This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy .

13 of the Best Small Travel Trailers on the Market

Published on November 23rd, 2019 by Brian Newman

Life is full of limits, which is why the RV lifestyle is so appealing. It allows people from all walks of life to travel and explore. Just take a look at the parking lot of the Grand Canyon. You’ll see RVs of every type, length, weight, and manufacturer from every corner of the country. Many RV consumers have a desire to keep their more fuel-efficient vehicles, yet they still want a travel trailer that has all the amenities needed to take week-long trips. New construction materials are making RVs lighter, stronger, and more versatile. Features that exist in 30 plus foot coaches are now seen in trailers as small as 15 feet or less – small travel trailers.

The small RV category is unique unto itself. Big-name manufacturers compete with independent small companies. Many of the small companies create new technologies the big names haven’t even thought of yet. For our discussion, we will define small travel trailers by the following criteria:

• They are self-contained- this means that all features are within the coach itself. Trailers that only have outdoor kitchens fall within another category.
• The coach does not have an interior length of more than 23 feet in length. They may be a part of a series that have floorplans that exceed this length, but we will define this.
• Dry weights will not exceed 3,500 pounds. We will focus our attention on those that are the lightest in weight. Some do go as high as 4,000, but this is an effect of materials used. Some of the trailers are a part of a series that extend out of the small travel trailer parameters. We will feature those models that fall within our small trailer limits.

Here are the 13 Best Small Travel Trailers on the Market

1. jayco hummingbird.

• 12.11- 19.8 feet in length
• 1,570- 3,095 pounds dry weight
• 5 different floorplans
• Sleep up to 4 people
• $13,496- $27,290 MSRP

Jayco’s quality manufacturing is a benchmark in the industry. The Hummingbird line is a great introduction to the small and compact category. Each floorplan gives great examples of small trailer features. Yet their self-contained models also have full feature amenities as well.

DON’T MISS OUT ON CAMPER SMARTS UPDATES

Sign up for the newsletter today.

Please enter a valid email address.

An error occurred. Please try again later.

Thank you for subscribing to the Camper Smarts newsletter, keep your eye on your inbox for updates.

The 17MBS is 19.9 feet in length and has a 3,095-pound dry weight. The front has a murphy bed that shares space with a sofa. This is a feature that many manufacturers use as a space saver. As a trade-off, Jayco gives you a separate toilet and shower instead of a combined wet bath for an amenity balance.

This particular coach is an off-road model with 15 inch Goodyear mud tires and a raised chassis. They seal the underbelly with a layer of Astro-Foil to protect it and as an insulator. Despite its size, there is still plenty of space for linens, wardrobe, and pantry items within.

The 17RK is the exact length and dry weight of the 17MBS but is very different. The front of the coach has a permanent queen-size bed. It has a driver-side slide out that with a U-shaped dinette and refrigerator/microwave. The kitchen counter takes up the entire width of the rear. The tradeoff is a combination wet bath.

As you can see, Jayco does a lot with the space. Even their compact trailer has its advantages. If you are looking to get into the small travel trailer RV lifestyle, Jayco is a great place to start.

2. Casita Travel Trailers

• 16-17 feet in length
• 1,970- 2,480 pounds dry weight
• 5 different floorplans/models
• Sleep up to 6 people
• $17,225- $20,289

Casita is a family-owned business that started in 1983. Their coaches have many configurations you can choose from. Their products can travel off-road and off-season with enough room to fit everyone.

Casita designs their trailers based on two sizes. Their two-piece fiberglass shells come in either 16 feet or 17 feet. Each size then has a standard or deluxe package. The deluxe models offer an all-in-one toilet/shower wet bath and black water holding tank.

Standard packages use the wet bath area for added storage or sitting/sleeping space. This allows for more people to be comfortable. It also means you would have to rely on campground facilities for restrooms and showers. If your camping style is more off-grid, the deluxe package may fit your needs better.

Casita matches a floorplan with a model. This means that if you want the two- twin bed floorplan, you would choose the Independence model. Whichever model you choose, weight and pricing are the same. The manufacturer sets the price of their products.

• The 16-foot standard dry weight is 1,970 pounds and is $17,225.
• The 16-foot deluxe dry weight is 2,185 pounds and is $19,279.
• The 17-foot standard dry weight is 2,210 pounds and is $18,320.
• The 17-foot deluxe dry weight is 2,480 pounds and is $20,289.

3. Scamp Trailers

• 13 to 16 feet in length
• 1,200- 2,000 pounds dry weight
• 7 different floorplans
• Between $15,000- $20,000

The Scamp Travel Trailer – the iconic small travel trailers – has been a Minnesota manufacturer since 1972. Instead of mass production, each coach is built to the customer’s specifications. They can choose the size, layout, and interior features they want.

According to some owners, the building time took a matter of a few weeks. What they enjoyed the most out of the experience was the interactive experience. The manufacturer sent pictures and answered questions during the whole process.

Once completed, customers pick up their unit at Scamp’s headquarters in Backus, Minnesota. If the customer can’t get there, Scamp will go the extra mile to help their customers out. The company can deliver the RV to the customer anywhere in the continental United States.

Scamp has three sizes. The 13 and 16-foot models are small travel trailers, and the 19 is a fifth wheel . Each size has a standard and deluxe version. The 13 foot has two layouts, while the 16 foot has five. Some models have a combination toilet/shower wet baths, others do not.

Costs are unique to each trailer. Scamp does not publish their starting prices. Some owners have discussed their pricing on forums across the internet. Generally, these price points have come in between $15,000 to $20,000 depending on the model, package, and additional features they have chosen.

The 13-foot standard layouts give you either a sofa or a dinette upfront. The first layout gives you a sofa that can convert into a bunk bed. The second layout replaces the sofa for a wet bath and a second closet. In the deluxe version, the choice is between a dinette or a wet bath.

The features that stay constant are the rear dinettes that fold out to make the master bedroom. They also come with full kitchens that include sinks and small refrigerators.

Standard models offer a more basic approach to camping. Kitchens have a 1.9 cubic foot refrigerator as a part of additional packages. Many electronic features like TV hookups are optional. Customers that want to choose individual amenities may decide on these models.

Deluxe models have more of a complete package offering than the standard models. Bigger features and amenities are available. Many electronics like TV hookups, air conditioners, vinyl flooring, and other high-end features can be added.

4. Airstream Bambi

• 16 to 22 feet in length
• 3,000- 4,000 pounds dry weight
• 4 different floorplans
• Sleeps up to 4 people
• $49,000 to $58,000

With the retirement of the Sport, Airstream further developed their Bambi series. This small coach gave the company the ability to join in on the small travel trailers market. It also stays within the weight capacities small coach campers are looking for.

It comes in a 16, 19, 20, and 22-foot floor plan. Each one has a fixed double bed, dinette, full kitchen, and bathroom. The 16-foot model has a combined wet bath, but the others have full bathrooms. Each dinette folds down to allow an additional two sleepers.

The Bambi is spacious for its size. Airstream uses light colors in the coach to keep the interior bright and enhance the open feel. They also keep to their European styling to give the unit a sophisticated look.

As expected, Airstream uses only the best when it comes to its amenities. The bed has a memory foam mattress. The entertainment system uses JBL sound equipment and an LED TV. There are also USB ports and LED lights throughout the RV itself.

Each coach has an optional solar panel system that can be factory installed. Otherwise, each one comes prewired for external solar panel setups.

5. KZ RV Escape

• 18.10- 27.3 feet in length
• 2,690- 3,820 pounds dry weight
• 11 different floorplans
• Sleep up to 10 people
• $11,995- $29,300

The KZ Escape series is the most versatile series on our list. Within the 11 floorplans, seven of them fit into our definition of small travel trailers. Among them, there are hybrids, slideouts, and even a toy hauler that measure within 22 feet or less.

KZ designs this series with everybody in mind. Their one of the models caters to the off-road enthusiast. The E191BH sits higher and comes with 15-inch mud tires. It also has electronic-controlled heated holding tanks that help with off-season camping.

The E171MB has a unique storage feature. On the slide-out that holds the refrigerator is a storage space that has both an inside and outside access. It also has a queen-size murphy bed that shares its space with a sofa. The coach has a full bathroom and kitchen that completes the interior space.

The E171 MB is 19.8 feet in length and has a dry weight of 3,170 pounds. Your midsize-SUV won’t have any problems towing this coach.

6. Little Guy Travel Trailers

• 17.2- 21.0 feet in length
• 1,993- 3,140 pounds dry weight
• 17 different floorplans
• Sleep up to 3 people
• $20,000- $30,000

Little Guy Trailer Company has reinvigorated the teardrop trailer for the 21st century. This RV maker has created a self-contained teardrop with modern conveniences. They keep with the tradition of the teardrop by keeping tow weights at car towing capacities.

Little Guy Mini Max is light enough to use your car/SUV crossover, yet gives you features of a full-size RV. The bright maple hardwood cabinetry contains a full kitchen. This also includes a category-leading four cubic foot fridge. Many RVs of this size don’t have refrigerators this large.

The Little Guy Max is four feet long and weighs in a little under 2,000 pounds. Many 21-foot trailers weigh more than this. One of the great features of this coach is the ability to hook up your small SUV as your tow vehicle.

The versatility of the dinette is quite special. Most fold down to a double bed. This one gives you the option of either two twin beds or a queen-size configuration. This works by having the dinette on a hydraulic and sliding bed slats that support the middle of the bed.

A lot of thought went into the wet bath of these coaches. Toilet paper covers are waterproof. The shower uses 2.2 gallons a minute to conserve water. The space allows a person to move around without knocking into the toilet while cleaning off.

RV Pro Magazine rated the Little Guy Max Best in Show for 2018 at the RVIA National RV Trade Show. The RV maker won for its nostalgic styling, modern features, and amount of storage for its size.

7. Forest River R-Pod

• 18.4- 22.2 feet in length
• 2,497- 3,600 pounds dry weight
• 15 different floorplans
• $14,500- $30,000

The Forest River R-Pod is celebrating its 10th year in production. Many of the features and amenities on this RV borrow from its big brothers and sisters. With 15 different floorplans to choose from, there is an R-Pod for everyone in this small category.

The 10th-anniversary package comes with many upgraded standard features. Furrion sound systems, solar charging ports, and seamless kitchen countertops are some. Other popular features include a pet-friendly frame-mounted utility hook for your dog.

Most of the floorplans have permanent queen-size beds. Other sleeping spaces include fold-down dinettes, bunk beds, and murphy beds. The R-Pod is a master of the ability to make the most of the space in its coach. This is why it has been so popular for so long.

Popular add-ons include a solar panel system with a 110-watt panel and a 1,000-watt inverter. Some models can have a factory built-in outdoor kitchen added as well. The R-Pod has a screen room that attaches to your awning to complete your outdoor space.

8. Homegrown Trailers- Timberline

• 18.10 feet in length
• 4,150- 4,350 pounds dry weight
• Sleep up to 5 people
• $50,000- $57,500

When tent camping does not work out for the whole family, most get into the RV lifestyle. The founder of Homegrown Trailers took that a step further. He and his team built a trailer out of sustainable materials in Kirkland, Washington.

The Timberline is an 18.10-foot travel trailer that uses green materials in its construction. Both the interior and exterior are made from wood paneling. Wool insulation creates a strong barrier against the outdoor temperatures.

The off-grid package has a 600-800 solar panel wattage to power all the electronic needs of the coach. The wet bath area gives you the option of a clean or composting toilet. For easy access, the grey water tank is external and simple to drain.

Everything about this coach is green and sustainable. They did not forget about styling and comfort. The aerodynamic shape is teardrop inspired to cut down on wind resistance. There is plenty of headroom and floorspace to allow up to five people to move around.

The coach has plenty of modern conveniences too. A full kitchen with a refrigerator allows meal preparation. Heat and air conditioning units are optional add-ons as well.

9. Oliver Travel Trailers

• 18.5- 23.6 feet in length
• 3,400- 4,600 pounds dry weight
• 6 different floorplans
• $48,900- $55,900

When you buy an Oliver Travel Trailer (a.k.a. “Ollie”), you become a member of the club. Oliver sells its trailers factory direct. They only build them per customer order. Once built, buyers pick up their trailers at the factory in Hohenwald, Tennessee.

Currently, Ollie makes the Elite I and II. The Elite I has two floorplans, and Elite II has four. The main bed is either permanent or a fold-down dinette. The third sleeping space is either a twin bed or two-seater dinette that folds down.

Ollies come with many standard features that compete with many big names in the RV world. What makes Ollie so unique are the many add-ons that others don’t offer. One surprising option is dual awnings. One for the door side, and another for the opposite side of the coach.

They also offer thought-provoking ideas. Specialized materials that clear away moisture from condensation areas. External storage baskets and receivers for bike racks. Propane water heaters and various electronic signal boosters. There are many other optional add-ons worth exploring.

Once a customer has worked with their sales representative, the order goes to the factory. Production time can take 8 to 10 weeks to build your RV. Once it’s ready, the customer comes to the factory and spends their first night in their new coach.

The buying process is as unique as the trailer itself.

10. Lance Trailer

• 14- 25 feet in length
• 2,600-5,875 pounds dry weight
• 12 different floorplans
• Sleep up to 7 people
• $27,500- $66,400

Of the many big names that need mention, Lance is the unexpected winner. Their lineup offers nine models that are 22 feet or less in length. Only three of them have a dry weight under 4,000 pounds. They may be heavy, but their design is extraordinary.

In fact, one of their models, the Lance 2075 is the Best in Show award winner with RV Pro Magazine for 2020 . This model won due to its best technique of separating the bedroom area from the living room space. It has a queen-size bed in front and a U-shaped dinette in the rear that is on a slide-out.

The lightest model makes the best use of its 14 feet of interior space. It has a front sofa that folds out to a double bed. The rear has a full bathroom instead of a wet bath. It also includes a full kitchen.

Instead of trying to squeeze in a dinette, the designers placed two padded chairs with a small table. This allows the RVers to sit and relax in front of a big picture window. No matter how it’s used, there is still a feeling of spaciousness and relaxation.

If you look at Lance’s line up, all the models they have a focus on one point. Their small travel trailers give their users the most use of open space. The company wants its customers to have a relaxing experience, no matter the length of the RV.

11. Happier Camper

• 10 feet in length
• 1,100 pounds dry weight
• Numerous different floorplans
• $24,950 starting price

Have you ever looked around your RV and said to yourself, “I wish I had…?” If you owned an HC1 from Happier Camper, your response might be, “I have a box for that.”

This Los Angeles, California company has taken modular camping to the next level. The basis of the coach’s interior starts with 20-inch x 20-inch plastic boxes. Some are for storage. Others are more complicated. One can be the deluxe kitchen with pull out fridge, stove, and sink. Another could hold the wooden countertops for tables.

To configure the things you need, you place and stack the boxes according to what you need at the time. If you need to use the kitchen and dinette, you place the kitchen setup on top of storage boxes. The tabletop fits into the position between the seating.

At night, you place all the boxes on the same level and the sleeping pad over them. This gives you enough sleeping space for up to five people at night. With the large windows on three of the walls, there is plenty of cross breeze at night to keep things cool.

To add to the appeal, the designers gave their trailer a classic 1950’s nostalgic appeal. It comes in seven different colors you can choose from.

Additional options include a loading ramp to help you load your dirt bikes and other toys. A 100-watt solar panel and inverter. An elevated frame with off-road tires. To add space, they have a screen room that connects to the tailgate. You can also get a dry flush toilet.

With this weight and design, almost any vehicle can tow it. The honeycomb base and dual fiberglass shell are strong enough to hold anything. The Adaptiv components come in packages that add weight. With the components, you should assume around 2,000 pounds fully loaded.

12. inTech RV Sol

• 16- 19 feet in length
• 2,590- 3,375 pounds dry weight
• 3 different floorplans
• $24,890- $35,000

When most people think of small travel trailers, luxury isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. The designers at inTech have changed that type of thinking. Their line of Sol trailers has combined luxury, unique style, and small size in new ways.

The first thing you notice is the shape of their trailers. The tilt-front shape adds space without sacrificing aerodynamics. In the Dawn model, the front panoramic windshield allows those at the dinette to enjoy the view. The Eclipse places the kitchen upfront. This gives plenty of natural light while preparing meals.

The luxury-style amenities, regardless of model, give a high-class feel to the RV. The kitchen area has stainless steel amenities that include a 3.7 cubic foot refrigerator. The flooring is a woven vinyl that is a perfect combination of style and resilience to dirt and stains.

The dinettes in both models fold out into the bed in these coaches. In the Dawn, the measurements are 48 x 80. The Eclipse is 55 x 80. When you compare these to residential beds, you get the length of a queen.

The wet baths are very large in both models. Whichever model you choose, you will receive a real porcelain toilet. inTech made sure to give you plenty of room to take a standing shower and not feel claustrophobic. Their wet baths are the largest in their class.

13. Hymer Touring GT

• 18.11 feet in length
• 2,500 pounds dry weight
• 1 American floorplan, 11 German floorplans
• Sleeps up to 3 people
• $18,995- $20,995

The appeal of European design has become a new trend in the United State in recent years. This has given consumers new form and function options. In the Class B motorhome category, European-based chassis have benefits never seen before.

Eriba RV decided to take this a step further. This past year, they decided to open a North American Division here in the United States. This German company introduced its Hymer Touring GT to America. While it may be new to the U.S., this coach dates back to the late 1950s.

The first unique feature of this coach is its expandable roof. Once opened, it gives almost a 6.4 feet height within the coach.

The current layout available in the United States has a king-size bed in the rear of the coach. This is unique since it’s truly rare for small travel trailers to have a permanent bed of this size. The front of the coach has a fold-down dinette that can accommodate an additional sleeper.

The cabinetry follows European style with its rounded fronts. This gives additional inches to each storage space. The faucet folds down into the sink and has a cover that folds on top of it. The two-burner gas stove also has a cover. This allows the added counter space for meal prep.

The bathroom is full-featured. It comes with a cassette toilet that has it’s own external bay for easy draining. The shower is big enough to clean up without banging your arms against the walls.

Another unique feature is their window and door screens. For the door, there is a hidden screen that pulls out from the side. Pull-down sunscreens and privacy shades act as screens as well. When you open the windows, the hatches act as hard-shell awnings to prevent rain and other weather from coming into the coach.

Share this post:

Related posts:.

Why RV Sewer Hose Supports Are a Must-Have: Improving Sanitation & Stability

Safe Camping Near Alligators: Essential Tips and Destinations in the US

Choosing the Best Toilet Paper for RVs: Myths vs. Facts

About the author:.

Brian Newman and his wife joined the full-time RV lifestyle in 2017. Brian has been a freelance writer since 2019 and has a diverse background that includes literature, religion, business, finance & investment, disability, recreational vehicles, and U.S. history.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Welcome please follow these guidelines:.

• Be kind and respectful.
• Keep comments relevant to the article.
• Avoid insults, threats, profanity, and offensive remarks.
• Refrain from discussing gun rights, politics, or religion.
• Do not post misleading information, personal details, or spam.

We may hide or remove comments at our discretion.

I have read and accepted the Comment Guidelines and Privacy Policy *

Follow Camper Smarts:

• Follow Us On Facebook
• Follow Us On Twitter
• Follow Our Pins

The 14 Best Small Travel Trailers

Even though more people than ever before are hitting the open road and experiencing the exhilaration of overlanding, not everyone has the financial means to purchase a recreational vehicle, an Airstream Classic, or a rig that was built specifically for them. A solo weekend excursion may be enough to satiate the need for adventure in some people (even if it results in new levels of wanderlust).

Small travel trailers are an excellent choice for individuals who yearn for the thrill of exploration but do not have the resources or the space necessary to maintain the typical large vehicle associated with a bigger travel trailer.

If you’ve always had the urge to hit the open road and see the world, purchasing a small travel trailer might be the best option for you. You can attach one of these compact trailers to the back of your car and travel with all of the comforts of home.

But how do you determine which of the numerous available choices is most suitable for you? This article will examine the best compact travel trailers that are currently available on the market and provide helpful guidance for selecting the travel trailer that is best suited to meet your requirements. When you look at these mobile homes, you won’t be able to help but daydream about hitting the open road for a cross-country adventure or a quick weekend getaway.

