travel trailer under 8 000 lbs

Best Travel Trailers Under 8000 Lbs

Travel trailers under 8000 lbs are perfect for anyone getting into RVing. They're big enough for families and groups of friends, and you can also tow them quite comfortably with a half ton truck .

But of course, there are many different designs and brands on the market, so getting it right isn't easy. There's lots to consider, so that's where we come in.

We have put our RV expertise together and brought you some of the best travel trailers under 8000 lbs. As well as reviewing individual models, we've also included a buyer's guide with general information of what you should look for in any travel trailer .

We've also included an FAQ section dedicated to all things travel trailers of this size, so you'll be well equipped with all the necessary info by the end of the article.

Things to Consider when Shopping for a Travel Trailer Under 8000 Lbs

When you're shopping for a travel trailer there are certain things to consider. If you're looking for one that's around 8000 lbs, it's likely that you have a family, and need the space. Other than space there will be a few things you should take into consideration.

Towing Capacity

Before you get a travel trailer you should know the towing capacity of your vehicle. If you're wanting a travel trailer under 8000 lbs, you should be fine with any midsize truck or SUV. That said, always consider the dry weight (GVWR) of the trailer, but also think about when it's full, because your towing vehicle will be taking it all on board.

What we love

• Supports a 60 x 80 inches queen bed
• Slide-out provide space for dining and sofa sets
• Spacious kitchen area with refrigerator and pantry
• Has the gross vehicle weight rating of 7,598 pounds
• Features a practical shower with 34 x 34 inches dimensions

Quick Specs

• Sleeps: 4-6
• Number of Floorplans: 1
• Number of Slide-Outs: 1
• Length: 29 feet 5 inches
• Width: 96 inches
• Weight: 6048 pounds

This Palomino Puma travel trailer can be your best bid if you want something affordable yet high in quality. It has everything that a travel trailer should have in order to help you feel comfortable while out on your roadtrips. 

The 60 x 80 inches queen-sized bed is a major attraction. As it is slightly larger than the usual beds in recreational vehicles, it offers plenty of comfort. The gross vehicle weight is 7,598 pounds, which stays under the limit of 8,000 lbs. And it also helps you in saving up on your fuel expenditure. 

Moreover, there is a spacious kitchen with a practical cooking space. It also has a pantry and a refrigerator , which helps in keeping things fresh. A dinette accompanies the kitchen in a slide-out space at the side of the trailer.

There is a sofa set as well, which converts into a bed as does the dinette, allowing you to get up to 6 people. The bathroom is very spacious, with a walk in shower. And there's plenty of storage throughout the trailer.

Runner-up: Airstream Flying Cloud

• Quietstream   Climate Control
• Ultraleather Seating
• Three-burner gas stove, with Baraldi cooking vent
• Handcrafted Cabinetry
• Memory Foam Mattress
• Number of Floorplans: 8
• Number of Slide-Outs: -
• Length: 23-30 ft
• Width: 8 ft
• Weight: 6000 pounds

The Airstream Flying Cloud is as good as you might expect from any Aistream camper. There are 13 floorplans, of differing lengths and layouts, but generally they sleep between 4 and 8 people.

All layouts have a master bedroom with either a large bed or 2 twin beds with memory foam mattresses . If you go for the twin bed floorplan, the center aisle is completely opened up, which creates more physical moving space throughout the interior.

Airstream has been pioneering innovative RV technology like refrigerators, toilets, screens doors, and showers in travel trailers and you can see in the Flying Cloud, and any other Airstream, the quality of the amenities.

I haven't even mentioned the Flying Cloud’s interior is, yet. With light wood walls, cabinetry, and trim, all designed to complete Airstream's dome shape.

The dinette converts into a bed, as does the ultraleather sofa. And the shower is separate from the rest of the bathroom, so there'll be no arguing over who wants to use what first.

The Airstream Flying Cloud also boasts a quiet and efficient heating and cooling system, which will keep you and your guests comfortable, no matter the season.

AIrstream really need no introduction and it's for good reason. They're not cheap, but the design, luxurious amenities, and quality construction is second to none.

Best for the Money: Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite

• Vacuum-bonded Laminated Azdel/ Fiberglass Walls
• Hot/Cold Outside Shower
• Prestige Poplar Cabinetry
• Overhead Bedroom Cabinets w/Side Wardrobes
• 14.5K BTU Ducted A/C 
• Number of Floorplans: 12
• Length: 26 feet 2 inches
• Weight: 7000 pounds 

There are a total of 12 distinct Apex floor plans, there's plenty of options with the Coachmen Apex Ultra Light. The 211RBS is one of the bigger Apex Ultra Lights, but at 7000 pounds, it's a travel trailer that easily makes the weight limit for our review.

The thing about the Coachmen Light series is that they come with class and offer all the luxuries you'd need, but at an affordable rate, so we have included this as the best travel trailer under 8000 lbs for the money.

The master bedroom is at the front of the trailer and it boasts a large queen sized bed with very useful  storage underneath it . Walk out of the bedroom and you're immediately in the main entertainment living area, which boasts a breakfast bar with stools.

Opposite there is the slideout, which houses a dinette and double bed at night. Beind the breakfast bar is the kitchen, which boasts all the amenities you need. The kitchen cupboard are all made with ash colored poplar, which is high quality timber and it looks really nice.

The bathroom as at the far back of the trailer, and there's plenty of storage and wardrobe space throughout. All in all, this makes the Apex Ultra perfect for families and groups of friends.

Grand Design Imagine 2600RB

• Gel Coated Fiberglass Exterior
• High-Capacity Water Pump
• Solar Power Inlet
• Aluminum framed walls retain their shape
• 3-Burner Range with Oven, Double Door Refrigerator
• Length: 29 ft
• Height: 11 ft 2 inch
• Weight: 7850 lbs

The Grand Design Imagine 2600RB is an absolute must for anyone who wants a luxury travel trailer. With 8 different floorplans, most of them are over our weight limit, but at 7850 pounds the 2600RB is a quality travel trailer under 8000 lbs.

It boasts premium construction and interior finish, giving you the luxuries of home while you're out on the road. The layout boast a queen sized bed in the master bedroom, with plenty of storage and nice sized windows either side of the bed, so you get to wake up and feel the nature immediately.

The kitchen is next to the bedroom and boasts large countertops, microwave, 3 burner stove, oven , double door refrigerator, and plenty of cupboard space, and a large pantry to keep all the  accessories at bay.

 Oppossite the kitchen, there's a dinette, and sleeper sofa, where the slideout is, ensuring you have plenty of space while spending time in your RV.

The bathroom is so spacious it's unreal. Boasting everything you need, including a walk in 30x36 shower, with a skylight, and there's also a window on the back wall, which helps with airing the RV.

Outdoors, there's an impressive 21' awning, coax TV hook up, and a spray port, which is perfect for cleaning the hiking boots after a long trail. 

LANCE 2185 TRAVEL TRAILER

• CNC-Laminated Floor, Ceiling, Walls Insulated
• One-Piece Roof
• Exterior Propane Connection
• Exterior Wash Station
• Enclosed Underbelly-Insulated & Heated Hldg Tanks
• Length: 26 ft 1 in 
• Width: 96 inches 
• Weight: 7900 pounds 

The last of our Travel Trailers under 8000 lbs comes from Lance. Coming in at 7900 pounds the trailer boasts everything you need and sleeps up to 6 people.

The master bedroom has a queen sized bed with wardrobes and storage. Walking out of the bedroom you enter the living area, where the slideout is, which houses the u-shaped dinette. This converts into a bed and sleeps an extra 2 people.

Opposite the slideout is the kitchen area. It's a bit small compared with the others, but the Lance is cheaper, and although the kitchen prep space is limited, it should be fine for most people.

Towards the back is a shower and toilet, which is pretty compact, and a separate wash basin opposite. Tucked in at the back is the bunkhouse , with 2 bunk beds . There's another wardrobe right at the side of the bunkhouse.

Outside, you have an awning, propane connection and a wash station, so the days muck can be washed off before entering the trailer after a long hike.

Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind Before Buying

Buying a new travel trailer can make you nervous, especially if you are doing so for the first time. People want to make sure that their investment is safe, and they will get the true worth of their money. 

We understand this, so we have enlisted some cautious considerations to keep in mind before buying a travel trailer.

Slide-Out Space

Well, the presence of a slide-out space is welcomed by everyone as it ensures more space in the interior. But, since it is on the outside, it should be able to deal with all the weight that you put on it. So, go for the travel trailers that have a well-tested slide-out space.

Interior Height

The interior height is quite important because it determines the ease of movement inside the trailer. The ceiling should be high enough for you to walk around easily without ducking your head.

Now, the price is definitely a major aspect to consider while making a purchase. You need to choose a travel trailer that has the lowest price with the highest quality. A comparison of available options will help you make the right decision in this regard. 

Can you really find an affordable and quality travel trailer?

Yes, you can find a quality travel trailer that is very affordable. travel trailers under 8000 lbs are bigger than many, but they aren't the biggest. Yes, you'll get plenty of luxury features with them, and that will cost, but you can definitely find a trailer that's affordable.

What kind of truck can tow an 8000 lbs travel trailer?

Full sized SUVs and half-ton trucks can tow travel trailers that weigh 8000 lbs quite easily. 

What is the towing capacity of a 3/4-ton truck?

It depends on the brand, but generally you're looking at around 20,000 lbs. But always check your manufacturer's handbook before trying to tow anything that weight.

Can you increase towing capacity?

No, you can't increase the towing capacity of your vehicle unless you re-engineer the vehicle. This is because trucks are made specially with towing capacity in mind, so don't try and push your towing vehicle as it could be dangerous.

Travel Trailers under 8000 Lbs

Travel trailers under 8000 lbs are mid to large trailers. The size should be enough for most people, and with it being a trailer, personally I wouldn't go much higher than 8000lbs. This is because trailers are difficult to tow and the heavier they are, the harder they get.

All of the above trailers are highly recommended, and depending on your budget and needs, we're sure you'll find at least one there. If not, keep looking as there are many others we haven't reviewed, and of course, it's such a big investment.

We're sure, however, that the travel trailer you go for will be the best decision of your outdoor life and be the base of every future memory you make. Happy camping!

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Jeffsetter Travel

Travel Consultants and Travel Tips

9 Best Travel Trailers Under 8000 Pounds

December 15, 2021 by Charlotte Phillips

Last updated on November 1st, 2023 at 03:23 pm

All of our reviews are based on exhaustive research, industry experience and whenever possible, hands-on testing. When you make a purchase using one of our chosen links we’ll receive a small percentage of the proceeds. This supports the site and keeps Jeffsetter running. You can read more here .

Looking for a travel trailer big enough for the whole family but also light enough to be towed comfortably by your midsize truck or SUV? We’ve compiled a list of some of the best travel trailers under 8,000 pounds that will tick plenty of your boxes!

Finding a travel trailer able to suit your needs can be like Cinderella’s slipper. There’s a lot to consider, and a lot of travel trailers to tour. You may even be looking for something lighter such as travel trailers under 4,000 pounds , and it’s possible to find these on the market too.

Knowing what’s worth considering before you start shopping is the way to go. And that’s what we’re here for. Let’s dive in and take a look at what you should be considering in a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds.

If you’d like to see the travel trailers we’ve listed right away, you can skip ahead using the table of contents below:

What To Consider In A Travel Trailer Under 8000 Pounds?

Purchasing a new or used RV is exciting, but there’s a lot to think about, especially if you’re shopping for an RV for the first time! Knowing you want a travel trailer weighing less than 8,000 pounds is a good place to start, and helps narrow down the selection a substantial amount. 

Let’s go over some of the considerations worth making before diving straight into a final travel trailer purchase!

Towing Capacity

Not only does a level travel trailer during towing matter, but it’s also essential to know how much weight you’re able to safely carry on the road. You need to know the towing capacity of your tow vehicle before shopping around for travel trailers, as some are far heavier than others and won’t be suitable options.

If you’re looking for a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds, chances are high that you’re already familiar with your tow vehicle’s overall towing capacity.  If you’ve yet to purchase a tow vehicle that will be responsible for moving your travel trailer from one location to another, sticking to a trailer weighing under 8,000 pounds is a smart move.

Many trucks and SUVs have a decent towing capacity, but your budget will affect what truck or SUV you purchase. The bigger the truck, the larger your towing capacity will be, but your budget will need to be larger as well.  Weight is everything when it comes to travel trailers and RVing. You should always weigh your travel trailer while it’s full, especially because the average 30-foot camper can weigh close to 5,000 pounds dry!

Overall Length

Just like the weight of your travel trailer matters, the overall length of your travel trailer matters too. You may think the bigger the RV, the better the RV. However…

While having a large RV may be necessary to fit your family of five , you may think twice when it comes time to tow the travel trailer home. A bigger and longer rig may not be the safest option for you to drive, especially if you are new to towing.  The longer the RV, the more likely it is to be heavy and above an 8,000-pound towing capacity.

You’ll find that many RVs on this list are quite sizable and large, but there are caveats to owning a bigger RV.  For example, the longer your travel trailer is, the more likely you will experience shaking and rocking as you move about the rig . Plus, many campgrounds and RV parks have length limits to certain spots.  You may not have considered it before, but length does matter in terms of booking reservations at campgrounds.

Always check the RV park you are looking at has adequate space for the overall length of your RV, especially if you’re renting your rig from a website like outdoorsy or RVShare .  The overall length of your trailer also makes a huge difference in terms of safety while towing. Even if you happen to evenly distribute the weight inside the trailer and purchase additional accessories such as sway control bars, the longer your rig is, the more likely you are to lose control over it. 

Travel Trailer Layout

There are more layouts of travel trailers than you can possibly fathom, even some with two bathrooms! While it can be difficult to determine what layout you need, it’s one of the best parts of choosing a new RV.  You may be looking for a layout able to support the whole family, or perhaps a travel trailer with extra perks for your dog or cat .

Maybe you are looking for a layout with two master bedrooms so your parents or grandparents can feel comfortable on the road as well. Travel trailer layouts have become so diverse that finding features such as bunk beds, fireplaces, and even large chef-style kitchens is no longer a rarity!

The possibilities are endless, and many RV manufacturers even have additional options and upgrades for you to consider before finalizing a travel trailer purchase.  I highly recommend touring some travel trailers you are interested in or utilizing video tours on an RV manufacturer’s website. This will give you a better idea of the overall space and room layout of the travel trailer you were considering.

You may already know where your priorities are, including whether or not you want a wet or dry bath on board your travel trailer . Looking for a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds means you will have more options than you know what to do with! 

Storage Capacity

Besides considering what layout you want, it’s worth bearing in mind how much storage you’re hoping for in a new travel trailer. Storage capacity is key in any RV, especially if you plan on traveling with a large group or the whole family.

RV manufacturers have become increasingly unique and innovative with their storage solutions, allowing everyone’s belongings to come on board and be stored away neatly and organized. Even the smallest and lightest toy haulers have impressive storage spaces for kayaks and ATVs. This can be handy for the adventurous RVer, and those who want to make the most of the great outdoors.

Even if you aren’t planning on bringing a bunch of recreational gear, having ample storage should be a consideration for you while shopping. This is especially true if you plan on camping for long periods in your RV, or even thinking about living in it full-time.

Depending on the RV manufacturer, many travel trailer options have the ability to be built out with more storage if you are in touch with the builders directly. You can easily install pass-thru storage boxes on your rig’s exterior, or have a wardrobe put inside your master bedroom for ultimate organization. 

Number Of Beds Required

Just like your layout matters in terms of housing everyone comfortably while you camp, you need to consider just how many beds and sleeping arrangements you need.  RVs are very versatile in terms of their convertible furniture and bed options, but there will likely not be room for you to bring in an air mattress or other portable bed.

When looking at various layout options while shopping for a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds, you may look specifically for rigs with bunk beds or convertible sleeping arrangements such as futon couches or Murphy beds. However, if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it shouldn’t be too tricky to find a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds with everything you need on board.  

Budget is always a big factor to consider, no matter the weight or size of the RV you’re considering. Regardless of the budget you have, there are plenty of options on the market, and it may even be possible to find a high-quality used RV for a good price.

RV manufacturers offer their rigs with standard features as well as nonstandard features, and although additional upgrades such as solar panels are tank heaters are useful, they can raise the overall cost significantly.  Given there are also many RV accessories to purchase, especially for a larger travel trailer, sticking to a set amount of money is always a good idea.

There are many features that you can choose to upgrade yourself as well, such as more durable RV underbelly insulation , solar panels, and more. This can help keep costs down, though it will require more DIY and maintenance on your part. If you have a large enough budget, it may be worth investing in additional weather packages or boondocking upgrades so you have a fully equipped RV, able to tackle life on the road. 

Good Brands Of Travel Trailers Under 8000 Pounds

Curious to know what brands of travel trailers are well-known and supported? Here are some of the best brands on the market today, though almost any travel trailer under 8,000 pounds should be well-supported by its manufacturer.

