small travel trailers that sleep 4

12 Best Small Travel Trailers for a Family of 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why It’s Great for a Family of 4

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

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

2. Scamp 13 Standard Trailer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 174BH

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Coachmen Clipper 17CBH

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Keystone Bullet Crossfire 1900RD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. KZ RV Escape E17 Hatch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G20BHS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Winnebago Micro Minnie 2100BH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Lance 1685

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Airstream Basecamp 20X

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

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

As this compact Airstream Basecamp makes the perfect adventure trailer .

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

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

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

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

12. Airstream Bambi 19CB

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wrap-Up   

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To find the perfect match for your family.

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

Happy travels!

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

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

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13 of the Best Small Travel Trailers on the Market

Published on November 23rd, 2019 by Brian Newman

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

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

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

Here are the 13 Best Small Travel Trailers on the Market

1. jayco hummingbird.

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Casita Travel Trailers

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Scamp Trailers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Airstream Bambi

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. KZ RV Escape

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

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

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

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

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

6. Little Guy Travel Trailers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Forest River R-Pod

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

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

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

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

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

8. Homegrown Trailers- Timberline

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Oliver Travel Trailers

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

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

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

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

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

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

The buying process is as unique as the trailer itself.

10. Lance Trailer

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Happier Camper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. inTech RV Sol

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Hymer Touring GT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About the author:.

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

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Jeffsetter Travel

Travel Consultants and Travel Tips

11 Best Small Campers for a Family of Four

August 22, 2022 by August Croft

Last updated on January 3rd, 2023 at 05:37 am

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 get a small percentage of the proceeds. This supports the site and keeps Jeffsetter running. You can read more here .

Whether you’re new to RVing or simply want to check out all of your options, there are a number of things to consider when shopping for some of the best small campers for a family of four. What features do you need or expect in a compact camper, and how large is your overall budget?

In this article, we will go over everything you should know about why you may want to purchase a small camper for your family of four. We will also go over all of the things you should consider before making an RV purchase, including a number of things that are unique to small camper lifestyles. 

If you are considering a small camper for your family of four, you are in the right place. Let’s get started and talk about all of the things you should consider before jumping to our list of 11 of the best small campers for a family of four. 

Only interested in checking out our specially curated list of RVs? Check out our table of contents to jump ahead to our top 11 picks for the best small campers for a family of four! 

Why Small Campers are a Good Fit for Families of Four?

It may surprise you to hear, but small campers are ideal for a family of four for a number of reasons. While you may think that having the maximum number of square footage inside of your RV is necessary for you and your family to have a good time while camping, many people think quite the opposite. 

Floor plans and layouts on compact RVs these days are very innovative and spacious, often allowing for sleeping arrangements for families of four, if not larger groups as well . You can expect enough storage so that you don’t have to sacrifice bringing things that you might need, and there should be enough space for everyone to sleep comfortably. 

But what other reasons are there that make small campers a good fit for families of four? Here are some other considerations if you are still on the fence as to whether or not a small camper is a good fit for your family: 

• Easier on your budget . Small campers are both small in their interior square footage as well as small in price. Typically, you won’t expect to spend over $50k for a small camper, and this is one that should have all the bells and whistles included in the initial purchase price. The smaller the camper, typically the cheaper it is, and this only leaves you with more funds to enjoy your vacation with your family! 
• Easier on fuel . Alongside the initial purchase price being less expensive compared to larger RVs, you should be able to save some money in terms of your overall fuel expenses if you are choosing to tow a smaller camper. Smaller travel trailers are typically more lightweight, easier to tow, and should utilize less fuel overall, which keeps your bills down. 
• Easier to tow . Going alongside the fact that small campers will save you money on fuel overall, they will also save your tow vehicle and overall stress levels while on the road. Smaller travel trailers are much easier to tow than larger ones, and you will also likely find that it is easier to park and camp if you aren’t towing an extremely large camper behind you. Even if you are experienced when it comes to towing an RV, it’s always easier to start small! 
• Go places that large RVs can’t . Another huge plus to purchasing a smaller RV for your family of four is the fact that it should be easier to access more remote locations or areas that are difficult to navigate. While nobody would recommend towing your RV into an area that is difficult to navigate, smaller campers give you more freedom in terms of where you camp and choose to park. In addition, many national and state parks have length limits on their campsites , which may mean that a larger camper is more limited and its preservation opportunities. If you want more freedom while on the road, going with a small camper is a good idea! 
• Maintenance and upkeep are less of a hassle . All RVs need maintenance, from the awnings to the propane systems, but a smaller camper means that you have less to maintain overall. Having a 19 foot long travel trailer versus a 40 foot long travel trailer gives you significantly less square footage to maintain, whether it’s resealing the roof or redoing your flooring. Your time and overall costs will be lessened, and smaller campers tend to be less of a hassle overall. 
• Small space means more opportunity for family bonding . Choosing to purchase a small camper for your family of four should be an exciting opportunity, for a number of reasons. Not only are smaller campers easier to drive and maintain, but it also means that you and your family will likely see each other quite a bit while on your trip. The smaller space may not be something that everyone appreciates at first, but having the option to spend some quality time with your family in a cozy camper is a great reason to go small! 

What to Consider in a Small Camper for a Family of Four?

Now that you know some of the reasons why you may want a small camper in the first place, what should you consider in a small camper for your family of four? Let’s go over some of the top things to think about before making a final purchase! 

Number of Sleeping Arrangements

One of the first things that you should consider before purchasing a small camper for your family of four is the number of sleeping arrangements that you may need. Obviously, you need enough space for four people to sleep, but how might this affect your layout, and what size beds do you need so that everyone is comfortable? 

If you are traveling with two small kiddos, a simple bunk bed setup may work perfectly for you. However, if you’re traveling with older kids or other adults, you may need a few different sleeping arrangements. Plus, are you sharing a bed with your partner, and how large do you need that to be? 

There are countless numbers of small campers available on the market today, so it’s not impossible to find something that meets your expectations. However, it is important to keep in mind what those expectations are before you start shopping, as many small campers follow similar footprints to each other. It can be difficult to find something unique, but not impossible! 

Layout and Floor Plan

Speaking of similar footprints, the layout and floor plan that you choose for your small camper matter more than most other aspects of an RV. Choosing a layout that doesn’t work well for you and your family can make or break an RV experience, and that’s the last thing you’ll likely want! 

Making a list of priorities in terms of what you are expecting in a small camper is a good idea before you start shopping. Do you want a spacious kitchen so that you can cook meals for the whole family, or would you like more space in the shared bathroom? 

Are you hoping for a more private bedroom that is separate from the rest of the family, or are you comfortable sleeping in the same general area as the kiddos? Plus, do you want your living space to have anything special in it so that you can relax at the end of a long day with the family? 

No matter what you were looking for, there’s a small camper out there for you . However, it may take some searching to find something that suits all of your expectations. This is something to keep in mind as you shop, as you may not be able to find everything you are hoping for in a compact travel trailer. 

Bathroom Type

One of the most important things to consider when shopping for any type of compact RV is the type of bathroom you want. RVs typically have two different bathroom styles, known as wet baths or dry baths. Depending on which you go with, your experience is fairly different. 

For example, do you want a dedicated dry bathroom that has the feel of a more traditional bathroom, or do you feel comfortable with a wet bath on board your RV? Choosing a wet bath essentially means that you allow everything inside of your bathroom to get wet, often limiting access to all of the amenities and features within the bathroom. 

No matter what you go with, it’s fairly easy to find small travel trailers with bathrooms on board . However, you may need to adjust your expectations as to what style of bathroom you end up owning, as wet baths are more popular than dry baths, the smaller you go! 

Amenities or Luxury Features

If you are new to shopping for an RV, it’s important to note that most RV manufacturers only include a set amount of amenities that are included in the initial purchase price. This is especially true if you are looking at an RV that is billed as a standard RV, not a luxury one. 

Luxury RVs are typically higher in price, they either have more upscale furnishings or more included amenities in that initial purchase price. This is important to know if you are looking for something with a lot of bells and whistles and special features, as luxury RVs may be a better bet for you to start with. 

Whether you are shopping for a standard or luxury camper, here are some popular amenities or luxury features to consider as you shop:

• Solar capabilities
• Additional batteries
• Four season camping capabilities
• Automatic leveling or jack stand systems
• Larger refrigerators or appliances
• All-terrain tires or traction
• Tinted or frameless windows
• Wind sensing awnings
• Upgraded cabinetry, flooring, or other interior features

This only scratches the surface as to just how many features you can adjust, both inside or outside of your RV. However, keep in mind that all of these things come at a price, and it may be something that you can add after you drive the RV home. 

