lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs

12 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs: 2024 Models

Sharing is caring!

Thanks for your support! If you make a purchase using our links in this article, we may make a commission. And, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See the full disclosure here .

Updated March 27, 2024

I am asked all the time for recommendations for the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs. So here is my answer, which is sure to help you find a model that is perfect for you.

If you are looking for a travel trailer that you can tow with a small truck or even some larger SUVs, there are many travel trailers under 5,000 lbs to choose from. We have investigated hundreds of lightweight travel trailers to find the very best ones on the market today.

After all – this is a big part of what we do at RVBlogger. We have toured and reviewed RVs to produce written reviews and YouTube video reviews of RVs and campers for over five years now!

In addition to our opinion of these travel trailers, we provide links to check ratings and reviews from folks who own these camper trailers so you get the best info before deciding if one of these travel trailers is for you.

Our list of the ten best travel trailers under 5,000 pounds will give you some great ideas to start your search!

How We Chose The Top 2024 Travel Trailers Under 5000 Lbs

When we started looking for the 12 best travel trailers under 5000 lbs there were a lot of options to choose from. There are dozens of RV manufacturers in the United States, and many of them have stellar reputations.

As a result, it can be difficult to narrow down the field. However, there were a few factors we were able to look at to help us figure out what we thought were the 12 best travel trailers under 5000 lbs. 

The first thing we did was look at the unloaded vehicle weight or dry weight. This is the weight of the vehicle when nothing has been loaded into it. It is the weight of the vehicle once the manufacturer has finished building it and nothing has been added to it.

Obviously, for these types of trailers, we were looking at options that weighed less than 5000 pounds. Many RVs and trailers weigh more than this, so we were able to narrow down the field significantly with this one factor. 

After we found trailers that fit the weight specifications, we looked at other features that came with the trailers. For example, we looked for trailers that have bunkhouses and Murphy beds. Murphy beds are some of the best beds for travel trailers. And we wrote an article about them called 11 Best Travel Trailers with Murphy Beds .

We looked at floor plans, the overall quality of the trailers, and reviews from other credible sources. This way we could know for sure that these trailers were received well by consumers. 

Travel Trailer UVW vs GVWR

We use the UVW or Unloaded Vehicle Weight to decide which campers fit into our category of best campers under 5000 lbs. Unloaded vehicle weight is also known as curb weight or dry weight. It is the weight of the camper trailer with nothing in it.

GVWR or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the maximum allowable weight of the camper when loaded with all of your supplies, groceries, water, generator, or anything else you decide to pack into your camper.

So be sure your tow vehicle can tow more than 5,000 lbs if you are considering one of these models.

12 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs : 2024 Models

Here they are our list of travel trailers under 5000 lbs for 2024. We’re sure there will be something on this list for you!

1. Oliver Legacy Elite

Our Pros and Cons

✅ Sold factory-direct, so you get Oliver-specific components and accessories

⛔ Interior aesthetic is very sterile

• Length: 18′ 5″
• UVW: 3,700 lbs
• GVWR: 5,000 lbs
• CCC: 1,300 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 370 lbs

The first of our travel trailers under 5000 lbs on the list is the Oliver Legacy Elite , a niche camper with a dedicated fanbase. Oliver Campers aren’t known for their variety (there are only a few models, with a ton of customization options). The Legacy Elite is a boondocking machine, if you want it to be.

Everything that comes with or is available for Oliver campers is factory-direct, so you’re limited on third-party accessorizing as everything you want or need comes from Oliver. As you can imagine, this enables the company to have so many customization options that two camper lines feel like forty.

The Legacy Elite is built with four fiberglass shells (two inner and two outer), fused together, with interior cabinetry molded into the fiberglass. This fiberglass bubble takes 400 hours to make and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. It’s one of the strongest travel trailers you’re likely to find on the market.

Inside, the Legacy Elite is like Airstream, with an interior that matches the exterior aesthetic. I love the interior feature including the wet bath, multiple bedding options, sink, and stovetop.

Everything has its own compartment, including the batteries and propane tank control. These trailers are known for towing very well, thanks to their slick, aerodynamic profiles.