Something to consider while shopping for a brand-new RV is the warranties being offered. You may find one company has a much more comprehensive and supportive warranty than another, so this could alter your decision.

Dating back to 1968, Jayco has been a long-time name in the RV game, and for good reason. Not only is Jayco constantly reinventing what it means to RV, but they also make durable and quality rigs able to last for generations to come.  Their very first travel trailer model was manufactured in 1971, and their JayFlight model has earned the #1 selling travel trailer award for the past 15 years.

It isn’t a secret that Jayco makes good rigs, and they are a name I trust to bring quality and trust to the RVing community.  Jayco takes the time to make their rigs strong and durable, with ultra-light and sturdy frames, Amish woodworking featured in the interiors, and one of the best warranties in the business. You won’t need to worry about your travel trailer under 8,000 pounds if it’s a Jayco!

Speaking of warranties, Jayco offers a two-year RV warranty and a three-year structural warranty. This is more than you can expect from many in the RV business, and provides the peace of mind I believe is needed in having a long-lasting, reliable RV. 

Forest River

Another big RV name, and popular like Jayco, is Forest River. They own many other RV brand names such as Coachmen, Palomino, and Dynamax. You may have seen these brands while camping or on the road, and it makes sense why: they’re fantastic RVs to consider.

Forest River was founded in 1996 and has grown a significant amount since then. While they can’t be considered a company that pioneered the RVing business, they can be deemed one of the most reliable and versatile manufacturers around.  With multiple manufacturing companies throughout the United States, Forest River makes approximately 50 different styles of RVs under the Forest River brand name alone.

With these stats, finding a unique Forest River travel trailer weighing under 8,000 pounds should be a breeze! They also offer a reliable warranty, an owner’s club, roadside assistance, and more. Consider Forest River for your travel trailer purchase- they no doubt have a camper to blow your socks off!

Starting in 1965 with quality as a huge goal and motivator, Lance builds truck campers and travel trailers. Some of their original models from the 60s are still on the road today, something that’s wonderful to be able to claim and something I’m especially drawn to since I own a vintage trailer myself!

Lance’s outstanding craftsmanship and high-quality materials make their travel trailers special, but you don’t have to just take my word for it! Not only has Lance won multiple awards for their building supplies, but they also strive to in building an eco-friendly and toxin-free RV, which is great news for RVers and our planet. Lance offers a two-year limited warranty and their customer satisfaction knows no bounds.

They often have repeat customers over the years who wouldn’t trade their Lance for another RV brand, and their dealers are specially trained in Lance’s unique products. Speaking of products, while Lance only makes travel trailers up to 25 feet in length, you can count on their RVs lasting a lifetime. The Azdel walls and sturdy frames keep customers coming back to Lance year after year.

It doesn’t get more classic than an Airstream travel trailer. These rigs are surprisingly light, and you can easily find these aluminum beauties for under 8,000 pounds.  While the Airstream bullet shape we know and love wasn’t created until the 1960s, Airstream has long been regarded as one of the first travel trailer brands.

Created as early as the 1920s, you can bet that purchasing an Airstream is an excellent decision. According to Airstream, 70% of original Airstreams are still on the road today . This is no doubt due to their quality construction and overall customer support. These rigs are wonderful travel trailers to add to your shortlist.

You already know Coachmen is a division of Forest River, but what you may not know is that Coachmen is invested in building affordable and family-friendly rigs. Whether it be a Class A, Class C, or travel trailer, Coachmen has you and your family covered without breaking the bank.

Coachmen offers a variety of travel trailers at many different price points and sizes, including extra-long rigs and those weighing less than 8,000 pounds. They also offer unparalleled customer support and services so it’s easy to know where to head if any problems arise. There’s also an owner’s association so you can keep in touch with other Coachmen rig owners and share tips, tricks, and inspiration about life on the road.

Winnebago is another classic name in the RV game, and their travel trailers are chic and affordable. They have around six different travel trailers on the market currently, with even more Class Cs and Class Bs to consider as well.

Founded in the early 1960s, Winnebago is dedicated to its customers and their overall satisfaction. Winnebago has spent decades improving their products and relationship with customers, and this seems to have proven effective year after year.

Tips For Travel Trailers Under 8000 Pounds

Looking for some additional tips to consider before purchasing a travel trailer under 8000 pounds? Check out these helpful facts below, or skip ahead to our full trailer list!

Distribute Weight Evenly 

If you’re new to RVing, especially towing with a travel trailer, it’s essential to understand how important it is to distribute your weight evenly.  There’s a lot to understand about travel trailer weight, including how to increase your RV’s tongue weight capacity . Having an RV with unevenly distributed weight can spell disaster if you’re not careful, and put the trailer and everyone on vacation in danger.

While a travel trailer is built to distribute weight evenly when empty or dry, it’s up to you to pack your rig well in order to avoid unsafe road conditions. Swaying and rocking back and forth can be extremely dangerous, and this tends to be caused by unevenly weighted rigs.

Take your time when packing up your travel trailer, especially if you’ve not done it before. Keeping your travel trailer from shaking is a key step for you to take, especially if your travel trailer weighs less than 8,000 pounds! I find it useful to make a list of everything I need to pack so I don’t end up bringing items I don’t need which will increase weight unnecessarily. 

Practice Hitching Up

Hitching up safely and efficiently is key for any new travel trailer owner to understand. It’s easy to make mistakes when hitching up, which in turn can lead to unsafe driving conditions, and even damage your tow vehicle or RV. My biggest piece of advice would be to be patient and take things slow while you’re hitching up.

Practicing backing your trailer into place before hitting the road for vacation will help make you feel confident when it’s time to get set up at the campground or lake! It’s never a bad idea to weigh your travel trailer at home as well , just to ensure you’ve purchased the proper hitch and know how much your rig weighs when it’s fully packed up. 

This means the travel trailer won’t be overloaded and your tow vehicle shouldn’t have any issues pulling your trailer along to the next location of the summer family vacation!

Get Creative With Storage

There’s more to your RV’s storage than meets the eye, especially if you take the time to get it exactly how you want it. From keeping your sewer hose in your RV’s bumper to having an onboard generator , storage is key to a happy vacation.

You can always purchase additional shelves and storage capabilities, or various closet organizers to maximize your existing storage. Practicing packing is something most RVers do as well, so don’t be afraid to get creative and find the solutions that work best for you and your needs.

Check Out Any Non-Standard Features

While you’re shopping for a new travel trailer under 8,000 pounds, you may consider taking a look at the non-standard features available. These features could be anything from a second AC unit to additional awnings, or increased solar power on the roof.

Your budget may not be large enough for all the extra features, but it may be worth investing in some of them, especially if you’re looking to complete plenty of off-grid camping. I travel full-time, through the four seasons, which means an all-season package, solar panels, and a hot water heater upgrade would be particularly useful for me.

Get Stabilizers

A stable travel trailer is a happy travel trailer- but this can be easier said than done. There are many different jack stands and stabilizers worth considering and  for good reason!  Having a stable and level RV helps with the overall life of your travel trailer’s frame, and will only increase your enjoyment while inside it. Stabilizers are the number one item to purchase for helping against dreaded travel trailer shaking.

While you may not think of this as a big deal or concern when you first start camping, it will soon become apparent to you once you walk around in your RV without stabilizers and it’s a bit wobbly! Some new travel trailers come with built-in stabilizers, and if so, you’re lucky as you won’t need to worry about making another purchase. 

Are you ready to look at some of the best travel trailers under 8,000 pounds? Hopefully, you know the layout and feel you’re looking for, as well as your budget and towing capacity. Let’s take a look at these rigs now!

Best Overall: Forest River Grey Wolf

With 13 different floor plans for the Forest River Grey Wolf travel trailer and 5 layout options for the toy hauler model, there’s plenty to love about the Grey Wolf. Since all of the options available weigh less than 8,000 pounds, it’s no surprise the Grey Wolf is a top contender in the mid-size travel trailer world.

The Grey Wolf doesn’t appear to have very many bells and whistles from the outside, but after living and camping full-time, the sheer number of these rigs I see at campgrounds must have something to do with their reliability and popularity!  Their largest travel trailer model comes in at almost 37 feet and weighs just over 6,000 pounds.

This is a significant amount of travel trailer living space, ideal for both my partner and me to live comfortably, and there’s even ample space for our furry companion too! As you can see in the tour video above, the interior of the Grey Wolf is sleek, modern, and surprisingly spacious.  Speaking of space, there are ample sleeping arrangements with this travel trailer, such as multiple sleeping sofas, bunkhouse models, and more depending on specific floorplans.

I love the overall flexibility and versatility of the Grey Wolf, as it’s possible to purchase either the standard travel trailer model or the toy hauler rig so I can bring adventure gear like our SUP boards and kayak along for the adventure.  There are smaller Grey Wolf trailers too, some as small as 20 feet in length, which may be a better option for solo travelers, or those looking for a smaller rig for weekend getaways than full-time travel. 

Some floor plans offer a full tub, an 11 cubic-foot residential fridge, and relaxing electric fireplaces, which I would use every winter evening to snuggle up in the comfortable seating areas. The addition of the Base Camp package is something I would opt for to improve my experience on the road, as it includes underbelly armor, outdoor hot and cold showers, a quick-connect RV grill for effortless outdoor cooking, and more.

It would be nice for some of the optional extra features such as the off-road tire addition with the Adventure Package to be standard since these aren’t the cheapest rigs out there. However, I guess it’s awesome to have these kinds of options available in the first place. 

Forest River offers a comprehensive roadside assistance package as well as a limited warranty, allowing me to confidently put my faith in their rigs. Each and every travel trailer goes through detailed inspections before being shipped, so I can rest easy in Forest River’s hand and trust their rigs will last for many camping seasons to come.

Best On A Budget: Jay Flight SLX 8

It’s hard to comprehend all the perks of this Jayco travel trailer, especially for the price! With 7 unique floor plans on offer, the Jayco Jay Flight SLX is a wonderful travel trailer for RVers seeking a reliable brand and large living space, but at a budget-friendly price. The smallest floorplan is the 154BHW which weighs just shy of 3,000 lbs and measures 18 feet on the dot! This layout may not be the best fitting for a large family, but thanks to the innovative bunk beds, it’s possible to sleep four! 

Jayco is proud to offer some of the most solid frames in the RV business. With trusses made from structural steel and a seamless roof with a 20-year warranty, I trust I’m in good hands with Jayco. Their customer service is also recognized for being supportive and helpful, which is what I need from RV manufacturers. 

The interior of each of the Jay Flight models is far more appealing than I would expect from such budget-friendly trailers. Standard interior equipment includes solid hardwood cabinets, a premium multimedia sound system, durable and fashionable laminate flooring, and residential countertops. These high-quality finishes and thoughtful touches work well to make these trailers feel more like a house than an RV!

Solar isn’t a standard option with the Jay Flight which is a little disappointing since an increasing number of RVers want to head off-grid and support their electricity usage. However, solar power is possible with the purchase of Jayco’s Overlander 1 Solar Package which offers a 200W panel and a 30-amp controller. Since these rigs are so budget-friendly, it may even be feasible to dive right in and also opt for the Baja package which boasts Goodyear off-road tires, stabilizer jacks, powder-coated wheel fenders, and more!

Many models feature cozy bunk beds with privacy screens, efficient and compact outdoor kitchens, and ample storage both inside and out, so there’s no more arguing over the delegation of belongings and their temporary homes in the RV.  Jayco is also one of the best RV manufacturers in terms of warranty which also helps bring about plenty of peace!

The Jay Flight comes complete with a two-year limited warranty, a three-year structural warranty, and countless individual warranties for the many features and finishes inside and out of the trailer.  While the Jay Flight may not quite have the luxurious edge of the Airstream Flying Cloud, there’s still lots to appreciate with the Jay Flight, and it’s hard to argue with such a friendly budget! 

Best For Boondocking: Forest River Ibex

It’s possible to still hit the road and be adventurous, even in a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds! In fact, all 11 floorplans on offer with the Forest River Ibex are all under 6,000 pounds, with countless boondocking perks for campers wanting to explore nature and not spend days at the campground . Off-grid camping is how I prefer to spend most of my time, and the Ibex is the ideal rig, equipped with everything needed for a successful boondocking experience. 

To kick things off, the Ibex features a significantly higher clearance than many of the other trailers on our list. Also, unlike our last option, the Jay Flight SLX, all-terrain tires come standard, which signifies how much thought Forest River has poured into creating the Ibex. Some of the floorplans such as the 19QBS have solar already installed, and for ultimate off-griding, I can upgrade to a 500W solar setup with a 3,000W inverter so I know everything on-board can be powered whenever needed.

Forest River also offers toy hauler models of the Ibex and there are 3 layouts available. The largest one is the 24MTH with a UVW of 6,660 pounds and an exterior length of 30′ 0″. This flexibility from Forest River is one of the reasons they’ve been in the RV game for so long, offering solo travelers, couples, and families alike, reliable rigs able to keep everyone safe while magical memories are made.

I’m particularly drawn to Forest River’s high standards, which complete the Ibex with Azdel walls, underbelly insulation, and a 15-year warranty for the seamless roof. It seems this rig is built to last for generations to come, and will remain a classic, attractive rig on the road.

The main drawback to the Ibex has to be its rather beige interior, but I think this can easily be brightened up with some trinkets, photos on the wall, and familiar belongings.  All of the appliances in the Ibex are stainless steel, making them modern and easy to clean which is a huge bonus in my eyes, especially when the whole family comes around to visit! 

Best of all, the Ibex comes complete with Forest River’s customer service as well as various warranties to support the robust rig. Having solar and a cold weather package as standard features? That’s a great perk to have in a travel trailer under 8000 pounds if I do say so myself!

Highest Sleeping Capacity: Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite

As a division of Forest River, Coachmen has many RVs and travel trailers to offer that are both built to a high standard and also won’t break the bank. The Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite has much more than just affordability to offer, as these models are also lightweight and have impressively high sleeping capacities. This is great news for large families or those looking to head out into the wilderness with a group of friends for the weekend. 

There are 13 unique Apex floor plans, with some measuring 8 feet wide and others 7.5 feet wide. Having the ability to drive a narrow rig can be beneficial, especially for full-timers like me who live in their home on wheels and sometimes stumble upon challenging roads and questionable terrain.  The largest Apex floor plan is the 300BHS which weighs just under 6,000 pounds dry, has an exterior length of 34′ 5″, and has the astonishing capability of sleeping 10 people!

Since this is less than 35 feet in length, it’s an ideal size for most RV parks and campgrounds, so I can dodge any hassle when I arrive at the campground towing my Apex Ultra-Lite.  Speaking of floor plans, many Apex models feature fireplaces, entertainment centers, and theatre seating to bring plenty of comfort to any vacation. Many floor plans also feature sectional sofas, expansive kitchens, and residential-sized bathrooms that make traveling with others an absolute breeze.

That isn’t where the perks stop, however. The Apex also has an entirely fiberglass exterior so I don’t have to worry about battling the elements while camping. Since outdoor speakers and a small solar setup are also present with the Apex, it seems Coachmen really have tried to cover everything! I like that there’s the option to upgrade to a 50 amp service and add another AC as these are features I think are well worth investing in, especially for full-time life on the road.

The Apex has a modest interior with classy hardware cabinetry and a two-tone color scheme. It’s a little plain for my personal taste, but nothing some simple wall decor, cushions, and throws wouldn’t spruce up! Compared to other RVs such as Jayco’s two and three-year warranties, Coachmen’s one-year warranty is a little disappointing. Luckily, they have a roadside assistance program and an owner’s club which helps make up for the small warranty!

Most Storage: Winnebago Voyage

Winning RV News’ award for the best travel trailer in 2022, it’s no surprise there’s a lot on offer with the Winnebago Voyage. This travel trailer is under 8,000 pounds and has innovative storage solutions fit for families and travel groups. The two largest floorplans sadly creep a little above 8,000 pounds, but there are 4 other layout options, weighing far less. I love the variety of floorplans as it makes finding a suitable layout easy, and there’s a range of lengths too which is great for RVers storing their trailers outside with limited space.

A kitchen truly is the heart of any home for me, and this is no different in RVs! The kitchens in each Voyage floorplan are attractive and adorned with residential-style cabinetry and a full-size refrigerator, great for keeping food fresh on the road. Nearly every Winnebago Voyage model features washer and dryer prep along with walk-around king beds, making me feel even more at home. 

Claiming it has storage around every corner as well as walk-in pantry options, the Voyage is a winner just from sheer square footage alone. It even offers Murphy bed options allowing for additional storage. RVs can be a range of sizes, and smart storage is the best way to utilize limited space even the most modest-sized rigs.