When it comes to amenities and luxury finishes, it’s important to consider just how often you plan on using your RV. If you consider yourself an avid camper, you may want to use your travel trailer multiple times throughout the year. However, if you know you won’t be camping all too often, how luxurious does it need to be? 

Ability to Boondock

Going hand-in-hand with amenities and luxury features is whether or not you want to have the ability to boondock in your small camper for a family of four. Boondocking, also known as dry camping, is the act of camping off-grid, disconnected from typical RV utilities including electricity, water, and sewer. 

Boondocking is extremely popular nowadays, including among adventurous families. If you’re purchasing a small camper, you may want to have the ability to go anywhere and everywhere that it can take you. This includes camping off-grid and relying on your contained RV utilities. 

However, not all small campers are equipped for boondocking, especially if you want to camp for an extended period of time. You may want to seek out an RV with off-grid living in mind, or make sure that you add on additional amenities that aren’t included in your standard purchase price. 

Some popular boondocking features and accessories may include: 

• Pre-wired for solar, and solar panels included 
• Heavy duty inverter 
• Multiple house batteries, ideally lithium ion 
• Larger holding tanks, both freshwater and gray water 
• Propane tanks, ideally at a larger capacity 
• All electric campers, eliminating the need for propane 
• All terrain tires, a raised chassis, or some combination of the two 

Again, boondocking features may not be something you are interested in if you plan on camping in locations that have utility hookups at all times. You may also find that you only want the boondock for a night or two, which should be achievable in just about any modern day camper. 

However, if you do want to go off-grid for multiple days, finding an RV that can handle that sort of thing is a good idea! 

Length and Weight of Trailer

One of the most important things to consider before purchasing a small camper for a family of four is just how much your tow vehicle can handle. The overall length and weight of your travel trailer are key to driving your RV safely and securely. 

You are already shopping for a small camper, so you likely won’t tow anything longer than 25 feet . However, even smaller RVs have drastically different weights and this is the most important thing to pay attention to before purchasing any type of towable RV. 

Knowing the weight limits that your tow vehicle can handle it’s a good idea before you start shopping. Some small campers are as lightweight as 1500 pounds, but others can be over 5,000 pounds. It’s a huge weight difference, and something you need to know before you camp in or drive an RV. 

Finally, the last consideration you should think about before purchasing anything is the amount of money that you will be able to spend on a small camper. The average cost of a small travel trailer ranges anywhere from $10k to well over $50k, depending on the luxurious amenities and overall features. 

Thankfully, small campers typically cost less than large ones, and it shouldn’t be very difficult to find something that works well for you and your family of four. However, always keep in mind that the initial purchase price of any camper will likely not be what you end up paying.

Between adding amenities and mandatory safety packages that are required by RV manufacturers, the initial or standard purchase price quoted to you is rarely what you pay walking out the door. So, keep an open mind in terms of these additional costs, especially if you find that there are some amenities that you simply can’t live without.

You should feel confident about sticking to a budget, but also creating a small camper that works perfectly for your family of four! 

Now that we have discussed all the things that you should consider in a travel trailer for your family, let’s get to our list of 11 of the best small campers for a family of four. Keep your list of must-haves in mind, and enjoy our specially curated list of choices! 

Best Overall: Lance 2185 Travel Trailer

• Compact floor plan with bunk beds 
• Contemporary and modern interior design 
• Customizable and versatile 
• Fairly high initial purchase price 

When it comes to finding a small camper for your family of four, you are likely searching for something that can last a lifetime. The Lance 2185 travel trailer is a fantastic option for those of you looking for something that has some level of resale value as well as reliability. Let’s talk about what makes this travel trailer special now. 

The 2185 model in particular works well for families of four, as it has a spacious walk around queen bed area and bunk beds so that you can sleep everyone comfortably. Plus, the exterior of the camper is 26 feet, including the tongue and jack, making it compact and easy to tow.

One of the other reasons to choose a Lance travel trailer for your family is the fact that you can customize it to make it what you want. You can add solar panels if your family plans on boondocking frequently, or you can get a tankless hot water heater so that you can have unlimited hot showers.  

Lance travel trailers are built with four season camping in mind, equipped with added insulation and Azdel walls. You likely won’t have any issues keeping the entire family warm and comfortable, no matter the season and location you are in. This bodes well in terms of the resale value and overall sturdiness of the trailer itself.

The interior design on this particular small camper is modern and luxurious, but still easy to clean and maintain. There is storage located throughout the RV, including in the doors and beneath the beds. You also have exterior storage compartments and the option to add a kayak or bike rack to your RV so that you don’t have to leave anything behind. 

So, what’s the catch when it comes to this lightweight and beautiful travel trailer? The price point is fairly high for a Lance, likely given its resale value and durability. However, if you want a small camper for your family of four, and you want it to last quite a while, this option may be one for you to seriously consider! 

Best on a Budget: Coachmen Clipper Ultra Lite

• Super lightweight and easy to drive 
• Many floor plans across many lengths 
• Customizable and budget-friendly 
• Basic interior design 

There are a number of different lengths and floor plans available for the Coachmen Clipper Ultra Lite, but there’s still a lot to love, especially when you consider its budget for the price point. Let’s talk about this small camper in more detail now. 

Boasting a compact frame that weighs an average of 3000 pounds, the Clipper is perfect for those of you looking for a lightweight trailer that is easy to drive. While there are many different floor plans available for this particular RV, the compact end of these averages anywhere from 18 to 22 feet in length. 

This means that you have a compact camper for your family of four that is easy to tow and park, and it still has space for everyone to relax comfortably. In terms of the interior living space on this RV, it seems to leave much to be desired. It is nothing special inside, but no doubt some interior design features will help you feel more at home. 

One of the great things about this particular travel trailer is the fact that you can customize it to your heart’s content. The Clipper starts off fairly basic, but you can add solar panels, an all-terrain package, outdoor kitchens, and much more . However, keep in mind that these things will not be included in the initial purchase price. 

One of the other great things about this particular small camper is that all of the floor plans that have bathrooms appear to have dry baths as opposed to wet baths. This gives you something that feels a bit more residential for you and your family, without sacrificing the necessary square footage. Plus, many of these floor plans also have bathtubs, making them ideal for those of you with young children or pets. 

Lightest Weight: Forest River No Boundaries 16.6

• Super lightweight and compact
• Multiple floor plans across multiple lengths
• Tons of storage throughout and outside
• Interior design isn’t particularly special 

While all of the floor plans found under the No Boundaries label from Forest River remain under 3500 pounds, the 16.6 floor plan is ideal for those of you with families. But why might this be? Let’s take a look at it in a bit more detail now. 

Just under 22 feet in length, the 16.6 floor plan found on the No Boundaries travel trailer line is ideal for young children, as it has a unique bunk bed floor plan. There’s also a comfortable queen size bed and a fantastic bathroom on board, all found on a compact frame. 

The kitchen has a fairly sizable residential fridge in it, and the dinette should comfortably seat the whole family of four. The bunk beds are also unique in that you can lift them up and lay them flat against the wall, giving you plenty of room to store any recreational goodies that you may want to bring with you, such as bikes or kayaks.  

If this particular floor plan isn’t what you are hoping for, there are a number of other options under the No Boundaries label. Ranging in length starting as low as 12 feet long, there’s bound to be something that works well for you and your family! This is likely doubly true when you consider the fact that the smallest models only weigh 1500 pounds.

With a few more additions and customizations, this RV is also ideal for off-grid camping and boondocking, given the fact that you can add exterior roof storage and solar panels. You also have the option for an outdoor kitchen, all-terrain tires, and much more.

I highly recommend reading our full review of the Forest River RV brand in case you are on the fence about the reliability or durability. Forest River adds a lot of special touches throughout their RVs, as they are familiar with what is expected of this style of living, but do your research before making your final purchase!

Best Starter Camper: Jayco Jay Feather Micro

• Under 5,000 lbs, making it lightweight 
• Easy to tow and drive at 20 ft long 
• Beautiful interior design and good floor plans 
• Higher price point than average 

Boasting that all of their models fall under 5,000 pounds, the Jay Feather Micro from Jayco is an ideal choice for those of you just beginning your RVing journey. These models are compact, well-built, and don’t weigh very much, which can be a big relief if you are just starting off towing. Let’s take a closer look at this RV now. 