The class of vehicles known as small travel trailers has its own distinct personality. Large corporations compete alongside newer, more nimble businesses. We will use the following definition of compact travel trailers for the purposes of this discussion:

Mini-campers are available at a reasonable price, with many models retailing for less than $10,000. On the other hand, the price will be significantly higher if there are any conveniences (like a bathroom) present. On the other hand, given their diminutive size and low weight, they are remarkably simple to manipulate. In addition, the overwhelming majority can be transported using a standard automobile.

In this article, we will be focusing on lightweight camping trailers that have a GVWR of less than 3,550 pounds and a length of less than 23 feet. These are the types of trailers that can be easily towed by a midsize truck or SUV (and in some cases, even a regular sedan) to fit in an average-sized garage.

Table of Contents

Best Small Travel Trailers

Airstream basecamp 16.

Trailer Specs

• Length:  16’ to 20’
• Dry Weight:  2,650 to 3,400 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity:  2-4

Although the Basecamp does not look like other Airstream travel trailers, it is built to meet the high-quality standards of the company. In fact, its low profile and aerodynamic shape naturally lower wind resistance.

In a time when sleek forms, industrial materials, and vintage aesthetics are all the rage, it’s no surprise that Airstream trailers are selling like hotcakes. This is all expertly blended in the Airstream.

Their signature curved metal architecture is not only striking in appearance but also expertly crafted. It’s no different for the Airstream Basecamp. Both of these floor plans make the most of their 16 square feet by providing spacious interiors and well-considered layouts.

There is also a wet bathroom and bench seating that converts into a full-size bed inside the Basecamp. The front kitchen has a two-burner gas stove, a sink, a microwave, and a small refrigerator.

The Airstream Basecamp lives up to its reputation for style and functionality. The solar front window protection and the three-inch lift kit are two of our favorite eye-catching features, as they keep the interior cooler on hot, sunny days and increase off-grid driving clearance.

Airstream Bambi 16RB

• Length:  16’ 1”
• Dry Weight:  3,050 to 3,500 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity:  2

The layout of the Airstream Bambi 16RB Floor Plan is ideal for a luxurious upgrade to any weekend excursion. Everything in here has been meticulously planned to maximize productivity, maintain comfort, and encourage even more enjoyment. The lightweight Bambi 16 travel trailer has thoughtfully arranged amenities to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable trip.

Bambi stands for quickness, extraordinary endurance, and sure footing. This lightweight, easily maneuverable travel trailer has everything an adventurous weekend needs, making it ideal for Airstream fans who have always wanted to experience life on the road. The Bambi is the smallest of Airstream’s trailers at 16 feet in length, but it’s still made with the same high quality and unmatched durability as the rest of them.

The Bambi 16RB is an excellent option if you’re looking for a lightweight travel trailer but still want the sophisticated Airstream look. The Bambi 16RB travel trailer packs all the features you’d expect from an Airstream into a surprisingly compact package.

There’s a dinette in the trailer’s front that can seat four people in comfort and be transformed into a bed. In the middle of the layout is a wet bathroom and a compact cooking area with a range, sink, microwave, and small fridge. There’s a bed for two in the back, and it’s quite roomy.

Aliner LXE Camping Trailer With Bathroom

• Length:  15’
• Dry Weight:  1,795 pounds to 3,000 pounds
• Suggested Price : $22,680

The Aliner LXE was created to be a comfortable home away from home. The built-in shower and cassette toilet, both of which come standard in the standard hard-walled front dormer, have plenty of room and headroom. Everything you need, and it weighs less than two tons.

The Aliner LXE is a compact camping trailer measuring just 15 feet in length, but it still manages to pack a surprising number of amenities. A sofa in this unit can be pulled out to form a bed that’s 80 inches wide by 76 inches long. There’s also a kitchenette that has everything you need to cook.

The peak of the ceiling is 8 feet, so there is plenty of room for your head. Although it’s not immediately obvious, the Aliner LXE’s bathroom can be transformed into a fully functional wet bath. The cassette-style toilet in the Aliner LXE has a 5-gallon black tank. This compact camper could be the one for you if you need access to a bathroom while on the road.

Casita Heritage

• Length:  17′
• Dry Weight:  2,480 pounds to 3,000 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity:  4-6
• Starting at : $32,694

The Casita Heritage is a great choice for families who want to camp together but have never done so before. The dinette’s back section converts into a bathroom with a shower, and the space can also be used as sleeping quarters for four. Meanwhile, the base model offers enough space for six people to sleep comfortably.

The Casita’s lightweight construction features an impressive 50 cubic feet of storage space, a remarkable feature not often found in small camping trailers with bathrooms.

The large windows and a rooftop air conditioner allow for optimal air circulation. A 16-gallon freshwater tank and a 13-gallon gray tank are standard but can be upgraded to 25 and 32-gallon tanks, respectively. 

The bathroom is a typical shower/toilet combination but it feels more extensive than standard combination setups. Since the Deluxe models include a bathroom, they have 15-gallon black holding tanks. Additionally, you’ll find a two-burner cooktop, a 4-cubic foot refrigerator, and space for a microwave in the kitchen.

Happier Camper HC1

• Length:  13’5”
• Dry Weight:  around 1,800 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity:  1-2
• Starting At::

Happier Camper is quickly becoming a leader in the small camping trailers industry. This is due to the fact that they are well-made and have widespread aesthetic appeal. The Happier Camper is a highly adaptable RV due to the company’s Adaptiv® modular system.

The HC1 is a one-of-a-kind small travel trailer, offering unprecedented adaptability in a lightweight package. The Adaptiv® interior, a trademark of the manufacturer, is included in this lightweight travel trailer. The Adaptiv floor grid is modular, so you can quickly reconfigure your RV’s interior to meet your needs. The camper’s modular components include a dry flush toilet, but it lacks a shower.

Because of its adaptability, the Happier Camper is a promising recreational vehicle option. The Adaptiv product line is compatible with all available floor plans, allowing for fully personalized decor. In a nutshell, this camper is made up of easily removable modular pieces that can be rearranged as desired.

From the looks of their extensive catalog of optional extras, it’s clear that they excel at crafting one-of-a-kind rigs to meet the specific requirements of each customer. As your needs change from a camping trip to a camping trip, you can easily adapt the standard floor plan to suit your needs.

The Happier Camper Traveler model is equipped with a kitchenette, making it ideal for those in search of a compact recreational vehicle.

With their appealing lifted suspension package, you can convert your camper into a trailer equipped for off-road travel, complete with off-road tires mounted on a torsion axle. In addition, it has solar prep so you can learn about your solar requirements for long boondocking trips.

inTech Flyer Explore

The inTech Explore is, in every sense of the word, ready for an adventure. Because every Flyer is constructed using an all-aluminum, fully welded cage frame, they are robust enough to handle conditions when you find yourself off the paved trail. This is especially true when you take into account the fact that the lift kit and off-road tires are already included.

The inTech Flyer Explore is one of the best small travel trailers, and it’s a great choice for campers who like to go off the beaten path. Every Flyer is constructed with an all-aluminum, fully welded cage frame, which makes it durable enough to withstand challenging terrain and driving conditions.

Every Flyer comes equipped with a tip-out on the roadside as a standard feature, and a second tip-out on the curbside can be added as an optional feature. A slide-out kitchen that can be added on as an option comes equipped with an electric stove and refrigerator. Inside, there is a large amount of open floor space, a countertop, and beds in the tip-outs of the nooks. This travel trailer does not come equipped with a bathroom.

Unlike conventional toy haulers, the inTech Flyer Explore can maneuver in tight spaces. Due to the Explore’s low weight of just 2,000 pounds, a wide range of compact and midsize sport utility vehicles and pickups can tow it. The Explore has a roadside tip-out as standard equipment and a curbside tip-out as an available extra. The interior is much roomier than it first appears, and the unit can easily accommodate four to six adults with the help of the unit’s various tip-outs. You can use your Explore as a roomy adventure camper or as a compact, lightweight toy hauler.

Lance 1475 Travel Trailer

• Length:  19’8”
• Dry Weight:  3225 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity:  2-3
• MSRP : $41,706

This is Lance’s lightest towable. However, it provides everything necessary for a pleasant camping experience. Lance made sure to include all the essentials, beginning with the kitchen. There is a stove with three burners, a refrigerator with three doors that holds five cubic feet, a large circular sink, and plenty of counter space in this unit.

The model 1475 is an excellent choice for a couple’s rig. A kitchenette complete with an oven, a refrigerator, and a microwave can be found inside the rig. Two swivel chairs and a dining table can be found directly across from the kitchen. The rear of the recreational vehicle contains the full bathroom with a shower, a vanity, and a bathtub. The front of the vehicle contains the queen-size bed.

Everything you’d expect from a Lance, but with the convenience of a single axle. The use of composite materials in building ensures a product that is both sturdy and lightweight. For over a decade, our lightest-weight models have been the industry standard in terms of quality, functionality, and towability; now, with their euro-inspired graphics and sleek aerodynamic lines, they’re also turning heads aesthetically. A classy alternative for drivers of smaller sport utility vehicles and compact pickup trucks.

The 1475 is available without a dinette as a standard feature. When it’s time to kick back and relax, you can now choose from a sofa bed slide-out option that includes kick-out footrests and two swivel tables.

nuCamp Barefoot

• Length:  16’7”
• Dry Weight:  2,109 pounds

Camp in elegance and ease. The Barefoot Travel Trailer is an exceptional recreational vehicle (RV), and its distinctive appearance guarantees it will attract attention at any campground. The Barefoot’s distinctive silhouette, sea glass color, and baby moon wheels give it a throwback appearance. Come on in and take a look around; the butcher block countertops, dual-paned windows, and 3-bottle wine rack will make you happy.

The nuCamp Barefoot is without a doubt one of the cutest and most charming lightweight travel trailer currently available on the market. The skin is made of a fiberglass shell that is molded into a curvy shape and colored to look like sea glass. Its vintage appearance is sure to garner a lot of attention and spark a lively discussion at the campsite.

The interior of the Barefoot travel trailer provides you with everything you could possibly require, beginning with a roomy dinette in the shape of a U that can be transformed into a cozy sleeping area. Butcher block is used for the countertop in the galley kitchen, which also has a refrigerator and a deep basin sink with a faucet that folds away. A cassette toilet and a showerhead that can be retracted for use either inside or outside are included in the wet bath.

Jay Feather Micro

• Pricing begins at $36,585
• Sleeps up to 8 guests
• Between 19 feet 7 inches and 23 feet 2 inches
• Between 3,775 and 4,510 lbs

The Jay Feather Micro collection features only lightweight floor plans that weigh less than 5,000 pounds without compromising on amenities. Jay Feather Micro’s minimalist yet efficient layouts will take your gaming to the next level.

Rather than staying in a tent, you should consider upgrading to Jayco’s starter Jay Feather Micro travel trailer. This Jayco travel trailer is the lightest of its kind and can be towed by almost any vehicle with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

The Jay Feather Micro has been tested in extreme temperatures, from -100 degrees Fahrenheit to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, thanks to its Climate Shield coating. The Jay Feather Micro has a stronghold VBLTM with double-sided Azdel perimeter walls and a 2-inch vacuum-bond laminated floor, making it superiorly built.

With the 16-inch Goodyear tires and the self-adjusting electric brakes, you can drive with confidence. As a result of the 55-gallon freshwater tank, dry camping is a real possibility.

Scamp Trailers

• 13 to 16 feet in length
• weighing 1,200 to 2,000 pounds dry
• 7 distinct floor plans
• Up to four people can be accommodated
• $15,000 to $20,000

Since 1972, Minnesota has produced the iconic Scamp Travel Trailer. Instead of mass production, each coach is built to the customer’s specifications. They can select the size, layout, and interior features that they want.

According to some owners, the construction took only a few weeks. The interactive aspect of the experience was what they enjoyed the most. Throughout the process, the manufacturer sent pictures and responded to questions.

Customers can pick up their finished unit at Scamp’s headquarters in Backus, Minnesota. If a customer is unable to arrive, Scamp will go above and beyond to assist them. The RV can be delivered to the customer anywhere in the continental United States.

Scamp comes in three different sizes. The 13- and 16-foot models are small travel trailers, while the 19 is a fifth wheel. Each size has a standard version and a deluxe version. The 13-footer has two layouts, while the 16-footer has five. Some models have combined toilet and shower wet baths, while others do not.

Each trailer has its own set of costs. Scamp does not publish its starting prices. Some owners have discussed their pricing on internet forums. These prices have generally ranged from $15,000 to $20,000, depending on the model, package, and additional features selected.

The 13-foot standard layouts include either a sofa or a dinette up front. The first layout includes a sofa that can be converted into a bunk bed. The second layout swaps out the sofa for a wet bath and a second closet. In the deluxe version, you can choose between a dinette and a wet bath.

The rear dinettes that fold out to form the master bedroom remain constant. They also have full kitchens with sinks and small refrigerators.

Standard models provide a more basic approach to camping. Additional packages include a 1.9 cubic foot refrigerator in kitchens. Many electronic features, such as TV hookups, are optional. Customers who want to customize their amenities can choose from these models.

Deluxe models have a more comprehensive package offering than standard models. Larger features and amenities are available. Many electronics, such as TV hookups, air conditioners, vinyl flooring, and other high-end features, can be added.

KZ RV Escape

• 2.690- 3,820 pounds dry weight
• 18.10- 27.3 feet in length
• There are 11 different floor plans to choose from.
• There is room for up to ten people
• $11,995- $29,300

The KZ Escape series is the most adaptable on our list. Seven of the 11 floor plans meet our definition of small travel trailers. There are hybrids, slideouts, and even a toy hauler that are 22 feet or less long.

KZ created this series with everyone in mind. One of their models is aimed at off-road enthusiasts. The E191BH is taller and has 15-inch mud tires. It also has heated holding tanks that are electronically controlled, which is useful for off-season camping.

The E171MB has a one-of-a-kind storage feature. A storage space with both inside and outside access is located on the slide-out that houses the refrigerator. There is also a queen-size Murphy bed that shares space with a sofa. A full kitchen and bathroom complete the interior of the coach.

The E171 MB is 19.8 feet long and weighs 3,170 pounds dry. This coach will be easy to tow with your midsize SUV.

Little Guy Travel Trailers

• 17 to 21 feet in length
• 1,993 to 3,140 pounds dry weight
• There are 17 different floor plans to choose from
• Sleeps up to three people
• $20,000- $30,000

The teardrop trailer was given new life by Little Guy Trailer Company, which brought it into the modern era. This RV manufacturer has introduced a fully functional teardrop with all the latest amenities. They honor the teardrop’s heritage by adhering to the maximum weight that a car can tow.

The Little Guy Mini Max is a lightweight RV that still has all the amenities of a larger model. A complete kitchen is hidden within the light maple hardwood cabinetry. A top-of-the-line four-cubic-foot refrigerator is included. A refrigerator of this size is unusual in RVs of this size.

Max the Small Guy is only four feet in length and weighs around 1,900 kilograms. Many 21-foot trailers exceed this weight. The ability to use a compact SUV as a tow vehicle is a great feature of this coach.

The dinette’s adaptability is one of its best features. Usually, they can be transformed into a double bed. This one can be set up with either two twin beds or one queen bed, depending on your preference. Hydraulics support the dinette as it slides along the bed’s slats to create a flat surface in the middle.

These coaches’ soaking showers were designed with care. Toilet paper wrappers are impervious to water. The water-saving shower uses only 2.20 gallons per minute. This roomy bathroom ensures that no one will accidentally brush up against the toilet while getting cleaned up.

The Little Guy Max was named Best in Show at the RVIA National RV Trade Show by RV Pro Magazine in 2018. The winning RV manufacturer had a throwback look but also included cutting-edge amenities and plenty of space.

Forest River R-Pod

• Length: 18.4–22.2 feet
• Dry Weight: 2,497–3,600
• 15 unique layouts are available.
• Sleeps a maximum of 4
• $14,500- $30,000

In 2018, Forest River marked ten years of manufacturing the R-Pod. This RV borrows many features and amenities from its more expensive siblings. There’s an R-Pod perfect for you and 14 others just like it, all with different layouts.

Numerous basics are bolstered in the ten-year celebration bundle. Some examples include built-in audio from Furrion, solar power outlets, and seamless granite countertops. There is also a handy hook on the frame for your dog’s leash, which is a popular addition.

Permanent queen-size beds are standard in most room layouts. Dinettes that fold out into beds, bunk beds, and murphy beds are some of the additional sleeping options. The R-coach Pod’s is renowned for its innovative use of space. That’s why it’s lasted so long at the top of the charts.

A solar panel system consisting of a 110-watt panel and a 1,000-watt inverter is a popular upgrade. A fully functional outdoor kitchen can be added to some models right from the factory. If you want to make the most of your outdoor space, the R-Pod comes with a screen room that can be attached to your awning.

Oliver Travel Trailers

• Length: 18.5-23.6 feet;
• Weight: 3,400–4,600 lbs.
• It has 6 distinct layouts.
• A maximum of three people can sleep here.
• $48,900- $55,900

Those who have purchased an Oliver Travel Trailer (or “Ollie”) are automatically accepted into the group. Oliver manufactures trailers, which are available for purchase directly from the business. Only upon specific request do they create them. Trailers are manufactured in Hohenwald, Tennessee, and customers can pick them up there once they are finished.

Ollie currently produces Elite I and II. The Elite I has two layout options, while the Elite II offers four. There is either a fixed main bed or a dinette that converts into a bed. The third sleeping area can be a twin bed or a fold-down dinette for two.

Many of the amenities found in other popular RV brands are included in the price of an Ollie. Ollie stands out from the competition thanks to its many extra features. Dual awnings are a surprisingly viable alternative. One for the side of the coach near the door, and another for the side farthest from the door.

In addition, they provide food for thought. Condensation-fighting materials are made of specialized materials. Bicycle rack attachment points and outside storage baskets. Heating systems that use propane and electronic amplifiers for weak signals. There are a plethora of extras that can be purchased if desired.

After placing an order with a sales rep, a customer’s request will be sent to production. Your RV may take up to 10 weeks to be produced. When finished, the customer spends the first night in their new coach at the factory. Both the purchasing procedure and the trailer are one-of-a-kind.

Why Choose a Small Travel Trailer?

When it comes to travel trailers, there are endless sizes and models available on the market. However, small travel trailers have become increasingly popular in recent years for a variety of reasons.

Small travel trailers offer flexibility and freedom while traveling. Most vehicles can tow them without the need for a large truck or SUV. This means you can explore more remote areas that may not be accessible with larger RVs.

Small travel trailers tend to be more affordable than their larger counterparts. Not only is the initial purchase price lower but so are the ongoing costs, such as maintenance and fuel expenses.

Another advantage of choosing a small travel trailer is its compact size, which makes storage much easier when not in use. You won’t need an extra-large garage or storage unit to keep your trailer safe from damage during off-season months.

These smaller units often come with creative floor plans that maximize space efficiency, making them perfect for couples or families with one child seeking adventure on the road without sacrificing comfort and convenience.

There are many advantages to owning a small travel trailer for those who value flexibility, affordability, and unique design features while exploring different destinations across North America!

What to Look for When Buying a Small Travel Trailer

• They are considered “self-contained” because everything you need is present in the trailer itself. There’s also a subset of trailers that are equipped only with outdoor kitchens.
• There’s a cap of 23 feet on the enclosed trailer’s length. Even if it’s part of a line that also includes larger trailers, a travel trailer is still considered “small” if it’s shorter than 23 feet in length.
• The maximum allowable dry weight is 3,500 pounds. The lightest trailers will be given priority. Due to their construction, some small campers can reach altitudes of 4,000 meters. Some of the trailers are too large or cumbersome to be considered “small travel trailers,” so keep that in mind. Below, we’ve highlighted the models that are too big to fit in our trailer.

How to Choose the Right Small Travel Trailer for You

When it comes to choosing the right small travel trailer, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, think about your specific needs and preferences. Are you a solo traveler or do you have a family? How much storage space do you require? Do you prefer a compact design or something more spacious?

Next, consider the towing capacity of your vehicle. You’ll want to make sure that the small travel trailer you choose is compatible with your car or truck. Check the weight limits and ensure that your vehicle can handle it safely.

Another important aspect to think about is the layout and features of the trailer. Consider how many sleeping areas you need, as well as amenities such as kitchen facilities, bathroom options, and entertainment systems.