The floor plans, while not all of them are under 8,000 pounds, offer a lot of unique positioning, no doubt in an effort to maximize storage. Having a fridge located in a slide-out is not often seen in RVs, but I think it helps maximize the interior living space!  Winnebago has been around for a long time, and they know how to care for their customers.

With competitive warranties,  Winnebago promises their RVs are fit to take on big adventures with the whole family for many years to come. Winnebago is known for manufacturing rigs that don’t cost the earth, however, even the smallest Voyage floorplan, the V2427RB, starts at over $60k which is still a substantial investment! It’s far cheaper than other travel trailers on the market, and even though the Voyage is a relatively new rig, it’s already making waves.

With unique floor plan choices and a huge amount of storage, this travel trailer ticks a bunch of boxes for me and is worth the price for a reliable name and durable trailer.

Best For The Whole Family: Jayco Jay Feather  

I mentioned the Jay Feather travel trailer earlier when talking about Jayco’s most popular models. This particular RV has been a crowd favorite for decades, and with 10 floorplans, all weighing under 8,000 pounds, there’s ample choice! Since all of the layouts of this travel trailer are lightweight, towing isn’t a big concern.

The variety of sizes with the Jay Feather is impressive, with the smallest floorplan measuring just 24′ long, and the largest, 33′ 2″. This allows multiple people to fit inside the travel trailer , which I need as sometimes things can get a bit too tight when the whole family shows up at the campground to join in with the fun! I like that Jayco hasn’t put interior design on the backburner with the Jay Feather, and the inside is simply beautiful.

The 27BHB floorplan can sleep up to nine individuals, whilst also boasting a large indoor kitchen and handy outside kitchen, a pantry, a full bathroom with shower, and ample storage throughout.  A Jayco rig is always built to last. With vacuum-bonded floors and walls, I can rest easy knowing leaking is unlikely, which is the kind of reassurance I need as I travel year-round come rain or shine!

The Jay Feather also comes with a one-piece, seamless roof with a 20-year warranty, so I can enjoy the trailer season after season.  There are two interior design options on this rig as well, though they are both a bit similar. However, the cool greys and modern farmhouse design appeal to a wide variety of people, especially when paired with dark wood trim and finishes. Speaking of space, this travel trailer has ample storage, both inside and out.

There’s overhead master bedroom wardrobe space and a kitchen that rivals many studio apartment kitchens. Plus, the bathroom is fantastic, with a huge rounded shower that truly stands out and is a rarety in smaller RVs and travel trailers!

Most Stylish: Airstream Flying Cloud

RVs aren’t always the best-looking vehicles on the road, however, there’s something undeniably eye-catching about an Airstream, and the Flying Cloud is no exception. Although priced at nearly $100k, the Airstream has a classic style with robust foundations beneath. Airstream travel trailers are known for their striking designs, both inside and out, and the Flying Cloud has plenty to showcase.

Besides the silver bullet design of the Flying Cloud, I noticed an immediate lightness upon entering. This is thanks to the light wood interior and leather finishes that seem to make the space come to life without being too bold. Style is infused into every floor plan of the Flying Cloud, and since there are 8 layouts to choose from, it’s not hard to find the best match. 

Most of the floorplans are under 8,000 pounds, and some even have unique labels such as “office” or “bunk”, adding to the versatility of this travel trailer. Although the aluminum shell catches my eye from the offset, the interior of the Airstream Flying Cloud is something to be just as impressed with. L ight wood walls, cabinetry, and trim, all aid in making the space feel high-end. Quality appliances and a full-size fridge in the kitchen make cooking on the road an absolute joy. 

Airstream makes great use of space, especially given their uniquely shaped rigs. Among the floorplans, it’s possible to find U-shaped dinettes and beds along with convertible furniture, all of which are tear, stain, and scratch-resistant. There’s also a fantastic level of climate control happening inside the Airstream Flying Cloud, and with quiet and efficient heating and cooling , my partner and I will always feel comfortable, no matter the season.

Owning an Airstream becomes almost like a way of life, and many Airstream owners can attest to this. This is also true given how long Airstream trailers last. Between warranties and quality construction, a Flying Cloud should last a lifetime.  The main drawback to the Flying Cloud as I touched upon earlier, has to be the price. Most Airstreams are out of the average RVer’s budget, however, those who can afford a classic trailer such as the Flying Cloud won’t be disappointed. 

Best For Couples: Heartland Mallard RV

Heartland may not be the best-known brand of travel trailers, but they do make sturdy, efficient ones such as the Mallard RV that’s ideal for couples and even small families alike. The Mallard travel trailer is ideal for couples given its small size and ease of towing since it’s just over 22′ in length and weighs 4,534 pounds. This travel trailer is small, but Heartland has still jam-packed the Mallard with a wide range of features. 

This rig has an open concept, allowing for ample floor space, great for when flurry companions come on board for summer vacation. There are 14 various floorplans to choose from, all of which are under 8,000 pounds except for the largest floorplan, the M335, with a dry weight of just over 8,000 pounds. Each floorplan is unique, yet all have a high-end feel with attractive kitchen spaces equipped with infinity countertops and a stainless sink. 

Even the smaller floorplans can sleep a minimum of  3 people, so although this trailer is perfect for couples due to its compact size, a small family can get cozy in a Mallard RV too! The aerodynamic design of the Mallard helps when towing on the road, and the power awning and exterior lights, mean the outdoors can be enjoyed no matter the time of day!

The two interior design options are stunning, although it would be nice to have a couple more options for those who fancy some bolder colors. However, it’s easy to personalize an RV, and once you’ve been on the road for a few days, it’ll feel like home in no time. I’m drawn to the addition of slides across the various floorplans, as they help open up the space so much more. But slides are another component that needs maintaining , so don’t forget this when choosing your lightweight travel trailer!

Ideal For Solo Travel: Grand Design RV Imagine AIM

Weighing as little as 3,600 pounds, the Grand Design RV Imagine AIM is an ideal choice for solo travelers looking for a trailer under 8,000 pounds. The AIM can be towed effortlessly by even the most modest of SUVs and still has a wealth of features able to bring comfort and functionality to any camping trip. Constructed with fully laminated walls, along with a double insulated floor, roof, and front cap, this small but mighty rig has great temperature control, ideal for all-season travel.

The AIM has four floorplans, ranging in length from 19′ 11″ to 21′ 11″, so towing the trailer shouldn’t be too daunting, and it can fit on a small driveway for storage too! The 15RB layout is the second smallest and packs plenty of punch for solo travelers. The interior is surprisingly light and airy, but the booth dinette helps bring some much-needed comfort to the space. I love that there’s still a full bathroom with shower, skylight, and even storage space for linens, as this means there’s no compromising on home comforts like a toilet or shower.

The queen-sized Murphy bed allows for more space during the day when it isn’t needed, and the pass-thru storage is a game-changer for keeping outdoor equipment and spare gear out of the way. The kitchen is quite basic and offers the essentials such as countertops, storage, a two-burner stovetop, and stainless steel sink. I’d like to have a bit more prep space and an oven on board for baking up sweet treats, but I believe anything is possible with just good ingredients, a sturdy pan, and a stovetop!

This Grand Design Imagine AIM isn’t the one for large families or those wanting to tow a big, mighty travel trailer, but for solo RVers , the AIM is hard to beat and starts at a very friendly price point too! Rving can cost a substantial amount, and if you’re leaning towards towing a trailer, it’s vital to opt for one your vehicle can handle rather than having to replace your tow vehicle too! Overall, the Imagine AIM is a great find that’s gentle on the bank, a breeze to tow, and an attractive rig to haul down the highway.

Final Thoughts

Finding a travel trailer under 8,000 pounds is much easier than you may think. There are even more options than the ones we’ve listed, but these campers are a good place to start the search! No matter your needs, there’s an RV out there able to meet your expectations (and towing capacity!).

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Journey With Confidence

10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers For 2023

• RV Trailers and Motorhomes

Consider the GVWR (not the UVW)

Many RV manufacturers tout the UVW (unloaded vehicle weight) of their trailers. But adding cargo like fresh water, propane tank(s), food, clothing, bicycles, and other camping equipment to the trailer can add hundreds of pounds to that UVW number.

GVWR is the weight to know when buying a trailer for a lightweight truck or passenger car tow vehicle.

Knowing the GVWR of small campers is the key to safe towing on road or while off-the-grid camping. Now, let’s dive into our list of the best lightweight travel trailers for 2023.

The 10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers (Under 6,000 Pounds GVWR)

Our top small travel trailers for 2023 are listed in order by cost in US dollars, from least expensive to most expensive.

1. Vintage Trailer Works XTR: An Off-Road Lightweight, Customizable Camper 

The Vintage Trailer Works team builds custom teardrops, retro campers, and toy haulers in Dothan, Alabama. The 5’x8′ model XTR is one of VTW’s four off-road, customizable lightweight teardrop trailers.

This mini travel trailer features dual doors with sliding windows, a tri-fold queen bed mattress and couch, 30″ A/T tires, and a beautifully designed galley under the rear hatch that’s ready for the best camping coolers and grills and outdoor cooktops of your choice.

All XTRs are custom built per buyer’s choices, starting with 4’x8′ to 5’x10′ floorplans, tailored kitchen layouts, an optional roof rack, awnings, cargo storage system choices, electronics, and more.

Vintage Trailer Works XTR Features

• Hitch weight: 275 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 2,990 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,600 lbs.
• Exterior length: 14′
• Full exterior height: 5′ 8″
• Exterior width: 7′ 5″
• Freshwater capacity: 10 gallons
• Optional roof rack and awning
• Base MSRP: $11,695

2. Riverside RV Retro 135: Vintage Style Small Trailer with Full Bath 

There aren’t many small travel trailers with a full bath on the market today. But one trailer stands out from the rest: the Retro 135 from Riverside RV.

The retro vibe starts on the outside with a colorful fiberglass exterior and continues inside with an eye-catching 1950s-style vintage trailer interior.

It features a black-and-white checkerboard flooring; dinette cushions in aqua, red, or seafoam green; and bright birch wood interior walls and cabinetry.

The ceiling is 6′ 3″ with an airy feel, despite being one of the smallest camper trailers on our list. The Retro has plenty of room for a 20K Btu furnace and 13.5K Btu A/C, a full wet bath, and a kitchenette with a refrigerator and cooktop. 

Riverside RV Retro 135 Features

• Hitch weight: 140 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 3,730 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 2,640 lbs.
• Exterior length: 15′ 9″
• Full exterior height: 9′ 6″
• Exterior width: 7′ 6″
• Interior height: 6′ 5″ 
• Freshwater capacity: 36 gallons
• Gray water capacity: 32 gallons
• Black water capacity: 17 gallons
• Optional dinette
• Base MSRP: $24,317

3. 2023 Travel Lite Rove Lite 16RB: A Versatile and Lightweight Trailer

You will love the new Rove Lite 16RB ultralight travel trailer from Travel Lite . This is the largest in the company’s offerings. Yet, it’s one of the most affordable small travel trailers on the market and light enough to pull behind many small cars and tow vehicles.

The sleek Euro-style design, use of state-of-the-art composite materials, aluminum chassis, and seamless poured resin fiberglass roof are industry-leading materials.

Interior features include a convertible bed and one of the only lightweight travel trailers with a full bathroom (and an outdoor shower, too). RVers love the unexpected space-saving functionality of this ultra-light travel trailer.

2023 Travel Lite Rove Lite 16RB Features

• Hitch weight: 154 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 3,500 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 2,044 lbs.
• Exterior length: 18′ 9″
• Full exterior height: 8′ 11″
• Exterior width: 7′ 11″
• Gray water capacity: 30 gallons
• Black water capacity: 5 gallons
• Optional exterior shower and electric side awning
• Base MSRP: $30,236

4. 2023 Keystone Passport Solo 15FK: An Elegant Small Trailer with a Full Kitchen

Keystone RV’s new Passport Solo 15FK is the smallest of the five Solo Series (single-axle) lightweight travel trailers. It’s in prototype phase now but will be out in 2023.

This ultralight travel trailer is loaded with standard features usually not found on single-axle campers, including an outdoor kitchen, tongue jack, stabilizer jacks, and a 10-foot awning.

This compact travel trailer features Keystone’s exclusive HyperDec flooring (composite and water-resistant), a rear wet bath, a 60″x80″ tri-fold queen-size bed, plus a beautiful wrap-around kitchen in the front with a large pantry, an 8 cu. ft. 12V fridge, plus a microwave and two-burner LP stove. There’s also an outside kitchen with a pullout griddle to accommodate hungry family members.

2023 Keystone Passport Solo 15FK Features

• Hitch weight: 595 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 5,650 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 4,410 lbs.
• Exterior length: 19′ 5″
• Full exterior height: 10′ 4″
• Exterior width: 8′
• Freshwater capacity: 37 gallons
• Black water capacity: 30 gallons
• Optional solar panel packages and lithium batteries
• Base MSRP: $34,350

5. L’Air Camper Company Trillium Lion 1300 GT: Classic Styling in a Lightweight Pull-Behind Trailer

Want to tow a small trailer with a small SUV or crossover? This is it!

L’Air Camper’s new Trillium Lion 1300 GT is a great small camper for couples and solo RVers who love the look of classic ’50s styling.

The molded fiberglass, 13-foot, 2,200-pound Lion GT model with the bathroom layout has everything needed to camp comfortably anywhere.

This small pull-behind camper features a 46″x76″ foam bed, two-burner cooktop, microwave, fridge, 12V/110V and solar power , A/C, furnace, hot water, inside shower, cassette toilet, 8-foot awning, and decent storage.

The Lion version has 15″ wheels, all-terrain tires, fender flares, gray marine upholstery, and roof rails for gear racks.

L’Air Camper Company Trillium Lion 1300 GT Features

• Hitch weight: 165 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 2,200 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,500 lbs.
• Exterior length: 13′ 5″
• Full exterior height: 7′ 6″
• Exterior width: 6′ 6″
• Interior height: 6′ 2″
• Freshwater capacity: 13 gallons
• Gray water capacity: 13 gallons
• Black water capacity: N/A
• Base MSRP: $39,500 USD

6. 2023 InTech Sol Horizon: A Stylish, Luxury Ultralight Trailer 

InTech’s new Sol Horizon is a luxurious aluminum ultralight travel trailer with a full-width U-shaped dinette up front. The big windows on three sides give expansive views of your surroundings.

The roomy interior has a unique “tilt-forward design” that allows use of the area over the trailer’s tongue to increase sleeping/lounging space.

The Sol Horizon also sports a sizeable wet bath; a luxurious kitchen with an enormous farmhouse sink, commercial-grade faucet, and two-burner LP-gas stove; and an adjacent entertainment center. A 10′ awning is standard, with options such as a slide-out kitchen and solar power.

2023 InTech Sol Horizon Features

• Hitch weight: 465 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 4,000 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 3,372 lbs.
• Exterior length: 19′
• Full exterior height: 9′ 5″
• Exterior width: 8′ 6″
• Interior height: 6′ 6″
• Freshwater capacity: 28 gallons
• Gray water capacity: N/A
• Black water capacity: 32 gallons
• Optional dual LP-gas tanks and off-grid package
• Base MSRP: $42,539

7. Vorsheer XCT: Rugged Off-Road Campers

From the ground up, Vorsheer’s 2023 Xtreme Camp Trailer (XCT) is an adventure-style off-road trailer designed with longevity and quality in mind. 

Made in Utah, the XCT has hot and cold season insulation, a composite shell, aluminum-body subframe, high-strength steel main frame, a full trailer kitchen in back, queen-size bed inside, and much more in a unique, head-turning design.

This small off-road trailer will carry a rooftop tent for added sleeping options. In addition, you can also carry adventure toys such as kayaks or a canoe.

It stands tall to handle the tougher 4×4 trails with nearly 20″ of ground clearance. If your tow vehicle can clear the obstacle, you know your trailer will too.

Vorsheer XCT Features

• Hitch weight: 260 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 1,995 lbs.
• Full exterior height: 6′ 11″
• Freshwater capacity: 27 gallons
• Extra large 270° awning (Bat Wing)
• Optional exterior water heater and shower
• Base MSRP: $44,560

8. 2023 Mars Campers Mars 15 Deluxe: Off-Road Trailer with a King Bed and Full Bath 

Mars Campers is the sister company to Black Series Campers and closely resembles their off-road campers imported from Australia into North America.

The Mars 15 Deluxe is a full-featured hybrid trailer. For example, it has a metal roof that lifts up to add headroom and a rear slide-out adds living space.

This small pull-behind trailer is solid. For instance, it’s built with rock sliders and skid plates to protect every vulnerable area. Additionally, it has an independent suspension to smooth out the ride over rough terrain.

The interior is large, with a big kitchen, four-burner cooktop, fridge, and lots of storage. It also has a wet bath and the rare feature of a lightweight travel trailer with a king bed.

Additionally, the pair of fold-up bunks makes it family-friendly. You’ll love the huge slide-out kitchen and 13-foot awning too. 