Knowing that this RV starts at $35k may feel a bit daunting at first. However, there’s a lot to love about Jayco RVs- make sure you read our full review about this brand first and foremost. They put a lot of detail and thought into their interior design, which is something to keep in mind as you shop.

One of the best floor plans for a family of four stops at just over 20 ft in length, and it has rear bunk beds, a full dry bath with a bathtub, a spacious kitchen and dining area, and a bed for the adults located at the front of the rig. This is a fairly typical floor plan for a compact travel trailer, but it’s truly all you need to keep you and your family comfortable.

Jayco is also a fantastic brand when it comes to customizing your RV. If you plan on using this particular travel trailer frequently, you can add heated pads to your holding tanks, or solar to the rooftop so that you can extend your camping adventures. However, you can always leave it as is and have everything you need to enjoy a camping trip with your family. 

If you are looking for something to begin your camping adventures with your family, this is a great place to start. The interior design on this RV is a step up from any past listings, but this may add a bit to your initial purchase price. This is something to consider, but the Jay Feather Micro is lightweight and popular for a reason! 

Most Compact: Scamp 16’ Travel Trailer

• Unique fiberglass exterior 
• Incredibly compact and lightweight 
• Fun and refreshing interior design 
• High price point for something so small 

While it may not sound ideal camping with your family of four in a 16 foot long travel trailer, the Scamp model and manufacturer is unique, compact, and ingenious in terms of its design. Let’s take a look at the most compact travel trailer that sleeps 4 on our list now. 

Scamp is an RV manufacturer that makes fiberglass RVs. These RVs have a distinct look, as their rounded shape keeps them aerodynamic and lightweight on the road. In fact, the 16 foot long Scamp travel trailer weighs less than 5,000 pounds!

It may surprise you to hear that the 16 foot long Scamp travel trailer has a double bed for the parents and a bunk bed for the kiddos located at the other end of the rig. In between, you have your kitchen and compact wet bath. This may come as a surprise and disappointment, to hear that this model does not have a dedicated dry bathroom, but there’s still a lot to love about this particular RV. 

The interior design of the Scamp depends on which model you choose. The video above doesn’t feature the bunk bed layout but it does give you an idea of what you can expect from a Scamp trailer.

There is a deluxe edition with slightly more interior design features and thoughtful touches, alongside an increased purchase price. However, even the standard model has a lot to offer in terms of its contemporary and cozy interior, with wood panel cabinets and comfortable upholstery. 

If you find that the 16 foot long Scamp may not be right for you and your family, there is a 19 foot model as well. This option will give you a little bit more interior living space, but it will of course come at a higher cost. You may not need all of this extra space, but when it comes to making sure that your family is comfortable, this is definitely something to think about! 

Most Storage: Forest River Wolf Pup

• Multiple floor plans all under 23 ft 
• Lightweight and easy to tow 
• Easy to clean interior 
• Make sure the price suits your budget 

The Wolf Pup from Forest River is a fantastic choice for those of you hoping to camp with your family of 4 because all of the floor plans are lightweight and easy to tow. Plus, they are all under 23 feet long, making them compact. Let’s check them out in more detail now! 

Budget-friendly but still with some interior design expression, the Wolf Pup comes in nearly 10 different floor plans. All of these are ideal for a family of four, especially when you consider that there are some bunk bed options. Plus, it looks contemporary and clean inside. 

Depending on what you are looking for, the Wolf Pup is well-equipped for boondocking just based on its standard features alone. However, Forest River offers multiple packages and options for you to add on, should you want to consider something with a bit more power for off-grid camping. 

Circling back to the interior design, the Wolf Pup offers complementary cabinetry and flooring, all of which are easy to clean and maintain. This is great when it comes to traveling with the kiddos, let alone if you plan on traveling with your dogs! 

Plus, every single floor plan offers overhead cabinetry storage as well as plenty of exterior storage. This means that you should have no trouble bringing everything along with you, especially considering the fact that the exterior storage is lit by LEDs and there are even some pass-through storage options. 

Given the wide variety of floor plans and the fact that it is easy for you to drive around, the Wolf Pup is a great choice for those of you starting off on your RV journey, but aren’t quite sure that you can downsize enough. There’s a lot to love with this particular RV, but make sure the price works well for what you are getting in return. 

Most Luxurious: Airstream Caravel

• Stunning both inside and out 
• Compact and lightweight 
• Capable of off-grid camping with ease 
• High purchase price and no bunk beds 

If you aren’t particularly worried about your budget, then the Airstream Caravel may be a great choice for your family of four. Starting at $74k, this is certainly the most expensive travel trailer on our list so far, but there’s a lot to love about this RV. Let’s take a look at why this iconic Airstream made our list of the best small campers for a family of four.

Ranging in length from 16 feet to 22 feet, the Caravel is compact and sleeps four across all of its four floor plans. However, there are no bunk bed models, which means that your children will have to share a convertible dinette sleeping area. This may not be ideal for everyone, especially those of you with older kids. Keep this in mind as you shop! 

Despite not offering bunk beds, the floor plans on this particular RV are fantastic and lovely. Airstream travel trailers are typically expensive because of their interior design and thoughtful touches, bringing a sense of contemporary luxury to any camping adventure. 

You have everything you need in this RV, including a modern kitchen and bathroom. The Furnishings are comfortable and cozy, with just enough luxury to make you feel special. You won’t want for anything in an Airstream, but be prepared to pay for that initial upfront cost! 

The Caravel isn’t just a pretty face, however. It has a lot to offer in terms of its storage, off-grid capabilities, and comfortability for your family of four. While it may be compact and expensive, this is definitely a choice for those of you seeking something that stands out, as well as provide you with everything you might need! 

Best for Families with Pets: Starcraft RV Super Lite Maxx

• All floor plans under 23 ft long 
• Modern and comfortable interior design 
• Floor plans sleep up to eight people, including pets 
• High price point for a relatively unknown brand 

With 4 available floor plans all under 23 feet in length, the Super Lite Maxx from Starcraft RV is a great choice for those of you hoping to travel with pets. Not only does it have interior design and furnishings that are easy to clean and maintain, but it also has a few special touches just for fido. Let’s check it out in more detail now! 

Depending on the floor plan you choose, all options sleep up to four people, with a few other floor plans sleeping up to 8 individuals. This gives you plenty of space for the entire family, especially if you plan on traveling with your dogs or cats.

Speaking of dogs or cats, you have a few special features on board this RV, including space to attach your dog’s leash while you unload or load the RV. You also have plenty of spots to place their food or water bowls that are out of the way and easy to access. 

No matter the links, all of the floor plans for the Super Lite Maxx are under 5,000 pounds, making it easy to tow and maintain. Speaking of easy to maintain, the interior design on this RV is perfect for kids and pets, given that it is easy to clean and durable. 

This isn’t to say that the interior design is boring on this particular RV. Far from it, as it feels comfortable and modern, with black cabinetry and upholstery. Plus, you can get this rig outfitted with solar and tank heaters so that you can keep the camping season going for extra months! 

So, what’s the catch? This particular compact RV starts at $30k, which may be a bit high for some of your budgets, especially if you are seeking one of the more complicated and expensive floor plans. However, this option is great for a family of four, especially if you are looking for something compact! 

Four-Season Ready: Cruiser RV Hitch

• Plenty of room for the whole family
• All floor plans under 4,000 pounds and 23 ft 
• All terrain tires and heated holding tanks 
• Not very many customizable options 

If having the ability to Camp all year long is something of interest to you, you may need to look for some type of RVs that are 4 season ready or equipped with more insulation than others. The Hitch model from Cruiser RV is ideal for those of you seeking the ability to camp in frigid temperatures or extremely hot weather. Let’s take a look! 

Starting at $36k, the Hitch isn’t an inexpensive travel trailer, especially when you consider its size. It has four floor plans currently, all of which are capable of sleeping a family of four, and there are at least two different bunkhouse models. Plus, all of these floor plans are under 23 feet long, making them an ideal size. 

This travel trailer is made with Azdel and aluminum, making it lightweight. All models are under 4,000 poun ds, which means this RV is easy to drive and tow wherever the journey takes you. Speaking of the journey, the Hitch is designed for all terrain locations and many different off-grid areas, making this compact RV adventurous and sturdy. 

The interior design on this RV is clean, contemporary, and complete with light wood cabinets and a Dometic refrigerator. You can upgrade this to a larger model, and there’s plenty of storage on all of these floor plans. You have large pass-through exterior storage compartments so that you won’t have to feel like you need to leave anything behind. 