In addition to functionality, aesthetics also play a role in choosing the right small travel trailer for you. Look for designs and color schemes that resonate with your personal style and taste.

Don’t forget about budget considerations. Small travel trailers come in various price ranges, so determine how much you’re willing to invest in this adventure on wheels.

By taking all of these factors into account – your needs, towing capacity, layout preferences, aesthetics, and budget – you’ll be able to narrow down your options and find the perfect small travel trailer for an unforgettable journey ahead!

The Benefits of Small Camping Trailers

Small camping trailers offer a multitude of benefits that make them an attractive option for travelers. One of their main advantages is their compact size, which allows for easy maneuverability and flexibility on the road. With a small travel trailer, you can navigate narrow roads, fit into tight campsites, and even park in residential areas without much hassle. Another benefit of these trailers is their affordability. Small travel trailers are generally more budget-friendly compared to larger RVs or motorhomes. They require less fuel to tow and have lower maintenance costs. This makes them an ideal choice for those who want to explore the world on a limited budget. Additionally, small camping trailers offer convenience and comfort. Despite their size, they are equipped with essential amenities such as sleeping quarters, a kitchenette, storage space, and bathroom facilities (in some cases). These features ensure that you have everything you need while traveling without sacrificing comfort. Furthermore, small travel trailers encourage a minimalist lifestyle. Their limited space forces travelers to prioritize what they truly need for their journey and eliminate unnecessary clutter from their lives. This can lead to a more simplified way of living and promote mindfulness about consumption habits. Lastly but importantly, small camping trailers allow travelers to immerse themselves in nature. They provide opportunities for off-the-grid adventures where breathtaking landscapes become your backyard every day. Whether it’s exploring national parks or campgrounds off the beaten path, these compact trailers allow you to get closer to nature and experience its wonders firsthand. In conclusion: Small camping trailers offer numerous benefits, including maneuverability on the road; affordability; convenience; encouraging minimalism; and immersing travelers in nature’s beauty

The Drawbacks of Small Travel Trailers

When it comes to small travel trailers, there are certainly many advantages. However, it’s important to consider the drawbacks as well before making a decision. One of the main drawbacks of small travel trailers is their limited space. While they are perfect for solo travelers or couples, families may find them too cramped. This means less storage space for belongings and limited living space inside the trailer. Another drawback is that smaller trailers often have fewer amenities compared to larger ones. This could mean sacrificing certain luxuries, such as a full-size kitchen or bathroom facilities. It’s important to prioritize what features are essential for your travel experience. Small travel trailers also tend to have less stability on the road compared to larger ones. They can be more prone to swaying in windy conditions or when passing large vehicles. This may require careful driving and adjustments while on the road. Additionally, if you enjoy entertaining guests or having extra sleeping accommodations, a small trailer may not be suitable. These trailers typically have limited seating areas and only enough sleeping space for a couple or small family. Resale value can be another drawback of small travel trailers. As they are initially more affordable than larger models, their value tends to depreciate faster over time.

While these drawbacks should be considered when choosing a small travel trailer, they may not outweigh the benefits depending on your specific needs and preferences.

Small travel trailers offer numerous benefits for travelers who prefer a compact and efficient camping experience. They are easy to tow and maneuver, making them ideal for both novice and experienced campers. These trailers also provide a cozy and comfortable living space while allowing you to connect with nature.

In this article, we have explored the world of small travel trailers and highlighted some of the best options available. When it comes to choosing the right small travel trailer for your adventures, it’s important to consider factors such as size, amenities, weight capacity, and budget.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge that there are also drawbacks associated with small travel trailers. Limited space can be challenging if you’re traveling with a large group or carrying bulky equipment. Additionally, some smaller models may lack certain amenities or features found in larger RVs.

The decision on whether to choose a small travel trailer depends on your personal preferences and needs. Consider how much space you require, what amenities are essential for your travels, and what type of towing vehicle you have at your disposal.

To make an informed choice about which small travel trailer is best suited for you, take the time to research different brands and models. Read reviews from fellow travelers who have firsthand experience with these trailers.

Remember that finding the perfect small travel trailer is all about striking a balance between comfort and functionality during your outdoor excursions without compromising or breaking the bank.

Happy Camping!

Top RV Air Conditioners in 2023

An RV is all about seeing the country in comfort. This necessitates the use of a good air conditioner to keep the interior cool and comfortable on warm, warm, and…

How to Determine the Best Used RV Price

How to Determine the Best Used RV Price It’s that time of year again, and the weather forecast looks promising for camping and RV activities. Looking for a new RV…

How to Purchase an RV

Before you pull the trigger on one of the larger purchases of your life, consider some of these finer points on how to efficiently purchase an RV. Let’s take a…

Best RV Air Conditioner: Top Models for Efficient Cooling on the Go

Traveling in an RV offers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort, but extreme temperatures can compromise the latter. An efficient air conditioner becomes a vital feature, pivotal in maintaining…

All You Need To Know About RV TVs

Because there are so many factors to think about, shopping for an RV TV might be overwhelming. You must first decide on the kind of television technology you want, the…

The Top 5 12 Volt TVs for Your Campervan or RV

What Should a 12V TV for Campervan or RV Contain? (6 Items) You are aware that your campervan or RV needs a TV, but what should you seek for? I’ve…

FAQ: Can RV Air Conditioning Run Continuously?

Can I operate my RV’s air conditioner continuously? Without creating a problem, you can leave the air conditioner on continually in your RV. Set your thermostat a little lower if…

How do you choose an RV air conditioner?

Regardless of the kind of RV air conditioner you pick, make sure to do your homework and read reviews from other RVers before making a purchase. No matter where the…

6 Tips for Making Your RV Air Conditioner Quieter

One of the reasons you travel on vacation to the vast outdoors is to escape the city sounds. Nature is tranquil and calm, and you appreciate the times when there…

Best of Micro Camper Necessities 2023

Best of Micro Camper Necessities 2023 Are you going on your first Micro Camper vacation? Let’s speak about getting ready for an early season adventure in your Micro Camper. It’s…

The Top 5 RV Air Conditioners Units for 2023 (15,000 BTU Rooftop)

In the summer, Vs can become extremely hot. An RV is essentially a metal cage with no inside. The metal box will quickly become warm when left in the sun,…

The Winnebago Micro Minnie: Seven Things You Should Know

One of the most well-known lightweight campers on the road today is the Winnebago Micro Minnie. Thanks to its high-quality building, market-leading features, and a variety of well-designed floorplans. But…

How Long Can You Keep an RV Air Conditioner Running?

A Complete Guide on How Long an RV Air Conditioner Can Run The best time of year to travel in an RV is during the summer. However, you must make…

This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy .

12 Best Small Trailers For Camping (with Prices)

Published on June 18th, 2022 by Ray & Tammy Roman This post was updated on March 19th, 2024

It’s a whole new era for today’s small camping trailers. These compact marvels aren’t your grandparent’s RVs. Small bumper-pull trailers of today offer a cozy home on wheels, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Whether you’re a solo adventurer seeking solitude or a couple longing for a tranquil escape, this list of the best small camping trailers of 2023 are the perfect solution.

In this article, we’ll explore how to find the  best small camping trailers that cates to your needs. You will learn about what to consider when choosing a trailer, how to determine your camping preferences, and how to stick within your RV shopping budget. Let’s dive into the details to help you discover the ideal camper for your outdoor adventures.

DON’T MISS OUT ON RV LIVING UPDATES

Sign up for the newsletter today.

Please enter a valid email address.

An error occurred. Please try again later.

Thank you for subscribing to the RV Living newsletter, keep your eye on your inbox for updates.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Small Camping Trailer

When it comes to selecting a small camping trailer, several factors come into play. Understand these key aspects to narrow down your options. Once you have a grasp, it’s pretty easy to find a trailer that works for your camping style. Let’s get into the weeds:

Trailer Size and Weight

Begin by thinking about the size and weight of the trailer. It’s crucial to choose one that matches your vehicle’s towing capacity and still has enough interior space to keep you comfy. If you’re nervous about towing a travel trailer with your current car, consider that smaller trailers, like teardrops or pop-ups, are easier on your vehicle’s transmission. Larger campers provide more living space, but you may need to pay for a vehicle upgrade if you find that must-have travel trailer.

Small travel trailers can usually be towed with a light truck (Toyota Tacoma), a Jeep Wrangler, and/or a mid-sized SUV. In some cases, a crossover vehicle or even a 4-cylinder passenger small car can tow them.

Trailer Layout and Features

Do you know your camping style? Some camping fans prefer amenities like full-hookups. Others want to get as far from civilization as possible. Knowing how you want to live in the outdoors can help you identify the must-have travel trailer features that match your camping style. For some people that means buying a trailer with a well-equipped kitchenette. Other travel trailer owners only require a cozy sleeping area in their camper to be happy. And still some trailer owners must have slide-outs and foldable furniture to be comfortable. Before you review our best small travel trailers list below, first prioritize the RV features that align with your needs.

Reputation, Durability and Quality

Since your small camping trailer will serve as your home away from home, it’s crucial to choose one that is built to withstand the elements. Look for trailers made by reputable manufacturers known for their craftsmanship. Reading customer reviews and seeking recommendations can provide valuable insights. Consider the trailer’s insulation, construction, and overall build quality.

What’s Your Travel Trailer Budget?

Establish a realistic RV shopping budget for your small camping trailer. Remember, quality and additional features often come with a higher price tag. Striking the right balance between your budget and desired features in a small travel trailer is essential. Consider whether buying new or used fits your financial goals.

Top Picks for the Best Small Camping Trailers

Let’s explore our top picks for the best small camping trailers. These trailers have garnered praise from experienced campers for many reasons. They offer a blend of comfort, functionality, and style. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is around 5,000 pounds on most of them.  And most are under 20-feet long.

Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a newbie to the RV living scene, these trailers are worthy of your consideration.

TOPO2 by Escapod

The TOPO2 teardrop trailer by Escapod is a rugged yet cozy teardrop trailer designed for off-road adventures.

Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to tow, while the interior boasts clever design elements for a comfortable journey. Escapod recommends towing the TOPO2 with a Class III hitch, which is another way of identifying a hitch that has a 2” receiver, ~4,000-9,000 lbs max towing capacity, and ~350-800 lb max tongue weight. With its rugged exterior and thoughtful features, the TOPO2 is an ideal companion for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both style and functionality.

Starting price: $43,990

nuCamp TAB 400

The TAB 400 is the largest teardrop camper made by nuCamp. It’s ideal for towing with a small car, and when you need more space than the typical teardrop camper offers.

This modern and stylish teardrop trailer beautifully blends retro charm with contemporary features. Within its compact frame, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable sleeping area with a queen bed and hidden bunk bed that sleeps three or four people. Unlike most teardrop trailers, it also has a wet bath and tons of storage.

The nuCamp TAB 400’s meticulous attention to detail and eye-catching design make it a fantastic choice for RVers seeking both comfort and style.

Starting Price : $44,000

Winnebago HIKE

Designed with rugged exploration in mind, the HIKE is a versatile and reliable companion that combines comfort, durability, and off-road capabilities.

It features a powder-coated steel chassis, fiberglass front cap, and aluminum sidewalls. Built to handle off-road adventures, the HIKE includes rugged tires, high ground clearance, and sturdy axle system that  can take you off the beaten path and into remote destinations with ease.

This small travel trailer incorporates energy-efficient features with cutting-edge technology to help you make the most of off-grid camping. For example, it features LED lighting throughout the trailer to minimize energy consumption, extending battery life and lessen your carbon footprint. The HIKE is also equipped with solar-ready connections, allowing you to harness the power of the sun for off-grid adventures.

As of 2023, Winnebago is making the HIKE with five different floorplans. All are 15’11” long, have a GVWR of 4,200 pounds, and 31-gallon freshwater tank capacities.

Starting Price: $ 46,135

Jayco Jay Feather Micro

The Jayco Jay Feather Micro is a lightweight small travel trailer that has a gross weight ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 lbs. This makes the Jay Feather Micro an ideal camper you can tow with a light truck, mid-sized SUV, and even certain crossover vehicles.

There are many standard features we think you’ll like.

The Micro is available in five-floor plans. All but the smallest (12SRK) have a bathroom.

The Jay Feather Micro includes residential-style kitchen countertops with a 3-burner cooktop. This floorplan also has a jackknife sofa and Jayco’s new patent-pending trays.

Optional packages add solar panel prep for off-grid camping and a 13,000 BTU air conditioning system.

The smallest which now seems to be dealer stock only is the 12SRK which weighs 1,585 lbs and is just over 13 feet in length.

The Jay Feather Micro is an excellent micro camper that is lightweight and does not shortchange you on comfort and features.

Starting Price: $20,663

Forest River R-Pod

The Forest River R-Pod is another of the available small campers you should consider. It is available in 11 layout designs, the RP-203 is the heaviest with a dry weight of 5,169 lbs.

It is constructed on a powder-coated steel frame and comes equipped with a power tongue jack, self-adjusting electric brakes, and much more.

The interior has designer Carefree flooring, solid lumber core cabinet fronts, central vacuum, USB ports, LED lighting and it is solar panel prepped.

One feature we like that has been added is a dry bath in certain models as opposed to a wet bath which we don’t particularly like. It is solar-panel prepped for off-grid use and a backup camera prepped as well.

The smallest R-Pod camper in their lineup is the RP-153 with an exterior length of 17’6″ and an unloaded vehicle weight of 3,179 lbs.

Starting Price: $29, 561

Happier Camper

The Happier Camper HC1 is one of our favorite cool travel trailers. We love retro look but also appreciate its versatility.

For example, inside the all-fiberglass body, you’ll find the Adaptiv modular system. This feature easily lets you customize the interior layout of the small camper by using Adaptiv cube-shaped components. The Adaptiv components include a bench/bed, storage cubes, kitchenette, and many more. The sleeping space is suitable for 1 or 2 people only.

The HC1 is an all fiberglass travel trailer. Getting in and out of this small trailer is easy via the rear door.

As of 2023, Happier Camper offers two small camper trailer models. The HC1 is one option, and the HCT “Traveler” is the other. It has a longer footprint with more room for gear.

The HC1 was their first model. It has a 3,500 pounds GVWR rating and a length of 13′ and that includes the hitch.

Many cars and small SUVs have the towing capacity to tow either of the Happier Camper small travel trailers with bathrooms.

Starting Price: $34,450

Best Small Fiberglass Trailer for Camping

Casita liberty deluxe.

These Casita small trailers for camping are an all-fiberglass construction bumper pull camper. They’re available in 5-floor plans with each one having a standard and deluxe model.

The fiberglass shell is a two-piece marine-grade shell. There is a top and bottom half that are sealed together with fiberglass.

What’s great about this method of construction is the roof has no seams, which makes this camper virtually waterproof, durable, and, lightweight. The interior and exterior are both super easy to clean.

The frame is constructed of heavy-duty steel which improves underbody strength and helps in protecting the travel trailer from the road and rough terrain damage.

The Casita is available in 5-floor layout designs and each one has a standard version and a deluxe version. The major difference is the deluxe has a bathroom. It’s a wet bath which means the shower and toilet are in the same compartment.

We feel the Casita Liberty Deluxe is our favorite small camper from this RV manufacturer. It has a dry weight of 2,480 lbs and a length of 17 feet.

Starting Price: $32,694

Most Affordable Small Trailers for Camping

Sylvan sport go camper trailer.

The Sylvan Sport Go is described by its manufacturer as the “Swiss Army Knife” of small tent trailers. Not only that but National Geographic called the Go “Coolest Camper Ever”.

There are many things that make the Sylvan Go cool and one of them is the ability to use the camper as a utility trailer to haul stuff, which makes it rather unique among small campers.

When used for camping the interior is spacious and the bed is wide and long. Many buyers rave about customer service from Sylvan as well.

This is a very capable tent camper that is comfortable on the road or off-road. When it comes to storage space you won’t find much but what is available is very useful. Note that there is no air conditioner on this camper.

The towing capacity of many small SUVs is well within the range to tow this camper. The pop-up tent is easy to set up.

When it comes to small trailers, Tammy and I really like the Sylvan Go. It gives you the outdoor camping experience but is a lot more refined than just being in a tent. With the rack you can add bikes, kayak etx.

The Sylvan Sport Go is one of the smallest of the small trailers for camping that made our list. It can be towed with just about any vehicle. This cute pop-up camper has a weight of just 840 pounds and is about 80″ in length.

Starting Price: $10,995

Scamp Travel Trailers

The popular Scamp small trailers for camping are made to order, fiberglass campers. The fiberglass shell is lightweight and very durable.

This is one of the easiest small trailers to tow with small cars, minivans, and SUVs. The round corners make it aerodynamic which in turn increases fuel efficiency.

Scamp trailers are available in 3 sizes, 13′, 16′, and 19′. Each size is available as a “Standard” or “Deluxe” model. The big difference between the two is the “Deluxe” has a bathroom. or other amenities.

The smallest travel trailer is the 13-foot length model and weighs about 2,000 pounds. Scamp does not list their camper GVWR. We suggest you research the right tow vehicle to haul the Scamp safely.

Starting Price: $15,590

Taxa Outdoors Cricket Camper

The Taxa Outdoors Cricket small trailers for camping are both lightweight and rugged. It can be towed by vehicles with 4-cylinder engines.

The inside allows for two adults and two children to sleep comfortably.

Taxa Cricket has pop-up roofs up to provide optimized ventilation. The spacious interior has ample room for a full-bed. There is under-bed storage that converts into a dining table.

The kitchen features a large countertop, a sink, and a two-burner stove allowing you to easily prep your meal and cook.

There are 5 swing windows equipped with shades and screens and 5 mesh windows in the upper tent side that allow open views and cross ventilation from just about any angle.

Need a roof rack? No worries the Taxa has one if you need it.

With its NASA-inspired design, you’ll find the Taxa Outdoors Cricket is one very capable small camper trailer. If you plan on going off-road this camper can definitely handle that.

The Cricket is 15′ in length and has a GVWR of 2,700 lbs. Most cars can’t tow it however SUVs like the Nissan Pathfinder with a towing package can easily do so.

Starting Price: $32,439

Safari Condo Alto

The Safari Condo Alto is one of the more unique small teardrop trailers. What makes it so different is the retractable roof system.

Essentially the roof expands upward to add interior height.  You can easily go from 83.5 inches to 101 inches when the roof is open. It’s a great classic teardrop camper-looking design.

You can almost consider it a pop-up camper since the top actually pops up to increase interior headroom and space. Deinfitlet one to consider if planning any off-road expeditions.

The roof and walls are made of a plastic honeycomb core that is laminated with aluminum on one side and Alufiber on the other side.

Alufiber combines aluminum and fiberglass to create a durable lightweight material.

One interesting thing to note about the Safari Condo Alto is that they have intentionally used materials that water has little to no effect on. This camper mainly uses aluminum, Alufiber, plastic, Formica, and glass in its construction.

When it comes to storage space it has just enough for most folks and quite a bit more than a typical teardrop camper.

With a length of 17′ and a GVWR of 2,700 lbs, you’ll find it easy to tow this small camper with a small truck or full-size SUV.

Starting Price: $28,500

Polydrops P17 Essential

At only 13’7″ the Polydrops P17A1 Electric is one of the shortest campers on our list. It has only 4 feet of interior height but it doesn’t seem small or cramped inside. This is due to gullwing doors which make getting in and out of the P17A1 quite easy.

Perhaps the best feature though, is that this is one of the few all-electric towable campers currently on the market. Equipped with 4.8kWh LiFePO4 battery and 260W solar panel as standard.

• Up to 520W solar panel automatically recharges the battery
• The base 260W solar panel can be upgraded to 520W
• Victron Energy inverter charger system along with solar charge controller
• A 110V inlet provides backup for charging when there is no sunlight

The dry weight of the P17 is a mere 820 pounds. This makes it easily towable by just about any vehicle, electric or not.

Available options include a roof rack, awning, skylight, and a solar panel.

Starting Price: $30,590

Best Retro Micro Camper

Riverside rv retro 135.

Tammy and I were heading to Lake Texoma when we decided to stop at Treasure Valley Casino. Out front, they had this cool-looking unit from Riverside RV. We managed to peek inside and immediately fell in love.

For a small camper, it has quite a bit. This little beauty has a queen-sized bed, a dry bath (toilet and separate shower), a cooktop and sink, a refrigerator, and a sofa.