If you can’t get to Australia to buy it, don’t worry. The Black Series HQ12 small 4×4 trailer is a great alternative.

Mars 15 Deluxe Features

• Hitch weight: 320 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 5,291 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 4,409 lbs.
• Exterior length: 18′
• Full exterior height: 8′ 2″
• Exterior width: 7′ 4″
• Interior height:6’4″
• Freshwater capacity: 26.4 gallons
• Gray water capacity: 26.4 gallons
• Black water capacity: 26.4 gallons
• Base MSRP: $55,990

9. 2023 Lance Camper Enduro: An Equipped and Innovative Overlanding Trailer 

This off-grid camper is built for RVers who love off-road outdoor adventures. The all-new 19′ 1″, 4,500-pound (GVWR) Lance Camper Enduro is centered around an interior wet bath with a cassette toilet, a U-shaped convertible dinette, kids drop-down bunks, and a large exterior kitchen under the rear hatch with a two-burner cooktop.

Robust solar and lithium battery technology handles the power for dry camping. Additionally, having 40 gallons of onboard freshwater and a remote filtering system gives you independence.

Back kitchen galley of the Lance Camper Enduro.

The prototype campers have been in development for almost two years and will hit RV dealer lots in early 2023.

2023 Lance Camper Enduro Features

• Hitch weight: 350 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 4,500 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 3,500 lbs.
• Exterior length: 19′ 1″
• Exterior width: 8′ 5″
• Freshwater capacity: 40 gallons
• Gray water capacity: 26 gallons
• Base MSRP: $59,000

10. 2023 Kimberley Kampers Kruiser E-Class: Small Camper with a Composting Toilet 

The Kimberley Kampers Kruiser E-Class is a full-featured travel trailer from the company’s Ohio location. This luxury small camper is loaded with high-tech features, particularly the adjustable air bag suspension and the diesel-powered hot water system.

Additionally, there is a retractable island queen bed and an RV composting toilet . These travel trailers keep RVers comfortable in the outback or anywhere in North America.

The E-Class Kruiser model has more options than many small campers . It’s easy to tailor this camper to fit any RV lifestyle.

2023 Kimberley Kampers Kruiser E-Class Features

• Hitch weight: 265 lbs.
• Gross vehicle weight rating: 5,500 lbs.
• Unloaded vehicle weight: 3,836 lbs.
• Exterior length: 17′
• Full exterior height: 9′ 8″
• Freshwater capacity: 50 gallons
• Gray water capacity: 16 gallons
• Black water capacity: Waterless Composting Toilet
• Base MSRP: $89,268

Editor’s note: RV production costs are in flux. Base costs for these small towable RVs may have changed since Q4 2022 (when we created this list of the best lightweight travel trailer reviews for 2023).

Meet other lightweight travel trailer owners

One of the best parts about RVing is meeting other camping fans. Learn more from owners of expandable, hybrids, & light travel trailer campers in the iRV2 Discussion Forums . Get other perspectives on the best small travel trailers, light tow vehicles, RV products, great camping spots, hacks and mods, and much more. 

Related articles:

• 10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers of 2022
• What Is Your Gross Vehicle Weight (And Why Does It Matter)?

Best Travel Trailers Under 7,000 Pounds

By: Author Couch Potato Camping

Posted on Published: February 15, 2023  - Last updated: February 27, 2023

Categories Camping Gear

When it comes to purchasing a travel trailer, it is important to consider both the features and the weight of the trailer. Finding a trailer that has the features you want while remaining under the towing capacity of your tow vehicle can be a challenge.

Fortunately, there are plenty of travel trailers available on the market today that weigh less than 7,000 pounds. We are sharing our favorite campers under 7,000 pounds and highlighting some of the best features of each model, including size, weight, materials, and amenities.

We also provide helpful tips and resources to help you make an informed decision about the best travel trailer for your needs.

Travel Trailers Under 7,000 Pounds (Both GVWR and UVW)

What is the difference between GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)?

GVWR  is the total amount of weight that the trailer axle can carry, including the dry weight of the camper empty, plus any cargo, water or any fluids in the fresh, grey, or black tanks, additional equipment and gear.

The dry weight, or  UVW , is not the best measure nor an accurate representation of what your travel trailer will weigh when you take it out on your adventures.

Let’s be honest, you will never take an RV with you to go camping that doesn’t have any food, clothing, supplies or water. Even when we put ours in storage ’empty’ we still keep some trailer specific gear stored in the trailer.

Coachmen Freedom Express Select 20SE

The Coachmen Freedom Express Select 20SE is one of the best travel trailers under 7,000 pounds. Weighing in at 6,000 lbs. GVWR and a dry weight of 4,160 lbs UVW, this RV trailer offers all the amenities of a full-size RV without the extra weight.

With no slide outs, a sizeable kitchen, and a spacious bathroom, this trailer offers plenty of room for anyone looking to camp or travel in comfort.

The exterior features a rugged fiberglass construction and is equipped with a spare tire and an awning for shade. The 20SE comes with plenty of exterior, pass-through storage, so you’ll have all your camping essentials within reach.

Key Features:

• Hitch weight 512 lbs.
• 24′ – 6″ in length
• 10′ – 7″ in height
• 8′ wide
• Gray water: 33 gallons
• Fresh water: 50 gallons
• Black water: 35 gallons
• 16′ long awing
• Tinted windows
• L-shape corner dinette
• AIR 360+ Antenna w/ optional 4G LTE Add on
• 81″ Interior ceiling height
• 6 gallon DSI Gas/Electric Water Heater
• 60″x 80″ Queen size mattress
• Optional 50 amp service
• Sizable dry bathroom

What We Like About the Coachmen Freedom Express Select 20SE

The shorter length of this travel trailer will allow RVers to get into most private and public campgrounds including the restrictive National Park campgrounds.

Keystone 29BHPR

The Keystone 29BHPR is one of the best travel trailers under 7,000 pounds. It has a UVW rating of 6,408 lbs., making it a great option for those looking for a lightweight RV trailer with an exterior made of fiberglass.

The Express is a great choice for family camping trips, as it has a spacious interior with plenty of room for up to ten people.

It also comes with features such as a large refrigerator, an oven, and a microwave.

Plus, it has a 21′ long awning and one slide out so you can feel confident in your travels. The slide out houses the dinette and sleeper sofa with an option to convert the sleeper sofa to two luxury cinema recliners.

• 745 lb. hitch weight
• 10 cu. ft. refrigerator
• 33′-4″ in length
• 11′-1″ in height
• Fresh water: 37 gallons
• Gray water: 60 gallons
• Black water: 30 gallons
• Propane tank: 40 lb. (2 tanks)
• 1,192 lb. carrying capacity
• Outdoor kitchen
• Double 51″x74″ bunk beds
• Entertainment Center
• Sleeper Sofa
• Dinette converts to a bed

What We Like About the Keystone 29BHPR

We truly appreciate the open floor plan of the Keystone 29BHPR. When you have a travel trailer that can accommodate and sleep 6-plus people, you really want an open floor plan, which is perfect for those times when everyone needs to be inside the trailer, such as during a rainy day or at night.

Forest River Explore X-Lite 263BHXL

The Forest River Explore X-Lite is one of the best travel trailers under 7,000 pounds. Its lightweight design makes it a great option for those who need to tow their trailer with a 1/2 ton pickup truck . It weighs in at just 5,864 lbs UVW., meaning that it won’t be too difficult to tow it around.

It also has a great selection of amenities and features, including a large living area, full kitchen with a multi-burner stove, and a custom RV king-size bed.

This is a great travel trailer for a larger family. It can easily sleep two adults and 8 children comfortably with its double-stacked bunk beds in the rear and the convertible dinette and sofa that each turn into beds.

The Wildwood is a well-made RV that delivers comfort and convenience in a package that weighs less than 7,000 pounds UVW. It is perfect for those looking for a great travel trailer that won’t break the bank.

• 682 lb. hitch weight
• 1,828 lb. carrying capacity
• 11 cu. ft. refrigerator
• 31′-9″ in length
• 10′-4″ in height
• 8′ exterior width
• 30 Amp service
• 13.5K BTU A/C
• Fresh water: 38 gallons
• Double 48″x74″ bunk beds
• Optional exterior kitchen

What We Like About the Forest River Explore X-Lite 263BHXL

The private bedroom with a door and a custom RV king size bed is truly amazing. It is somewhat rare to see a travel trailer with an RV king size bed.

Also, the open floor plan of the X-Lite 263BHXL is perfect for the families with 6 or more members traveling together. Having an unobstructed interior space is important to keep everyone happy when they are not sitting around the campfire.

Grand Design Imagine 2600RB

The Imagine 2600RB is one of the best travel trailers under 7,000 pounds UVW. It comes with a host of features and amenities that make it an ideal RV for those looking for a lightweight and comfortable camper.

This RV trailer has a standard length just under 30 feet and a width of 8 feet. It offers a variety of options, including a power tongue jack, heated and enclosed underbelly, and heated and enclosed freshwater tank.

It also boasts a spacious interior, with one slide with the sofa and dinette, a queen-sized bed in a secluded bedroom at the front, and a sizable open kitchen.

With its lightweight design and large rear bathroom with a large window, the Grand Design Imagine is a great choice for those looking for a versatile and reliable RV trailer with the Grand Design build quality assurance.

• Hitch weight: 594 lbs.
• 5,795 lbs. UVW
• 29′-8″ in length
• 11′-2″ in height
• Fresh water: 52 gallons
• Grey water: 82 gallons
• Black water: 45 gallons
• 21′ Awning
• 60″ x 80″ Queen Bed
• L-shaped Kitchen area
• 30″ x 36″ shower
• Tri-fold Sofa (optional theater seat replacement)
• U-shaped dinette
• Exterior LP Gas quick connect
• Aluminum 3-step entry stair
• Pass-through exterior storage
• Tankless water heater
• 15K BTU A/C

What We Like About the Grand Design Imagine 2600RB

While Grand Design RVs are an impressive line in general, we are truly impressed by the capacity of the gray water tank on the 2600RB. While that might not seem like the first specification that most would gravitate towards, for those – like us – that have been RVing for many years and have boondocked for several days with no hookups, we know the gray water tank capacity is critical to staying off the grid.

Airstream Basecamp 20

We have toured the Airstream Basecamp 20 many times over the years and it is one of the most popular travel trailers that weigh less than 7,000 lbs, for good reason. Its sleek, lightweight aluminum construction and aerodynamic design allow for easy towing, and its durable construction can handle any type of terrain.

Inside, it features an open pass-through floor plan with a rear and front seating and dining areas that converts to a bed that can each sleep two, a wet bath with shower, toilet, and small sink combo, a galley kitchen area with a two-burner stove and sink with under-cabinet storage and a refrigerator on the opposite side.

With its short length, rugged design and unique shape, the Basecamp 20 is truly a travel trailer that will turn heads and spark many conversations (and tours) from your campground neighbors.

• 20′-2″ Exterior Length
• 7′-9″ Exterior Width
• 9′-1.5″ Exterior Height
• 7′-2.5″ Interior Height
• 4,300 lbs. GVWR
• 500 lb. Hitch weight
• Fresh water: 23 gallons
• Gray water: 28 gallons
• Black water: 21 gallons
• Ducted 19K BTU furnace
• Microwave optional
• 30 AMP electrical service
• Sleeps 4 people
• 200W Solar Package (300W optional)
• Standard Goodyear Tires

What We Like About the Airstream Basecamp 20

The name Airstream in the RV industry is synonymous with heritage and build quality. When you see an Airstream, of any make or model, going down the road you immediately know it’s an Airstream. The Basecamp 20 is no different.

This unique, lightweight travel trailer is compact enough to get you into any public or private campground or off the grid in the back country.

Jayco Jay Feather 27BHB

The Jayco 27BHB is a great choice for a family seeking a travel trailer under 7,000 pounds and comes with several standard features and amenities.

Its exterior is made of a lightweight aluminum frame, making it lightweight yet strong and durable. It has an aerodynamic profile that reduces wind resistance, making it easier to tow .

Inside, it has a one slide housing the sleeper sofa and dinette. In the rear are two stacked double-size bunk beds with a queen-size bed and bedroom with a door in the front.

This travel trailer boasts a red spacious bathroom with a separate exterior door.

It also includes an entertainment center with an LCD TV and an AM/FM/CD/DVD player. It’s a great choice for those looking for a spacious yet lightweight RV that can handle a variety of camping trips.

The exterior kitchen is centrally located under the awning and great for those who want to spend more time outside preparing meals.

• 6,085 lbs. UVW
• 1,515 lbs. Cargo Carrying Capacity
• 745 lb. Hitch Weight (dry)
• 33′-2″ exterior length
• 10′-1″ exterior height
• 8′-0″ exterior width
• 6′-6″ interior height
• 21′ wide awning
• Sleeps 9 people
• Convertible Dinnette
• Tankless hot water heater
• 35K BTU furnace
• 60 lb. Propane
• Fresh water: 55 gallons
• Gray water: 61 gallons
• Black water: 30.5 gallons
• Solar package – optional
• Heated tanks – optional

What We Like About the Jayco 27BHB

We have toured hundreds of travel trailers and RVs. Time-after-time we see RV manufacturers who offer exterior kitchens place them at the edge or not underneath the exterior awning – a deal breaker when you want to cook outside on an inclement weather day. The Jayco 27BHB has their outdoor kitchen placed centrally located under the long 21′ awning. This is a perfect location that won’t hamper fireside camp cooking on a rainy day.

KZ Connect C272FK

The KZ Connect C272FK travel trailer is one of the best RV trailers under UVW 7,000 pounds. The KZ Connect line of travel trailers model comes in eleven different floor plans, ranging from 28 to 37 feet in length.

It features a lightweight construction with a fully-aluminum frame, making it a great option for campers who want the durability of an all fiberglass exterior construction.

For this roundup of travel trailers, we are focusing on the Connect C272FK floor plan as it is a stand-out layout equipped with an array of features, including a solar package, solid surface countertops and a modern interior.

The C272FK has an impressive rear bedroom with door that houses a king-size 70″x80 bed with storage and centrally located TV across.

In the center of this trailer’s floor plan is a duel-entry bathroom with a corner shower, an open living and kitchen space with a beautiful entertainment center and 30″ fireplace and large pantry near the entry door.

At the opposite end of the trailer is an expansive L-shaped front kitchen and 70″ sofa and dinette.

• 6,900 lbs. UVW
• 820 lb. hitch weight (dry)
• 1,900 lbs. Cargo Carrying Capacity
• 82″ interior height
• 31′-1″ exterior length
• 11′-4″ exterior height
• Fresh water: 45 gallons
• Gray water: 64 gallons
• Black water: 32 gallons
• 30K BTU furnace
• 20′ wide awning
• 40 lb. propane
• 8 cu. ft. refrigerator

What We Like About the KZ Connect C272FK

The list of amenities and the unique and open floor plan of this travel trailer make it a stand-out amongst hundreds of travel trailer options. From the king-size bed in the rear to the huge front kitchen area, this is truly a unique travel trailer in this category.

Dutchmen Coleman Light 2515RL

We are focusing on the 2515RL within the broader range of Coleman Light travel trailers due to it’s well-planned layout and an interior full of amenities and smart design.

With only one slide out, which houses the dinette and storage, the 2525RL provides an open and highly functional interior floor plan that boasts a rear sofa under a large window, a fire place, a 7 cu. ft. refrigerator, a large window at the dinette booth area, a centrally located duel-entry bathroom and a separate queen-size bed in the front bedroom.

• 5,713 lbs. UVW
• 614 lbs. hitch weight (dry)
• 1,887 lbs. Cargo Carrying Capacity
• 29′-5″ exterior length
• 10′-11″ exterior height
• Fresh water: 60 gallons
• Gray water: 39 gallons
• Black water: 28 gallons
• Farmhouse sink
• 3 burner cooktop with oven
• Large Pantry and kitchen storage
• Sleeper sofa
• Pass through exterior storage

What We Like About the Dutchmen Coleman Light 2515RL

The smart and high functional floor plan of the 2515RL is a stand out for us. This floor plan is a lot like our previous Forest River Salem 27REIS that also boasted a large rear ‘salon’ style seating area with a fireplace and dinette surrounded by large windows. That floor plan was amazing and we still love it.

The Dutchmen Light 2515RL accomplishes all of this in a smaller footprint without sacrificing the abundance of natural light the interior of this travel trailer will receive.

Looking for an RV? Then you might like to see our other RV buying guides:

• Best Class C RVs With Bunk Beds
• Average Travel Trailer Heights
• Travel Trailers Under 2500 Pounds
• Best 35 Feet or Less Class A Motorhomes

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Camper Trailer Report

Travel Trailers and RVs

15 Best Travel Trailers Under 7,000 Pounds

By Mark on December 14, 2021

Trailers under 7,000 pounds are a sweet spot for trailers. They are heavier than lightweights, thus can offer more features and are more comfortable, but they are also not heavy duty, so the strain on your towing vehicle and gas expenditure is manageable. Here is a list of the fifteen best trailers under 7,000 pounds.