Susan and I visited the Fiberglass RV Rally in November 2023 and met many proud Oliver Elite owners who absolutely love their campers!

For more information, check out the Oliver Trailer Reviews on the Oliver website. You can also check out Oliver Travel Trailers’ Facebook page , where you will find some helpful info from Oliver’s owners.

There is a private Facebook Group called Oliver Trailer Owners for people who own or are interested in owning an Oliver Travel Trailer. You have to request to join the group but this is a great place to ask Oliver owners about their experience and recommendations.

2. Airstream Bambi

✅ Despite the space limits, includes a 2-burner stove, sink, fridge, freezer, shower, and flushing toilet

⛔ There are space concessions for the shower, which makes for a very cramped space

• Length: 16′ 1″
• UVW: 3,050 lbs
• GVWR: 3,500 lbs
• CCC: 450 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 450 lbs

We have walked through Airstream Bambi models from 2020 through 2024 and they are awesome travel trailers in my opinion.

Airstream is one of the most instantly recognizable brands in the business. Their smaller line of travel trailers under 5000 lbs includes the Bambi , Sport, and Basecamp. Airstream is embracing the ideal of micro-living and it shows in their exceptional and growing lineup of small travel trailers.

The Bambi resembles a traditional Airstream in a much smaller format. I think the best part about this shrinking effort is that Airstream still manages to pack so much into a smaller space, while still retaining a sense of spaciousness in the design.

Inside, the Bambi looks like what you expect in an Airstream, with aluminum walls and overhead. Several adults will fit comfortably in the smallest Bambi model. The wet bath is a tight fit and probably the most constrained space in the entire package.

Everything else you’ll need for a long-term trip or boondocking out in the middle of nowhere is present. This includes the two-burner stove, a four-person dinette, a fridge and freezer, a large bed, a sink, and more than enough windows to light up the interior on a sunny day. Despite its small size, the Airstream Bambi is as comfortable as it gets.

A great way to research this camper is to check out some reviews from actual Bambi owners. This is how we learn about RVs too!

A great place to talk to actual Airstream Bambi owners is the private facebook group called BAMBI & CARAVEL AIRSTREAM OWNERS AND LOVERS . Just request to join the group and ask any questions you like!

Another great place to learn about Airstreams is Airstream Forums . Forums are a great place to ask questions and receive answers from actual Airstream owners.

3. Starcraft Super Lite Maxx

✅ The rear bathroom features a large corner tub/shower

⛔ It has a space-efficient but very ordinary layout

• Length: 20′ 7″
• UVW: 3,685 lbs
• GVWR: 4,995 lbs
• CCC: 1,130 lbs

The Starcraft Super Lite Maxx comes in four floorplans and they are all just as small as the model name implies. Don’t let the size fool you, however. These models are clearly designed with couples in mind and Starcraft did an outstanding job in such a small format.

We love The TuffShell fiberglass exterior is a highly resilient, vacuum-bonded, shell over an aluminum frame. It also comes with an enclosed, heated undercarriage for trips throughout the cold months. The focus of the Maxx clearly extends beyond what Starcraft can do with a small interior.

If you enjoy lounging outside, the Maxx has a lot to offer, including a hookup for a grill, a power awning, and wiring prep for a variety of outdoor peripherals.

Inside is standard fare, though it’s well made and arranged. The rear bathroom is a dry bath and it’s larger than the overall size of the camper suggests.

Residential vinyl flooring and the entire suite of entertainment and kitchen features are enough to turn this tiny space into a comfortable home away from home.

To obtain information about Starcraft campers, check out the Starcraft RV Owners Forum and the Starcraft Rv Owners private Facebook Group.

4. Jayco Jay Feather Micro

✅ Comes with an excellent outdoor Blackstone Griddle

⛔ Lacking in the window department

• Length: 19′ 7″
• UVW: 3,895 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 415 lbs

We are impressed with Jayco’s full pre-delivery inspections, which are a sign that Jayco is striving for quality out the door.

The Jay Feather Micro is a high-quality product in a tiny package. Though it’s a little larger than some of the other travel trailers under 5,000 lbs on this list, the design is an obvious play for couples or maybe one-child families.