It also managed to fit in a microwave and outside shower. Storage space is limited on this camper but still very useable.

The interior has a retro wood paneling design. To maximize space it has a rear hatch or door.

The RT 135 has a dry weight of just 2,540 pounds. It has a Cargo Carrying Weight of 1,170 pounds.

Starting Price: About $31,00 

Best Small Off-Road Camper

Boony stomper by sunnyside offroad.

When it comes to a small camper you can tow, even with a side-by-side, the Boony Stomper leads the packs. The Boony Stomper is manufactured by Sunnyside Offroad in Reno, NV.

The camper is only 11″ in length and that includes the trailer tongue and rear bumper. At its widest point it is 68″. it weighs in at 600 lbs. and will increase depending on any options your choose.

The interior has finished walls, linoleum floors, and carpeted walls and headboard. The suspension is custom fabricated with independent trailing arms. It will give you a smooth ride even at high speeds.

Starting Price: $10, 500

Best Small Camping Trailers Final Thoughts

Choosing the best small camping trailer for your outdoor adventures is an exciting process. By considering factors such as size, layout, budget, and quality, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect trailer that meets your needs.

For Tammy and me, our preference would be the Jayco Jay Feather Micro or the great-looking Riverside RV 135. Both are very capable and lightweight.

Whether you opt for the rugged TOPO2, the iconic Scamp, or the the innovative Safari Condo Alto, these small camping trailers are bound to elevate your camping experience and create cherished memories. So, get ready to hit the road and embrace the freedom and flexibility that come with owning a small camping trailer. One of these small trailers for camping with a small car is perfect for you.

All Trailer Manufacturer prices are current as of 12/22.

If you enjoyed this post Please Share:

Related posts:.

This Off-Road Popup Camper Makes Boondocking Better

Top 7 Best Off-Road Campers [With Videos]

Can a travel trailer fit in a garage?

About the author:.

• Types Of RVs
• Tow Vehicles
• Maintenance & Repairs
• RV Power & Electrical Supplies
• RV Appliances
• Living In An RV
• Travel & Destinations
• RV Gear Buyer’s Guides

How Much Does a Travel Trailer Cost? Average Travel Trailer Pricing

• Last Updated: February 28, 2024
• 17 minutes read

Travel trailers are an excellent home away from home as you road trip around the U.S., explore the national parks , or even to make your home base full-time RV living.

But as you start searching for the perfect travel trailer for your needs, a big thing to consider is the cost of buying a travel trailer. 

So, how much does a travel trailer cost?

The price of a new travel trailer can vary depending on size, brand, features, and more. In general, travel trailers cost between $11,000 and $40,000 or more. An average travel trailer will cost about $24,000.

However, you can find a great travel trailer for far less than that – some are even under $10,000 , but there are also lots of small and lightweight travel trailers to choose from that cost less than $20,000 . 

In this article, I’ll discuss the different types of travel trailers and their average cost, explain why some trailers are more expensive, and provide examples of different travel trailers and their prices.

I will also outline the benefits of having a travel trailer, and share some of the unexpected costs you should consider when buying a travel trailer.

Different Types of Travel Trailers (And Costs)

There are several different types of travel trailers, and they vary in size from small trailers that you can pull with a normal car, to large fifth wheels (30 feet or more in length) that require a powerful truck to tow.

Not only do larger travel trailers weigh more , they tend to be more expensive. Length and weight are not the only things that determine how much a travel trailer will cost.

Some of the other factors that impact a travel trailer’s price include:

• Floor Plan (the more slide-outs there are, the more expensive it might be)
• Quality of Materials and Construction
• Body Design
• Grade/Quality of Appliances
• Amount of Storage Space

If you’re looking for a travel trailer that’s super lightweight or for small trailers that you can tow with your car, be sure to check out our articles on Lightweight Travel Trailers And Campers Under 3,000 Pounds and Best Small Camper Trailers That Can Be Pulled Behind Your Car .

Why Do Some Travel Trailers Cost More Than Others?

For the reasons listed above (and some others), some travel trailers generally cost more than others, even when comparing brand new models.

For example, Airstream travel trailers have a small footprint and many are shorter than 30 feet, but they cost more than other standard travel trailers because of their high quality of construction. 

It’s useful to keep in mind that a trailer’s price usually has to do with hundreds of small things, not one big thing like size.

Take into account that the quality of the insulation, whether the windows are designed to block UV rays, the use of LED lights or halogen lights, whether there are two batteries or the propane tanks are larger – all of these things contribute to the price.

You’ll also find that trailers with more advanced systems for the entertainment center, power awning, HVAC, etc. will also be more expensive. 

However, paying more for comfort and convenience can certainly be worth it when you’re living on the road.

A good rule of thumb is to read lots of reviews from other camper owners who have purchased the camper models you’re looking at, and look out for reviews about some of the less obvious things that may impact your own experience or cause maintenance issues.

Average Cost of Standard and Large Travel Trailers

Most travel trailers are between 22 and 35 feet long, and cost between $25,000 and $45,000. 

Standard Travel Trailer

The basic style of travel trailer sleeps around four people and can be towed with a truck or SUV.

These are quite versatile, since they can be towed by lots of different types of vehicles and give you plenty of space while also allowing you freedom to explore in your car while your trailer is parked in your campsite.

With a standard travel trailer, there are hundreds of floor plans and sizes to choose from, so you can find your favorite.

On average, the cost of a standard travel trailer is around $35,000, but you can find smaller and lighter-weight trailers for much less.

Fifth Wheel Travel Trailer

The largest towable travel trailer type is a fifth wheel, which can accommodate more people for sleeping and often has two bedrooms or a bedroom and a bunkhouse.

Since they are so much bigger, you often need a heavy-duty pickup truck to tow a fifth wheel.

Fifth wheels are also more luxurious, and cost an average of $45,000 in price, but brand new ones may cost significantly more ($75,000 to $100,000).

We recently did a full article on the average price of a fifth wheel , so you can check it out if you’re considering buying this type of travel trailer. 

Toy Hauler Travel Trailer

If you’re needing to bring along your adventure vehicles, such as snowmobiles, dirt bikes, dune buggies or ATVs, you’ll need a Toy Hauler for your travel trailer.

These massive trailers can often be even larger than fifth wheels, since the back area is designed with space for transporting large and heavy equipment and vehicles.

There’s usually a ramp off of the back so that you can easily unload and load your adventure rigs. The average cost for a toy hauler is usually $40,000 to $80,000.

While being around the same size or larger than fifth wheels, toy haulers are typically less expensive because the features and floor plans aren’t as luxurious. 

Average Cost of Small Trailers

Whether cost or weight is an issue, there are lots of small travel trailers available to choose from on the market.

We highlighted some of the top examples in an article earlier this year. You can even tow small travel trailers with six-cylinder SUVs like a Jeep Wrangler .

Most small travel trailers cost between $11,000 and $25,000, although you can find them for less than $10,000. 

Teardrop Travel Trailer

Teardrop trailers are probably the smallest towable campers on the market.

They usually only have a bed and sleeping area inside, and some have a back hatch with an outdoor kitchen or food prep station. 

Teardrop campers can cost between $5,000 and $15,000, with luxury or custom models costing upwards of $16,000. The average price is between $7,000 and $12,000.

A-Frame Travel Trailer 

A-frame trailers have a very unique design, with a peaked roof and a small footprint.

Generally speaking, you wouldn’t want to camp with more than four people crammed into an A-frame travel trailer, and they’re more comfortable for two.

However, they are very lightweight and can often be towed by smaller vehicles, which is a perk if you don’t want to buy a huge truck to tow your camper. An A-frame trailer will cost between $11,000 and $20,000.

Tent Trailer / Pop-Up Trailer 

Another very affordable trailer type is the tent trailer or pop-up trailer. These campers have a hard base and roof, which pops up using a cranking system to reveal canvas (tent) walls and slide out beds on either end of the trailer.

The downside with a tent trailer is that you can’t really pull over to the side of the road to cook or use the bathroom in the trailer.

However, a perk of having a tent trailer is that in transit, your trailer is extremely compact and more lightweight than standard trailers, offering significant savings for your gas budget.

Even brand new tent trailers are very affordable, and the average cost of a pop-up trailer is just $15,000.

Hybrid Trailer

As a mix between a standard trailer and a tent trailer, hybrid trailers have hard side walls with collapsible tent ends that slide out with sleeping areas inside.

It has a more solid construction than a tent trailer, but with more sleeping capacity than a standard trailer.

It’s also a more affordable option than standard travel trailers, with an average price of $30,000.

Truck Camper

Another very compact, lightweight and affordable trailer option isn’t towed at all.

Truck campers sit in the bed of your pickup truck so that you can tow other items behind the camper and truck, such as a boat or horse trailer. 

The benefit of a truck camper is that you can have your sleeping and camping space as well as towing other recreational gear.

Truck campers can sleep up to four people, but are more comfortable with two, and come equipped with everything you need including a bathroom and kitchen.

You can also detach the camper from your pickup truck and use it set up on jacks in your campsite. On average, truck campers cost about $25,000.

Examples of Travel Trailers and Costs

Now that we’ve discussed the average costs of the different types of travel trailers, I thought it would be useful to give you a few examples of actual trailers and their price.

1. Standard Travel Trailer

A great example of a lightweight, shorter standard travel trailer is the 2020 Jayco Jay Flight SLX-7 145RB.

It has a compact kitchen, sleeps up to three people, has a 10-foot awning, and includes everything you need in a small space, including a bathroom and wardrobe.

The 2020 Jayco Jay Flight SLX-7 145RB costs just under $10,000, while the 2021 model is $14,981 MSRP.

Specifications & Price:

• Length: 16’ 6”
• Weights: 3,140 lbs. (GVWR), 2,405 lbs. (Dry), 735 lbs. (CCC)
• Tank Capacity: 10/19.9/19.9 (Fresh/Gray/Black)
• HVAC: 8,000 BTU air conditioner, 18,000 BTU heater
• Price: $9,999

2. Fifth Wheel Travel Trailer

When you’re considering a fifth wheel trailer, luxury is key. The 2020 Grand Design Solitude 385GK is a luxury fifth wheel with four slide-outs, an outdoor kitchen, tons of storage (including a huge wardrobe in the bedroom), two awnings, and a spacious interior that features a large entertainment center with an LED TV and fireplace.

It sleeps up to four people, and is even prepped for next-level conveniences like a dishwasher and washer/dryer. The base price for this fifth wheel travel trailer is $69,375. 

• Length: 40’
• Weights: 16,800 lbs. (GVWR), 13,336 lbs. (Dry), 3,464 lbs. (CCC)
• Tank Capacity: 93/106/53 (Fresh/Gray/Black)
• HVAC: 30,000 BTU air conditioner, 35,000 BTU propane furnace
• Price: $69,375

3. Toy Hauler Travel Trailer

Although usually less luxurious than non-toy hauler fifth wheels, many of these large travel trailers can still be highly comfortable and allow you to transport your favorite recreational vehicles like ATVs and dune buggies.

The 2020 Keystone Raptor 424 Toy Hauler is no exception, with three slide-outs, sleeping capacity for up to nine people (including a king-sized bed in the bedroom), and a spacious living area with a large kitchen that includes an island.

The 14-foot garage has a cargo bay length of up to 12 feet and its own awning, in addition to the primary awning off of the main living area.

This toy hauler also comes with a 30 gallon auxiliary gas tank to fuel your recreational vehicles on-the-go.

• Length: 43’ 1”
• Weights: 19,000 lbs. (GVWR), 15,306 lbs. (Dry), 3,694 lbs. (CCC)
• Tank Capacity: 106/82/44 (Fresh/Gray/Black)
• Price: $103,787

4. Teardrop Travel Trailer

As teardrop trailers come, the 2020 NuCamp TAG XL Teardrop Camper is an ideal example. It sleeps up to two people inside on the queen-sized bed, has lots of windows (including a star gazing window), and plenty of storage.

In the kitchen off of the back hatch, you have everything you need for compact camping, including a two-burner stove, microwave, deep sink with 10-inch faucet, and a YETI® cooler for keeping your refrigerated items chilled.

There’s a large storage rack on the hitch for your LP batteries, or you can choose the solar-powered model. The 2020 NuCamp TAG XL Teardrop Camper is priced at $11,500.

• Length: 13’ 7”
• Weights: 2,200 lbs. (GVWR), 1,434 lbs. (Dry), 766 lbs. (CCC)
• Tank Capacity: 8 gallons (Fresh), N/A (Gray/Black)
• HVAC: In-wall air conditioner, heater with wireless thermostat
• Price: $11,500

5. A-Frame Travel Trailer

Although a little more unusual, there are lots of great hard side A-Frame campers out there to choose from. Forest River’s Flagstaff T21DMHW model is a great example.

It has a flip-up 60×80 bed with a thermostatically controlled heated mattress, a convertible dinette (additional sleeping for one person) and micro cabinet for interior storage, kitchen with a fridge, sink and two-burner stove, and a wet bath with a shower and toilet. 

Outside, you’ll find tons of exterior storage and a gas grill. This A-frame camper will cost about $19,222.

• Length: 20’ 10”
• Weights: 3,353 lbs. (GVWR), 2,700 lbs. (Dry), 653 lbs. (CCC)
• Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (Fresh), N/A (Gray/Black)
• HVAC: 3-speed ventilation fan, 10,000 BTU Cool Cat Heat Pump or 20,000 BTU Forced Air Furnace w/ Electric Ignition (Optional)
• Price: $19,222

6. Tent Trailer / Pop-Up Trailer

Jayco is one of the popular, long-standing brands for campers and motorhomes, and the 2019 Jayco Jay Sport 12SC Camping Trailer exemplifies all of the space and features you could want in a tent trailer.

The slide out beds are queen-sized and king-sized, respectively, and there’s also a sofa, a kitchen with a fridge, sink, and two-burner stove (portable for outdoor kitchen), and a dinette in the camper’s single slide-out for additional sleeping space.

There’s also a shower/toilet combo option available. The 2019 Jayco Jay Sport 12SC starts at $9,500. 

• Length: 18’ 6” (travel), 23’ 3” (campsite)
• Weights: 3,375 lbs. (GVWR), 2,295 lbs. (Dry), 1,080 lbs. (CCC)
• Tank Capacity: 32.2 gallons (Fresh), N/A (Gray), 5 (Black-optional)
• HVAC: Prepped for A/C (Customer Value Package)
• Price: $9,500

7. Hybrid Trailer

Another popular name in the RV and camper marketplace is Coleman. In addition to manufacturing some great camping gear, Coleman makes many affordable, good-quality campers and RVs.

The 2020 Coleman Light LX 1601EXP is a great hybrid trailer to consider if you want something a little more durable than a tent trailer.

It has two queen-sized beds that expand off of either end of the trailer in tent slide-outs, and the enclosed interior has a bathroom, dinette, sofa, and a kitchen with a fridge, three-burner stove, microwave and double-bowl sink. 

The camper sleeps up to six people between the slide-out beds and the convertible dinette and sofa.

There’s also lots of storage space in overhead cabinets and shelving. On top of all of that, each model features stabilizer jacks and tinted safety glass windows. MSRP for the Coleman Light LX 1601EXP is $24,640.

• Length: 18’ 10”
• Weights: 4,840 lbs. (GVWR), 3,283 lbs. (Dry), 1,557 lbs. (CCC)
• Tank Capacity: 52/39/28 gallons (Fresh/Gray/Black)
• HVAC: 13,500 BTU air conditioner, electric heater
• Price: $24,640

8. Truck Camper

When it comes to truck campers, you’re going to need to find the right one for your truck so that it fits correctly in the truck bed.

The Lance 850 Truck Camper is versatile, and they can work with you to determine the right camper for your truck.

The Lance 850 Truck Camper has high gloss fiberglass sidewalls, a heavy-duty ladder, and roof rack to offer great stability and security, and is suitable for trucks from the F-250/2500 models on up. 

Inside, it has a one-piece fiberglass wet bath, wardrobe, sofa/dinette, and compact kitchen with a Dometic three-way fridge, two-bowl sink and two-burner propane stove. 

The bedroom over the cab features lots of storage and a Dlx queen innerspring mattress with a pillow top and bedspread.

You can add a 100-watt solar system on the roof top, which you can control from Lance’s Easy Charge exterior charging center.

Although there’s only one battery box included with the camper, you can fit two.

The MSRP for the 2021 Lance 850 Truck Camper is $35,995, but you can find older models for less than $16,000. 

• Length: 17’ 7”
• Weights: 2,835 lbs. (GVWR), 2,501 lbs. (Dry), 334 lbs. (CCC)
• Tank Capacity: 30/20/18 gallons (Fresh/Gray/Black)
• HVAC: Pre-wired for A/C, 20,000 BTU forced air furnace
• Price: $35,995

Benefits of Owning a Travel Trailer Instead of a Motorhome

When you’re considering buying a camper of any kind, you may be wondering if it’s better to buy a motorhome or a trailer.

While both types of campers are great for traveling and comfortable to stay in for a weekend trip or multiple weeks on the road.

There are some perks to a towable travel trailer over a motorhome:

• You’ll always have a vehicle with you to explore more remote areas where your camper or motorhome could not reach (more freedom to roam)
• You will save on gas if you leave your camper in the campsite during the day
• You might have more interior space (part of a motorhome is taken with the driving cab)
• Travel trailers can have more sleeping areas (accommodating more people), and a motorhome may not have enough seatbelts for all passengers (in a travel trailer, the passengers are only limited to the number of seatbelts in your towing vehicle)
• Travel trailers are often more affordable than motorhomes

What Are the Unexpected Costs of Owning a Travel Trailer?

Just like any other recreational vehicle, always remember that your travel trailer will have some additional costs beyond the trailer, itself.

There are some initial costs as well as ongoing costs that may be unexpected. 

Initial Costs of a Travel Trailer

When you first buy a travel trailer, there will be some upfront costs, including: 

• The trailer itself, plus sales tax (6-10% depending on state) and dealer title and documentation fees (approximately $300 depending on your state and the dealer)
• Vehicle registration costs (tabs)
• Batteries – Lots of RV dealers do not include batteries, which can cost $150+ each
• Additional purchases like septic-friendly toilet paper, black tank chemicals, a black water dump hose, a strong enough hitch ball for your towing vehicle, a generator or solar system, etc.

Ongoing Costs of a Travel Trailer

Some things, such as toilet paper, propane, black tank chemicals, and other necessities will be an ongoing cost. However, there are other costs of owning a travel trailer that might be unexpected:

• Camper storage (if you can’t store your camper on your own property when it’s not in use)
• Annual winterization (if you live in a cold climate)
• Vehicle maintenance
• Annual registration (tabs)

Things to Buy for Your Travel Trailer

Beyond the costs, there are some other items that are smart to have on hand in case you need them when camping and traveling in a trailer:

• First-Aid Kit
• Leveling Blocks
• Walkie Talkies (in case there’s no cell service)
• Water Pressure Regulator
• Water Tank Filler Valve (so you don’t have “bubble back” when filling your fresh water tank)
• Spare Garden Hose (for cleaning up after dumping waste water)
• Camping Gear: Kitchen dishes, utensils, pots and pans, cleaning supplies, camp chairs/table, tarps, lanterns, sleeping bags or bed linens, etc.

Summary About Travel Trailer Costs

As you can see from the average prices noted in this article and the examples I’ve shared, travel trailers can cost as little as $10,000 or as much as over $100,000.

However, the average is between $11,000 and $40,000. Depending on the type of camper you’re hoping to get, you should plan to spend an average of $20,000 for a standard or small travel trailer, or around $80,000 for a luxury fifth wheel or toy hauler.

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.

6 Best Solar-Powered Generators for Portable Power Stations in 2024

Teardrop camper prices: how much does a teardrop trailer cost.

You Might Also Like

How Much Does A New RV Cost To Buy? Including 20 Example Prices

Popup Camper Prices: How Much Does They Really Cost to Own?

Renting to Own an RV: Pros, cons, and is it right for you?

Start typing and press Enter to search

Best Small Travel Trailers – Ultimate Round-up

A small travel trailer is arguably the most practical and adventure-friendly creation for any enthusiastic traveler. Also known as camper trailers, they cater to outdoor lovers by being a convenient and is of course pocket-friendly option.