1. KZ Sportser

This trailer of the KZ manufacturer starts at 6,640 pounds and comes with numerous features. If you are tired of using a kitchenette, you are in luck, because this trailer offers a fully functioning kitchen with sink, oven, microwave, and 10 cubic foot refrigerator. One of the most interesting features of this trailer is a large baggage compartment, which is lighted. You will no longer have to fish for your items in the dark. Briefly, you will not lack comfort while living in a KZ Sportser,

2. Grand Design Imagine

Granddesignrv

Imagine floorplans start at 5,000 pounds, and offer a plethora of features. For example, they are lit by LED lights that have motion sensors. The comfort of staying in this trailer is also secured by a queen-size bed. This trailer is perfect for people who seek comfort and want to bring their pets, as there is pullout storage for water and food for your pet.

3. Coachmen Freedom Express 23.9SE

4. jayco white hawk 28rl.

This trailer is sure to meet even the strictest expectations. It weighs 6,475 pounds and it offers a tri-fold sofa, a comfortable dinette, queen bed, and everything you need for a kitchen, like a refrigerator and a microwave. The freshwater tank capacity of White Hawk 28RL is also worth looking at, as it can hold for up to 42 gallons, You are guaranteed to have a lot of freshwater during your trips.

5. Shasta Trailer

The weight of this type of trailer begins at a mere 3210 pounds, but the most elaborative floorplan weighs 6,920 pounds. It comes with a large dinette for multiple people, a sofa, a couple of bunks and a bed mattress.

This Shasta RV ensures that you will have enough space even if you plan to live with a large group of people.

Multiple wardrobes and overhead cabinets ensure that you will have enough space for all of your items. Finally, a modern microwave and a fridge are great complementary pieces for this trailer.

In conclusion, trailers under 7,000 pounds are the best of both worlds. They offer way more space and features than lightweights, but they also come without the disadvantages of heavyweight trailers, such as strain on a towing car. This list of trailers featured some of the best RVs on the market right now.

Video Overview: NEW RV!! Shasta 21CK NO SLIDE!!

6. Cruiser Embrace EL260

If you’re looking for a lightweight travel trailer that’s easy to tow, the Cruiser Embrace EL260 is a great option. This trailer’s Dry Weight (lbs.) is 5904, making it easy to tow even with a small vehicle. It’s also outfitted with all the features you need for a comfortable camping trip, including a full kitchen and bathroom and ample sleeping and living space.

Full kitchen

Full bathroom

Lightweight for easy towing

Not many features

7. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 287BHS

The Jayco Jay Flight SLX is another great option for camping in comfort. It’s lightweight, with a Dry Weight of 6171 lbs. making it easy to tow with most vehicles, and has the space you need for a comfortable trip. This trailer also includes all of the features you’ll need on the road.

Lightweight

Easy towing

8. Keystone Hideout 27RLS

The Keystone Hideout is a great option for those who want a spacious and comfortable trailer. This trailer has a large interior, perfect for families or groups of friends. It’s also lightweight, making it easy to tow with most vehicles. It’s Gross Vehicle Weight6797 lbs. which is why it is lightweight.

Video Overview: 2021 Keystone Hideout 27RLS | Travel Trailer – RV Review: Camping World

9. Heartland Mallard M26

Another roomy and comfortable trailer option is the Heartland Mallard Travel Trailer. This trailer has one of the largest floor plans on our list, with over 26 ft. of living space. It also includes all of the features you may need on your camping trip, including a kitchen and bathroom, as well as a queen-sized bed. Its Dry Weight (lbs. /kg) is 6416 / 2910.3.

Large floor plan

Queen sized bed

10. Airstream Globetrotter 23FB

The Airstream Globetrotter is another top choice for those looking for a lightweight travel trailer. This trailer has one of the lightest Dry Weights at 5297 lbs. It also has an exterior kitchen, which will come in handy while you’re camping. The Globetrotter 23FB includes all of the features you’ll need for a comfortable trip, including a full bathroom and kitchen.

Exterior kitchen

11. Dutchmen Coleman Light 2455BR

The Dutchmen Coleman Light is a great option for a lightweight and affordable trailer. This trailer has a Dry Weight of only 5708 lbs., making it easy to tow with most vehicles. It also includes all of the features you need for a comfortable camping trip, including a full kitchen and bathroom.

Full kitchen and bathroom

Affordable price

12. East to West Alta 2100MBH

The East to West Alta 2100MBH is a great option for a lightweight and affordable travel trailer. This trailer has one of the lightest Dry Weights at 5378 lbs. Part of that weight comes from the fact that it only has one slide-out and its aluminum construction (which makes it lighter than its steel counterparts). The Alta 2100MBH includes all of the features you need for a comfortable camping trip, including a full kitchen and bathroom.

Single slide-out

Video Overview: 2021 East to West Alta 2100MBH Travel Trailer

13. Dutchmen Kodiak Ultimate 3021RBDS

The Dutchmen Kodiak Ultimate is another great lightweight option. This trailer has a Dry Weight of 5340 lbs, making it easy to tow with most vehicles. It has the space you need for your trip, including two slide-outs (one in the living room and one in the bedroom), as well as all of the features you’ll need. This trailer is perfect for those who want to take their families or pets camping with them in comfort.

Spacious floor plan

14. Lance 2295

The Lance 2295 is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and affordable travel trailer. This trailer has one of the lightest Dry Weights at 4640 lbs, making it easy to tow with most vehicles. It also includes all of the features you’ll need on your trip, including two slide-outs (one in the living room and one in the bedroom), as well as a full kitchen and bathroom.

15. Rockwood Geo Pro 19TH

The Rockwood Geo Pro 19TH is another lightweight option, with a Dry Weight of only 3407 lbs. That lower weight makes it easier to tow with most vehicles. It also includes many features that make your trip more enjoyable, like an exterior kitchen and bathroom, as well as its rear ladder. The Geo Pro 19TH has all you need to make your next camping trip a success.

Rear ladder

Exterior kitchen and bathroom

So there you have it, our top ten best travel trailers under 7000 lbs. We hope that this list will help you find the perfect trailer for your next camping trip. Remember to consider your needs and preferences before making your purchase, as it is important to find the trailer that is perfect for you. Happy camping!

> You may also like: 25 Best National Parks in the USA  <<

Related Questions:

What are the best quality travel trailers.

There are many travel trailers that offer the best quality to customers but the list of some best travel trailers are given below:

• Complete Travel Trailer by Livin Lite
• Lance lance
• Micro-Lite (Flagstaff) Travel Trailer by Forest River
• Flight SLX trailer By Jayco Jay
• Aspen Trail Trailer by Dutchmen etc.

What trailers are the lightest in the market? A lightweight travel trailer allows you to travel with no hassle and full comfort. We have already mentioned some best lightweight travel Trailer available in the market.

What travel trailers are for four seasons?

Here are the top 5 travel trailers under 7000 lbs. for 4 seasons. Let’s check it out them:

1. Complete Travel Trailer by Livin Lite:

It is designed and manufactured by living lite and this travel trailer is suitable for all seasons and has enough space for sleeping for 6 persons. It is lightweight under 7000lb but well equipped and enough spacious. It offers windows(dual pan) and an insulated structure that protects you from the chilling cold season. its build quality is great with a very elegant design. It is the perfect choice for you is you want a comfortable travel trailer with robust construction under 7000lb then it is the right choice for you.

Unique features:

• Ten varieties of floorplan
• Windows(dual plane) with nightshade
• Furnace(LP)
• Super 6 sided aluminum structure
• 3 different interior color options are available

Video Overview: 2018 Camp Lite 16tbs Livin Lite Aluminum Travel Trailer RV LIGHTWEIGHT

2. Lance Travel Trailer:

It is a versatile trailer with tons of features. It provides users maximum comfort which makes it a perfect travel trailer for camping all over the year. similar to the previous one, it also offers windows with dual pane and insulated structures. It offers plenty of unique features like TV mounting, gas connection, awning, and kitchen e that makes it, etc. These features make it special.

• lightweight(under 7000 lb.) but spacious
• Tinted Windows( thermopane)
• Completely insulated(block foam)
• Stylish cabinet hardware
• Plywood cabinets

Video Overview: Lance Travel Trailers | Honest Owner Review

> You may also like: Worst 5th Wheel Brands to Avoid <<

3. Micro-Lite (Flagstaff) Travel Trailer by Forest River:

It is a lightweight all-season luxury travel trailer that comes with a few different floorplans, thermopane windows, and sidewall insulation, certification by CSA, etc. If you want to upgrade it then plenty of upgrades are available.

• 17 varieties of floorplans
• Furnace(ducted)
• Switch station
• Wi booster and ranger.
• Sidewalls (laminated)
• Tinted windows

Other notable mentions:

• Aspen Trail Trailer by Dutchmen

Video Overview: 2021 Flagstaff Micro Lite 21DS travel trailer by Forest River

How much do small travel trailers weigh?

The small trailers weigh from 4000lb to 7500 lb. However, the weight of the trailer can increase due to the extra load or stuff on the trailer.

How much does a 20-foot travel trailer weigh?

A 20-foot trailer can weigh from 6000 lb. to 8000 lb. It depends upon the type and features available in the trailer. More the features in the RV, the more will the weights.

Bottom line:

In the brief, lightweight travel trailers for 4 seasons are very popular among RV lovers. It allows you to travel with full comfort and luxury. It is more affordable and easy to handle in comparison to regular 5th wheel RV trailers. If you want to purchase an RV then it is very important for you to close an RV that suits your needs and choice.

> You may also like: 45 RV Accessory Must-Haves for Your Travel Trailer <<

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Best Travel Trailers Under 10000 Lbs

Published Date: December 30, 2020

Last Updated on March 23, 2023 by Camper Front

While going for big travel trailers might seem amazing as you get all the space and basic amenities you desire, they may be hard on your tow vehicle and may even be a road hazard depending on the type of vehicle you have, and they are super expensive to repair or maintain.

Going for campers under 10000 lbs is also a good option if you don’t require a lot of storage space.

That is why it is usually advisable to go for the best travel trailers under 10000 lbs. This type of travel trailer has lots of room and is also easy to tow.

And because the camper trailers are lightweight, towing them has little impact on your gas mileage, making them more affordable than larger travel trailers.

So, here are the best travel trailers under 10,000 lbs. you can get today.

Table of Contents

1. Riverside Retro Travel Trailer

If you are into retro looks then you will love this riverside RV camper as no other travel trailer can sport that retro look as well as the Riverside Retro Travel Trailer can.

It also offers the latest and greatest features that modern-day RVs have to offer. It has 18 floorplans that cover a wide variety of weights and sizes

The travel trailer version of the Retro features a 16,000/20,000 BTU furnace, radius windows and doors,pass-thru storage, and lots of different interior designs buyers can choose from.

There are optional features, packages, and standalone expansions available that you can choose from to take the look of your camper up a notch.

These optional features include an exterior grill, birch interior, flip-up sofa instead of the rear bed, power awning, outside speakers, and lots more! It is an affordable travel trailer that is under 10,000 pounds.

Key Features:

• 18 different floor plans
• Aluminum cage construction
• Spacious cabinetry with hardwood cabinet doors
• Powder-coated chassis
• Radius windows and doors
• 5/8-inch one-piece floor decking

2. Dutchmen Aspen Trail Travel Trailer

The Dutchmen Aspen Trail travel trailer has a spacious layout and 36 different floorplans that encompass major weight ranges and sleeping capacities which makes it easy to find the right camper for you.

The different available floor plans can make it difficult to make a choice so we are reviewing the  Aspen Trail 1700BH . The Dutchmen Aspen Trail 1700PHWhich is also one of the best camper trailers when it comes to affordability.

To start off, you must know that the 1700BH shares the same aerodynamic profile as the other floorplans.

It features bunk beds as well as a queen bed that can hold a total of 5 people in a 21.5-foot footprint, which provides you with a decently spacious room for more improvement with its numerous options available.

It features a shower/tub combo in the bathroom which helps to save space while also providing you with both of the features. It also has a 6-cubic foot size refrigerator, which is something that most travel trailer around 20 feet in length lacks.

• 36 different floor plans
• Radius overhead cabinets
• Seamless one-piece walk-on roof
• Hardwood cabinet doors
• Tinted safety glass windows
• High-output furnace with auto ignition

You might also be interested in : Best Campers For F150  

3. Starcraft Satellite 18MK

Although this travel trailer is small in size, it is equipped with every feature you need to be able to enjoy your camping trip.

This trailer sleeps three, it includes a convertible dinette, a bath, and a kitchen area with plenty of counter space , which are the basic things anyone would need in an RV.

The bath area includes a toilet, a stand-up shower, and every other essential needed to attend to your cleaning needs.

This travel trailer also has a well-equipped kitchenette that includes a 2-burner stovetop, microwave, and sink.

It has a lot of functional storage space , and you can use the dining space as a hangout zone; you can also convert the dining area into an additional sleeping area for extra sleeping capacity . Additional sleeping spaces can always be found with a bit of rearrangement.

This RV has an outdoor shower which comes in handy should in case you want to grab a quick shower after swimming on the beach or clean the RV itself.

The exterior is made out of durable materials that make it well suited for extreme circumstances; its outside walls are laminated and made with flooring insulation and foam insulation, which helps to keep you warm during cold nights .

During warm days, there is a 13,500 BTU A/C, which generates adequate cold air for the trailer.

It is also equipped with an electronic roof-mounted antenna, a cable and stereo, and satellite prep, which helps to provide you with all your needed entertainment. You will definitely enjoy your camping trip with a Starcraft.

Key Features

• Outdoor shower
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 3
• 13,500 BTU A/C
• GVWR: 3,790-3,950 lbs
• Length: 20’2”-22’3”

4. Forest River R-Pod Hood River 179

All of its floorplans are under 5,000 pounds GVWR , and you also get nine different layouts that span from 18 to 20 feet in length, providing enough room for four people.

This is an open floor plan RV that includes a sleeping area, a sitting area, a kitchen, as well as a dinette. Like many other travel trailers, you can convert the dining area in the Hood River into a sleeping area if needed for extra travelers or visitors.

The kitchenette includes a stovetop with two burners, a sink, a refrigerator, and a microwave.

The sleeping area includes a queen bed that sleeps two. However, this trailer has an uncommon type of bathroom .

It is a complete wet bathroom, which means everything within this restroom is able to get wet due to the shower being close to everything in a bid to save space.

• 13,000 BTU air conditioner
• Nine-floor plan
• Length:18-20
• Weight: 2342-2836 lbs
• Tinted safety windows
• LP, CO, and smoke detectors

You might also be interested in: 6 Best Ultra-Light Travel Trailers With Outdoor Kitchens   

5. The American Dream Trailer

If you are not into hardcore off-roading trailers, but still want an interesting camper, then the American Dream Trailer is the right option for you. It has a retro design that is stylish and widely popular.

This trailer has a simple design and was inspired by a vintage 1961 model. But do not let its simplicity fool you, this camper comes armed with some very fun features.

This is a very stylish camper that performs a whole lot more than is anticipated from it.

The roof of the trailer has a hull-like shape and is also a removable boat making it a perfect choice for those who love camping near a body of water.

The rooftop boat can be removed and is attached with five latches, and in case you are worried about exposing your camper’s interior when you take the boat off. Well, there’s actually a separate roof underneath the boat, that keeps your trailer enclosed when the boat is removed.

The roof boat can carry up to three people or 500 lbs of weight and It also has a motor mount that can handle a motor of 2 hp.

This trailer comes with oars for rowing your boat, curtains, oarlocks, a checkerboard floor, and a tailgate for food storage and preparation.

With the boat roof attached, the trailer may seem a bit bigger than it actually is. This camper is small, lightweight, and compact.

Optional features for the trailer include an interior table and two-tone color schemes, which take about 6-8 weeks to be delivered when ordered.

Aside from the detachable boat on the roof of the trailer, the American Dream Trailer also has a rear-mounted cooking, custom full-mattress, storage galley, and pop-out windows that help to ensure adequate ventilation inside your camper.

• Trailer Weight: Base: 1890 lbs.
• Ground Clearance: 16”
• Chassis Length: 13.8’
• Chassis Width: 7.5’
• Trailer Height: 6’

6. BCT Moab Gobi Trailer

The Gobi trailer is a small travel trailer that is equipped with essential features some of which you won’t find in any trailer.

The BCT Moab Gobi Trailer is very affordable and it is loaded with interior sleeping and storage arrangements which are quite spacious and luxurious.

It has a comfortable sleeping area, with a series of internal wood storage cabinets and even an exterior kitchen.

The kitchenette includes a functional sink and a dual burner camp stove which allows you to cook meals and also clean them up right after without any hassle.