There are several options available for the interior appliances, but all of the standard features a couple needs are included, such as theater seating and a surprising amount of counter space.

We really like all of the windows, and the overall interior aesthetic has that welcome home vibe that some RVs have difficulty replicating.

The Murphy Bed is a short queen but it’s perfect for expanding the space when not in use. We are seeing more travel trailer manufacturers than ever using Murphy Beds to maximize the floor space through this multi-functional feature.

Outside, the 11′ awning is more than enough to shade a small family, with pass-through storage and a Blackstone Griddle. Also, Jayco’s Azdel wall materials are highly rated for long-term durability and the Feather Micro comes with a two-year warranty (an additional year added on for structure).

Some great resources to help you find ratings, reviews, tips, and advice from Jayco trailer owners are the Jayco RV Owners Forum and the Jayco Feather Micro Owners Group , which is a private Facebook Group.

5. Keystone Passport Mini

✅ The HyperDeck high-performance, the water-resistant floor is excellent

⛔ Bunkhouse model feels a bit cramped, especially if you have all 6 sleepers

• Length: 21′ 5″
• UVW: 3,485 lbs
• GVWR: 4,825 lbs
• CCC: 1,340 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 425 lbs

Sleeping 6 and a Mini camper just don’t seem to mesh. However, the Keystone Passport Mini made it happen somehow, with plenty of room to spare.

There’s more than one floorplan here, but the above floorplan is the bunkhouse model, and you can see how much space is left over, even with a full house.

This is not an easy feat in travel trailers under 5000 lbs, and Keystone did make a few concessions. Fortunately, they are barely noticeable in a rig that contains a full dry bath, fridge, large sink, microwave, and stovetop across from a four-person dinette and TV.

There’s not much in the way of counter space, the result of doing the most within a small space. We think the storage options and cabinetry are more than adequate for six people.

The exterior awning is powered, and you also have access to pass-through storage, a 20-lb propane tank, and quick connections for solar panels. All of the exterior panels feature strong magnetic clasps.

To learn more about the Keystone Mini visit the private Facebook Group called Keystone Passport Trailer Owners . Another great resource is the Keystone RV Forum , where you can post questions and get answers from other Keystone Passport owners.

6. Winnebago Hike 100

✅ Thicker, high-insulation walls are excellent for thermal needs in the winter

⛔ Ventilation fan is definitely on the smaller side and doesn’t pull well

• Length: 15′ 11″
• UVW: 3,122 lbs
• GVWR: 4,200 lbs
• CCC: 1,078 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 576 lbs

The Winnegoago Hike 100 is one of the smallest campers on our list, yet it just doesn’t seem that way at all when you step inside.

I like the way Winnebago gets around the size limitations by making everything inside a flip or fold affair. The dual-opposing couches in the rear flip up and mount to the wall or fold completely out into a bed.

Meanwhile, you can pull an additional bed down from the overhead. The dinette flips up and down as well. Once everything flips up, we are surprised by the amount of standing room left in their wake.

The exterior is a similar arrangement, with flip-down tables and conveniently located storage panels that double as tables or counter space for a two-burner.

I love how the Winnebago Hike 100 becomes a pseudo-toy hauler, though you’re limited to things like bikes or large storage space for a ton of hiking gear.

Though the space is severely limited, there are several storage options we think are pretty nice as well. The wet bath features a cartridge toilet with a lid that rotates 90° when you need it out of the way.

To see what other Winnebago Hike owners are saying check out the Winnie Owners Forum and the Winnebago Hike & FLX RV Owners Group private Facebook group.

7. r-pod 180C

✅ Azdel exterior walls

⛔ Refrigerator that comes with it is small, even for a small travel trailer

• Length: 18′
• UVW: 3,447 lbs
• GVWR: 4,725 lbs
• CCC: 1,278 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 359 lbs

The R-pod is an interesting product. Forest River took the teardrop design, melded it with a slide-out, extended it just a bit, and ended up with the final product, which is a pretty fine example of what you can do in travel trailers under 5000 lbs.