Not only do you have everything you need inside of this RV, but you also have solar panels on the roof. This is a standard feature for this particular RV, as the only options offered for this particular model is an exterior bike or kayak rack, which may also be something you are interested in. 

While the Hitch could be more customizable for the average RV or, there’s a lot to love about this compact camper. You can definitely sleep your family of four, and you can camp year-round with ease! 

Best for Boondocking: Coachmen Catalina Expedition

• Lift kits and all-terrain tires to get you where you need to go 
• Solar panels and system come standard 
• Comfortable interior to relax in
• May need to add more features to get everything you want 

Just over 21 feet long, The Coachmen Catalina Expedition is a fantastic travel trailer for those of you seeking something compact for boondocking. Not only are the solar capabilities of this RV outstanding, but it is also equipped to handle multiple terrains. Let’s take a closer look at it now. 

Budget-friendly and well-equipped, the Catalina Expedition is great for the small family of 4, especially those of you looking forward to boondocking and getting off the beaten path. You have a powerful solar setup and a 3-inch lift kit, all included in the standard purchase price. 

While you may need to spend some extra money purchasing additional house batteries if this is something you are looking forward to doing, the Catalina Expedition has just about everything you need to hit the road and stay off grid right away. This is likely a relief for those of you not hoping to spend a lot of time setting up your RV before camping. 

With plenty of storage and modern interior designs, you’ll feel comfortable and like you have everything with you while on the road. Given the lightweight frame of this particular RV model, it should be easy to park and tow your travel trailer wherever your journeys take you. 

With a few other adjustments, you have the option to add a kayak rack and a generator to your rig, but keep in mind that these features do not come standard. If you truly want an off-grid camper for you and your family of four, keep in mind that the initial purchase price may not be what you end up paying! 

Runner-Up: Winnebago Micro Minnie

• Plenty of floor plans, all lightweight 
• Easy to clean and maintain interior design 
• Storage is unique and no space is wasted 
• Make sure this RV is durable enough for you 

Starting at $36k, the Micro Minnie from Winnebago is a top choice among many campers, especially those seeking a compact travel trailer. While not all floor plans sleep four people, there are 10 different floor plans to choose from, making this option diverse and unique. Let’s check it out in more detail.

One of the best things about the Micro Minnie is the fact that they consider how important fresh air is for an RV. Not only does this help when storing your travel trailer, but there’s nothing like fresh air on the road, and Winnebago has made sure to add multiple windows so that you can enjoy a fresh breeze.

There are plenty of floor plans to choose from to suit your entire family, including multiple bunkhouse options and models. The interior design is fairly simplistic on this RV, but it is comfortable for the average family. Plus, you have plenty of exterior storage compartments, as no space is wasted on board this rig. 

You even have a large refrigerator and plenty of space in the bathroom so that your entire family can get ready. This is another great choice for those of you just starting your RV lifestyle, or those of you transitioning from a motorhome to a towable rig. 

Something to keep in mind is the durability of this particular RV. Lance ended up as our number one choice because of durability, but make sure that this RV suits your lifestyle and durability preferences before making your final purchase! 

Final Thoughts

Finding a camper that is spacious enough for your family of four but still compact enough so that it is easy to tow can be more difficult than you think. Thankfully, with our list of some of the best small campers, you should have a bit of an easier time finding something that works well for the four of you. 

Keep in mind that small campers are great for families of any size, especially when you consider the fact that you should be enjoying the great outdoors! So hitch up your camper, pack your bags, and enjoy camping with your family, season after season.

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Absolutely Best Small Travel Trailers For Family of 4

by Michelle Peters | Mar 15, 2023 | Camping/Glamping , Family Adventures , Travel Tips

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In our north Seattle neighborhood, I can count at least six travel trailers parked on sidewalks, in driveways and in alleys on any given day. And every.single.time, I’m jealous.

They all look cool and cute at the same time, and lead me to think, What a great way to guarantee idyllic road trips with the entire family.

(Insert laughter here for anyone who understands that “idyllic,” “road trip,” and “family” don’t often occupy the same sentence, even if a billion-dollar trailer is involved.)

If you, like me, are smitten with these tiny trailers (aka towable RVs), read on for what to consider when buying one and some suggestions for the best small travel trailers on the market today. Even a smaller camper these days might offer everything from bunk beds to solar panels, an entertainment center to USB ports. 

Each of these small trailers is a great option for small families of four, providing a space to call your own when you’re on the road or at the campground, and is small enough that it doesn’t require an enormous parking area to store it at home. Don’t worry about maxing out on square footage. These small camping trailers are creatively designed with different floor plans to provide plenty of room to spread out and enough space for your gear. 

Here’s what to consider and some of our favorites. 

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Things to Consider When Purchasing a Family Travel Trailer

Any investment of this size – even though the trailer is small, it still costs a chunk of change – is worth a few hours of research and comparison. Here’s what to look for when you’re considering which is the excellent choice for your family. 

Where You’ll Sleep 

First things first – where will you lay your head to rest in your shiny, new travel trailer? You’ll need a comfortable sleeping capacity for four people. Depending on the age of your kids, you may do well with bunk beds and a master bedroom with a queen-sized bed for parents. Some trailers offer an additional sleeping space (like a convertible dinette), which can work for small families but can be an inconvenience for a large family.

Trailer camping is still camping, yes, but with a few welcome creature comforts. Photo by Devon MacKay on Unsplash

How You’ll Live 

Due to its smaller size, the layout and floor plan matters when picking the best small RV for your family. You’ll want a layout that feels comfortable to everyone in your family so that you’re not starting out from behind when taking road trips in this new (and fun!) way. 

Just like when searching for a home or remodeling, list out your priorities. What are the extra features you can’t live without? Do you need a convertible dinette, a queen bed, a wet bath or dry bath, a larger living area, large windows? Be honest with what you absolutely must have, what you’d like to have but could live without, and what you definitely don’t need. This is the space you’re going to return to between adventures with your family, so make sure it’s a space you love. 

Type of Bathroom

While you likely won’t get a full bathroom like at home, a wet or dry bath at least keeps you from having to run to the outhouse or campground bathroom while you’re on your trip. A wet bath features a shower with a toilet and sink in the same space (meaning everything in the room gets wet). This compact design is popular with small family travel trailers (such as the Airstream Basecamp) and teardrop trailers. 

A dry bath has a shower in its own enclosure, separate from your toilet and sink. Many travel trails, as well as fifth wheels , offer this option, which is more like what you’re used to at home. Keep in mind that the wet bath is more prevalent the smaller the travel trailer. 

How idyllic is this? Photo by Blake Wisz on Unsplash

Features & Upgrades 

Just as when you’re buying a car, you’ll have many options for upgrading the standard features of a compact RV trailer. Among the many extras are:

• All-terrain tires or traction
• Solar panels
• Additional batteries
• Larger appliances 
• Tinted or frameless windows
• Air conditioning 
• Backup camera 
• Storage cabinets
• Full bathroom

Think carefully about how you will be using your travel trailer. If it’s just for camping one season a year, how many bells and whistles do you need? Or, if you’re an avid road-tripper for three or four seasons of the year, consider tacking on a few extras that will make you more comfortable (and happy) in the long run.

Weight of The Trailer 

Don’t start your shopping and comparison process for the best RV option for your family without knowing the maximum towing weight for your tow vehicle. An owner’s manual will have that number. Then you’ll need to add the weight of the small camper, the trailer hitch, and an estimate of the things you’ll be carrying inside your trailer, like water and gear (a good rule is to use 250 pounds per foot of the actual trailer, not the hitch, to determine if your setup falls within the gross vehicle weight rating). Knowing your vehicle’s limits is essential before making your final trailer choice. 

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Benefits of the Best Travel Trailers

They’re budget-friendly. .

The best small campers celebrate their diminutiveness. They have smaller interior space, but, like we mentioned above, they’re still a great option because the companies have thought outside the box in terms of fitting in the features you need. The more you pay – typically up to $50K – the more features you’ll get, but it’s really a personal choice. You’ll still have a fantastic vacation with a lightweight travel trailer on the smaller, simpler end – and save money for other vacation fun. 

They’re Convenient and Easy to Tow.

Depending on what you’re driving as a tow vehicle, pop-up campers, teardrop-shaped travel travelers and the like are easy to pull. Think about those huge RVs you see pulling into the site next to yours at the campground or the trouble folks are having trying to park much larger travel trailers. The learning curve isn’t nearly as steep if you’re learning how to tow and park a small family travel trailer. 