Having a small camper trailer onboard makes camping more fun. The increased popularity of these trailers has led to the introduction of various models in a wide variety of designs, quality, and of course, comfort levels.

The plethora of options for small camper trailers can confuse first-time buyers. Well, leave that to us. Here we have covered some of the small travel trailers currently offered in the market so you can explore the terrains without leaving the comfort.

Say goodbye to the busy city life of yours and treat yourself with some quality time with your family. Take a road trip to the hills and mountains, and enjoy the great outdoors.

Check them out!

Go retro with Dinky Dub Camper  

Are All Small Travel Trailers The Same

Some people look for practicality in a small camper trailer, while others need some home comforts while traveling. To meet all demands, manufacturers have created a wide range of travel trailers while addressing the diverse demands of travelers and campers. 

So, to answer the question in a single word, no, each travel trailer is equipped with its perks and flexes. Some of the travel trailers are decent sized, they contain enough space to fix a TV , and you can even fix a couch in there as well.

If you want to travel light, then a small travel trailer that weighs around 3000 pounds would be perfect for you. But if you want a small camper trailer which has almost everything that is necessary to you to go through the day, then a travel trailer of a size slightly larger than this would be a better option for you. 

The smaller the travel trailer generally means the easier to tow, hence giving more control to its consumers. If you want to take your truck on different routes, then a smaller truck will play in your favor as it is easier to tow. Going for a little time out in the hills? You can easily take your small travel trailer with you.

What Makes a Small Travel Trailer Great For Traveling

Different RV users have their own preferences and expectations. Well, if you intend to purchase a new travel trailer, it is recommended to consider a few features in order to avoid any regret in the future. This section has summarized top qualities that make a small travel trailer ideally suitable for traveling.

Let’s have a look at them.

Ease of Use

The most prominent characteristic of any small camper trailer is its user-friendly design. The travel trailer is usually equipped with almost all basic amenities that are quite accessible in the hour of need. The proper organization of the interior guarantees a comfortable experience to the user.

Lightweight

Most of the customers choose these small travel trailers for their compact and lightweight design. They are relatively easier to tow, easier to store, and, most importantly, much easier to maintain. You don’t have to spend tons of bucks every time on maintenance.

A great small camper trailer has a moderate weight that is easily towed by most of the tow truck. To be on the safe side, it is better if you check the capacity of your tow truck, and then you would be able to choose the perfect trailer for your use.

• Ground fault electrical circuit
• Features designer carefree flooring
• Has a fire extinguisher for safety purposes
• Has safety chains in case of any emergency
• Interior is of approximately six feet and six inches

Why it Stands Out to Us Forest River is definitely one of the best travel trailer brands . From chassis/running gear, additional appliances/equipment, safety, insulation, interior, to its exterior, every feature and every item that is placed in this travel trailer is for a reason, and its designers have placed it impeccably.

All these outstanding features make it stand out to us, but the point that it comes with some remarkable safety features makes it even better. These safety features entail breakaway switch, LP detector, smoke detector, safety chains, CO detector, deadbolt door lock , and even comes with a ground fault protected electrical circuit. So keep these remarkable features in mind before making a final decision. Who Will Use This Most Travelers and campers who demand an exquisite interior and exterior should enjoy multiple features on this small travel trailer. This walking apartment is equipped with a toilet and sink. There's also an option of a dry bath, and if your privacy is very dear to you, then you'll be happy to know it comes with multiple mini blindfolds.

If you want demand more, there's additional space in the bathroom so that you can easily hang some extra boxes or dividers, making this a small, but spacious travel trailer.

Best for the Money: Taxa Mantis Trailer

• Insulated design with an appealing appearance
• Multiple cabinets to provide ample storage space
• Freshwater tank to allow a comfortable experience
• Sturdy fiberglass construction to ensure reliability
• Compact enough to easily tow around with smaller vehicles
• Sleeps: 1-4
• Number of Floorplans: 2
• Number of Slide-Outs:
• Length: 13 foot
• Width: 6’8”
• Weight: 1200-1500 lbs.

Ideally designed for couples or small families, this Scamp standard trailer is known for its comfortable service. The trailer boasts a fiberglass construction to easily combat extreme weather situations for a long time. It's a compact and lightweight design weighing only 1500 lbs, so you can easily tow it around by using your car or SUV.

The setup is extremely convenient and easily carries your personal belongings, thanks to enough storage space. You will find a rear dining area where you can enjoy your meal and later convert it into a double bed for sleeping at night. Similarly, there's a front sofa that can easily turn into bunk beds . This way, you will get enough room for 4 adults to have a sound sleep.

The interior design is good-looking with brown and blue cushions, carpets in addition to beige curtains. The windows are wide enough to improve the ventilation and allow natural sunlight. Finally, the fiberglass cabinets complete the look of the interior and make it a popular option for a comfortable weekend away.

The TerraDrop

• Ideally suited for off-road tours
• Compact design to enhance the portability
• Enough storage capacity to fit multiple accessories
• High-quality construction to make it a reliable choice
• Surely the most economical travel trailer on the market
• Length: 8 foot
• Width: 5 foot
• Weight: 1200 lbs.

The Terradrop travel trailer is built with a rugged design to make it perfect for adventure. It comes with sturdy construction to ensures long-lasting service. The chassis is square steel tube powder-coated and features a black texture, and the design is extremely compact plus weighs only 1200 lbs. to make it a lightweight option on the list.

It boasts ample storage space and easily sleeps 2 people. You can easily customize the whole trailer to enjoy your camping and off-road trips, and you'll have no worries taking your personal belongings. The refractive interior lighting system keeps the trailer nice and warm for you.

The door is stylish with quite a big window to improve the ventilation, while the outside of the trailer is equipped with a full-camping kitchen. There's also attachments for a roof rack, gear, and other supplies, so you can easily bring along the necessary accessories to get the best out of this small trailer. 

Safari Condo Alto F1743

Safari Condo Alto F1743 Interior

Restrictions While Traveling

The major disadvantage of having a small travel trailer is that there are limited amenities. You can’t take everything you want as there is less space inside the trailer. Similarly, you can’t have many guests coming along with you.

Aspects to Consider Before Buying a Small Travel Trailer

If you are seriously considering to buy a small travel trailer, it is important to keep several points in your mind.

It is important that whichever trailer you buy satisfies your needs. So have a clear idea regarding your needs and then narrow down your list of trailers depending on your requirement. The more you spend, the more luxuries and better construction you'll get. But for your first trailer, it's ok to go with something cheaper, after all, you may not take to the great outdoors.

Reliability

It's better if you invest in a trailer that is made up of a structure that is reliable and durable. You don’t want to buy a trailer that needs repairing all too often. Sure, price comes into this, but you can get good quality trailers at reasonable prices.

If you are a family of five, then a small trailer for two won’t help you out. Choosing a trailer while keeping your storage and space demands in check is always something you should consider.

Scamp 13' Interior

Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind

A couple of points will help you land on a straight and profitable deal when it comes to travel trailer shopping. These include:

Heater and Generator

Be mindful that you will be spending the nights in a small camper trailer when the temperature drops, so heating plugs and electricity are important. Always keep in mind that you will need a generator setup and heating systems as well.

Ceiling Height

This is one of the most important features to consider, but usually, it gets ignored by most travel trailer enthusiasts. If you're treating yourself with an RV or a travel trailer that comes with luxurious features such as a bathroom, then make sure your trailer is heightened enough that you can easily stand and move around in there. The aim is not to feel claustrophobic in your ride.

People Also Ask

A small travel trailer is meant to provide a comfortable and enjoyable trip with all the amenities. Whether you travel around the desert, mountains, and valleys, these trailers feel safe and protected from extreme weather conditions. Moving forward, we have answers to some of the frequently asked questions by people to ensure them a better experience.

Share to Pinterest

• Motorhome Classes
• Travel Trailer
• Fifth Wheel
• Pop Up Camper
• Teardrop Camper
• Hybrid Camper
• Truck Camper
• RV Manufacturers
• Best RV Brands
• Buying An RV
• Backup Camera
• Electric Trailer Jack
• Portable Generator
• Portable Refrigerator
• Portable Solar Panel
• RV Power Cord
• RV Surge Protector
• RV Vent Fan
• RV Camping Chair
• Camping Table
• Portable Dog Playpen
• Propane Fire Pit
• RV Leveling Block
• RV Patio Mat
• RV Wheel Chock
• Wood Burning Fire Pit
• Portable Camping Toilet
• RV Black Tank Treatment
• RV Macerator Pump
• RV Portable Waste Tank
• RV Sewer Hose
• RV Shower Head
• RV Toilet Paper
• RV Water Pump
• Towed Vehicle Braking System
• Weight Distribution Hitch
• 12-Volt Air Compressor
• Collapsible RV Ladder
• Discount Camping Club
• Good Sam Club Membership
• Portable Propane Heater
• RV Mattress
• RV Step Cover
• Quick Reviews
• Full-Time RV Living
• RV Upgrades
• RV Boondocking
• Public Lands
• Overnight RV Parking
• Amazon Storefront
• Must-Have RV Accessories
• Travel Trailer Accessories
• Pop-Up Camper Accessories
• RV Kitchen Accessories
• Luxe RV Accessories
• Gifts For RV Owners
• RVers Online University
• Talk To RV Mechanic
• About Camp Addict
• Events & Press
• Camp Addict
• 🏕️ Small Camper Trailer

8 Small Travel Trailers Under 4000 lbs – Pros And Cons From REAL Owners!

By Kelly Beasley

You've read those articles 'teaching' you about small travel trailers.

The ones where many different little campers are randomly mentioned with 'pros and cons' listed for them without any real experience behind them from the author.

That is a flawed concept. How could you possibly learn the REAL pros and cons of these small camping trailers from that?

I wanted you to hear from REAL PEOPLE who owned small campers.

Photo by Adam Nubern

Therefore, I reached out to my friends that DO have one!

They happily coughed up the advantages and downsides of their small pull-behind trailer. These are REAL OWNERS' opinions on having smaller floorplans, cooking areas, workspace, bathrooms, and more in their compact campers.

Choices for floorplans and amenities can seem limitless in pretty much any small bumper pull camper. But what is it like to have such a small floor plan and area?

Keep reading below, and you'll find out.

(NOTE: All photos in this article were provided by the camper owner unless otherwise noted.)

Little Guy Off-Road Max

Owner: Janine Pettit

Janine is the founder of  GirlCamper.com  and uses her trailer recreationally, and LOVES camping. I love her spirit and enthusiasm when it comes to supporting women who camp!

We finally met in January of 2020. Here's what she does/doesn't like about her Max- she's got one of the best decorated  small teardrop camper  interiors out there!

Note: It's the heaviest/longest trailer on this list.

Website: Go Little Guy

Dry Weight: 3450 pounds

Length: 21 feet

Towed With:  Ford F-150

# People Using:  1

FT/Recreational:  Recreational

# Years Owned:  2

Bought New Or Used?  New

What Are Your Three Favorite Things About This Teardrop Trailer?

• Interior storage.
• Build quality.
• HUGE windows.

Three Least Favorite About Your Tiny Camping Experience?

• I don't love the awning.
• Exterior storage doors are too small.
• Everywhere you go, people want to ask you about it and get a tour of the bells and whistles.

Did The Small Living Space Benefit You? If So, How?

I think it is the perfect size for a solo traveler using it recreationally. I am generally not on the road for longer than six weeks so this small camper is fine for me. If I traveled for months at a time I would probably want a small toy hauler trailer .

• People want to ask you about it and get a tour of the bells and whistles everywhere you go.

I think it is the perfect size for a solo traveler using it recreationally. I am generally not on the road for longer than six weeks, so this small camper is fine for me. If I traveled for months at a time, I would probably want a small  toy hauler trailer .

Was Interior Storage Ample Or Problematic?

This was the big solution to storage RV. MY past two RVs had such little storage that I was always going without things I wanted or tripping over the things I wanted but didn't have a designated storage place. The Max has an astounding 57 square feet of interior storage, which is enormous for a 3,500-pound RV.

How Would You Rate The Quality Of The Materials In The Trailer 1-10?

I say nine because of a few key build ingredients.

1) The European windows with built-in shades and screens. I love this feature, and they are the highest quality window manufacturers make, and they are a game-changer. I would never choose a small travel camper model again without these windows.

2) The cabinetry in my Max is custom-made and solid wood with dovetailed joints. They build their cabinets on site.

3) The exterior is Azdel and cleans up beautifully. The framing is welded aluminum. I gave it a nine instead of a ten because the exterior storage doors are chintzy and always hard to open and close and because the  trailer sewer hose  opening is not big enough for a hose with the end caps attached to it.

What Would You Change About This Small Camper Trailer If You Could?

I would change the locking components on the cabinetry. The durability of the existing ones is a constant FAIL and is constantly being repaired or replaced. I wish the pantry had factory-built slide-out trays.

That's a DIY I don't want to tackle. The cabinets are so deep you can't get to the stuff in the back. That convenience is lacking. Two televisions are overkill. I took my bed one out and put a fireplace in its place, giving it more of a cabin feel.

Was It Worth The Money?

Yes. Every penny.

What Would You Advise Someone Looking To Buy This Small Camper Trailer?

Do it! It's the best in show for its category and has so much interior storage space. It is the third camper I have owned (new, that is. I've owned several vintage rigs), and it is my favorite by far.

Would You Buy This Model Again?

In a heartbeat. In fact, it is my second one, and I upgraded from the original to an off-road model.

I think it is a great RV for what I use it for - short recreational solo travel and the occasional couple trip. The interior space is so bright because of the huge windows, and there is plenty of storage space.

Because of all the storage, the RV always feels clean because there is a place to put everything. I do not like how loud the air conditioner system is, and I rarely use it in high temperatures because of how loud it is.

The wet bath is a good trade-off for me. I don't mind not having a three-piece bath because I love the smaller length and lighter weight that I pick up because of that.

Although it is a wet bath, there is still plenty of room to turn around and use it without bumping your elbows. I am not a fan of this small camper trailer's glass door equipment on the wet bath.

Scamp Trailer

Owner: Rick Oberreuter

Rick is a full-time RVing friend who recently got his 1982 Scamp after having a  C class RV  for a good while.

He travels with his dog, Mazzie, and is pretty much a fulltime boondocker. He loves his new-to-him  Scamp camper trailer . Ask Rick about awnings. 🙂

Website: Scamp Trailers

Dry Weight:  1200-1500 pounds

Length: 13 feet

Towed With: 2002 Jeep Liberty 4x4

Number Using: 1

FT/Recreational: Full-time

# Years Owned: 7 months

Did You Buy New Or Used? Used

What Are Your Three Favorite Things About Scamp  Fiberglass Trailers?

• Everything about the Scamp is simple! It's easy to hook up and tow.
• It's lightweight.
• There is not much to go wrong or that needs fixing.

What Are Your Three Least Favorite?

• It's small!!
• There is not a ton of room for storage.
• The refrigerator is SMALL!! The freezer is basically a small ice box.

Did The Small Size Benefit You? If So, How?

My old rig was an old 27 foot C-Class, it had many issues (breakdowns), and travel days were stressful. My dog was not a fan when we moved from the noise and how it moved. So going with the Scamp eliminated all that, and she likes the Jeep much better.

That's a frame of mind, it was tough getting rid of some things, and from time to time, I wish I had a thing or two I have stored, but it's good to get rid of things I don't need. I also converted half the back of my Jeep Liberty into storage, which works great!

How Would You Rate The Quality Of The Materials In The Trailer?

9- It's a 1982 model with mostly all original parts, I have only had it a short time, but everything is holding up well. The  fiberglass trailer  shell is a huge plus.

What Would You Change About Your Compact Camper Trailer If You Could?

Maybe a couple more feet of flooring! Everything else I feel has a solution.

I think so. I got a good deal when I bought it in AZ. I could easily sell it for more than I spent on it, rare for an RV!

What Would You Advise Someone Looking To Buy This Trailer?

Mine does not have a bathroom! It's the standard model without that option. You CAN get a bathroom with the standard option, as well as with the deluxe option. I like to have a bench seat to work and have a place to relax beside the bed. My customization solution for this was to get a  composting toilet  which has worked out so far. Be sure you know if you can live without a bathroom or not. (Find  small camping trailers with bathrooms .)

Would You Buy This Small Camper Model Again?

I would buy another Scamp for sure.

I bought the Scamp for a couple of reasons. It was time for my old rig to go, I wanted to travel small for my Baja Mexico adventures, and I just bought my Jeep and wanted to find something I could tow with that.

I traveled from Washington State to Arizona to look at and buy the Scamp, and after I bought it, I was sitting in its tiny floorplan and said, "What the hell did I just do?" Haha…I was a little stressed about space and if my dog would like it.

I told myself I would travel in it for the winter and maybe get something bigger. Now, as I sit here, I really love it, I created a space that's good for me, and I have all the room I need most of the time.

I bought a small Clam tent I use from time to time for more space, and I've been making little improvements to make it homier.

Most of the shortfalls can be solved. I added upgrades: a 12-volt fridge I use in addition to my onboard propane fridge, the storage in my Jeep, the compost toilet, and I even bought a projector and screen to watch movies like a big screen!

Airstream Bambi

Owners: Shawna Matsunaga and Ray Marshall

Shawna and Ray are newer RVers, only having been on the road full-time for six months. She and Ray dig their Airstream, but it's a touch small for them and their two dogs for full-time. Other couples may do fine in it.

They went smaller because they wanted their Jeep to be able to tow the small RV camper. Take heed if you are in the market to buy a trailer! Switching out your vehicle to a heavier-duty truck might be a better idea.

Website: Airstream

Dry Weight: Around 2,900 pounds

Length: 16 feet

Towed With: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

Number Using: 2 Humans, 2 doggies!

# Years Owned:  6 months

Did You Buy New Or Used? New

What Are Your Three Favorite Things About This Small Towable Camper?

• Easy to tow/small.
• Good quality.
• Sleek and sexy- nice aesthetic!
• No separate areas for shower and toilet. It's a double-function combo shower/toilet area.
• Bed area can feel small, like a  bunk .
• Tank (combo black/gray) is small for  boondocking , but it's a small trailer.

It definitely did benefit us with ease of travel! The small size is very to tow and maneuver. However, we prefer to live in something a little bigger for comfort, and we may upgrade to a bigger size in the future.

We wouldn't say it was a "big" problem, but it is a problem, haha. We don't have many belongings, yet we have to store a lot of stuff in our Jeep.

What Would You Change About This Trailer If You Could?

We would love the option to have a bigger fresh water holding tank since we boondock a lot.

Yes ( Are Airstreams worth it? )

It's really a great little trailer! Feels like a tiny rocket ship, haha. Ideal for weekend getaways, vacations, or a full-time solo traveler. If you are planning to live full-time in this trailer and have more than one person, we recommend going up to a bigger floorplan to the 19 or 20-foot size.

No, because our next rig will have bigger tank space for boondocking and a bigger bed.

In our opinion, if you are full-time, you will want to go for the slightly bigger size (19 or 20 foot Bambi). It's doable to live full time in the 16 foot Bambi, but you'll probably want a little more space for amenities.

The 16 foot size was the only thing we felt would be OK to tow with the Jeep without straining it. Also, be aware of the shower/toilet combo in the 16 foot model. It can feel cramped in there while showering. The 19 foot model layouts have a separate toilet and shower space, and the tanks are a little bigger. 

If you are into fitness or yoga, you will be limited on exercises you can do inside. We like to be active and spend time outside, but when the weather is snowy or rainy, we want to be able to do some yoga or workouts inside. This is why we are leaning towards upgrading to other configurations.

Overall, we love the Airstream look and feel the quality is great!

Aliner Classic

Owner: Keri 

Keri ( @keepupwithkeri ) and I met at an Xscapers New Years gathering. She's super intelligent, and I dug her right away. She and her dog Keith lived in her 2018 Aliner  folding camper  for about a year. Finally, the dream of trying to full-time in this small camper trailer, one step up from tent camping, saw many a downside for her. It took too much energy to set up/take down, so Keri sold it.

She now lives in her self-converted Sprinter van, as the Aliner was too much work and effort in one package than she preferred. This may be more of a good weekender camper. At least it wasn't great for this full-time solo female.

Website: Aliner Campers

Dry Weight:  1590 pounds

Length: 15 feet

Towed With: 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Number Using: Me and my Doberman, Keith!