The trailer features off-road tires for any off-the-grid adventures. The Moab Gobi also has its own electric brake system for safety and you can also upgrade it.

• 7-inch foam mattress that fits two people
• 2-burner cooktop
• 20-pound propane tank
• 24-gallon (91 liters) freshwater tank
• Tankless propane water heater

7. Airstream Flying Cloud

Airstream is known for its amazing campers and this is no exception. The Airstream flying cloud features a twin-bed floor plan, which isn’t bunk beds.

It has Panoramic windows that cover the front and side of the nearly 28-foot trailer, making it easy to get great views while lounging on the L-shaped Ultraleather couch, which can also be converted into another bed.

It also features a stylish kitchenette that has a 7-cubic-foot fridge, a convertible dinette , a three-burner cooktop, counter space, a convection microwave, and a stainless-steel sink with a cutting-board cover.

It has a split bathroom that places the toilet and sinks on the curbside and the shower across the hall.

Although this Airstream model has no slideouts, it has plenty of functional storage tucked into all the nooks and crannies including cabinets under the dining booth, a magazine rack, and coat and key hooks.

Key features

• Exterior Length: 23 ft.
• Exterior Width: 8 ft.
• Maximum Trailer Capacity (GVWR) (lbs.): 1,239
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6
• L-shaped spacious seating

8. Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro Travel Trailer

If you are looking for a travel trailer that is lightweight as well as affordable then the Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro Travel Trailer is a great option.

This trailer usually weighs less than 3,000 pounds and offers seven different floor layouts.

Although this camper is known to be a small trailer, it makes use of its space inside to the fullest. It includes many features that make the Flagstaff E-Pro a great buy.

Some of these features include a Wi-Fi ranger, tinted bonded frameless windows, a 20,000 BTU furnace, a laminated vacuum roof and walls, roof and ground solar prewire, and 7 unique floorplans.

This trailer also includes external speakers and a manual awning that can be upgraded to a power awning . A power awning is great for tailgating or just enjoying an evening by the fire. For your off-grid adventures, this forest river trailer features a solar prep and a tongue-mount bike rack that is optional.

It has a different range of floor plans, and it is also lightweight yet affordable quality, It is not too big, not too small, and perfect for all your weekend getaway dreams. The Forest River Flagstaff travel trailer has sleeping spaces for 2-4 people which is the perfect size for a couple or a cozy little family.

• Hitch Weight: 1621 lb. – 2641 lb.
• Exterior Length : 11′ 3″- 20′ 2″
• 20,000 BTU furnace
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
• Laminated Vacuum Roof

You might also be interested in:   Best Cars For Towing 1500kg Caravan  

Conclusion – Best Campers Under 10000 Lbs

Well, there are lots of best travel trailers under 10,000 lbs in the RV industry. Sometimes the search can be overwhelming, so this article has helped to narrow down the choices to a couple of the best.

Remember that your budget, the dry weight of the trailer, and the towing capacity of your tow vehicle all play a leading role in the purchase of any camper , so determine your preference and make the best-suited choice.

12 Popular Travel Trailers Under 3000 lbs (Ultra-Lightweight)

Travel trailers come in a variety of sizes and weights, ranging from tiny teardrop campers that are less than 1,000 pounds to full-time luxury campers tipping the scales at almost 10,000 pounds.

However, one of the most sought-after RV categories is travel trailers that weigh less than 3,000 pounds , as these trailers are typically self-contained campers with all the standard RV amenities while maintaining a weight light enough to be towed by a variety of vehicles, including small trucks and SUVs .

These compact and nimble trailers, however, can often be difficult to find, as there are hundreds of different campers on the market at any given time.

So to help you find the perfect lightweight travel trailer, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular models under 3,000 pounds.

Popular Travel Trailer Models Under 3,000 Pounds (Lightest to Heaviest)

1. scamp 16 deluxe trailer, quick specs.

• Starting Price : $17,000
• Dry Weight : 2,200 – 2,600 Pounds
• Length : 16 Feet
• Sleeping Capacity : 3 – 4
• Bathroom : 3-Piece Wet Bath
• Slide-Outs : N/A

While Scamp’s 13-foot trailer often gets most of the attention, the Scamp 16-foot trailer is also a great option for those looking for a lightweight camper under 3,000 pounds.

Available in two different versions, including the standard and the deluxe featured here, the Scamp 16 is a lightweight fiberglass camper with a dry weight that ranges from 2,200 pounds to 2,600 pounds, depending on its floor plan and options.

Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer Layout C

The Scamp 16 Deluxe is available in 4 different layouts and like all Scamp trailers is completely customizable, as each Scamp is custom-built for the end user.

Scamp uses a direct-to-consumer approach with no RV dealer middleman. Allowing you to get the perfect lightweight camper designed specifically for you and your family.

The downside of this approach though is often a long drawn-out buying process, as the waitlist for one of these trailers is often 6 months or more.

To learn more about the Scamp 16 Deluxe and to see all its floorplan options, check out Scamp’s website here .

2. Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD

• Average Price : $16,000
• Dry Weight : 2,240 Pounds
• Length : 18 Feet
• Sleeping Capacity : 4
• Bathroom : 2-Piece Wet Bath

The Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD is not only an ultra-lightweight travel trailer under 3,000 pounds, but it’s also one of the cheapest self-contained campers you can buy.

As this sub $20,000 camper has an average price of just $16,000, yet still offers all the standard RV amenities, including a four-person sleeping capacity, a full-featured kitchen, and a small wet bath.

This compact travel trailer measures 18 feet in length and has a dry weight of just over 2,200 pounds, making it easy to tow with most SUVs and even some crossovers.

Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD Floorplan

Despite its small size, however, the Bushwhacker Plus 17FD still manages to pack in a surprising amount of features and amenities.

The interior features a queen-sized bed at the rear, with a convertible dinette at the front that can sleep an additional two people.

The kitchen comes equipped with a two-burner stovetop, a microwave, a refrigerator, and a sink, providing all the essentials for preparing meals on the go.

The wet bath, although compact, includes a toilet and shower, and gets the job done, especially for short weekend outings.

As mentioned above though, one of the best things about the Bushwhacker Plus 17FD is its affordability.

With an average price of just $16,000, this ultra-lightweight travel trailer is an excellent option for those looking to enjoy the RV lifestyle without breaking the bank.

To learn more about the Braxton Creek Bushwhacker Plus 17FD, check out Braxton Creek’s website here .

3. KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB

• Dry Weight : 2,350 Pounds
• Length : 16 Feet 9 Inches
• Sleeping Capacity : 3
• Bathroom : 2-Piece Dry Bath

Another popular affordable lightweight camper is the KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB, which has an average price of just $16,000 and a dry weight of only 2,350 pounds.

This compact trailer measures just 16 feet 9 inches in length, making it easy to tow.

Despite its small size, however, the Sportsmen Classic 130RB offers a comfortable and functional living space for up to three people.

Offering a convertible dinette that can be transformed into a sleeping area for two, as well as a separate sofa, that can sleep one more.

The camper also comes equipped with a well-appointed kitchen, which includes a sink, a two-burner stovetop, a microwave, and a refrigerator.

KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB Floorplan

One of the stand-out features of this ultra-lightweight camper from KZ RV though is its bathroom, as it’s one of the smallest campers you can buy with a dry bath.

To see other compact travel trailers with a dry bath, check out our blog post “ 10 Smallest Travel Trailers with a Dry Bath “.

While this ultra-lightweight travel trailer doesn’t have any slide-outs, its well-designed layout maximizes the available space, ensuring that you have room to move around comfortably.

The Sportsmen Classic 130RB also comes with a variety of standard features, such as a power awning, outdoor speakers, and LED lighting, enhancing your overall camping experience.

With its affordable price tag, lightweight design, and essential amenities, the KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB is an excellent choice for couples or small families looking for a budget-friendly compact camper.

To learn more about the KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB and take a 360-degree virtual tour, visit KZ RV’s website here .

4. Forest River R-Pod RP-171

• Average Price : $22,000
• Dry Weight : 2,449 Pounds
• Length : 19 Feet

The Forest River R-Pod RP-171, now known as the R-Pod RP-171C Classic, has been one of the most popular lightweight campers for more than a decade.

First released in 2008, the R-Pod RP-171 was an instant crowd favorite, thanks to its aerodynamic teardrop shape, family-friendly floorplan, and full-featured interior.

Fast forward to today, and Forest River has reintroduced the RP-171 as the RP-171C Classic, bringing back many of the original features and design elements that made this model so beloved.

With a dry weight of just 2,449 pounds and a total length of 19 feet (including the tongue), this ultra-lightweight travel trailer went on a diet, shaving more than 400 pounds in its redesign.

Forest River R-Pod RP-171 Floorplan

Inside, the RP-171C Classic boasts a warm and inviting interior with weathered wood-look walls, a reclaimed wood-style table, and slate cabinetry with stylish gold fixtures.

The dinette area comfortably seats four and can be converted into an additional sleeping space when needed, which when combined with the rear queen bed brings the total sleeping capacity of the trailer to four.

The wet bath, although compact, includes a toilet, sink, and shower, providing all the necessary amenities for a comfortable camping trip.

Plus, the trailer also offers a full-featured kitchenette complete with butcher block countertops, a propane cooktop, a convection microwave oven, a small round sink, a mini-fridge, and plenty of cabinet space.

Other notable features include a high-efficiency roof-mounted air conditioner, a 20-pound propane tank, and generously sized holding tanks (30 gallons each for fresh, gray, and black water).

The RP-171C Classic also comes equipped with Azdel sidewall construction and a one-piece fiberglass roof, ensuring excellent weather protection and longevity.

With its perfect blend of classic styling, modern amenities, and ultra-lightweight design, the RP-171C Classic is an excellent choice for couples or small families looking for a versatile and easy-to-tow travel trailer that offers all the comforts of home in a compact package.

To learn more about the Forest River R-Pod RP-171 and to take a 3D tour, visit Forest River’s website here .

5. Casita Spirit Deluxe

• Starting Price : $26,996
• Dry Weight : 2,480 Pounds
• Length : 17 Feet

The Casita Spirit Deluxe is similar to the Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer from above , as they’re both lightweight molded fiberglass travel trailers.

However, the Casita Spirit Deluxe offers a slightly larger floor plan at a slightly higher cost.

With a starting price of $26,996, the Casita Spirit Deluxe is a 17-foot travel trailer that weighs just 2,480 pounds (dry weight).

This ultra-lightweight trailer can comfortably sleep up to three people, making it an ideal choice for couples or small families.

Casita Spirit Deluxe Floorplan

One of the best features of the Casita Spirit Deluxe is its 3-piece wet bath, which includes a toilet, shower, and a small bathroom sink.

The interior of the Casita Spirit Deluxe features a well-designed layout that maximizes the available space.

The trailer also includes a compact yet fully functional kitchenette with a large stainless steel sink, a two-burner cooktop with a glass cover for extra counter space, and a good-sized mini fridge. Allowing you to cook just about any meal you could want from the road and while traveling.

The Spirit Deluxe is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, lightweight travel trailer with class-leading durability and features.

For more information on the Casita Spirit Deluxe and to take a virtual tour, check out Casita’s website here .

6. Airstream Basecamp 16

• Average Price : $50,000
• Dry Weight : 2,650 Pounds
• Length : 16 Feet 2 Inches
• Sleeping Capacity : 2

The Airstream Basecamp 16 stands out as a best-in-class lightweight camper, notwithstanding its high price tag, as its average cost of $50,000 makes it the most expensive camper on this list.

Surprisingly though, despite its eye-popping price, the Basecamp 16 is actually the cheapest airstream you can buy .

But what makes the Airstream Basecamp 16 so expensive?

Well, it turns out quite a few things, because as the old saying goes “You get what you pay for”.

Weighing a mere 2,650 pounds unloaded and stretching just 16 feet 2 inches long, the Basecamp 16 is a breeze to tow behind most small tow vehicles.

Don’t let its compact size fool you, though, as this trailer packs a punch when it comes to versatility and functionality.

Airstream Basecamp 16 Floorplan

Designed for adventurers who like to camp off-grid in the backcountry , at the heart of this Airstream Basecamp lies its ingeniously designed rear area, a chameleon-like space that effortlessly transforms from a cozy dinette to a lounge area or a comfortable sleeping space for two.

The kitchen, though compact, is also remarkably well-equipped, boasting a two-burner cooktop, a sink, a microwave, a 3 cubic-foot refrigerator with a small freezer, and panoramic windows.

And when it’s time to clean up, the wet bath, complete with a toilet and shower, ensures that you have all the creature comforts you need, even in the middle of nowhere.

Plus, as you might expect from a camper designed for boondocking, the Basecamp 16 is also loaded with off-grid and off-road features, that make extended stays in the backcountry not only possible but enjoyable as well.

One of the best features of the Basecamp 16 though is its rear door, which makes loading and unloading gear like kayaks, bicycles, or skis a breeze.

Wrapped in Airstream’s iconic riveted aluminum exterior, the Basecamp 16 is not just a pretty face, as it’s a rugged, weather-resistant warrior ready to tackle any adventure.

And if you opt for the X-Package, you’ll get even more off-road capability with a 3-inch lift kit and all-terrain tires.

Yes, the Airstream Basecamp 16 may come with a higher price tag, but it’s a small price to pay for the unparalleled quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that Airstream is renowned for.

To learn more about the Airstream Basecamp 16, check out Airstream’s website here .

7. Riverside RV Retro 135

• Average Price : $17,000
• Dry Weight : 2,680 Pounds
• Length : 15 Feet 9 Inches

One of the most unique lightweight travel trailers on this list is the Riverside RV Retro 135, thanks to its one-of-a-kind retro styling.

As Riverside RV went to great effort to craft and style this tiny camper to look like a vintage trailer that you might have seen going down the road in the 1950s.

From its colorful two-tone aluminum siding on the exterior to its retro interior designed to look like a 1950s diner.

There’s more to this compact camper though than just retro styling, as the Retro 135 packs a surprising amount of functionality into its small 16-foot frame.

With a dry weight of just 2,680 pounds, this ultra-lightweight trailer can be easily towed by a wide range of vehicles.

Riverside RV Retro 135 Floorplan

Inside, the Retro 135 features a unique layout with a jackknife sofa on one side and a small kitchen on the other.

While the trailer doesn’t have a traditional dinette (unless you opt for the optional two-person booth), the sofa provides a comfortable seating area that can also be converted into additional sleeping space.

The kitchen, though compact, includes a 6 cubic foot gas/electric two-way absorption fridge, a two-burner cooktop, and a small sink.

At the front of the trailer, you’ll find a full-size bed that accommodates a camp queen mattress and offers headboard storage as well as power outlets/USB ports.

Perhaps best of all though is that despite its small size, the Retro 135 manages to include a bathroom with a separate toilet and shower.

With its eye-catching retro style, practical features, and ultra-lightweight design, the Riverside RV Retro 135 is a unique and appealing option great for solo travelers, couples, or even small families looking for a fun and functional compact camper.

For more information on the Riverside RV Retro 135, check our Riverside RV here .

8. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 154BH

• Average Price : $18,000
• Dry Weight : 2,690 Pounds

While Jayco is typically known for producing large full-size travel trailers well over the 3,000-pound threshold, they do make one small lightweight travel trailer under that mark.

Part of the Jay Flight SLX lineup, the 154BH is the smallest and lightest travel trailer that Jayco makes, with an overall length of 18 feet and a dry weight of 2,690 pounds.

Despite its compact size though, the Jay Flight SLX 154BH is still loaded with comfort and convenience features.

In addition, the interior also offers a modern decor with bright and airy colors, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere.

Jayco Jay Flight SLX 154BH Floorplan

Starting at the front of the trailer, you’ll find a dinette that can be converted into a sleeping area, while the rear features double bunk beds, making it an excellent choice for small families or groups of friends.

The kitchen is well-equipped with a two-burner propane cooktop, a microwave, and a large 12-volt refrigerator.

Sharing the back wall with the bunk beds is a surprisingly spacious two-piece dry bath that features a separate toilet and oversized shower. The bathroom also features a skylight, adding extra headroom and natural light.

On the exterior, the Jay Flight SLX 154BH features a power awning with LED lighting, outside speakers, and an exterior griddle for outdoor cooking.

The trailer also includes a pass-through storage compartment, perfect for storing larger items like camping gear or outdoor equipment.

With its ultra-lightweight design, family-friendly layout, and impressive array of features, the Jay Flight SLX 154BH is an excellent option for those looking for a compact and easy-to-tow travel trailer that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or functionality.

For more info on the Jayco Jay Flight SLX 154BH and to take a 3D tour, visit Jayco’s website here .

9. Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH

• Average Price : $15,000
• Dry Weight : 2,810 Pounds
• Length : 20 Feet 11 Inches
• Sleeping Capacity : 5

There are many reasons why RVers love the Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH, the three main ones though are its affordable price, large size, and high sleeping capacity.