Hide away from it all, with nothing but the birds as your closest neighbors. Photo by Olena Sergienko on Unsplash

They’re More Flexible

Just like small, expedition-style ships can go places larger mega-cruise ships can’t, small trailers can go places the bigger RVs can’t. When you choose a smaller RV for your family of four’s camping trip, you can tuck into more remote campsites and easily drive along winding national park roads. Many parks limit the length of RVs, making a smaller trailer a great option if you want more choices when it comes to where to camp. 

They’re Cozy

One of the best things about your new small space is the chance to cozy up with your whole family – almost like being in a tent, but without having to worry about rain and wind (or critters). Depending on the travel trailer you choose, you may have an adorably sized dining area or living space, making it feel like you’re playing house on the road. 

Go ahead and play “house” just like you used to as a kid. Photo by Stefan Widua on Unsplash

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They Don’t Use as Much Fuel 

Compared to a larger RV, the small travel trailers are cheaper to tow when it comes to fuel expenses – and that’s a good thing these days!

Our Favorite Travel Trailers for Families of Four 

While you will ultimately land on the particular model that works best for your family, we offer these suggestions as a starting point for your research. 

Winnebago Micro Minnie 

Known for its thoughtful, functional design, the Micro Minnie comes in eight different floor plans, which can include a full-size bed, queen bed, murphy bed or bunk beds (the bottom bunk can flip up). A spacious bathroom with a nice-size shower, a roomy and fully functional kitchen, and flexible living space makes the most of the trailer’s small footprint. An exterior door allows you to load and unload bikes and other “toys” you have along. 

When you’re hanging outside, you’ll enjoy the 15-foot awning that extends from the door to the rear of the trailer, sheltering you from sun or rain. When the temperatures drop, you’ll be thankful for the heated, insulated, and enclosed underbelly. 

Learn about the absolute best small travel trailers for families of four and hit the open road together.

Lance 2185 Travel Trailer

Lauded for its high resale value and reliability, the Lancer 2185 Travel Trailer is ideal for families of four. The queen bed and bunk bed area have a spacious walk-around, so you’re not jammed right up against the wall. The contemporary and modern interior design adds a cool factor. And it’s just 26 feet long with the tongue and jack, so it’s relatively compact and easy to tow. You can also customize it however you like! Add a tankless hot water heater or solar panels, perhaps.

Lance is known for its four-season travel trailers, so you’ll have the added bonus of warmth, thanks to extra insulation and Azdel walls. Extra storage compartments are found in the doors and underneath beds, there’s an exterior storage compartment, and you can add on a kayak or bike rack. 

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OK, so this one might not fit a family of four, but you’re daydreaming now, aren’t you? Photo by Yohan Marion on Unsplash

Forest River No Boundaries 16.6

Lightweight and compact, the Forest River No Boundaries 16.6 is particularly well-suited for small families. There’s more storage than you would imagine, both inside and out, so you can bring along just about anything you might need. Choose from multiple floor plans, lengths, and weights (all under 3,500 pounds). 

While it may not be as modern and sleek as the Lance 2185 Travel Trailer, the No Boundaries line has small children in mind. After all, one of the best ways to ensure a good vacation is happy and well-rested kiddos. There’s a fun bunk bed floor plan available (you can lift and lay them flat against the wall when not in use), as well as a comfortable queen-sized bed and nice bathroom. The dinette is perfect for four, and the kitchen even has a generously sized fridge in it. Looking for extras? Add an outdoor kitchen, extra space on the roof for storage, all-terrain tires or solar panels. 

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Airstream Bambi 

Long known as the Bambi , this small, single-axle trailer is one of the most affordable in the Airstream line of classic aluminum trailers. (Meaning that if you’ve ever dreamed of an Airstream, this may be a great choice for your family.) 

The compact Bambi packs a lot of great usable space into its small-ish square footage – some are as short as 18 feet, 11 inches long. But even at that size, there is still room for a two-burner gas stove, a stainless-steel sink, a fridge and freezer, an LED TV, a built-in stereo, a shower, a flushing toilet, and a mattress that is sized somewhere between a twin and a double. It’s possible to go a little bigger in this class, or use this as your starting point and grow in size later in your adventuring years once the kids are bigger. 

Ready to adventure? I’ll be the one gazing on enviously as you pull out of the neighborhood. Have fun! 

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Best Small Travel Trailers – Ultimate Round-up

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

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

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

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

Check them out!

Go retro with Dinky Dub Camper  

Are All Small Travel Trailers The Same

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

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

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

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

What Makes a Small Travel Trailer Great For Traveling

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

Let’s have a look at them.

Ease of Use

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

Lightweight

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for the Money: Taxa Mantis Trailer

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

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

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

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

The TerraDrop

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

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

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

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

Safari Condo Alto F1743

Safari Condo Alto F1743 Interior

Restrictions While Traveling

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

Aspects to Consider Before Buying a Small Travel Trailer

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

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

Reliability

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

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

Scamp 13' Interior

Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind

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

Heater and Generator

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

Ceiling Height

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

People Also Ask

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

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12 Great Small Camper Trailers Under 20 Feet For Easy Towing.

You don’t need to haul around a giant trailer in order to have a superior camping experience. There are plenty of smaller and more manageable models on the market.

Some of them can even be towed behind a car rather than a heavy-duty truck or SUV. The trick is to know what you’re looking for, and which features you might be willing to forego. Here’s our guide to the 12 best small travel trailers on the market.

Jayco Hummingbird 17RK

Forest river r-pod rp-182g, winnebago micro minnie 1706fb, scamp 16-foot travel trailer.

• Airstream RV Sport 16 Travel Trailer

Aliner Ascape Travel Trailer

Safari condo alto r1723, kz spree escape mini 181rk, airstream basecamp x, oliver legacy elite ii, homegrown trailers woodland, dutchmen rv coleman lantern lt series 14bh.

Table of Contents

Finding The Best Small Camper Trailers: What You Need To Know

Benefits of small campers.

When it comes to RV living, bigger isn’t always better . Here are a few reasons why you might want to think small:

• Weight —A smaller unit will be lighter and easier to tow
• Maneuverability —You’ll have an easier time driving and parking than you would with an oversized rig
• Flexibility—A small travel trailer will give you more freedom, in terms of both parking and sheer exploration
• Cost —You’ll spend much less than you would on a larger model

A Word About The Features

Bear in mind that a smaller unit will probably be equipped with fewer standard features than a large-scale model. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice basic comfort, but you might be faced with some difficult choices.

Before you buy, think about which aspects of camper life are most important to you. If you do most of your cooking outside anyway, consider a unit with limited or nonexistent kitchen facilities.

Similarly, if you usually camp in RV parks that have well-maintained comfort stations, you might be willing to forgo the built-in bathroom. Solo travelers or couples can opt for units with close-knit sleeping quarters, especially if they’re of average height. You can use these criteria to narrow down your list, making your choice that much easier.

The Best Small Travel Trailers: Product Review Guide

Offering a choice of five different floor plans, the Hummingbird RK has a well-appointed interior that manages to feel snug and spacious all at once.

The separate sleeping area contains a queen-sized bed, the bathroom facilities are adequate (if slightly cramped), and the cushions on the U-shaped dinette bench are comfy and inviting.

Specifications:

• Length: 19 feet, 9 inches
• Height: 9 feet, 5 inches
• Width: 8 feet, 1 inch
• Dry Weight: 3095 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 345 pounds
• Fresh Water: 25.6 gallons
• Gray Water: 15.4 gallons
• Black Water: 25.4 gallons

Manufacturers Website

Outfitted with a powder-coated steel frame and gel-coated fiberglass, this is one of the most durable models on our list. Its compact teardrop shape make towing and storage a snap.

While there’s plenty of storage space, the interior is cozy to the point of being claustrophobic, especially if you take advantage of the extra built-in bunks. Technically, the RP-182 can sleep four, but we wouldn’t recommend it for extended trips.

• Length: 20 feet
• Height: 9 feet 11 inches
• Width: 8 feet
• Dry Weight: 2836 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 385 pounds
• Fresh Water: 36 gallons
• Gray Water: 30 gallons
• Black Water: 30 gallons

The Winnebago brand has a long reputation for offering quality models at an affordable price. The 1706FB is equipped with attractive and durable kitchen appliances, a tankless water heater, and a retractable awning with LED lighting.

It also has an impressive cargo capacity for a unit of this size, so you don’t have to worry as much about overpacking.