# Years Owned:  18 months

What Are Your Three Favorite Things About This Small Tow Behind Trailer?

• Easy to heat and cool.
• Beautiful views from windows and dormer pop-out windows.
• Simple systems were easy to modify and work on.
• Constant set up and take down (especially for an average-sized woman- the top was particularly heavy) for fulltime boondocker.
• Complete lack of overhead storage space and very inaccessible lower storage spaces.
• Nine pieces came together for every setup and take down, which sometimes feels like a big jig saw puzzle and commitment.

I ended up selling it and getting a van. For one woman and a dog, the size was about perfect. I love the way the van is more nimble and has far less effort in set up / take down.

Inside storage, yes. Parking it? Not so much. It was 15 feet from bumper to tongue, so it fits into almost any spot and on any terrain.

Make the manufacturer provide wind-protection safety features standard for all Aliner models. Almost all members of the Aliner community buy additional after-market mods ('wind cheetah') for more advanced wind protection.

Used, yes. I recouped most of the value when I sold it.

What Would You Advise Someone Looking To Buy This Mini Camper?

I'd highly recommend it for weekend warrior families. It can be towed by almost anything owing to the very lightweight construction.

It did not fare well in gusting winds, such as those common in the winter in the desert Southwest; it's a 3D jigsaw puzzle made of 9 independent parts, which means gaps, rattles, and farts make a lot of noise.

I did worry that I might end up like Dorothy with my trailer getting picked up in the wind and ending up in Oz (or Joshua Tree, when I was camped in Borrego Springs).

Yes, if I were to limit my travel to a few days or I planned to spend weeks in a place. My decision is I'd definitely buy it with the soft dormers. Totally worth it!

I've hit 20 national parks in the last year. I love traveling fast and far, and it was easy to do in this mini trailer.

I work full-time, so the inconvenience of setup/moving and lack of structured storage space ate up a lot of my day and added a lot of unnecessary stress with this type and style unit.

Airstream Basecamp

Owner: Cass Beach

I've known Cass since we met at the RV Nomads premiere in 2018. There, she told me she didn't think she had large enough tanks to boondock full-time. 

I laughed when she told me how large they were (they rivaled mine)! If I could do it, she sure could too!

Cass now mostly full-time stays out boondocking as I do, tee-tee-hee. She travels around full-time in her 2018 Basecamp with her two pets.

Website: Airstream Basecamp

Dry Weight: 2585 pounds

Length: 16 feet 3 inches

Towed With: 2018 Toyota 4Runner

Number Using: 1, sometimes more with friends visiting

# Years Owned: 2 years

What Are Your Three Favorite Things About This Mini Camping Trailer?

• The kitchen, which offers panoramic views through all of the front and side windows, as well as more counter space than I've seen in most small to medium-sized RVs.
• The short trailer size makes for easy towing and maneuvering. I can do a u-turn in a four-lane street and have done so many times!
• I love the two doors (one is a rear door or rear hatch), which both have screens, allowing for a ton of cross ventilation and giving the entire RV a feeling of something much larger than it actually is.
• The bed (or lack thereof). The cushions are quite firm, requiring additional padding or  camper trailer bedding , which you must then roll up and down daily if you want to use the tables.
• The bed rests directly against the aluminum interior walls, which are very easily scratched by the dog's claws when he sleeps.
• A wet bath means if you go to the bathroom right before you shower, you either have to A) stand outside the bathroom and let the fan run for a few minutes or B) shower in all the joys of toilet smells.

I went with the small size because it could be towed by the vehicle I already owned, my Toyota 4Runner, and that really appealed to me. I love the maneuverability of the small size, and it has taught me how to truly live tiny, completely downsize my life, and focus on non-material things.

On the really long work days, something bigger would be nice. But for the towing, adventuring, and  boondocking , I love the tiny RV trailer size I have.

The Basecamp offers a good amount of interior storage. One of the entire benches is storage. It has three cabinets in the kitchen and ceiling cargo nets.

I carry everything I need to live and all of my backpacking gear for the mountains right in the Basecamp.

Depending on the part of the RV, from a 6-10.

The material on the cushions and my floor have seen a lot of use, but still no signs of wear: 10.

The counters are a lightweight material that has dented under the slightest drop of a kitchen utensil: 6.

I would rank everything else from an 8 to a 9.

What Would You Change About This Tiny Trailer If You Could?

My recommendations would be to make the cushions that come with the trailer out of much more comfortable memory foam, so they can be used to sleep on without additional cushioning.

I would also love to see more exterior storage, as very little is offered.

Was This Tiny Camper Trailer Worth The Money?

This is the cheapest Airstream they sell, but still at the high  Airstream camper price . To me, as a full-time home, it was absolutely worth the money.

It had all the features I wanted in just 16 feet, offered a modern look and feel, and depreciates slower than most other RVs. The construction also feels extremely solid, and the insulation seems good. I have stayed cozy during wind storms of over 40mph and winter temperatures down to -15º.

If I had been someone who was only going to be camping a few times a year, I would have purchased something smaller and cheaper (a teardrop trailer!). You can find some great quality travel trailers for less frequent use at lower prices.

It's an amazing layout, offering tons of interior storage (for the size), a "big" kitchen, and an almost king-sized bed in just 16 feet.

I think it's a great utilitarian trailer for boondocking or extensive travel where you are driving miles upon miles, all while offering some modern accessories, touches, and comforts, giving it the Airstream feel.

Just remember, it's still an RV, and it's still going to require repairs and maintenance and have those fun little quirks that all the  brands of travel trailers  will have.

When I purchased the Basecamp, I had no idea if full-time RV living would work for me, and I was nervous about towing something large.

Under those circumstances, I would absolutely buy the Basecamp again, as I love the unit's size, layout, and feel. As it turns out, I ended up absolutely loving this lifestyle and met my boyfriend, who comes to visit me in the RV quite often.

If I had known what I know now, I would have gone with an exterior length 20-25 foot model from the dealership. (Instead, now he's just looking at tiny camping trailers to buy his own, so I can keep my Basecamp as a single person camper.)

As a general tip, make a list of your needs and wants before starting to shop for small travel trailers. My list included items such as enough room for the cat litter, a big bed (at least a  RV queen bed size ) to fit the dog, cat, and I, a comfortable kitchen space to cook in, tons of windows, etc.

I sat down with that list during my small RV trailers search for small  pull behind campers , and it significantly narrowed the results, making the search much easier. Also, knowing the size of larger items you need to fit is critical. For example, when I first showed up to tour the Basecamp, I brought a measuring tape and specifically scoped out an area to put the litter box.

I also stood in the shower for over 5 minutes to ensure the shower felt big enough, all while the salesman sat awkwardly on the bench (and yes, even after two years, it is a very comfortable wet bath). For any RV you look at, compare it to your list of needs and take all the time you need to sit or move around in the ones you check out to ensure they may fit you and your lifestyle.

For the Basecamp, in particular, I would recommend it for someone who likes to cook, loves natural lighting and airflow, doesn't want the typical brown RV interior, and is okay with moving the bed and dining space around every day. It also offers 12-volt tank heaters and a Truma heater, which are a great combination for cooler weather camping.

Towing is a breeze with my SUV; most of the time, I forget the Basecamp is back there. It has a very unique body, so you will be stopped by strangers asking tons of questions, which as a solo traveler, I personally enjoy it as it's a great way to start a conversation.

You can also get a  solar panel  as an option, and it comes standard with a Zamp plug, making it very easy to add  plug-in solar panels  and be boondocking ready right off the lot. Overall, I absolutely love my Basecamp and find it extremely cozy and comfortable compared to other tiny travel trailers.

A little advice: If you are taller or like to entertain guests, there are a few items to consider. First, the bed is almost a "king" size in terms of dimensions, but the rear of the RV is curved. Therefore, you only get the full width and length in the middle of the RV before it starts curving in.

Alone, this is completely fine. However, I'm 5 foot 7 inches, and my boyfriend is 6 foot, so when he comes to visit, we must sleep at an angle to be comfortable. I'd definitely recommend figuring out your sleeping sizes and configuration before buying.

Second, I love to cook for others but have no seating to host any guests. This isn't a big deal to me as we just sit outside, where I would prefer to be anyway.

If you are considering a Basecamp, I would recommend joining one of the Airstream Basecamp Facebook groups. The Basecamp offers an amazing community of owners, and these groups provide some great tips, tricks, and the common repairs/issues and how to address them.

Happier Camper HC1

Owner: Darcy

Darcy volunteered to show her Happier Camper off when I was searching for people with small lightweight campers. Boy, was I excited to hear from someone with a Happier Camper! They are so unique in their look and the interior build.

Here's what it's like to have a cute bubble of a small camping trailer that is modular.

Website:   Happier Camper

Dry Weight: 1,100 pounds

Length : 13 feet

Towed With:  Honda Element

Number Using:  One   + 2 dogs

FT/Recreational: Recreational

# Years Owned:  3 years

What Are Your Three Favorite Things About This Mini Trailer Camper?

• I love that I can take everything out and clean it, no carpet or wood.
• I love the airiness, with all the windows and back hatch.
• I love that I can hitch it up to the car in just a few minutes.
• The back hatch lock is not sealed, and water gets into it.
• As a newish product, it is constantly morphing, and I feel that some of its design was put out on the market before it was really perfected.
• The awning is pretty wimpy, and now they offer a better one. Currently, I know that one of the main complaints is the wait time.

Does The Size Of This Tiny Trailer Camper Benefit You? If So, How?

I bought this size because I did not want to purchase a bigger car to tow it with. Its size and simplicity suit me well.

There is ample storage.

Since it is modular, everything about it can be changed as my needs change. I suppose I wish the door handles/locks were better and that there was a gutter over the door (I think new models have this).

Because the resale value is so high, yes.

It is perfect for me in its simplicity, and I think the newer models offer better design. Be prepared to wait longer than the company tells you. Also, be ready to have inquisitive people constantly telling you how cute your trailer is!

If I were to purchase a car with greater towing capacity, I might look at other options.

I first heard about the HC1 in 2015, the first year of production, and saved for two years before purchasing one. I fell in love with the ability to change the layout, clean all parts out, and avoid rot and mildew as I have serious allergies.

I have several setups I use, depending on if I am traveling alone, with my dogs, or with my partner. I might choose to use a different layout if I am camping for an academic class or for vacation time.

If I am camping when there is rain and I am inside, I make a cozy nest, but if I am going to be outdoors all the time, I might leave the sink behind and just set the kitchen up outdoors. I can shoulder it into place if I need to because it is so light, and the windows and back hatch enhances my connection with my location.

Happier Camper is a quirky company, and many of the improvements in design have come at the dissatisfaction of owners, who have been the test drivers of their mini pull behind camper.

They have made many modifications since I purchased mine three years ago, and hopefully, they have stabilized a bit. Wait times are a year or more, which frustrates some people.

The Happier Camper community on Facebook is supportive of owners, and we have had super fun meetups in the spring and fall in California.

Rpod RP-180

Owners: Patti and Jim Poston

Jim happily volunteered to talk about his 2016 Rpod when I asked in a Rpod owner forum if they would be willing to participate.

We really wanted to have a Rpod represented in this post as they are so popular on the road, so we appreciate that he jumped in to show and tell!

Website:   Rpod Trailers

Dry Weight: 2950 pounds

Length: 20 feet

Towed With:  2015 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X

Number Using:  2, usually!

FT/Recreational: Recreational user, "full-timed" for 2 months and 10,000 miles

What Are Your Three Favorite Things About This Small Camper Trailer?

• It's easily towable, relatively lightweight, and narrow - no need for tow mirrors; it's a joy to see around the trailer when towing.
• It's very amenable to customization to better fit your lifestyle. Many floor plans of these micro travel trailers have a  camper slide  that gives a larger living space while keeping the narrow tow configuration.
• I love that it's pre-wired for solar, so I can just plug my suitcase solar panels in.
• Not a lot of bad things, but the build quality is not the best.
• Non-Hood River Editions have horrible ground clearance, but Forest River offers 3-inch axle risers as a retrofit.
• For us, the refrigerator is a bit small.

Stock photo of Rpod 180 interior so you can view the other end

The small size is why we have a r•pod. It's perfect for the two of us, and we can accommodate more with the R-dome (tent that attaches to the r•pod). For us, this micro camping trailer is roomy because we moved up from tent camping.

We have more storage than we need, even on our 2-month trip, although we pack light.

How Would You Rate The Quality Of The Materials In This Small Trailer?

We added an inverter for limited AC electricity when boondocking. I would really like to have pass-through basement storage.

The used market was a little pricey in our area, not a lot lower than MSRP new ( what is my RV worth? ), but in hindsight, it was worth it, and all the new trailer bugs were worked out.

What Would You Advise Someone Looking To Buy This Tiny Trailer?

Check the RV sewer connections to the bottom of the trailer - a notorious weak point of the r•pod. Many Podders have reported the original WFCO converter failed, probably due to vibrations affecting the circuit board. We had to replace ours while on our 2-month-long journey.

And although it's light, please consider loaded weight, your towing capacity, and specifications. A Prius, among other cars, won't tow it.

These trailers are narrow enough to not need tow mirrors.

We upgraded from tent camping, so this is glamping for us. We wanted to have a tow vehicle that was relatively small and maneuverable, so we needed a camper that could be pulled by a small vehicle.

We also do a lot of boondocking and wanted our vehicle to be able to negotiate rough terrain, not just dirt roads (when unhooked; the r•pod's not really suited for rugged offroading). With the r•pod's short length added to our tow vehicle's length, we can still park in a normal double head-to-head parking stall.

We are pretty conservative on the "stuff" we bring, so the r•pod has plenty of storage. We took a 2-month, 10,000-mile trip in the Pod, and we never wished for more camper storage. We're not sure if we are "full-time" in it.

The r•pod allows pretty much full-featured camping with very little stress over the actual driving to get where we're going. And it has a unique look - we constantly get comments about how someone loves our small trailer camper! Definitely a conversation starter!

Casita Spirit Deluxe

Owners: Lindsey and Adam Nubern

Adam and Lindsey full-timed in their  Casita camper  for two years before having a baby. Then they became a part-time roaming trio. It's amazing to see two people live in such a small space.

How did they do it? They don't even mention it is too small for them below. These two are really good at living tiny. Read on...

Website:   Casita Trailers

Dry Weight: 2800 pounds

Length: 17 feet

Towed With:  Ford Explorer

Number Using:  3

FT/Recreational:  We were full-time for two years with two people, now we're part time as a family of three.

# Years Owned:  5 years

What Are Your Three Favorite Things About This Trailer?

• It's lightweight for towing.
• It's small, so you can access all parks, campgrounds, and boondocking places.
• The tininess keeps you accountable to live minimally and stay clean and organized in the trailer.
• The cooking area of the sink and stove is small.
• The bathroom is a wet bathroom where the shower and toilet are in the same space, so after a shower, the toilet's wet.
• The bed only has one side accessible to it. So, if two people are sleeping in the bed, one person has to climb over the other in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.

We love the small size of the Casita Travel Trailer to access any park, campsite, or boondocking spot. And we also like how the small space keeps us accountable to live minimally and stay clean and organized.

There is minimal storage in the Casita Travel Trailer. For us, that was okay. We had lived out of backpacks traveling the world before living in the Casita, so we had enough space for our things.

A good mantra to have with the Casita is "Having less is more." Living full-time with two people in the trailer, we only carried one pot, one pan, a moka pot for coffee, and two each of cups, plates, forks, knives, and spoons.

When we lived in the Casita full-time, we also used our Explorer's back seat and trunk area as our "garage" for tools, bikes, and other things we didn't need access to in the trailer.

7, everything works and does its job.

What Would You Change About This Small Trailer If You Could?

• Lift the axle. We lifted ours 3 inches, and it helps us better get out of our driveway and handle dips in the road at campsites.
• Install a propane heater. We ended up installing one, so we could boondock with heat.
• Not have carpet on the wall and floor. It's hard to keep all the carpet clean. We cover our floor carpet with area rugs.

Yes! Totally worth the money! Used Casitas are a little more expensive than other trailers their size, and ours was a bit above what we wanted to spend.

However, we decided to spend more on a Casita Travel Trailer because they hold their value, and we decided that if it didn't work well for us, we could probably sell it for what we bought it for. Five years later, we're still loving her!

Make sure everyone can fit in the bed and stand up straight in the trailer. We're 5 foot 7 inches and 5 foot 1 inch, have a baby, and it's perfect for us, but some taller friends that visit can't stand up straight and are too long for the bed space.

So, before making the big investment, make sure you can stand and lay down in it.

Absolutely! We love our Casita.

We lived in our Casita Travel Trailer as a young married couple for two years living, traveling, and working together in the trailer full-time. You can take a tour of ours and see us during the buying process on HGTV's Tiny House Hunters show  here.

It is perfect for roaming the US and Canada in. Having a little camper helps you travel spontaneously because you don't have to research everywhere you want to go first to see if you'll fit. Also, it's nice to have a small rig when you're running errands in Walmart and grocery store parking lots. ( Can you park overnight at Walmart? )

When considering the Casita, make sure you can stand up in it, sleep well, and cook in it comfortably. It is tiny, so it's great when the weather is nice, and you can extend your living space outside. However, we tend to travel with the good weather because when it's cold and rainy for a few days, it does become small inside.

Be prepared to have minimal clothing and gear and kitchen appliances and food. We took out the microwave and used that space as a pantry. Also, to be able to boondock more comfortably, we got a  Renogy solar suitcase  for more power, and we installed a propane heater that didn't come on our model.

These small camp trailers are fun! And, a bonus is, when you have a Casita, you're automatically in a new family. Casita owners have a super friendly and supportive community to help each other. Be ready to make fast friends on the road with other mini camper trailer owners! Happy trails from  Adam and Lindsey !

• If you are wondering how to pick the best rig for full-time living, take a look at our article on how to pick campers you can live in and see what we recommend considering.

Still Have Questions?

We commonly have people asking specific questions about compact travel trailers, so we planted the most frequent ones we hear below.

How Much Does A Small Camper Cost?

It depends on how small or large the camper is and the materials used to make it. In general, in the 8-12 foot range, the smallest of campers cost anywhere from $11,000 to $25,000. 

Larger small pull campers in the 12-18 foot range can run from $15,000 to $60,000+. Buying used means you can shave anywhere from 30-50% off of that cost depending on the year, make, and model of that trailer. 

Do Small Campers Have AC?

Some small lightweight pull campers do have AC, and others do not. For some, it's an option that the original owner either chose to get or not. The most basic tiny RV trailers do not have AC and don't offer it as an option. 

Are Small Campers Worth It?

Whether a small camper is worth it is up to you. We love them and think they have their place in the camping world. The smaller your camper is, the less there is to maintain and the less that can go wrong with it. 

What Is A Micro Camper?

A micro camper is nothing more than a very small camping trailer. It may have nothing but space for a bed and nothing else. They are easy to pull with small trucks or SUVs, and some are so light they can even be moved around by hand. 

• If you are in the market to purchase a small camper to do some camping in, read our article about what to look for when buying a used travel trailer so you know what to be looking out for.

Small trailers are amazing camper trailers when it comes to dry weight, height, (sometimes) budget, freedom, and even easy parking (storage) in your garage with some of the smallest camping trailers.

Either go small and choose a wider variety of spots you can visit, or go bigger and have more headaches with more that can go wrong and fewer places you can camp. If your destination is always a campground, this won't matter to you much.

But if you can handle living in such a small place, especially if it's only for short camping trips, then your preferences might lean towards these types of mini travel trailers. There are so many different styles and different floor plans you're sure to find a cute tiny camper to your liking.

Pack up your family into your easy-to-tow travel trailer, potentially complete with a gas stove, dinette, beds, LED lights, tv, microwave, and a table for feasting. You can head pretty much anywhere on the road, and your travel trailer will take you!

• If you found this information useful, check out what else we have for those of you learning about the RVing lifestyle here on Camp Addict .

Author: Kelly Beasley

I dedicated myself to living the full-time RV life for over 6.5 years, immersing myself in the unique quirks and joys of the boondocking lifestyle and gaining a wealth of knowledge and experience along the way. In December 2020, my business partner and I made the transition to part-time RVing, but in January 2023, we hit the road once again, this time in our trusty vans. My mission is to help others embrace the RVing lifestyle with confidence and excitement, armed with the knowledge and resources needed to make the most of their adventures. I believe that the more you know, the more you can truly appreciate and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road.

