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Many new campers are ready to jump into the RV life but don’t have a three-quarter-ton truck to pull the travel trailer of their choice. Instead of purchasing a new, expensive dually, why not invest in a smaller, towable trailer? Lightweight campers are a great option for new RVers.
Small SUVs, sedans, and even family minivans can pull it. New lightweight campers are changing the perspective in the RV industry, opening up the camping world to those with a more minimalist attitude.
What Is a Lightweight Camper?
Any camper pulled by smaller vehicles like sedans, small trucks, and SUVs is a lightweight camper. Most RVs that fall into this category are more aerodynamically shaped and made from less dense materials to keep the weight down. Some qualify as “teardrop” campers, while others are for off-road activities with rugged suspensions.
Still, other modular components are mixed and matched to suit their owners’ needs. No matter the visible differences, all of these small, maneuverable trailers make camping possible for those who don’t have a large and powerful tow vehicle.
Keep in Mind: Considering a camper van instead? We reviewed the best camper vans in 2022.
What Are the Benefits of Lightweight Campers?
Because they weigh less than the average RV, lightweight campers appeal to those who drive smaller tow vehicles like SUVs, minivans, and even light-duty trucks. This designation opens up the field of RVing to those who may not have considered it in the past. It also allows drivers to take these campers to less accessible campsites because they are more maneuverable.
RVers will find that pulling a lightweight camper creates lower fuel costs, as they are towing trailers that weigh less and have more streamlined profiles. And fitting into any campsite is a major plus. There will be less stress in your travels, knowing that you can find a place to park almost anywhere!
Smaller campers usually mean smaller purchase price tags. Suppose your budget doesn’t allow wiggle room for a larger, more amenity-rich recreational vehicle. In that case, a lightweight camper can provide most of the features found in bigger RVs at a much more affordable price.
What Are the Disadvantages of Lightweight Campers?
The biggest drawback to owning a lightweight camper is the number of pounds added to the trailer. For instance, most lightweight campers will offer very little space, if any, for freshwater or gray and black water tanks.
Each gallon of water weighs just over eight pounds, and these campers must remain ‘lightweight’ for smaller vehicles to have the ability to tow them. So most don’t provide large water tanks that would encourage additional weight.
Space is limited in lightweight campers because, well, they’re small. Most of the campers listed below are no longer than 17 feet, meaning the liveable space inside dwarfs larger RVs. Most of the area requires double duty, like the transitioning of the dinette into a bed.
Also, some amenities are absent from lightweight trailers because of the space allowances. Many make do with wet baths, some don’t provide ovens or microwaves, and others don’t come stocked with a toilet or refrigerator.
5 Best Lightweight Campers in 2022
Finding the right lightweight camper can be difficult if you don’t know where to start. Fortunately, we have assembled our top five candidates here to give you some guidance.
1. Scamp 13’ Standard Travel Trailers
MSRP: $15,000 to $20,000 depending upon the model and any upgrades.
Dry Weight: 1,200 lbs to 1,500 lbs.
The standard Scamp 13’ trailer offers two-floor plans. One has a front sofa that can double as a single bed, and the other has a front bath, including a shower and toilet.
Both models have a dinette that breaks down into a double bed, a full kitchen with a propane stove, and a sink. It also has plenty of storage cabinets and a closet. This unit is the perfect size for a solo traveler or a couple.
2. Happier Camper HC1 Trailer
MSRP: $30,000
Dry Weight: 1,100 lbs.
The HC1 camper has an innovative Adaptive modular system that allows you to personalize your space. Individual cubes like a kitchenette unit or a bench and bed unit can be installed or even moved around for ‘renovation.’
In essence, build your personal space exactly as you wish. When you change your mind, just rearrange it!
The trailer is super lightweight and towable by small cars like a Mini Cooper, yet it provides great shelter wherever you take it. When it comes to lightweight campers, this is a great option.
Pro Tip: Not 100% sold on lightweight travel trailers yet? Read our top reasons why you should consider lightweight travel trailers.
3. Casita Spirit 17’ Travel Trailers
MSRP: $30,000
Dry Weight: 2,210 lbs.
Casita Travel Trailers fits several great features into its small 17-foot space. It has a double bed, a separate dinette that turns into a single bed, and two bunk beds. If you would prefer, a bath and shower can be substituted in the bunk area, making the deluxe model a functional camper that sleeps three.
The kitchen area comes complete with a refrigerator, stovetop, microwave, and sink. And its fiberglass construction makes the Spirit an extremely lightweight trailer with plenty of amenities.
4. Little Guy Mini Max
MSRP: $39,000 to $47,000
Dry Weight: 2,320 lbs.
When it comes to lightweight campers, the Little Guy Mini Max has virtually everything you will need to camp comfortably. Solid maple cabinetry sets off this Little Guy. It comes with a full bath setup with a separate shower, a kitchen unit that includes stainless steel appliances, and a large dinette that folds down into a double bed or two singles.
It’s solidly built with high-end finishes and an aerodynamic teardrop shape for easy towing and fuel efficiency.
5. Winnebago Hike
MSRP: $38,500
Dry Weight: 3,500 lbs.
With several floor plans and lengths, the Winnebago Hike is the largest offering here. From 20 feet to 25 feet, it comes packed. It has a dinette, a full dry bath with shower, a kitchen that boasts a convection microwave, a two-way refrigerator with a separate freezer, and a full stove with an oven.
The larger floor plan even has theater seating that converts into a Murphy bed! Each model includes a slide to expand your living space.
What is the Lightest Travel Camper?
The Happy Camper and the Scamp almost tied for the lightest camper around. Happy Camper comes in at 1,100 lbs, but that doesn’t include appliances and water tanks that are standard in the Scamp.
So, if want the lightest trailer with everything you need, the Scamp 13 is your best bet, with a weight of 1,200 lbs.
Are Lightweight Campers Worth It?
A lightweight camper is an excellent option for those who love RV camping but don’t need all of the bells and whistles that come with a large motorhome or fifth wheel. You can take it almost anywhere by some of the smallest cars available, making camping accessible to anyone with a hitch! And not only are they easy to tow, but these trailers occupy a smaller footprint. That gives you more of the great outdoors to enjoy!
What do you think about lightweight campers?