• Length: 19 feet, 2 inches
• Height: 10 feet
• Width: 7 feet
• Dry Weight: 2980 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 300 pounds
• Fresh Water: 31 gallons
• Gray Water: 25 gallons
• Black Water: 25 gallons

Scamp’s recognizable capsule-shaped trailer is available in three different sizes, 12, 16, or 19 feet. We’ve gone with the 16-footer for this review because it offers a decent amount of storage and living space while still falling into the “compact” category.

This unit is small enough to be towed by a mid-sized car and large enough to accommodate built-in bathroom facilities. Both the dinette and the couch can be converted into sleeping space, making it a decent option for families . If you prefer to buy American, Scamp prides itself on using only products that were made in the USA.

• Length: 16 feet
• Height: 7 feet, 10 inches
• Width: 6 feet, 8 inches
• Dry Weight: 1600 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 165 pounds
• Fresh Water: 12 gallons
• Gray Water: 26 gallons
• Black Water: 6 gallons

Airstream RV Sport 16 “Bambi”

This is another distinctive 16-foot model, distinguished by its sleek silver exterior. The construction is durable inside and out, and the layout is cozy and convenient, with both kitchen and wet bath included.

This is one of the pricier units listed here, but the quality goes a long way toward offsetting the sticker shock. Note that there are no separate tanks for gray water and wastewater, so the combination tank has a relatively high capacity, but needs to be cleaned and treated as you would a regular black water tank.

• Length: 16 feet, 4 inches
• Height: 9 feet, 3 inches
• Dry Weight: 2860 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 350 pounds
• Fresh Water: 23 gallons
• Gray & Black Water (combination tank): 21 gallons

If you’re a first-timer who’s nervous about towing a rig, you might want to consider this sweet little unit. It’s one of the most maneuverable models we’ve found, with an appealing half-pod design that fits easily into campsites and parking spots.

While bathroom and kitchen facilities are limited (with a cassette toilet and no built-in black water tank), at least it has both, which gives the Ascape an impressive degree of versatility. We think this is a great choice for couples or solo adventurers.

• Length: 13 feet
• Height: 8 feet, 4 inches
• Width: 6 feet, 4 inches
• Dry Weight: 1630 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 170 pounds
• Fresh Water: 11 gallons
• Gray Water: 11 gallons
• Black Water: N/A

Safari Condo is an especially eco-conscious company, using mainly recyclable materials in the construction of their lightweight travel trailers.

The R-series trailers come with retractable aluminum roofs and moveable dinette furniture, allowing you to redesign the layout to your preference. These models are also designed to fit inside a standard garage, which makes them easier to store during the winter season.

• Length: 17 feet, 3 inches
• Height: 6 feet, 11 inches (when retractable roof is closed)
• Width: 6 feet, 11 inches
• Dry Weight: 1725 pounds
• Hitch Weight: N/A
• Fresh Water: 15
• Gray Water: 11
• Black Water: 11

Despite its diminutive footprint, the Escape Mini 181RK boasts plenty of counter space in addition to a full-sized bathroom. We especially like the netted storage space above the sleeping area—the perfect spot for storing books and devices without having to get out of bed.

• Length: 20 feet, 9 inches
• Height: 8 feet, 9 inches
• Dry Weight: 2888 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 310 pounds
• Fresh Water: 30 gallons
• Gray Water: 32 gallons

The Airstream Basecamp X is geared toward newbies who are planning to make the switch from tent camping to the RV lifestyle. To ease the transition, this model even comes with a tent attachment that expands the living space.

Setup is simple, and the interior is equipped with both kitchen and bathroom facilities—there’s even an outdoor shower option.

• Length: 16 feet, 3 inches
• Height: 8 feet, 8-3/4 inches
• Width: 6 feet, 4-1/2 inches
• Dry Weight: 2635 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 435 pounds
• Fresh Water: 22 gallons
• Gray & Black Water (combination tank): 29 gallons

This is the model to consider if you don’t want the hassle of dealing with a large travel trailer, but still need a little extra room to spread out.

Since the Legacy Elite II is a four-season model, t’s also worth a look if you plan on taking your camper on the road year-round. An oversized refrigerator and 340-watt solar package make this the ideal option for frequent boondockers.

• Length: 23 feet, 6 inches
• Height: 8 feet, 6 inches
• Dry Weight: 4900 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 490 pounds
• Black Water: 18.5 gallons

With its exterior wood paneling, this teardrop trailer is designed to help you blend right in with the great outdoors. Features like the 400-watt solar package and composting toilet add to the sustainability factor. While it’s a tad too long to be towed by a car, it’s suitable for most SUVs and crossovers. It can also be stored in a standard-sized garage.

• Length: 19 feet, 4 inches
• Height: 6 feet, 9 inches (top down)
• Width: 7 feet, 5 inches
• Dry Weight: 2850 pounds
• Gray Water: N/A
• Awning Size:

The LT series offers a number of unique floor plans, in addition to a bevy of extra goodies like tinted safety windows, interior speakers, and even a microwave.

The 14BH is also lightweight enough to be towed by a smaller vehicle. A set of bunk beds is tucked into a rear corner, doubling the available sleeping space and making this a suitable fit for families of four. The interior design isn’t fancy, but it’s functional and solidly built.

• Length: 18 feet, 9 inches
• Height: 9 feet
• Dry Weight: 2782 pounds
• Hitch Weight: 362 pounds
• Fresh Water: 27 gallons
• Gray Water: 28 gallons
• Black Water: 28 gallons

The Verdict

As far as we’re concerned, you can’t go wrong with any of these travel trailers. Which one you choose depends largely upon your own personal circumstances.

That said, we’re big fans of the Aliner Ascape model. Because it’s so small and easy to maneuver, novices don’t need to be apprehensive about the towing experience.

It’s also ideal for adventurers who want to get off the highway and explore some of the hidden corners of the land. As long as you don’t mind dealing with the lack of a black water tank, the Ascape provides a superb camping experience.

Good luck, and happy camping!

Check out our article on: 8 Great Lightweight Toy Hauler Travel Trailers

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The Wandering RV

18 best small travel trailers under 5,000 pounds.

• Bill Widmer
• Updated: May 25, 2023

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Interested in small camping trailers, but aren’t sure which one is right for you?

In this article, we reveal the 18 best small campers under 5,000 pounds. 

These small pull behind campers can be pulled by almost any vehicle – even some regular cars!

Check out the quick navigation menu below to jump straight to a trailer you’ve heard about, or just scroll through to see them all!

Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

1. nücamp rv t@g, 2. forest river r-pod travel trailer, 3. escape trailer, 4. scamp 13′ fiberglass trailer, 5. aliner classic travel trailer, 6. cricket camper, 7. mantis camper, 8. timberleaf teardrop trailers, 9. icamp elite, 10. jay sport camping trailer, 11. happier camper, 12. timberline trailer, 13. bicycle camper, 14. terrapin camper, 15. wanderlust vintage trailers, 16. little guy mini max, 17. forest river wolf pup 18to, 18. coleman lantern lt, frequently asked questions, final thoughts, not sure which rv to buy.

Why not try before you buy? Find the models you’re thinking about, then give them a test run in a cheap & easy RV rental.

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Bonus: Not sure where to take your small travel trailer camping? Check out The Dyrt Camping App:

The Dyrt Camping App

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• First 30 days free with code “TWRV”

• Dry Weight: 2,200 lbs
• Length: 13′ 7″
• Width: 7′
• Freshwater tank: 8 gallon

Click here for the full specs .

First on our list, the NüCamp RV T@G is both cute and badass. It comes equipped with a fresh water tank , but doesn’t have grey water or black water tanks.

The newer T@G models have a large stargazer window, a heater with a wireless thermostat, air conditioner, solar panels, and a YetiⓇ cooler option. T@G makes it easy to camp inside of a cozy campground or take your rig off-the-beaten-path. 

Related Reading: ​ 9 Best Teardrop Campers​ You Have to See

• Dry Weight: ~2,839 lbs
• Length: 20’0″
• Width: 96″
• Slide outs: 1 (Tent Bed)

Forest River’s R-Pod Travel Trailers are fun mini campers. With an air conditioner for those hot summer days, a burner stove top, bunk beds, and a sleeping capacity of 2-4 you can fit the whole family! They come in eleven different floor plans, which you can check out on their website. 

Here are a few common ones:

Depending on which model you get, you might have a tight “shit, shower, and shave” type bathroom. (The toilet and shower are a single room – see below.)

However, they do also offer small travel trailers featuring a full bathroom with separate shower and toilet. Want to learn more? Here’s a quick video:

It’s a pretty cool small travel trailer. But there are plenty more to look at!