My wife and I have been looking at small camper trailers for twenty years and finally pulled the trigger in Dec 2021. We took the Oliver factory tour and ordered the Oliver Elite, a single axle, double fiber glass hull trailer on an aircraft aluminum frame and took delivery in Sep 2022. The shakedown cruise was 15 glorious days and nights through the mid-Atlantic states. We absolutely love the vehicle. It is built to last a couple of lifetimes.

Oh yes, that trailer will surely outlast you! And easily your grandkids too, lol! Happy to hear you are happy with your Oliver. They are so well made. I think maybe you should have put a little more time into your research tho. (JK 😂)

Too bad more manufacturers don’t make them this way. But then not everyone could afford a trailer! The Oliver’s aren’t cheap but they also hold their value quite well. Happy travels!!!

I came upon your site completely by accident and am so grateful & happy I did. Best site ever. I’m just starting to look for something smaller/lighter (2011 jeep Liberty & DON’T want to have to buy the additional massive truck to tow). I love everything about your site. Great info for every level of travelers BUT the absolute BEST for beginners!! Thanks to u and all for taking the fear, stress and UNcomplicating alot of the process!!!

Hey Elizabeth!

Well gosh, thank you so much for the kudos! We were also beginners once, and know how overwhelming it can be, there’s SO MUCH information out there, and a lot of it is not great or is even incorrect. 😬

Don’t hesitate to ask questions here if you come up stumped on something. We try to help as much and as many people as we can, especially beginners.

Good luck, and be sure to enjoy the process, love!! 💕 (PS, I love your email address)

Thanks for the article. It’s always fun to read about “light” trailers then see “under 3500″ or 4000 lbs. When I was looking for a truly lightweight trailer, I stumbled quite luckily on a tiny little family owned manufacturer in Ontario called Taylor Coach that I never hear mentioned on these types of articles. I have a rear door 14 ft with a wet bath, small kitchen, A/C, furnace, solar, etc. and an almost unheard of 6’4” interior that is 1365 lbs! Built to last, one at a time, from 8ft to 24ft customized. Only issue is the 2 year+ wait time, but if that doesn’t dissuade you, I can’t recommend enough that you visit their site and get on the waiting list: https://taylorcoach.com/

Oh yes, we are familiar with Taylor Coach and know someone who has one. It’s a GREAT setup!!! It’s just not very common or easy to find one used, AND as you mentioned, very long waitlist.

But yes, great for people to know about and hear of this company as well, so thank you for bringing it up!

Thanks for the great article! Nice to hear about the pros and cons of each model. Also, cool to about some of the workarounds to make RV life happier. We went with an Intech RV Explore because we needed something to haul our two Scramblers, go off road, and be towed with our Jeep. Check, check, check.

Thanks for taking the time to send the kudos!

Sounds like you got just the right rig for your needs. Congratulations, and enjoy the ride!!

Thanks for the article. What I love most about small trailers are the owners. They are approachable and affable.

We full-time in an Airstream Caravel 19cb. More than large enough for us to live in without any problem (all 112 sq. ft), yet nimble so that I, the driver, am able to get myself out of problems I’m prone to get myself into. Excellent approach and departure angles and a small turning radius

And, permit me to be snooty, but after raising three kids and caring for elderly parents, we enjoy the Airstream touches and luxuries that we can at last afford.

It’s cool, perpetually so, and by extension, for once in my life I get to be cool, even if only by association.

When people say, “You live in that!? It’s SMALL!” I reply, “Yes, it is a bit smaller than Thoreau’s cabin at Walden, but we do have indoor plumbing, with a procelain toilet, shower, hot water, and ducted A/C.” I can tell from their response, or lack thereof, if, as with small trailer living, they get it or not.

Again thanks for the enjoyable article.

Oh, we tow with a tow package equipped Jeep Gladiator. It has more than enough umph to do the job.

Hey! After three kids and elderly parents, you deserve the best you can get out of life, if you ask me!!! Really happy to hear you are enjoying it and it sounds like the right fit for you. I have yet to hear anyone say “naaaah. I don’t like the look of an Airstream.” 😂

I mean, right?? I picked my trailer because it looked much less like the inside of an RV than pretty much any other I looked at besides Airstreams.

Thanks for the comment! You’re always here for us. 🥰

I love the fact that you went directly to “real” small trailer owners for their input and comments. Getting the information directly from the owners mouths is, in my opinion, the best and most trustworthy. This is why your site is so great! The information is from experience. It is real and trustworthy! Keep up the great work.

Hi Dan! We sure appreciate your input. And we couldn’t agree more! Those who have been actual owners know better than anyone else possibly can. We thank you for your input on this post. You’re one of the clever ones.

Thanks for another great article. I was hoping to see one of the Nucamp teardrops reviewed here as well. Overall this is really useful to help us decide. I’m leaning towards the Tab clamshell or the Airstream Basecamp 🙂

Thank YOU for the kind comment! Yeah, I think I looked for someone with the tiny Nucamp trailers to give their testimony, but couldn’t find anyone. We are so happy that this helped you with your search!

Nothing like hearing an opinion coming from the horse’s mouth…

I am glad that I found his article. My wife and I have been tent camping for awhile and now we are looking to get an RV. We don’t know what we want to get. There are many types to choose from.(class A,B,or C motor homes, travel trailers, truck bed campers etc.) Is there a website that I can visit to do an assessment to see what type will be the best fit for us? I have never used or owned any of these campers before. Any advice or suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.I will be retiring from working full time about 18 months.

We are glad you found this article too!

One of the better ways to figure out what type of RV would fit your full-time RVing lifestyle is to spend A LOT of time going to RV shows or dealerships and seeing what’s available. Spend time in rigs ‘pretending’ you are living. See what they are like with the slide-outs in the travel (in) position to see if you can move around the rig (get to the bathroom when you are traveling, get to the refrigerator for lunch on the road, etc).

I know that RV shows aren’t exactly happening right now, and with your 18 month timeline, not sure how many you will be able to attend. But RV dealers are definitely up and running.

The trick is to spend time alone in a rig, without a salesperson breathing down your neck. Be honest with them. You are just looking/researching and you’d appreciate time alone.They should be fine with that. If not, it’s not the dealership for you. It’s hard to get a feel for a rig when you have someone trying to sell the darn thing and won’t keep quiet.

As far as websites go, well, you’ve discovered what we feel is the best RV education website on the web (nope, not at all biased! 😉 ). If you want to learn more about the different finds of RVs, you can read our overview of RV types which has links to additional posts that further discuss each RV type.

Also see our post on the best RV for full-time living .

And of course check out our post on the best RV brands so you get an idea what RV manufacturers are the ones you should be looking at.

Really? I didn’t know that. I have a friend who is a former Airstream owner and enthusiast and he indicated that the quality has gone down in the last few years. I’ll have to ask him what he means by that.

I’d be curious to know what he means also. Not saying he’s incorrect, but there is a difference between anecdotal ‘evidence’ and actual facts.

Like I said, plenty of Airstream owners have issues with their rigs (at least in the subset that is my group of friends and acquaintances that have Airstreams – and they are a popular choice of full-timers). But show me an RV manufacturer that produces a perfect RV each and every time and I’ll show you a unicorn. 😉

I’m in no way, shape, or form defending Airstream. I am not an Airstream fanboy (quite the opposite if you ask people who know me ). I’m just pointing out that Airstream isn’t a horrible brand, and like all brands (even the good ones) they have quality issues, but you will also find many satisfied Airstream owners.

I’ve had my 2018 Airstream since 2017.. I’ve lived in it full time. Zero problems. My AC is just now making a funny noise but I’ll get it looked at this week.

I had a forest river rockwood before that and 6 months in small things were failing. Door hydraulic, fridge door panel fell off. Wood paneling around the counter coming apart. The dam thing was $25k

I’d rather spend another $25k and have something built to last. Keep in mind RVs have to be able to take a beating! It’s basically in an earthquake when you’re driving.

Thanks for the real-world feedback on Airstream, Glen!

There’s a reason why Airstream makes our list of Best RV Brands whereas Forest River doesn’t.

Can you speak about any quality concerns with newer Airstreams? I’ve heard the company changed a few years ago.

I’m not sure what you mean by the company changing a few years ago. They’ve been owned by Thor Industries since 1980 (Airstream was actually Thor’s first brand and the acquisition was the reason it was formed).

Thor isn’t exactly known for producing high quality RVs, but Airstream is an exception. Having said that, plenty of Airstream owners will tell you that they have problems (some small, occasionally the large one) with their rigs.

However, even the best RV brands will have quality issues. Such is the case when you have a vehicle that is produced via mostly human labor.

What specifically have you heard about Airstream as of late?

Can you please do an article on the differences in quality and value and practicability of the A frame pop up trailers? I’m really interested in the Chalet a frame vs the others, ALL the pros and cons. Thank you so much for your consideration! Diana G

Thanks for writing! We can’t promise that that will happen, but we will keep it under consideration!

Meantime, I am guessing that there are Facebook groups for a-frame owners and enthusiasts. And/or forums. These may be a great places to find out the information you are looking for from those who have been there.

I had a 2017 RPod 179. I would never again buy another one! I had it three months! The door latch broke, the screens popped out! There was condensation between the windows in the front, It had so many warranty issues I took it back and told them to keep it and either give me something different or I was getting a lawyer! I wasn’t waiting 6 months for them to get approval to fix it! Moving on!

Oh no! That sucks for sure, Carla. Lemons come from all manufacturers, whether it’s known as a good manufacturer or not.

What a bummer to get one that keeps having problem after problem. So sorry that that happened to you. ???? Hopefully it didn’t turn you off of all RVs.

They can be awesome when they DO work! LOL! (And knock on wood, I have been VERY lucky with my Crossroads Slingshot trailer. Had it 5 years now and no real issues that it was ‘born’ with. It’s a Thor product, and they aren’t known for quality. Not by a long shot.????)

We also have a Happier Camper and love it. The solar unit on the roof offers ample power.

That’s great! Thank you for the feedback, Pam. : )

Very informative and a great read. Thank you!

Thank you for the positive feedback, Sherri! I’m very glad you found it informative. : )

If you wish to expand on your article about small travel trailers, we have a fiberglass Escape 19’ trailer that we’d be happy to share info about (after owning a 16’ Scamp for 10 years before that). We enjoyed sharing your article. Ilse and Greg Hine

Thank you very much, and thank you for the kind offer! Can I hold you to that offer in the event that I do an article specifically about fiberglass trailers and their owners?

Love this article Kelly. We just got our 2020 Casita Liberty Deluxe in December of last year and after a few trips in it, I am now “wishing” for things that cannot be had in it. I love the quality of the unit, but the 17’ just doesn’t provide enough room for what I had hoped would be adequate space. The same cons mentioned by the above Casita owners would be our complaints as well. After checking out the Escape site, we could have gotten a 19’ for slightly more than the 17’ and it would have given us just what we needed. We may eventually go that route, but we love the fiberglass RVs. Hold their value and easy to maintain.

Awe, well I’m sorry to hear that your new Casita isn’t just what you wanted. I bet that killed the excitement a bit!

Have you checked out the Bigfoot trailers? After getting inside a 17′ Bigfoot, I decided I’d much rather have one of those than the Casita with the seating area. Not sure what kind of room you want but MAN, the straight walls of the Bigfoot combined with a big window at both ends sure opens the thing up!

Anyway, the good news is that you can probably sell it for very close to just as much as you bought it for! There’s a wait list, right? I’m guessing there are people who don’t want to wait so long to get a new one. Boom- you can give them immediate satisfaction! They are SO in demand!

So I’m glad you appreciate this article, but sorry you didn’t see it sooner. Maybe it would have changed your mind, maybe not.

At least you’re in the game! Keep taking trips in it, put a for sale sign on it, and I’m guessing you can sell it quite quickly! If you do, good luck!

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Parts Store

Three sizes to fit your needs.

Discover what many others already know: Scamp trailers can't be beat for a convenient and fun camping experience. If you are looking to purchase a Scamp to go on an adventurous camping trip this summer, you will want to make sure you get the right one. Feel free to call upon our experts to discuss whether the small lightweight 13', mid-size 16' or, the largest, 5th wheel is right for you.

TRAVEL LIGHT

Thousands of Scamp Trailer owners have logged millions of miles with the 13' Scamp small travel trailers that are durable, lightweight and aerodynamic. The lightweight, hard shell fiberglass travel trailer is durable, easy to tow, and maneuver. Scamp Trailers are designed to be towed by small cars, SUVs, mini vans, and trucks. The unique aerodynamic design assures high fuel efficiency.

Lightweight Travel Trailers and Small Campers

Travel light, lightweight travel trailers.

Thousands of Scamp Trailers owners have logged millions of miles with the 13’ Scamp small travel trailers that are durable, lightweight and aerodynamic. The lightweight, hard shell fiberglass travel trailer is durable, easy to tow, and maneuver. Scamp Trailers are designed to be towed by small cars, SUVs, mini vans, and trucks. The unique aerodynamic design assures high fuel efficiency.

The Right Fit

Perfect small campers.

Scamp lightweight travel trailers can’t be beat for a convenient, fun camping experience. Call upon our experts to discuss whether our small, lightweight 13’ travel trailer is right for you or our mid-size 16’ towable camping trailer with side dinette would fit the bill. And if you need even more room, our largest 19’ 5th wheel travel trailers would be perfect. Our 19’ trailers can be towed with a Ranger or Tacoma size pickups. Compare a Scamp to any other fiberglass camper and you’ll find, for the money, nothing comes close to a Scamp Trailer.

How Do You Find the Perfect Small Camping Trailer for You?

Camping is a wonderful way to escape the daily grind and explore the great outdoors. If you’re looking for a convenient and budget-friendly way to camp, you may want to consider purchasing a small camping trailer or lightweight travel trailer from Scamp .

These compact trailers offer all the comfort and amenities you need while keeping the costs low and the mobility high. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect one for you.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of finding the perfect small camper or lightweight travel trailer that fits your needs, preferences, and budget.

Are you looking for the perfect small camping trailer that will make your outdoor adventures unforgettable? With the increasing popularity of RV living and tiny camping, finding the right towable camper that fits your needs has become a priority for many outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you are a seasoned camper or a beginner, a lightweight travel trailer, small lightweight pull campers, mini max, teardrop camper, fiberglass travel trailer, truck camper, or scamp trailer might be what you are looking for.

What Are The Different Types Of Lightweight Camping Trailers?

There are several types of small camping trailers, each with its own unique features and benefits. One of the most popular types is teardrop trailers. These trailers are small, lightweight, and easy to tow, making them a great option for solo campers or couples if you don’t mind tight quarters and minimal amenities. They typically come with a sleeping area, a small kitchenette, and enough storage for a few days of camping.

Another popular option is the pop-up trailer. These trailers can be easily collapsed for transportation and expanded when camping, providing a comfortable sleeping area and basic amenities like a small kitchenette and storage. But they do require setup and teardown each time and are not so great in bad weather.

Another type of small camping trailer is the fiberglass trailer. These trailers are made of durable fiberglass and offer a sleek, aerodynamic design. They are lightweight, easy to tow, and come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs and preferences. Some of the Scamp fiberglass trailers even come equipped with a bathroom, air conditioning, and other luxury features.

Lastly, there are also small travel trailers such as small camper, which offer more living small space and amenities than other types of small camper trailers. They are perfect for families or groups of friends who want a little more room to spread out. However, they are generally heavier and may require a larger vehicle for towing. Scamp offers a 16 foot model and also a 19 foot model which requires a 5th wheel gooseneck hitch.

How Much Should You Spend On A Small Camping Trailer?

The cost of a small camping trailer can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and features. A basic teardrop trailer can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000, while a luxury fiberglass trailer can cost upwards of $30,000. When deciding on a budget, it’s important to consider the type of camping you plan on doing and the features that are important to you. If you plan on camping only a few times a year and only need the bare essentials, a basic teardrop trailer may be a good option. On the other hand, if you plan on using your trailer regularly and want more luxurious features, you may need to budget for a higher-end option.

Additionally, you should also consider the costs of a tow vehicle, maintenance, and storage. Towing a small camping trailer requires a capable vehicle with the proper hitch, so you may need to invest in a new vehicle or hitch. Maintenance costs, such as regular cleaning, repairs, and upgrades, should also be taken into account.

Lastly, you will need a place to store your trailer when not in use, so factor in the cost of storage if you do not have a suitable place at your home.

Overall, the cost of a small camping trailer can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on your needs and preferences.

What Are The Essential Features You Need To Look for In A Small Camping Trailer?

When looking for a small camping trailer, there are several essential features you should consider. Firstly, you should consider the size and layout of the trailer. You want to ensure that it is comfortable and has enough space for you and any other people who will be using it. Look for a trailer with a spacious sleeping area and enough storage for your gear and supplies.

Secondly, you should also consider the quality and durability of the materials used to construct the trailer. Look for a trailer that is built with high-quality materials, such as fiberglass, aluminum, or steel, to ensure it will last for many years of camping adventures. Additionally, consider the type of insulation used in the trailer, as this will impact its comfort level, especially in extreme weather conditions.

Lastly, make sure the trailer is equipped with all the necessary safety features, such as brakes, lights, and reflectors, to ensure your travels are safe and secure.

What Is The Ideal Size For A Lightweight Travel Trailer That is Towable?

The ideal size of a small camping trailer depends on several factors, including your towing vehicle, the number of people who will be using it, and your camping style. If you plan on using your trailer for solo trips or with a partner, a smaller teardrop or pop-up trailer may be the right choice. These trailers are compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver, making them a great option for solo campers or couples.

If you plan on camping with a family or group of friends, a larger travel trailer or fiberglass trailer may be more appropriate. These trailers come in a variety of sizes and styles and typically offer more living space and amenities than other types of small camping trailers.

When choosing the size of your trailer, be sure to consider the towing capacity of your vehicle, as larger trailers will require a more powerful vehicle for safe towing. Additionally, consider the size of your camping sites and the terrain you plan on exploring, as some larger trailers may not be able to access certain areas.

How Much Storage Space Do You Need in a Small Camping Trailer?

The amount of storage space you need in a small camping trailer depends on the type of camping you plan to do and how long you plan to be away. For shorter trips, you may only need a small amount of storage space for your clothing, food, and camping gear. In this case, a basic teardrop trailer with a small kitchenette and a few storage compartments may suffice.

However, if you plan on longer camping trips or living in your trailer full-time, you may need more storage space. In this case, you may want to consider a pop-up trailer, fiberglass trailer, or small travel trailer with a larger kitchenette and ample storage space. These trailers often come with multiple storage compartments, including under-bed storage, overhead cabinets, and exterior storage compartments, to ensure you have enough room for all your gear and supplies.

Additionally, you may also want to consider a trailer with a built-in generator or solar panels to ensure you have enough power for your appliances and electronics.

Is Your Lightweight Travel Trailer Easy To Tow And Park?

Towing and parking a small camping trailer is relatively easy with the right equipment and preparation. Ensure that your vehicle is equipped with a suitable hitch and has enough towing capacity to safely handle your trailer. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the size and weight of your trailer to ensure you can safely maneuver it on the road and in tight camping spots.

Once you have the proper equipment, towing a small camping trailer is usually straightforward. Small camping trailers are designed to be lightweight and aerodynamic, making them easy to tow behind a variety of vehicles. However, it’s important to be mindful of wind resistance, especially when towing at higher speeds.

When parking your trailer, be sure to choose a level campsite and use stabilizing jacks to ensure your trailer stays in place. Additionally, it’s important to park your trailer in a safe and secure location to protect it from theft or damage.

With the proper preparation and equipment, towing and parking a small camping trailer can be a breeze.

Where Can You Find Reliable Reviews And Recommendations For Small Camping Trailers?

There are many resources available for finding reliable reviews and recommendations for small camping trailers. One of the best places to start is online forums and discussion boards. These communities are often filled with experienced campers who are eager to share their knowledge and experiences. They can provide valuable insight into the different brands, models, and features of small camping trailers, as well as tips and tricks for getting the most out of your trailer.

Another great resource is online consumer review websites, such as Consumer Reports, RV Review, and Trailer Life. These websites offer comprehensive reviews and ratings of different small camping trailers, including their pros and cons, features, and performance. You can find Scamp Trailer reviews on Google here .