Starting first with its price, the Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH is not only one of the cheapest campers you can buy under 3,000 pounds but it’s one of the cheapest period. As you’d be hard-pressed to find a less expensive trailer, especially one as large as the 177BH.

Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH Floorplan

This leads to the next reason why people love this camper, which is its large size, as the 177BH is one of the largest travel trailers you can buy and still stay under 3,000 pounds .

Which allows the trailer to offer far more interior space than a typical sub-3,000 travel trailer.

And finally, the last reason why this camper is so popular with RVers is its high sleeping capacity.

As the Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH offers a five-person sleeping capacity, thanks to its bunkhouse layout , which features a front east-to-west full-size bed, a convertible dinette booth, and rear single bunk beds.

For more information on the Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH, check out Gulf Stream’s website by clicking here .

10. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB

• Average Price : $23,500
• Dry Weight : 2,846 Pounds
• Length : 15 Feet 8 Inches

The Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB is one of the most well-equipped lightweight campers on the market, plus, it’s also one of the few small campers to offer twin beds .

This compact travel trailer has a dry weight of just 2,846 pounds and a total length of 15 feet 8 inches.

Despite its small size, however, the Geo Pro G15TB packs a surprising amount of features and amenities into its well-designed interior.

Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB Floorplan

The rear living area features a convertible dinette that can be transformed into a comfortable bed for two or one king-sized bed . The dinette is also flanked by large windows with MCD blackout roller shades, providing plenty of natural light and privacy when needed.

The front kitchen, though compact, is well-equipped with a three-burner stove with a glass folding top, a single-basin stainless steel sink, and a microwave. The kitchen also features one of the largest 12-volt refrigerators you’ll find in a travel trailer under 3,000 pounds, with double doors and a separate freezer.

The Geo Pro G15TB also includes a wet bath, which provides all the necessary amenities for a comfortable camping experience. The bathroom features a combined toilet and shower, as well as a dry storage hatch and additional storage on the wall.

The technology package on the Geo Pro G15TB is what makes this loaded camper stand out from the crowd though, as it offers a 200-watt solar panel, a 1,800-watt inverter, and a 30-amp charge controller, all powered by Go Power.

Which allows you to stay off-grid for extended periods, making it ideal for boondocking and remote camping.

With its impressive features, ultra-lightweight design, and versatile layout, the Geo Pro G15TB is an excellent choice for couples or small families looking for a well-equipped and adventure-ready compact travel trailer.

To learn more about the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB and to take a 3D tour, visit Forest River’s website here .

11. Forest River Viking 17SBH

• Average Price : $16,500
• Dry Weight : 2,896 Pounds
• Length : 20 Feet 5 Inches

The Forest River Viking 17SBH is similar in many ways to the above Gulf Stream Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH , as they’re both about the same size and offer the same bunkhouse layout.

They even have similar prices, as they’re only separated on average by a few thousand dollars.

However, the Viking 17SBH does have a few unique features that set it apart, which is why it’s the top-selling single-axle bunk model floorplan in the industry , according to Forest River.

To see other in-demand Forest River floorplans, check out our blog post “ 10 of the Most Popular Forest River Travel Trailer Floor Plans “.

Forest River Viking 17SBH Floorplan

Inside, the Viking 17SBH offers a comfortable and well-designed living space. The front of the trailer features a full-size bed with ample storage above and below. The dinette, which can be converted into an additional sleeping space, sits opposite a compact kitchen.

One of the standout features of the interior though is the amount of cabinet space available. Despite its small size, the Viking 17SBH manages to include plenty of storage for clothing, food, and other essentials.

The rear of the trailer is dedicated to a set of bunk beds, perfect for kids or extra guests .

The bathroom, while compact, and lacking a bathroom sink is a dry bath, which is always preferable to a wet bath, especially on those longer camping trips.

With a gross vehicle weight rating of just 3,943 pounds and a cargo capacity of 1,047 pounds, the Viking 17SBH is a lightweight and easy-to-manage travel trailer that still offers plenty of features and comfort for families looking to get out and explore the great outdoors.

For more information on the Forest River Viking 17SBH and to take a 3D tour, check out Forest River’s website here .

12. Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH

While the Ameri-Lite Super Lite 177BH and the Viking 17SBH are very similar campers, those similarities pale in comparison, when looking at the Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH and the above Forest River Viking 17SBH .

As t he Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH is pretty much the same trailer compared to the Forest River Viking 17SBH, with the exact same weight, length, layout, and even average price .

Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH Floorplan

How is this possible though, and why would two different RV manufacturers make pretty much the exact same trailer?

Well, the answer has a lot to do with the fact that Forest River owns Coachmen RV.

Because of this, their RV lineups often have a lot of overlap, with Forest River/Coachmen making a lot of similar travel trailers just with different makes, models, and trim levels.

So what does this mean for the end customer, not a whole lot, just know that whether you’re looking at a Clipper 3K Series 17CBH or a Viking 17SBH, you’re looking at pretty much the same RV, just with a different name .

To learn more about the Coachmen Clipper 3K Series 17CBH and to take a 3D tour, visit Coachmen here .

Additional Travel Trailer Resources:

• Do Travel Trailers Have Generators? A Beginner’s Guide
• Are Travel Trailers Insulated for Winter? Find Out!
• 10 Must-See Travel Trailer Floor Plans (With Slide-Outs)

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

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16 Best Travel Trailers Under 3000 lbs with Bathrooms

When looking for the ideal travel trailer , there is nothing better than to start l ooking for a compact and lightweight camper – the lighter, the better! If it comes equipped with a bathroom, that’s the cherry on top! Once you’ve embraced the lightweight and bathroom-equipped criteria, the exciting part kicks in – choosing the ideal floor plan . For a cozy setup catering to a couple , explore choices like a queen, king, or Murphy bed . On the flip side, if you’re gearing up for a family of six, consider bunk beds – all while ensuring the trailer remains under the 3000 pounds of dry weight mark. It might seem like a tall order to find ultra-light campers under 3000 lbs with a bathroom that checks all these boxes without tipping the scales, but fear not! There are currently 16 travel trailers under 3000 lbs with bathrooms waiting for you in the market. These ultra-light campers are your ticket to an unparalleled travel experience – lightweight, efficient, and ready to hit the road.

Of all the types of RVs that can be lightweight, weighing in under 3000 lbs (or equals), we have chosen 16 ultra-light camper options, including one hybrid travel trailer under 3000 lbs (which would be a mix of the best of a pop-up camper and a travel trailer ). In the video below, there is a sneak peek of this post.

Table of Contents

16 Perfect Travel Trailers Under 3000 lbs on the Current Market

Here is the list of 16 ultra-light campers under 3000 lbs with a bathroom .

• KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB: under 17 feet and less than 2300 lbs

KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 180BH

• KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 160RBT: sleeping capacity for up to 6 and dry bath

KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 170MB

• KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 160QB: perfect for 2
• KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 181BH: bunkhouse camper, up to 6 and dry bath
• Jayco 2023 Jay Flight SLX 154BH: under 20 feet and perfect for 4 people
• Forest River R-Pod RP-153: camper under 3000 lbs with Murphy bed

Forest River 2023 R-Pod RP-171

• Forest River 2023 R-Pod RP-180: camper under 3000 lbs with slide-out
• Forest River 2023 R-Pod RP-190: camper under 3000 lbs with slide-out
• Riverside RV 2023 Retro 135: new retro camper with dry bath
• Forest River 2023 Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB: two twin beds or king-size bed
• Prime Time Avenger 16BRD: huge booth dinette and sleeping capacity for 4
• Coachmen RV Clipper Ultra-lite 17CBH: queen bed and bunk beds
• Coachmen RV Viking Ultra-lite 17CBH: queen bed and bunk beds

Travel Trailers Under 3000 lbs Specifications

We looked at a variety of camper floorplans before choosing these 16 lightweight campers for you. In our in-depth review of the current market, we only chose travel trailers with a bathroom and under 3000 lbs (or at most 3,000 pounds of dry weight).

Consider that you will have campers with a dry bath and full dry bath (including a hand basin) , as well as options with a rudimentary but convenient wet bath with only a shower and a toilet . If you are not familiar with the different   types of RV toilets our article tells you all you need to know.

Some of the options on our list of these 16 lightweight campers under 3,000 lbs have one slide-out and bunk beds. However, the majority of the campers in this review are meant for couples or a small group of weekend travelers.

Numerous of these campers also have the benefit of being short , making them simple to move around and store.

The chart below summarizes a brief detail of the weighting and size specifications . In the rest of the article, we highlight the differences between each floorplan, including walkthrough videos and 360 tours. We also review the advantages and disadvantages to help you choose between these amazing travel trailers with a bathroom under 3000 lbs (dry weight).

16 Campers Under 3,000 lbs Dry Weight

To keep the weight absolutely clear, we will refer at all times to 3000 lbs dry weight, also known as the unloaded vehicle weight (UVW). In this way, we will highlight the maximum loading capacity (or CCC, meaning cargo capacity), which, among many floorplans, is a big difference.

As we always mention, if the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle is 3000 lbs, you should not be looking for campers of exactly the maximum of your towing capacity . It is advisable to go no more than 70-80% to have some margin of safety and also do the math to find the right weight camper.

If you need a camper lighter than 3000 lbs , check out the 10 best small pop-up campers on the current market, where you will find small campers under 1500 lbs and as short as 15 feet long when folded.

We have reviewed a number of camper floorplans and have selected these 16 travel trailers under 3000 lbs for you to consider in your search . All of these lightweight campers are equipped with a bathroom , which is extremely advantageous. Some even have full bathrooms , including a hand basin. You’ll find that in this size of RV at only 3,000 lbs or less, the bathroom can be wet or dry, but can also just be a toilet and shower. With no other space available, many floorplans do not include something like a hand basin.

In addition to being lightweight , many of these campers have the advantage of being short and, therefore, easy to maneuver and store .

You’ll see floorplans perfect for couples and others suitable for larger families looking for lightweight travel trailer options with spacious bunkhouses.

KZ RV Travel Trailers Under 3000 lbs Floorplans

Let’s see these amazing 6 lightweight travel trailers floorplans by KZ RV.

Floor Plans for Couples

We have 4 KZ RV floorplans that offer lightweight campers without bunk beds , perfect for couples looking for an easy-to-tow ultra light camper under 3000 lbs with a bathroom, and even comfortable to live in or to take a leap.

The Sportsmen Classic 130RB is a light and short camper under 17 feet for 2 people, convenient for those who are looking for a small camper with a dry bath .

The Sportsmen Classic 160RBT is a hybrid between a travel trailer and a pop-up camper with a bathroom that offers end beds in the best pop-up camper style, with the advantages of the solid side walls of a travel trailer. These pop-up beds are helpful in creating a more spacious interior without increasing the weight and length of a short camper by less than 17 feet when folded. As we always mention with short campers, travel trailers under 20 feet are straightforward to maneuver and store in any garage , which is a great advantage for RV beginners.

The 160QB and 170MB floorplans are very similar, and their main difference is based on the bed. The KZRV 160QB travel trailer comes with a fixed queen bed, while the 170MB has a queen Murphy bed with a sofa . Although both travel trailers have the same length (22 feet) and overall dimensions, the 170MB has the advantage of appearing to have a more spacious interior. During the day, you have lunch or supper seated in the booth dinette and then enjoy the comfort of the sofa of the 170MB floorplan . At night, you can easily pull down the queen Murphy bed and rest.

The bathroom in the 170MB is more spacious than the 160QB. However, the best closet is in the 160QB. So, there are floorplans to suit all tastes. Choosing the right one just depends on what you are looking for.

KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB

The Sportsmen Classic 130RB is a travel trailer under 3000 lbs with a dry bath (only shower and toilet) and sleeping capacity for up to 2 people.

KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 160RBT Hybrid Travel Trailer Under 3000 Lbs

The Sportsmen Classic 160RBT is a Hybrid Travel Trailer Under 3000 lbs ., with 2 bunk ends, a dry bath, and a sleeping capacity for up to 6 people when the booth dinette is folded down, increasing the sleeping places. The 3000 lbs of this camper are well distributed in a very advantageous floorplan.

Type: Hybrid Travel Trailer

KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 160QB

Kz rv travel trailers under 3,000 lbs with bunk beds and bathroom, floor plans with a bunkhouse.

Let’s see two floorplans by KZ RV, for these ultra-light campers under 3000 lbs with a bathroom and bunk beds.

KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 181BH

Let’s see the walkthrough video of this 181B H, one of the best travel trailers under 3000 lbs on the current market.

Jayco Camper Trailer Under 3000 lbs

Jayco 2023 jay flight slx 154bh.

This Jayco 2023 Jay Flight SLX 154BH is one of our recommended options for those who are looking for one of the best travel trailers under 3000 lbs with bunk beds and a dry bathroom, on the current market.

R-Pod Travel Trailers Under 3000 lbs Dry Weight

The R-Pods travel trailers RP-171, RP-180, and RP-190 have floorplans with a queen bed , while RP-153 has a queen Murphy bed to turn down over the dinette. These 4 floorplans have dry baths .

As we mentioned before, the R-Pod RP-153 is a great option for those who are looking for travel trailers under 3000 lbs with a Murphy bed .

The RP-190 travel trailer offers a fantastic floor plan with a slide-out kitchen, still light, and a toilet separated from the shower. We recommend you watch the walkthrough video.

Differences Between R-Pod Travel Trailers Under 3000 lbs

Let’s see the differences between these 4 floorplans of campers under 3000 lbs with bathrooms.

The R-Pod RP-171 travel trailer is ideal for weekend excursions because it is small and lightweight . At slightly under 20 feet long and under 3000 lbs , it has all of the necessities for camping. A sleeping capacity for 3-4 people, a kitchen with a two-burner cooktop, a convection microwave, a refrigerator, a furnace, an air conditioner, a TV, and a wet bath.  This fantastic layout is perfect for couples or friends on a weekend trip, and for individuals who want to get out and enjoy the great outdoors while still having the comforts of home.

Forest River 2023 R-Pod RP-190

Retro Camper Trailers Under 3000 lbs

Riverside rv 2023 retro 135.

The Riverside RV Retro 135 is a good choice for those who like new retro campers with a travel trailer under 3000 lbs with a dry bath and a floorplan ideal for couples .

Geo Pro Camper Under 3000 lbs

Forest river 2023 rockwood geo pro g15tb.

One difference to note between this model and the other campers we have in this review is that the Rockwood Geo Pro G15TB has a wet bath, while most of the other campers have a dry bath. Something important to consider when looking for a new RV. However, there are a lot of pros to choosing this camper. Let’s see.

The Geo Pro G15TB floorplan is versatile with two twin beds that convert to a king bed , a bath, a TV, an awning 10 ft long, and other amazing features such as two exterior storage compartments and a griddle outside. Most tow trucks are capable of towing this travel trailer for under 3,000 lbs. If you are looking for a tiny camper, lightweight with a king bed, you should consider this travel trailer made by Forest River RV. Definitely, one of the perfect 16 travel trailers under 3000 lbs for this review.

Prime Time Camper Trailer Under 3000 lbs Dry Weight & Bath

Prime time avenger 16brd.

With a weight of slightly under 3,000 lbs, the Avenger 16RD travel trailer is ideal for towing.

As you can see in the floorplan above, there’s a queen bed in the front with a nightstand, a spacious full dry bath with a skylight shower, and a wide U-dinette in the back, increasing the sleeping capacity in 2 places if you wish. A two-burner stove, a domestic microwave, and a 10.7 cu. ft. 12V refrigerators are included in the kitchen. The Avenger 16RD offers a versatile floorplan with a sleeping capacity of up to 4 people. That’s why it is one of our best campers under 3000 lbs.

Coachmen RV Trailers Under 3000 lbs

Coachmen rv clipper ultra-lite 17cbh & viking ultra-lite 17cbh.

Coachmen RV Clipper Ultra-lite 17CBH & Viking Ultra-lite 17CBH are also selected as the best bunkhouse travel trailers under 25 feet, and in this article, we propose these Coachmen RV options are one of the best travel trailers under 3000 lbs.

Options with Bunkhouse Under 3,000 lbs

If you are specifically looking for lightweight travel trailers with bunk beds, we recommend our articles and owners’ reviews, which only include bunkhouse floorplans:

• 14 Best Bunkhouse Travel Trailers Under 3500 lbs
• 5 Bunkhouse Travel Trailers Under 3000 lbs
• 5 Best Bunkhouse Travel Trailers Under 4000 lbs

We hope you get the most out of our review and summary of the 16 best travel trailers under 3000 lbs with bathrooms . I hope you find the smallest and lightest travel trailers on the current market (but comfortable). If you are looking for more options (up to 4000 lbs.), we recommend our article about the 20 Small Travel Trailers with Dry Bath . See you in the next post!