• Dry Weight: 2,640 lbs
• Length: 17’8″ to 21′
• Slide outs: 0

Escape makes four kinds of travel trailers of various sizes, including a super tiny 21′ fifth wheel with radial tires that nearly any truck can pull. You can also customize certain add ons including a stove top, refrigerator, and even a solar system for your roof! These additions can make your camping experience beyond compare. 

Here’s a look at the 17A’s floor plan:

These small travel trailers have received excellent reviews due to their build quality, abundant amenities for such a tiny space, they are easy to tow with almost any vehicle. This model has extra space for supplies in the many overhead storage cabinets, and four person side dinette. 

You can even custom build your own travel trailers to get everything just the way you want it! 

These are easily one of the best small travel trailers or small fifth wheels. You’ll be hard-pressed to find one with more amenities!

• Dry Weight: 1,200-1,500 lbs
• Length: 13′

If you want a truly tiny camper that can be pulled by a car and is easy to tow , the Scamp 13 is the trailer for you! At just 13′ and less than 1,500 lbs, this micro camper still has the room for a toilet, bed, and kitchen, depending on the model you choose. Your travels will be lightweight and worthwhile with this camper and the many camping trips to come. 

Here are the two camper trailers layouts:

Better yet, the Scamp comes with super insulation, allowing you to stay comfortable in temperatures ranging from 0 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit!

Here’s a video tour of the 2021 version:

Quick Stats

• Dry Weight: 1,590 lbs
• Length: 15′
• Width: 78″

Click here for the full specs.

If you like that A-Frame camper look, you’ll love the Aliner Classic.

Sporting a sink, two stove top cookers, a microwave, and a half-fridge , this is your one-stop shop to replace that tent with something a little more comfortable. This model definitely makes travel lightweight and easy. 

While it doesn’t have a built-in bathroom, it DOES have an outside shower. Here’s a peak at the floor plan:

It has an 11-gallon fresh water tank, which is plenty for a short weekend getaway!

Pro Tip: Don’t want to poop in the woods or gross public restrooms? Grab yourself a bathroom tent   and a portable toilet for some wonderful privacy.

• Dry Weight: 1,500 lbs
• Width: 6’11
• Slide outs: 0 (But the roof pops up)

Click here to see the full specs .

If you’re looking for ultra lightweight travel trailers under 2000 pounds with a bad ass rugged look and feel, the Cricket Camper is for you.  It is especially convenient for those who like to take their travel “off road”.

Despite it’s (very small) size, there’s plenty of living space in this bad boy. Especially when you pop up the top.It’s like a teardrop camper but with more space!

Take a look:

Unfortunately, like the A liner, Cricket Campers don’t come with a bathroom. You need a portable toilet and bathroom tent to get your privacy.

However, they do come with a built-in portable shower you can use to wash yourself off after an outing at a beach or lake. Additionally, there is plenty of interior and ceiling height for those who like the have plenty of space to stand and stretch!

Here’s a video walkthrough of the 2021 version:

Related Reading: 30 RVing Experts Reveal Their Must-Have RV Accessories

• Dry Weight: 2,800 lbs
• Length: 18′

Looking for a unique travel trailer? How about one inspired by NASA?

This Mantis Camper is 18-feet-long, has integrated plumbing and electrical systems , and an independent suspension system (14″ to be exact). There is also a side dinette and wet bath, making this like home sweet home. 

The pop up roof means you get more space in these small campers while taking up the same space as it’s smaller competitors.

Want to take a look inside? 

This is another model with the “shit, shower, shave” setup. Better than nothing, am I right? Here’s a video overview:

• Dry Weight: 1,200 lbs
• Width: 65″

This travel trailer might not look like much, but it’s filled with everything you’d need for a little excursion. It features a fully-insulated cabin designed to keep the heat, wind, and chilly nights at bay.

Not only do they offer classic teardrop campers, they have an off-road teardrop trailer too!

Here’s the travel trailer layout, if you’re curious (sorry it’s small!):

The  one downfall  this small travel trailer has?

There’s no bathroom attached to the trailer. You’d definitely need to purchase a portable toilet  and  bathroom tent to get your privacy (unless you’re a man – or woman – of the wild). It’s a great little teardrop camper!

Related Reading: Everything You Need to Know About RVing with Pets

• Dry Weight: 2,890 lb
• Length: 14′
• Width: 6’8″

Guess what?

This camper trailer has a small bathroom! 

Not to mention a dinette table that transforms into a bed and ( even better ) an oven and a fridge.

Here’s the floor plan for a better look in this camping trailer:

Keep in mind that this camper is a diamond in the rough – you won’t find many with these features. Check the video for more:

• Dry Weight: 2,270 lbs
• Length: 21’6″
• Width: 7’1″
• Slide outs: 0 (But 2 Pop Outs!)

If you’re looking for a classy camper, the  Jay Sport Camping Trailer will provide just that. With plenty of sleeping space, and compactable pop-ups, this camper is perfect for all of your travel needs. Imagine having all of that living area and space!

How could you  not want something that looks like this:

Sure, there might not be a built-in bathroom, but there is an exterior shower and side dinette in this small camper!

Check out what this mini camper looks like in this video tour:

Jayco is known for creating some of the best quality, top rated travel trailers. And pop up camper trailers are extremely lightweight, making this an excellent choice for smaller tow vehicles!

• Dry Weight: 1,100 lbs
• Slideouts: 0

The Happier Camper will make your days, well… happier! They’re considered one of the best travel trailer brands right now!

With total freedom and a wide range of layouts possible, this small RV will be made specifically for you and your needs. Additionally, they can be easy to tow and make for very lightweight travel. 

Take a look at one of the custom layouts they offer:

Like I said, this is just one of the many layouts they offer – check out more here .

Take a look at the video tour of these small trailers below for an in-depth look:

Related Reading:  Best Fold-able Camping Tables for RVing in 2022

• Dry Weight: 4,150 – 4,350 lbs
• Length: 23′
• Width: 7’11”

We have nothing but good things to say about Timberline trailers – they’re unique, solar powered, and are made with healthy, sustainable materials. 

These small campers come with a wet bath (the average shit, shower, and shave model) and can sleep up to five people! Having a wet bath may not be ideal, but it’s better than not having a bathroom at all. 

Take a look at the floor plan to get a better look at the inside of the Timberline trailer:

• Dry Weight: 88 lbs
• Length: 9’4″
• Width: 3’2″

Guys… how freaking cute is this bicycle camper ?!

Bill and I about died when we first saw it – it’s unlike  anything  we’ve ever seen before! It’s the lightest-weight camping trailer on this list.

The sitting area transforms into a bed and there’s a nightstand attached for a small lamp (or to place your drinks/electronics). Imagine having such a unique camper that is easy to tow and makes for extremely lightweight travel . This camper can be taken almost anywhere on, and off road. As long as you’re willing to go there. 

Take a look at the floor plan to get a better idea of what you’d be working with if you went with the bicycle camper:

• Dry Weight: 1,260 lbs
• Length: 12′
• Width: 6’9″

The Terrapin camper from Casual Turtle can be built any way you’d like – which makes this camper a unique “true-to-you” model. The wood paneling and interior design of this model definitely make any camping experience unique. 

Many people use these travel trailers for a quick trip to the lake or week-long getaways – but don’t let that stop you from pulling this sucker halfway around the country if that’s your goal! It’s easily the most unique camping trailer on this list.

Because the floor plan is made specifically for people interested in purchasing one of these models, we, unfortunately, don’t have one to show you. 

We can, however, show you what it looks like on the inside of one that’s already built:

Again, the interior layout is 100% customizable ! If you’re after a que en-sized RV bed, fair-sized master bedroom, and a nightstand, it’s yours!

If you’re after a pull-out couch and a dinette though? It’s yours (as long as the owners can make it for you, of course).

• Dry Weight: 1200-1500 pounds
• Fresh water tank: varies
• Gray water tank: varies

Wanderlust Vintage Trailers is a company that takes vintage rigs, typically between 20-40 years old, and restores them to like-new condition with the help of each prospective owner.

Because they work with each owner individually, no two campers are the same! You can customize exactly what you want.

• Dry Weight: 1,993 pounds
• Length: 17′ 2″

Like the TAB, the Little Guy Mini Max offers a well-designed, if small, space in a vintage-but-modern exterior. It’s slightly longer and heavier than the TAB, but the trade-off means you get more room and features.

I love the Little Guy Mini Max’s giant window setup. It lets in a ton of natural light, which is always nice to have when camping. It also comes with a wet bath, which is rare for a small trailer!