With so many resources available, it’s easy to find reliable and informative reviews and recommendations for small camping trailers or light weight travel trailers.

What Is The Perfect Small Camper or Lightweight Travel Trailer for You?

The perfect small camping trailer for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a hybrid camper, a toy hauler, a tiny camper, a travel trailer, a micro camper, or a classic teardrop, the options are endless.

Brands like Scamp Airstream, Nucamp, Forest Rivers, Taxa Outdoors, and Little Guy offer various models with different features such as an outdoor kitchen, roof racks, USB ports, air conditioner, and more.

When choosing your trailer, consider factors such as sleeping space, counter space, exterior width, interior height, hitch weight, and dry weight to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

With the right small camping trailer, you can have a happier camper and make the most out of your RV travels.

Looking for Towable Small Camping Trailers or Scamp Lightweight Travel Trailers?

It is important to consider a few key factors when choosing the right small camping trailer. You need to think about size and features, amenities and options available, as well as budget restrictions. You also need to make sure that you have an expert inspect the trailer before making your purchase.

Finally, familiarize yourself with RV maintenance procedures so that repairs can be carried out quickly and easily when needed! With these tips in mind, you will be able to find the perfect small camping trailer for your next outdoor adventure. Go through our Scamp Trailers website to see all our small campers and lightweight travel trailer options.

How Much Do Small Travel Trailers Weigh? Answered

Knowing how much a small travel trailer weighs is one of the most important factors to know when towing one.  

Because choosing a travel trailer that exceeds your vehicle’s towing capacity poses a significant safety risk and can cause extensive damage to your tow vehicle.

So to begin, let’s take a look at the average weight of a small camper .

Small travel trailers typically have a dry weight or unloaded weight ranging from 1,200 to 4,000 pounds, and a gross vehicle weight rating, ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 pounds.

However, simply knowing the average dry weight and gross vehicle weight rating of small travel trailers isn’t sufficient to determine the type of travel trailer your specific vehicle can tow.

So to help you figure out specific travel trailers your vehicle may be able to tow, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 most popular small travel trailers and their respective weights .

20 Small Travel Trailer Weights (Lightest to Heaviest)

Understanding different travel trailer weights.

It’s easy for RV beginners to become confused about the weight of a small travel trailer, as each trailer usually has several different weights, such as dry weight, hitch weight, cargo-carrying capacity, and gross vehicle weight rating.

Plus, to further add confusion, different RV manufacturers often use varying weights for their marketing and spec sheets, which can make it difficult to compare one trailer’s weight to another.  

So to help clarify this confusion, we’ve defined the most common weights you’ll encounter when trying to determine the weight of a travel trailer.  

Dry Weight (Unloaded Weight)

Dry weight or unloaded weight is the weight of a travel trailer when it’s completely empty with no cargo, fluids, propane, or batteries.

Basically, the dry weight of a trailer is the weight of the trailer as it comes from the RV manufacturer. 

While this is an important figure to know, as it gives you a good starting weight for the trailer, it doesn’t offer a complete picture of the trailer ‘s weight when fully loaded. 

So when you see an RV manufacturer highlighting the dry weight of their travel trailer, take this with a grain of salt and realize this is not an accurate picture of the weight of the trailer when it’s fully loaded with cargo and fluids.  

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

Gross vehicle weight rating is the maximum weight the travel trailer is rated for when fully loaded.  

The gross vehicle weight rating is set by the RV manufacturer and represents the maximum weight the trailer can safely handle. 

Hitch Weight

The hitch weight of a travel trailer is the amount of weight a camper loads onto the hitch of your tow vehicle.  

Which is important to know, as your tow vehicle will not only have a max tow capacity but also a max hitch weight rating.  

Cargo Carrying Capacity

The final weight you need to know when it comes to travel trailer weights is the cargo-carrying capacity of the trailer.  

The cargo-carrying capacity on a travel trailer is the maximum amount of weight you can load into the trailer without exceeding its gross vehicle weight rating.

For example, if the dry weight of the travel trailer is 2,000 pounds and the gross vehicle weight rating is 3,000 pounds, then the maximum cargo-carrying capacity of the trailer would be 1,000 pounds.  

Which is a pretty common cargo-carrying capacity, as most small travel trailers can usually handle anywhere from 800 to 1,500 pounds, depending on the trailer.   

What Affects the Weight of a Small Travel Trailer?

There are many factors that can affect the weight of a small travel trailer, including size, design, construction, features, and amenities.  

Size of the Camper

There is no greater factor affecting a small travel trailer’s weight than its size and length.  

For example, both a 13-foot and a 20-foot camper are generally considered a small travel trailer, however, these two trailers will usually have a weight difference of several thousand pounds.

Travel Trailer Type

While you might assume there is just one type of small travel trailer, in reality, there are many different types of small campers on the road today.

Including teardrop trailers, stand-up campers or “Standy’s”, classic travel trailers, and toy haulers .

When it comes to travel trailer weight though, the important thing to know is that trailer type can have a big impact on its overall weight.

Construction and Materials

The construction of a small travel trailer can vary as much as its design.

As different RV manufacturers use a wide variety of building materials and construction techniques, which can greatly impact the overall weight of the trailer.

For example, RV manufacturers like Scamp and Casita use a fiberglass shell in their construction with no internal framework to maximize interior space and reduce the trailer’s weight.

While Forest River and Winnebago typically use wood frame construction, similar to how a home is built.

Using stick frame wood construction for support and structure, with interior sheeting made from plywood, MDF, or vinyl, and exterior sheeting made from fiberglass.   

Features and Amenities

Another factor that can significantly impact the weight of a small travel trailer is the number of features and amenities it has.  

For example, a fully loaded classic travel trailer with slide-outs, wood cabinetry, a bathroom, and a well-equipped kitchen will weigh substantially more compared to a basic teardrop camper that offers few amenities beyond a place to sleep and perhaps a small kitchenette.  

What Travel Trailers are the Lightest?

The two lightest travel trailers on the road today are teardrop trailers and stand-up trailers, which usually have a dry weight ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 pounds.  

Teardrop trailers are generally the lightest, with dry weights usually falling between 1,000 and 1,500 pounds, depending on the make and model of the trailer.

If you want to know what the absolute lightest travel trailers are today though, we’ve put together this list of the lightest travel trailers you can buy.

Top 10 Lightest Travel Trailers Unloaded (Lightest to Heaviest)

• Little Guy Trailers MyPod – 760 Pounds
• ProLite Eco – 995 Pounds
• Timberleaf Pika – 1,025 Pounds
• Happier Camper HC1 – 1100 Pounds
• Scamp 13 Standard Trailer – 1,200 Pounds
• nuCamp RV TAG – 1,213 Pounds
• Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12RK – 1,252 Pounds
• Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E12RK – 1,252 Pounds
• TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth – 1,310 Pounds
• Sunset Park RV 109 – 1,320 Pounds

Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 1,000 Pounds

Finding a travel trailer under 1,000 pounds is a challenging task, as only a handful of options in the entire RV market weigh under or close to 1,000 pounds.  

However, we did manage to find three awesome little travel trailers that are either right at or under 1,000 pounds, which means they can be pulled by almost any small SUV as well as some cars.  

1. Little Guy Trailers MyPod

Quick specs.

• Average Cost :  $15,000
• Dry Weight :  760 Pounds
• Length :  11 Feet 6 Inches
• Sleeping Capacity :  2

After extensive research, the lightest travel trailer we could find currently on the market is the MyPod, with a dry weight of only 760 pounds .

Which beats the next closest lightweight travel trailer by more than 100 pounds.

A pretty amazing accomplishment considering how challenging it is just to be under 1,000 pounds.  

This ultralightweight travel trailer also has a really sleek and aerodynamic look with its all-fiberglass body, frameless windows, and rear hatch door.

And while this trailer from Litte Guy Trailers is far from loaded, it does offer plenty of features to make your next camping trip more than comfortable.

Including such features as a built-in AC, a 3-speed fantastic fan, an entertainment center with a TV, and 12V and 110 power.  

2. Timberleaf Pika

• Starting Cost :  $14,750
• Dry Weight :  1,025 Pounds
• Length :  12 Feet

The Timberland Pika was designed with the outdoor adventurer in mind, thanks to its available aggressive off-road package.

This package includes a Timbren axleless 3,500 independent suspension, 4-inch lift, electric drum brakes, BFGoodwrench KO2 tires, oversized fenders, front corner rock sliders, and a Max-Coupler articulating hitch.  

Allowing this rugged ultralight travel trailer to go just about anywhere. 

However, it’s not all about off-road capabilities with this small camper, as it also has a well-appointed interior as well.

Including such features as LED lighting throughout, a large skylight, a 4-speed electric vent fan, and multiple USB charging ports as well as a 110 outlet.   

3. Happier Camper HC1

• Starting Cost :  $32,950
• Dry Weight :  1,100 Pounds
• Length :  13 Feet 5 Inches

While not quite under 1,000 pounds, the Happier Camper HC1 with a dry weight of just 1,100 pounds, is a super lightweight camper and one of the few ultralight campers you can actually stand up in, with a center interior height of 6 feet 1 inch.

The lightweight design of this small camper is just one of the things that makes this compact trailer so special.

As the trailer also uses a modular interior layout as well, which allows you to completely customize the interior of the trailer.  

This ultra-lightweight customizable trailer doesn’t come cheap though, as the base price of this small camper is $32,950.

Making this trailer from California-based Happier Camper one of the most expensive lightweight campers you can buy.  

Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 1,500 Pounds

When you move up to travel trailers under 1,500 pounds, you have a lot more options compared to travel trailers under 1,000 pounds.  

As many RV manufacturers make lightweight campers under 1,500 pounds, including Forest River, Scamp, and nuCamp.

1. Scamp 13 Standard Trailer

• Average Cost :  $17,000
• Dry Weight :  1,200 Pounds (Without Bathroom)
• Length :  13 Feet
• Sleeping Capacity :  4

No list of small lightweight travel trailers is complete without including the iconic Scamp 13 , which has a dry weight of just 1,200 pounds in its simplest form, with no bathroom or air conditioning.

(When fully equipped with all options, including a wet bath, awning, and air conditioner, the Scamp 13 Trailer has a dry weight of 1,500 pounds.)

One of the main reasons why the Scamp trailer is so light is due to its construction.

As Scamp uses a lightweight two-piece fiberglass hull that’s joined in the middle without any internal framing, which also makes the camper very strong and watertight.

Despite its compact lightweight size though, this little camper from Scamp has everything a family of four would need for a weekend getaway.

Including such amenities as a convertible dinette booth that sleeps two, double bunk beds, a small kitchenette, with a sink, fridge and two-burner cooktop, and a decent amount of storage.   

2. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12SRK

• Average Cost :  $14,500
• Dry Weight :  1,252
• Length :  11 Feet 3 Inches

One of the most popular teardrop trailers on the market today is the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12SRK , which has a dry weight of only 1,252 pounds.

Allowing you to tow this small base-camp style camper with just about any small SUV.

Plus, despite its short hitch-to-bumper length of just over 11 feet, Forest River was able to pack a ton into this small camper.

Including such features as a full-size bed, an optional roof-mount AC, an entertainment center with TV, and a rear outdoor kitchen that includes a small fridge, microwave, and sink.  

3. TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth

• Starting Cost :  $28, 589
• Dry Weight :  1,310 Pounds
• Length :  12 Feet 10 Inches
• Sleeping Capacity :  4 (With Optional Roof Top Tent)

One of the coolest looking and most unique lightweight travel trailers on this list has to be the TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth , which can sleep up to 4 campers at a time and has a dry weight of only 1,310 pounds when equipped with standard features. 

Many factors make the TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth unique, but one of the most noticeable is its two large gas-strut supported doors at the rear and side, which swing open to give the trailer a very open feel inside. 

But its unique and industry-leading features don’t stop there.

As this small camper from TAXA Outdoors also includes a slide-out camp kitchen, a full week of off-grid capability, a flexible multi-purpose interior, and a large gear rack. 

Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3,500 Pounds

One of the most popular weight classes for small travel trailers is between 2,500 and 3,500 pounds.

As this trailer weight class, allows for a lightweight yet fully self-contained travel trailer.

Such lightweight campers usually feature a wet bath, a full kitchen, additional sleeping capacity, and ceiling heights adequate enough for standing inside.

Which helps to provide a much more comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

1. Forest River R-Pod RP-171

• Average Cost :  $23,000
• Dry Weight :  2,937 Pounds
• Length :  19 Feet

One of my favorite lightweight travel trailers in this weight class is the Forest River R-Pod RP-171 , which is one of the smallest R-Pods you can buy.  

Despite its compact size though, this lightweight RV has everything you could want in a small travel trailer, including a wet bath, a rear queen-sized bed, a convertible dinette booth, and a complete kitchen that even has a microwave.  

But the main reason why I love this lightweight travel trailer is due to its unique teardrop shape with rounded front and rear walls.

As this teardrop shape really makes the Forest River R-Pod stand out from every other RV in its class. 

2. Lance 1475S

• Average Cost :  $45,000
• Dry Weight :  3,225 Pounds
• Length :  19 Feet 8 Inches
• Sleeping Capacity :  3

When it comes to premium lightweight travel trailers, Lance trailers are some of the best you can buy .

And the Lance 1475 is no exception to this rule.

As this lightweight travel trailer from Lance has some of the best quality finishes and amenities you’ll find in a light camper.  

What Lance trailers are best known for though is their four-season capability, allowing you to camp year-round.

Which is quite rare among lightweight travel trailers.

As lightweight campers are usually only three-season trailers and not meant for cold weather winter camping . 

3. Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E19FBS

• Average Cost :  $28,000
• Dry Weight :  3,375 Pounds
• Length :  20 Feet 2 Inches

With a dry weight of over 3,000 pounds, the Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E19FBS is one of the heaviest RVs on this list.

However, with this extra weight comes best-in-class comfort and interior space .

Du e in large part to the trailer’s slide-out, which significantly opens up the interior and provides more room than you’d typically find in a trailer of this size. 

Additionally, this RV also comes equipped with a full three-piece dry bath, a welcome upgrade from the standard wet bath commonly found in small lightweight travel trailers.

To see other compact travel trailers with a three-piece dry bath, check out our blog post “ 10 Smallest Travel Trailers With a Dry Bath “.

What is the 80 Rule for Towing?

The 80 rule for towing is a rule of thumb used when towing a trailer. It states you should never exceed 80% of your tow vehicle’s max tow capacity.  

For example, if your tow vehicle has a max tow capacity of 2,500 pounds, the 80 rule for towing states you shouldn’t tow anything heavier than 2,000 pounds.  

While this rule is not an industry standard or requirement, it’s generally a good guideline to follow when towing a travel trailer.

As it provides a safety cushion, ensuring that you don’t overload your tow vehicle .  

Another reason why the 80% rule for towing is advisable is that the maximum towing capacity specified by your vehicle manufacturer and what your vehicle can comfortably tow can differ significantly.   

For instance, your small SUV might have a max tow capacity of 2,500 pounds.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that this number is what the vehicle manufacturer is stating is the absolute maximum tow limit of the vehicle.

So while you could technically tow 2,500 pounds, you probably shouldn’t long term, as it would put a lot of stress on the engine, drivetrain, and brakes potentially shortening the life of all three.

To find out which travel trailers are the shortest, check out our blog post “ The Top 10 Shortest Travel Trailers on the Road Today “.

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.

Recent Posts

47 RV Storage Ideas to Maximize Your Space for Compact Living

Camping and living in an RV is an incredible adventure, but it comes with its fair share of challenges, particularly around storage, due to the lack of space. Because of this, it's a must to make...

23 Inspiring Farmhouse RV Decors to Transform Your Camper

Are you looking to give your RV a cozy, rustic makeover? If so, farmhouse decor is the perfect style to transform your camper into a warm and inviting home on wheels. In this blog post, I'll...

What you need to know about travel in small SUVs, travel trailers

W e’ve been retired for 11 years and have explored almost every option in economical U.S. and Canadian travel - by car, by SUV, and with several small travel trailers. We’ve crossed the United States and Canada four times, visited 49 states (lacking only Alaska, which we hope to fix this summer), made many shorter forays in the western United States/Canada, and have worked to refine our travel to be economical, while enjoying comfortable and safe journeys.

In those years, we’ve come almost full circle. From a family that once packed our two young daughters, a big canvas tent, and miscellaneous camping gear into a four-door Chevy Chevette in the 1980s, we’ve now arrived at “future travel,” just the two of us, comfortably ensconced in a small Ford Escape, all-wheel-drive SUV, not all that dissimilar from our travels with our young daughters (and I promise my spouse a fair share of motel overnights). Here’s how we got to this point.

Twenty years ago, reaching middle age, realizing that sleeping on an air mattress in a midsize tent was sometimes less than comfortable and did not assuage Susan‘s fear of bears in the western states, we explored and then purchased a series of small but increasingly larger small travel trailers.

Our first trailer was a Kit Kamper teardrop, all 8 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 4 feet tall, pulled behind several small four-cylinder cars. The trailer was cute, and I could still get good gas mileage in the high 20 miles per gallon, towed with a small car. It made for cozy sleeping arrangements for two people, though one had better appreciate their partner in a double bed only 46 1/2 inches wide!

We refined our travel kit and moved on to a fully rebuilt classic, a ‘58 Scotty teardrop trailer, reflecting the woodworking wizardry of a West Virginia shop teacher. We drove across the country, picked up the trailer, and continued onto a Gettysburg bicycling week-long outing with my brother and several friends. We then crossed the country with that somewhat-more-refined tiny trailer, getting about 27 miles per gallon towed behind a five-speed Ford Focus.

After eight years with tiny trailers, a somewhat bigger trailer had appeal, still lightweight, but one that Susan could stand up in, offering a larger bed, sleeping accommodations for a grandkid or two, a small range, more storage, and a dinette that can accommodate four people.

Having been attracted to classic Scotty trailers, I found a 13-foot ‘64 Scotty Sportsman in Southern California, bought it, realizing it needed some work, and embarked upon a several-year project of rebuilding the Scotty from the frame up. The result was a classic trailer that can accommodate two adults and a couple of grandkids and offer interior comfort for stormy days, still delivering pretty good gas mileage when towed behind a smaller SUV like a Ford Escape (though gasoline mileage is reduced to about 19 miles per gallon).

In more recent years, we still enjoy seeing exciting new places and traveling by personal vehicle but continue to despise high gas prices and poor gas mileage, or lack of creature comforts at our travel destination. We’re still willing to sacrifice to save money and extend our travel budget.

We began to see more small/mid-sized SUVs connected to a tent on the back end in campgrounds. After exploring the options, we purchased an SUV-connectable tent. I built two raised platforms to insert into our SUV, elevating the floor 7 inches to accommodate four plastic storage bins for camping gear, clothing, and food items. We added a 4-inch foam mattress for a cozy sleeping platform and blackout curtains for the SUV and purchased the tent to attach to the back end of our vehicle for about $250.

Result: comfy sleeping accommodations inside the SUV, and a roomie, nifty 10 x 10‘ room on the back for daytime use and shelter from a stormy day. With that outfit, we get 30 miles per gallon from our Ford Escape.

For your travel plans, you’ve got to determine what you want, how much comfort you demand, how much stuff you want to carry, and what budget you’re dealing with. If a small trailer fits your plans, now is a great time to buy a slightly used classic or a newer travel trailer. Popular classic or new trailers (whose designs we admire and get good owner ratings) include Scotty, Shasta, Airstream, T@B, Casita, and R-pod. Put up a daily search in your local Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace and visit a local RV dealer to see what they have in both new and used small-to-midsize trailers. 

For inspiration and how to shop/inspect classic/used travel trailers like a Scotty, see the national organization’s website,  nationalserroscotty.org  (you can also find other classic trailer groups like Airstream and Shasta). If you purchase a used travel trailer, take a friend to help check the trailer’s mechanical systems, underside, and the like for signs of damage or age-related challenges. 

Contact Tim,  [email protected] ; happy travels in the West!

For more information

Check classic trailer websites, including Tin Can Tourists,  tincantourists.com ; Airstream trailers,  airstreamclassifieds.com ; Serro Scotty trailers,  nationalserroscotty.org ; Shasta Trailers,  vintageshasta.net .

This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: What you need to know about travel in small SUVs, travel trailers