The slide contains the entire galley, so it feels a little compressed, with the sink, overhead cabinets, two-burner stove top, and fridge all in the same space. However, we think it works well for an individual cooking some breakfast.

The queen bed takes up the entire front while the full, dry bath takes up the entire rear.

For those worried about leaks in RVs, the entire roof is a single, seamless piece and the entire RV is built around a powder-coated steel frame for superior durability.

We experienced a roof leak in our camper, and it was no fun! However, we think this roof will hold up well against leaks as long as you maintain it properly.

If you have a pet dog along for the ride, the exterior even includes a utility hook for a long leash so your pup can get some exercise and outdoor time.

The aerodynamic design is a fuel-saver on the highway and the r-pod is known for being easy to tow.

For more information from R-pod owners, check out the R-pod Owners Forum and the RPod 180 Owners private Facebook group.

8. Coleman Lantern LT 18BH

✅ Unique use of the cabinetry, providing ample stocking space that’s out of the way

⛔ Bathroom is nice but maybe a little cramped for some

• Length: 22′ 8″
• UVW: 3,585 lbs
• GVWR: 4,400 lbs
• CCC: 815 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 498 lbs
• Sleeps: 5 to 6

Coleman is a name often associated with mini-propane cylinders, burner stoves, and lanterns. However, the Coleman brand in the RV world is actually made by Dutchmen, owned by Thor Industries. We think the Coleman Lantern LT 18BH is a surprisingly exceptional small RV.

We really like the Murphy bed and the smart placement of the corner bunks, which optimize the interior living space.

The dinette folds into a sleeper as well, allowing for up to 6 sleepers if the Murphy and dinette sleepers are shared. This is a great feature if you have guests like grandkids camping with you for the weekend.

There’s plenty of counterspace considering the tiny space and also plenty of cabinetry.

We are surprised that they even managed to cram a 10.7 ft³ fridge into the limited space. Even the corner bathroom is surprisingly large.

Outside, you get pass-through storage, a power tongue jack, a 20-lb LP tank, solar hookups, an exterior GFCI outlet, and galvanized wheel wells.

You may not know that Coleman is owned by Dutchmen RV so check out the Dutchmen RV Forum for lots of great info. And you can also join the Coleman lantern lt 18bh private Facebook group where you can post your questions and get answers from owners of the Coleman Lantern LT 18BH!

9. Lance 1575

✅ Lance 1575s come equipped with “situational” lighting, which is great for mood and ambiance.

⛔ The closet next to the fridge has no shelves and is designed like a bedroom closet. Weird.

• Length: 20′ 5″
• UVW: 3,590 lbs
• GVWR: 4,600 lbs
• CCC: 1,010 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 350 lbs

The Lance 1575 is the shortest name on our list of travel trailers under 5000 lbs, but it packs quite a punch all the same. The single slide is enough to turn this mini camper into a spacious home, especially for small families and couples.

The interior is heavy on the rich, honey-colored wood vibe, which people seem to either love or hate, but we think it looks rich and luxurious. The dual-pane skylight in the bathroom offers plenty of light, lifting that claustrophobic feel of a tiny bathroom.

We love the three-burner stove, since most RVs this size come with two-burners, the 21″ oven, and a 5 ft³ fridge.

The walls are insulated and rest on an aluminum frame, with a one-piece PVC roof to minimize or eliminate leaks. The outdoor washing station is a nice touch for those who like to camp on the beach or spend a ton of time outdoors.

We think the coolest feature is the situational lighting, which you can change to match the mood indoors or out.

A great place to ask Lance owners about this model is to visit Lance Owners of America . This forum is a great place to converse with Lance camper owners.

Another great place to learn about Lance campers from people who own them is in the private Facebook group called Lance 1475 & 1575 Owners .

10. Coachmen Clipper 18DBS

✅ Jumbo pass-through storage is plenty large, along with a variety of storage options inside

⛔ Despite the storage size and options, the CCC is limited

• Length: 23′
• UVW: 3,919 lbs
• GVWR: 4,900 lbs
• CCC: 981 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 500 lbs

The Coachmen Clipper 18DBS is a deceptively lengthy but lightweight travel trailer. Though the exterior looks pretty much like a standard-fare camper, it includes an exterior shower, an LED electric awning, a mini fridge, pass-through storage, a 20-lb propane tank (with room for a 30-lb version), and an exterior kitchen with the included grill.