That said, it’s still small enough to be towed by nearly any tow vehicle. If your car can tow at least 2,500 pounds, it can tow this small trailer.

Dry Weight: 3,797 pounds Length: 23′ 2″ Width: 7′ Slideouts: 1 Fresh water tank: 26.00 gal. Gray water tank: 23.00 gal.

The Forest River Wolf Pup 18TO is the perfect tiny trailer for a family camping trip! This is one of the only small campers that has a slide out (which in turn, offers more sleeping space for guests).

With a queen size bed and all the amenities you’d need on a trip (such as a two burner stove, walk in shower, and plenty of storage space), we’d recommend this small camping trailer to anyone!

Dry Weight: 3,587 pounds Length: 22′ 10″ Width: 9′ 9″ Slideouts: 0 Fresh water tank: 27 gal. Gray water tank: 28 gal.

When it comes to small camping trailers, it can be tough to find something that fits up to four people. But thanks to the Coleman Lantern LT, those days are in the past! This lightweight travel trailer may not have a lot of counter space, but it does have a murphy bed, bunk beds, decent storage space, a two burner stove, walk in shower, and more!

You’ll be blown away at how much interior space you have in this small trailer!

Have a question about small camper trailers? We’ve got you covered!

Note: If we didn’t answer your small camper trailer question below, make sure to leave a comment down below!

The Scamp Deluxe is the smallest trailer with a bathroom on our list, coming in at only 13′ long. It has a wet bath tucked inside the camper, so you won’t have to worry about using the park’s dirty bathrooms or finding a bathroom while boondocking .

The Terrapin Camper, Happier Camper, and Scamp Camper are the smallest camper trailers on our list, coming in at 13′ or less and weighing under 2,000 lbs!

This depends entirely on what you plan on doing and how you like to travel. If you don’t mind limited living and storage space and love having something that’s easy to tow, light on gas, and can go more places than bigger campers, a small travel trailer is absolutely worth it!

The lightest camper to tow is the Happier Camper, coming in at just 1,100 lbs! The Scamp trailer and Terrapin camper are also lightweight options, coming in at 1,200-1,500 lbs depending on the features you add.

Micro campers, or mini campers , go by many names. You’ve got the tiniest of campers, called teardrop trailers, that get their name for looking like a teardrop. But there are also small camping trailers, pop up campers , a-frame campers , and more.

And that brings us to the end of our list of the best small travel trailers! Whether you’re looking to go off road or just stay at an RV park, there’s something here for you!

I hope you had as much fun reading this as we did writing it! Let us know in the comments – did we miss any cool mini campers? Are you going to get one from this list?

Not sure which trailer to get? Click here to see 100’s of camper rentals so you can try before you buy! Enjoy your adventure RV travels!

Related Reading: – 7 Awesome Small Campers With Bathrooms – 9 Best Camper Vans with Bathrooms – 9 Best Travel Trailers with a Bunkhouse – Beginner’s Guide to Trailer Hitches – Complete List of RV Manufacturers

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Journey With Confidence

10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Of 2022

• RV Trailers and Motorhomes

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

Tread Lightly With These 10 Best Small Camper Trailers

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

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

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

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

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

2022 nuCamp TAG XL: The Stargazer

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

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

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

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

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

2022 TAXA TigerMoth Overland: The Ultimate Overlanding Vehicle

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

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

Enjoy 7+ off-grid days or longer

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

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

Go off-grid in comfort.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trillium Heritage Bunk 4500: New And Improved

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

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

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

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

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

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

Venture Sonic Lite SL150VRB: Surprisingly Spacious

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

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

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

2022 Little Guy Micro Max: Fits In Standard Garages

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

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

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

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

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

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

Apex Nano 16R: Backcountry comfort

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

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

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

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

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

OPUS OP4: Adventure ready

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

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

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

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

 Features:

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

Forest River Rpod RP153: Ultra lightweight

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

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

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

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

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

2022 Rockwood Geo Pro 20FBS: Roomy and comfortable

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why lightweight travel trailers are in demand

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

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

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

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

Connect with other RVers

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

Related articles:

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

What you need to know about travel in small SUVs, travel trailers

W e’ve been retired for 11 years and have explored almost every option in economical U.S. and Canadian travel - by car, by SUV, and with several small travel trailers. We’ve crossed the United States and Canada four times, visited 49 states (lacking only Alaska, which we hope to fix this summer), made many shorter forays in the western United States/Canada, and have worked to refine our travel to be economical, while enjoying comfortable and safe journeys.

In those years, we’ve come almost full circle. From a family that once packed our two young daughters, a big canvas tent, and miscellaneous camping gear into a four-door Chevy Chevette in the 1980s, we’ve now arrived at “future travel,” just the two of us, comfortably ensconced in a small Ford Escape, all-wheel-drive SUV, not all that dissimilar from our travels with our young daughters (and I promise my spouse a fair share of motel overnights). Here’s how we got to this point.

Twenty years ago, reaching middle age, realizing that sleeping on an air mattress in a midsize tent was sometimes less than comfortable and did not assuage Susan‘s fear of bears in the western states, we explored and then purchased a series of small but increasingly larger small travel trailers.

Our first trailer was a Kit Kamper teardrop, all 8 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 4 feet tall, pulled behind several small four-cylinder cars. The trailer was cute, and I could still get good gas mileage in the high 20 miles per gallon, towed with a small car. It made for cozy sleeping arrangements for two people, though one had better appreciate their partner in a double bed only 46 1/2 inches wide!

We refined our travel kit and moved on to a fully rebuilt classic, a ‘58 Scotty teardrop trailer, reflecting the woodworking wizardry of a West Virginia shop teacher. We drove across the country, picked up the trailer, and continued onto a Gettysburg bicycling week-long outing with my brother and several friends. We then crossed the country with that somewhat-more-refined tiny trailer, getting about 27 miles per gallon towed behind a five-speed Ford Focus.

After eight years with tiny trailers, a somewhat bigger trailer had appeal, still lightweight, but one that Susan could stand up in, offering a larger bed, sleeping accommodations for a grandkid or two, a small range, more storage, and a dinette that can accommodate four people.

Having been attracted to classic Scotty trailers, I found a 13-foot ‘64 Scotty Sportsman in Southern California, bought it, realizing it needed some work, and embarked upon a several-year project of rebuilding the Scotty from the frame up. The result was a classic trailer that can accommodate two adults and a couple of grandkids and offer interior comfort for stormy days, still delivering pretty good gas mileage when towed behind a smaller SUV like a Ford Escape (though gasoline mileage is reduced to about 19 miles per gallon).

In more recent years, we still enjoy seeing exciting new places and traveling by personal vehicle but continue to despise high gas prices and poor gas mileage, or lack of creature comforts at our travel destination. We’re still willing to sacrifice to save money and extend our travel budget.

We began to see more small/mid-sized SUVs connected to a tent on the back end in campgrounds. After exploring the options, we purchased an SUV-connectable tent. I built two raised platforms to insert into our SUV, elevating the floor 7 inches to accommodate four plastic storage bins for camping gear, clothing, and food items. We added a 4-inch foam mattress for a cozy sleeping platform and blackout curtains for the SUV and purchased the tent to attach to the back end of our vehicle for about $250.

Result: comfy sleeping accommodations inside the SUV, and a roomie, nifty 10 x 10‘ room on the back for daytime use and shelter from a stormy day. With that outfit, we get 30 miles per gallon from our Ford Escape.

For your travel plans, you’ve got to determine what you want, how much comfort you demand, how much stuff you want to carry, and what budget you’re dealing with. If a small trailer fits your plans, now is a great time to buy a slightly used classic or a newer travel trailer. Popular classic or new trailers (whose designs we admire and get good owner ratings) include Scotty, Shasta, Airstream, T@B, Casita, and R-pod. Put up a daily search in your local Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace and visit a local RV dealer to see what they have in both new and used small-to-midsize trailers. 

For inspiration and how to shop/inspect classic/used travel trailers like a Scotty, see the national organization’s website,  nationalserroscotty.org  (you can also find other classic trailer groups like Airstream and Shasta). If you purchase a used travel trailer, take a friend to help check the trailer’s mechanical systems, underside, and the like for signs of damage or age-related challenges. 

Contact Tim,  [email protected] ; happy travels in the West!

For more information

Check classic trailer websites, including Tin Can Tourists,  tincantourists.com ; Airstream trailers,  airstreamclassifieds.com ; Serro Scotty trailers,  nationalserroscotty.org ; Shasta Trailers,  vintageshasta.net .

This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: What you need to know about travel in small SUVs, travel trailers