About John Smith

For more than 30 years I worked in the exciting world of RV manufacturing. I liked knowing that I could improve the campers with customer feedback and see the improvements and upgrades on floor plans, delivering the best designs and the best quality RVs, year after year. After traveling with my family in RVs and small rented campers across the USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and even North Africa, I feel that I must share personal experiences, guidance, concerns, tips, and news. At Camper Outdoor, we share our biggest passion, weekend getaways in a camper, RV vacations, extended stays in RV parks, the quiet life of senior couples who choose to spend more time enjoying their RV, and boondocking experiences (which as in the beginning was unsuccessful, we have good tips to avoid the same thing happening to you!). Enjoy this website created just for you!

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Top 6 Travel Trailers Under 6,000 lbs for 2024!

• Last Updated: March 18, 2024
• 15 minutes read

When it comes to travel trailers a gross weight rating of 6,000-pounds or less tends to be the breaking point for what a robust mid-size SUV can safely pull at highway speeds.

This makes modest-weight travel trailers a high priority for families that don’t want to take on the additional investment of pickup truck just to tow their favorite travel trailer with them on summer vacations. 

Of course, RV manufacturers are keen on the popularity of these models and have been quick to flood the market with a staggering array of options.

This can understandably leave you scratching your head wondering what is the best travel trailer under 6,000-pounds for my family?

Two of the most popular options are the Winnebago – Hike H172BH and the Jayco – Jay Feather Micro 166FBS.

Though if you have a larger family, who needs extra sleeping and elbow room then the Palomino – Puma XLE Lite 22RBC might be the best travel trailer under 6,000-pounds to meet your needs. 

It seemed pretty clear to us that it was time to take a deeper dive into this crowded niche to help find the best travel trailers under 6,000-pounds to meet a family’s needs.

This included looking at models that are geared for niche interests like boondocking or keeping you comfortable in cool temperatures. 

Important Towing Weight Terms

starts with getting you familiarized with some key terminology to make sure that your tow vehicle can safely pull the travel trailer you fall in love with.

Being mindful of these terms can make all the difference between a safe towing experience and a potentially vacation-ruining accident on the road. 

This is the weight that the travel trailer weighs when it is completely empty.

Sometimes referred to as the curb weight, you need to be mindful that a travel trailer with a dry weight under 6,000-pounds, might be loaded with gear that will put it above the safe maximum towing capacity of your intended tow vehicle. 

Payload Capacity

Sometimes referred to as “Cargo Capacity” this is the travel trailer manufacturer’s estimated storage capacity that the frame and suspension can handle.

If you add up the weight of your cookware, clothes, and other camping equipment, it should have a total weight that is less than the rated payload capacity.

This number is then added to the dry weight to assess the final gross weight of the travel trailer before you ever connect the tongue to the hitch of your tow vehicle.

It stands for “Gross Vehicle Weight Rating” which indicates the final weight of the travel trailer when you add the dry weight to the maximum payload capacity.

When it comes to towing safety and handling the gross weight of your travel trailer is the most important figure to compare against your tow vehicle’s towing specifications. 

Hitch Or Tongue Weight

This is the amount of weight that the tongue of the travel trailer applies to the hitch and rear suspension system of your tow vehicle. 

Maximum Towing Capacity

This is you’re the maximum amount of weight that the manufacturer estimates your vehicle can safely tow.

It is factored in by the chassis, engine, transmission, and suspension system.

Pushing or exceeding this limit can leave you at risk for serious mechanical failure while towing or a dangerous trailer sway accident while driving at unsafe highway speeds. 

6 Of The Best Travel Trailers Under 6,000 Pounds

During our selection process, we kept a keen eye out for travel trailers weighing under 6,000 pounds that had a reputation for material build quality, as well as the features that families prioritized.

This included choosing models that are more geared toward certain travel styles and niche interests.

• Prime Time – Avenger 17FQS
• Winnebago – Hike H172BH
• Jayco – Jay Feather Micro 166FBS
• Keystone – Outback Ultra-Lite 210URS
• K-Z – Sportsmen Classic 190BH
• Palomino – Puma XLE Lite 22RBC

1. The Prime Time – Avenger 17FQS

• Length 21.58 ft. 
• Dry Weight of 3,014 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 841 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,855 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 355 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 31.0 gallons 
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 30.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 4 people

The Prime Time – Avenger 17FQS is a lightweight travel trailer under 6,000-pounds that is geared for a traveling couple or a small family.

With a dry weight of just 3,014-pounds and a gross vehicle weight rating of 3,855-pounds, it is comfortable within range of what most midsize SUVs with a tow package can confidently pull. 

When you factor in the 841-pound cargo capacity, and the queen-size master bed in the front, this lightweight travel trailer lets two or three people bring everything they need with them on their RV adventure. All without taxing your tow vehicle. 

The interior layout of the Prime Time – Avenger 17FQS is as thoughtful as it is convenient.

The front queen size bed and the dinette in the slide-out section both have good views of the entertainment center.

While this might not sound like a big deal on paper, it is one of those little things that is annoyingly absent in smaller travel trailers like this that tend to wedge a flatscreen TV into head-scratching places. 

2. The Winnebago – Hike H172BH

• Length 20.62 ft. 
• Dry Weight of 3,400 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 600 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,000 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 620 lbs.
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 25.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 25.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 6 people

The Winnebago – Hike H172BH tips the scales with a weight of just 4,000-pounds, which is comfortably towable by most mid-size SUVs with a towing package installed.

Translates into a 600-pound payload capacity to bring all your essential camping gear with you, while still enjoying the lightweight towing characteristics of a travel trailer under 6,000-pounds.

The somewhat unique interior layout of the Winnebago – Hike H172BH is one of the things that helps it save on weight.

The rear has a pair of spacious bunk beds, with a midship bathroom, kitchen, and water storage tanks, which does a great job of balancing the gross weight firmly over the wheels. 

In the front of the Winnebago – Hike H172BH, there is a U-shaped dinette that converts into a full-size bed. It is perfectly positioned to let everyone in the family watch TV while they eat.

When you also factor in the large bunk beds in the rear it might make this the best travel trailer under 6,000-pounds for a single parent with teenage children. 

3. The Jayco – Jay Feather Micro 166FBS

• Length 19.67 ft. 
• Dry Weight of 3,990 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,005 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,995 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 480 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 55.0 gallons 

The Jay Feather platform is one of Jayco’s most successful travel trailer lineups. The Jayco – Jay Feather Micro 166FBS is a lightweight little brother.

With a gross vehicle weight rating of just under 5,000-pounds, it is still infused with comfort features and the kind of towing statistics that most robust mid-size SUVs can confidently tow. 

If your tow vehicle is a little more challenged when it comes to the maximum towing capacity, you could travel from Point A to Point B with the large waste and fresh water storage tanks empty.

If you are staying at an RV park or a campground with access to resources and dump facilities, you can then fill up as needed while still being able to travel light. 

When you take a tour of the interior of the Jayco – Jay Feather Micro 166FBS you find a full-size bed in the front and a jackknife sofa built into the single power slide-out.

This means that the travel trailer can technically sleep up to four people, but a couple with a single child is more likely the real-world limit for this travel trailer under 6,000-pounds. 

4. The Keystone – Outback Ultra-Lite 210URS

• Length 23 ft. 
• Dry Weight of 4,670 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,830 lbs.
• GVWR of 6,500 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 485 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 60.0 gallons 
• Sleeps up to 8 people

The Keystone – Outback Ultra-Lite 210URS has a dry weight of just 4,670-pounds and an impressive payload capacity of up to 1,830-pounds.

This means that if you pack this trailer to the max and fill the tanks it can tip the scales with a gross weight of up to 6,500-pounds, which might push the limits of what all but the most robust mid-size SUVs and light-duty pickup trucks can safely tow. 

If you are mindful about how much gear you load into this travel trailer and you travel with the tanks empty, then it will cruise down the road closer to 5,000 to 5,500-pounds.

When you get to your campground or RV park, you can set up and fill the large 60-gallon fresh water storage tank without worrying about the impact on your tow vehicle’s hitch or suspension system. 

What you are treated to on the interior of the Keystone – Outback Ultra-Lite 210URS is tons of sleeping space and creature comforts that are high on a lot of family’s priority list.

This starts with an expandable king-size bed in the rear, as well as a sofa sleeper, convertible dinette booth, and a pair of flip-down bunk beds in the nose. This translates into the ability to sleep up to 8 people on pair, or 6 in the real world. 

Taking all of the sleeping space, bathroom, and compact, yet functional kitchen into account the Keystone – Outback Ultra-Lite 210URS might be the best travel trailer under 6,000-pounds for a large family that loves to travel light. 

5. The K-Z – Sportsmen Classic 190BH

• Length 23.25 ft. 
• Dry Weight of 3,260 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,740 lbs.
• GVWR of 5,000 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 360 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 20.0 gallons 
• Sleeps up to 5 people

With a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 5,000 pounds and tons of storage capacity the K-Z – Sportsmen Classic 190BH is a great travel trailer under 6,000-pounds for a small family that doesn’t want to invest in a large pickup truck.

You can rest assured that even if you jam-pack the front pass-through storage bay and the interior with up to 1,740-pounds of gear that it still won’t exceed the 5,000-pound mark. 

Though part of the tradeoff for this impressive weight rating and massive cargo storage capacity is that the K-Z – Sportsmen Classic 190BH has relatively small fresh and wastewater storage tanks. Of course, this is a non-issue if you plan to stay at RV parks and campgrounds with easy access to resources close at hand.

Though you might want to move this lightweight travel trailer down your list if you are thinking about using the “Sportsmen Classic” for something like boondocking at a remote fall hunting base camp on public land. 

On the interior of the K-Z – Sportsmen Classic 190BH you will find a queen-size bed in the front, a convertible dinette in the middle and a pair of tidy bunk beds tucked along with size a complete dry bath in the rear.

With all this in mind the K-Z – Sportsmen Classic 190BH might be one of the best travel trailers under 6,000-pounds for a family with small children, who love to stay at popular RV parks. 

6. The Palomino – Puma XLE Lite 22RBC

• Length 25.83 ft. 
• Dry Weight of 4,243 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,557 lbs.
• GVWR of 5,800 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 435 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 43.0 gallons 
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 34.5 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 34.5 gallons

The Palomino – Puma XLE Lite 22RBC tips the scales with a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 5,800-pounds.

It also has an impressive payload capacity of up to 1,557 pounds, which lets a family take all their essential gear with them, while still keeping the total weight of their travel trailer under 6,000-pounds. 

The fresh and wastewater storage tanks in the Palomino – Puma XLE Lite 22RBC offer a modest volume.

If you want to stay off the grid for a few days, you can still travel with the tanks full and stay under 6,000-pounds. This is somewhat rare in a travel trailer under 26-feet long. 

The interior of the Palomino – Puma XLE Lite 22RBC is compact, yet spacious for a travel trailer without a retractable slide-out section.

On paper, it can sleep up to 8 people though five is more realistic. Especially if you have teenagers.

Though the dual 48” X 76” bunk beds in the back give older children their own personal space and room to spread out. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can i safely tow.

The prevailing wisdom is that you should never attempt to pull more than 80% of your tow vehicle’s rated maximum towing capacity.

This will give you 20% of power in reserve for doing things like merging into highway traffic, passing slow motorists, and pulling the travel trailer up a steep incline. 

Does The Cargo Balance Affect Hitch Weight?

Most travel trailers are designed with storage areas that bias the weight toward the front. This helps keep weight on the essential tongue & hitch connection.

Though it is possible to accidentally overpack too much camping gear in the back of your travel trailer, which can leave it feeling unbalanced when you drive down the road.

If your travel trailer’s gross weight pushes near the 80% safe towing limit of your vehicle, you should be increasingly mindful of a cargo weight distribution that is biased toward the front and directly over the wheel arches. 

There are a lot of great travel trailers under 6,000-pounds that are within the reasonable towing statistics of most mid-size to full-size SUVs.

Being mindful of the difference between the unloaded dry weight and the fully-loaded GVWR is essential for making sure you are staying within your vehicle’s rated maximum towing capacity.

Once you have all the numbers in order, the best travel trailer under 6,000-pounds that meets your needs will come down to the size of your family as well as your preferred RV lifestyle. 

On the light end of the spectrum, the Prime Time – Avenger 17FQS might be the best travel trailer under 6,000-pounds for a traveling couple or a small family with an only child. Its gross weight rating of 3,855 puts it comfortably in the range of what a lot of mid-size SUVs can tow. While still having an interior that provides plenty of elbow room. 

If you are a single parent who wants to give your children their own space, but still enjoys family togetherness, then the Winnebago – Hike H172BH might be the best travel trailer under 6,000-pounds to meet your needs. It only weighs 4,000-pounds when it’s fully loaded, yet can sleep two teenagers and an adult comfortably.

If you have a robust mid-size SUV with a tow package or a full-size SUV, and you are thoughtful about your packing, then the Keystone – Outback Ultra-Lite 210URS might be the best travel trailer with a dry weight under 6,000-pounds. Just be mindful that it is possible to overpack this model up to 6,500-pounds, which might mean upping the ante on your tow vehicle.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

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

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Fifth-Wheel RVs Under 8,000 Pounds

First up, we have the Forest River Arctic Wolf 245RK4 . This unit offers a spacious layout with two slides. One is in the living area and the other is for the linen closet and wardrobe in the master bedroom at the front of the unit. The unit offers plenty of seating, a large rear kitchen, and a spacious bathroom with a shower in the corner.

At 7,928 pounds, you should be able to tow this RV with many newer full-size trucks. If you have a heavy-duty truck, you’ll have no trouble at all. The RV measures 31 feet in length so keep that in mind when towing and parking. Because it’ll sleep up to four people, this unit is perfect for a trip with some kids or grandkids, and it works well for two couples, too.

Check our inventory

2019 Jayco Eagle HTX 26RLX

If the Forest River RV shown above doesn’t do it for you, then maybe this Jayco Eagle HTX 26RLX will have the layout you’re looking for. It’s a two-slide layout with a single large slide-out in the main living area and another slide-out in the master bedroom for the linen closet, wardrobe, and dresser. At the rear of the camper are two recliners, and in the slide is a tri-fold sofa and a freestanding table. The kitchen and entertainment center are on the camp side.

The Eagle HTX 26RLX weighs 7,915 pounds and has a length of about 31 and a half feet. Like the Forest River model discussed above, this one also sleeps four people and is perfect for a small family or for inviting some friends along for a trip away from it all.

Check our inventory or explore Jayco’s entire RV lineup .

2019 Keystone Springdale 272FWRE

Next up, we have the Keystone Springdale 272FWRE . This lightweight 5th wheel is another two-slide RV with a tri-fold sofa and a dinette in the slide-out in the living area and a linen closet and wardrobe in the slide-out in the master bedroom. The kitchen is on the camp side of the unit along with the entertainment center. It’s a simple layout built for couples but can be used to sleep more people if needed.

The Springdale 272FWRE weighs 7,846 pounds and is a little over 30 feet long. It can sleep up to six people between the bed, sofa, and dinette, which drops down into a bed, so you can have the whole family or a few friends with you on your next trip.

2019 Starcraft Telluride 250RES

Another great option running along the same lines as the RVs above is the Starcraft Telluride 250RES . It features two slides like the other models but has theater seating in the main living slide-out next to a dinette. At the rear of the camper the other slide-out houses a linen closet and dresser. The kitchen is on the camp side wall and there’s a large entertainment center with a fireplace in the back corner of the RV.

This model weighs only 7,584 pounds and measures around 30 and a half feet in length. You can sleep up to five people in this unit, so it’s perfect for small families, couples, or a couple and a few friends.

2019 Keystone Cougar 27RLS

Last but certainly not least, I want to point out the Keystone Cougar 27RLS lightweight 5th wheel RV. This model features three slides opening up the floorplan even more. It offers a kitchen island in the middle of the floorplan, a tri-fold sleeper sofa at the rear of the RV, a dinette, fireplace, and TV in the off-camp slide-out, and the rest of the kitchen in a slide-out on the camp side. There’s also a small slide-out for the wardrobe in the master bedroom.

The quality of Keystone’s products is well-known and the Cougar line is a best-seller. This particular floorplan measures a little over 31 feet in length and weighs 7,887 pounds. It sleeps up to four people between the master bedroom and the rear sofa, so its another great option for couples with friends or a small family.

There are many more fantastic fifth-wheel RVs under 8,000 pounds out there. We also have a large selection of fifth-wheel RVs over that weight restriction, too. Still not sure a fifth-wheel is the RV for you? No worries. Check out other motorhomes or used travel trailers that might be more your speed. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s an option right for you and Camping World is always available to help with the selling and trading in process .

Before you take your new 5th wheel on its maiden voyage,  download or print and laminate this hitch checklist  for reference.

Any other fifth-wheels you think should be included? Leave a comment below. 

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