The interior offers some surprises of its own. These include a Murphy bed, a very large U-shaped dinette couch, and tons of small cabinets everywhere. Susan has a great eye for organization and she thinks it would be fun to get creative with all of the little cabinets.

There are also some convenient closets for extra clothes storage or a neat little pantry conversion if that’s what floats your boat. The bathroom won’t blow you away but it’s a dry bath and large enough for all of your bathroom needs.

To learn more about the Coachmen Clipper check out the Coachmen Clipper & Viking Travel Trailer Owners Group , which is a private Facebook group full of Coachmen trailer owners. The Coachmen Owners Club is a great forum to learn more as well.

11. Scamp 16′

✅ Nearly invulnerable, waterproof bubble, fiberglass powerhouse of an RV

⛔ Scamps are very limited in the storage options

• Length: 16′
• UVW: 2,200 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 250 lbs

The Scamp , like the Oliver, is a niche camper that’s primarily a fiberglass-fused egg on wheels. In other words, it’s robust, highly durable, and stands out. You can roll one of these things down a mountain and it will probably be just fine once the dust settles at the bottom.

Scamp has been around a long time and we feel that the interior looks like a camper from the 1960’s. But Scamp feels that they have a great product so why change it. And they are right!

The Scamp 16′ is a variation of a small number of floorplans and, if you like the Oliver up above, you’ll love the Scamp for all of the same reasons. To save and maximize space, just about everything inside is convertible, flips, or folds in some way.

There are two floorplans included above just so you can have an idea how flexible these campers are.

The outdoor shower is a nice touch for those looking to go off-grid, especially since some of the floor plans don’t include an interior one. Wet baths are the only kind you’ll find, however, no matter what floorplan you go with.

The Scamp is a very interesting travel trailer that can take a beating and is usually reserved by those who belong to a small but hardcore group of fans. However, Scamp fans tell us they love their camper for many reasons, all of which are completely valid.

Some great places to find first hand information about Scamp Trailers are Scamp Trailers Testimonials , Scamp Owners International , and the private Facebook group called Scamp Travel Trailers .

12. Grand Design Imagine 15RB

✅ Nice shoe storage option directly under the booth seat adjacent to the door!

⛔ Only sells at partnered dealerships and are priced a little higher than comparable brand/models

• Length: 19′ 11″
• UVW: 3,594 lbs
• GVWR: 4,795 lbs
• CCC: 1,201 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 378 lbs

Last but not least on our list of travel trailers under 5000 lbs is the Grand Design Imagine 15RB . This slick little travel trailer includes a power awning with an LED strip, an entire outdoor kitchen, and pass-through storage with a grip surface.

It may sound like a silly feature but Grand Design was so meticulous in their design strategy for this model that they even included a little shoe cubby to the left of the entranceway. The cubby is nestled into the back of one of the bench seats on the dinette, revealing Grand Design’s effort to pack comfort and convenience into a tight package.

The inside also includes plenty of living space, with interesting LED lighting that runs along the horizontal seams in the overhead. There is a ton of cabinetry on either side of the front-end couch. The couch folds out into a queen-sized Murphy bed, which is very well hidden when not in use.

The kitchen is spacious, with lots of storage options, a sizeable fridge, and a two-burner stovetop. The dry bath takes up the rear of the RV and is large enough for plenty of movement without banging shoulders with the wall.

We have heard for years that Grand Design had excellent customer service. Lately however, we have been hearing that Grand Design is slipping a bit in this department. We think it’s probably because they sold so many campers during Covid they can’t keep up with customer service any more.

The Grand Design Owners Forum , and the Grand Design Imagine Owners (OFFICIAL) private Facebook Group are great places to ask Grand design owners questions about their experience with Grand Design trailers.

Advantages of Travel Trailers Under 5000 Lbs

Before you settle on which trailer to purchase you will have a lot to consider. One of the most important things to decide on is the size and weight of your trailer. There are benefits to getting a small and large trailer. Here we will look at some of the advantages of purchasing one of the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs.

Easy to Tow

Firstly, it is incredibly easy to tow a travel trailer under 5000 lbs. Most trucks and vehicles will be able to pull a trailer of this size and weight.

With a lot of travel trailers, you will need to purchase a tow vehicle as well because the vehicle you already own cannot pull it. However, with a travel trailer under 5000 pounds there is a much smaller chance that you will need to do this.

Inexpensive

Price is always a factor when it comes to purchasing a travel trailer, RV, or camper. After all, these are always big financial commitments. However, when you purchase one of these travel trailers under 5000 lbs you will not need to pay as much as you would with a larger option.

Most of these trailers are sold for under $30,000 which is a big improvement from the larger options which can sometimes cost upwards of $50,000. So, if finances are a big factor for you, you should consider one of the cheaper options.

Great Floor Plans

Another great part about these lightweight trailers is that they have great floor plans. Part of what makes them lighter is that they do not have as many things cluttering up the area. As a result, the manufacturers can get more creative with the floor plans. So, you should be able to find one that is perfect for you.

Lots of Storage

Despite their smaller size, you do not need to worry about storage with most of these trailers. They still have all the storage you need. You will be able to pack almost anything you want in one of these lightweight trailers.

Additionally, since they are already lightweight you can get away with packing extra. Even with all the extra gear you probably will not need to worry about weight restrictions.

Maneuverability

Finally, maneuverability is a big factor for all travel trailers, RVs, and campers. Traveling with a trailer can be challenging for someone inexperienced because certain roads are not great for trailers.

Larger trailers can not go down certain passageways, and some roads are too dangerous for large vehicles. As a result, you may not be able to go to certain areas with a large trailer. However, when you purchase a travel trailer under 5000 lbs you will not have this issue.

You will be able to drive down most roads, and you can pass over almost all bridges. As a result, you will not be restricted on which campgrounds you can stay at.

Should I Buy an Extended Warranty for My Camper?

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

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

You can read all about why we bought a warranty through Wholesale Warranties for several reasons:

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

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

How to Handle Visitors in a Camper Under 5,000 Lbs

The main reason a camper weighs less than 5,000 lbs is because it is small. Like under 25′ long. So how do you handle guests who come along for a camping trip?

Susan and I RV alone for the most part but every now and then our adult children and our grandkids come along for some camping fun.

We do a few things to accommodate our guests and we hope some of our tips help you out too.

First of all, the dinette in a small camper will be small too. So we suggest you eat outside as often as possible to make sure everyone has enough elbow room.

Second, you may not have enough bed space to sleep 6 people. We use an air mattress on the floor to create extra sleeping capacity. If you have kids or grandkids, you could even pitch a tent outside and let the kids sleep there. I guarantee they will love it!

And finally, you will probably find that the bathroom is not adequate for more than a couple people. So we suggest you encourage everyone to use the campground bathrooms for showering etc.

Final Thoughts About the Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs

Travel trailers under 5000 lbs make up a large portion of the RV community. They are a nice balance between size and weight. There are lots of floor plans to fit everyone’s needs.

We hope you like our list of the 12 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs. If you have a small pickup truck or a large SUV these travel trailers may be perfect for you! And, they all have full bathrooms too!

Do you own a travel trailer under 5000 lbs? Let us know what model you chose and why in the comments.

Related Reading:

– 17 Best Used Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs – 12 Questions To Ask When Buying A New Camper – What’s The Average Discount When Buying An RV Through Costco? – 7 Best Travel Trailers Under 4000 lbs – 30 Must Have RV Accessories For A New Camper Or Travel Trailer

About the Author :

Mike Scarpignato is an avid RVer and outdoorsman. He travels with his wife Susan in their Class A 2021 Thor Challenger and their Class C 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest. Mike is the owner of RVBlogger.com , TravelTrailerPro.com , MotorhomeFAQs.com , the RVBlogger YouTube Channel , and the private Facebook group called RV Camping for Newbies .

1 thought on “12 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs: 2024 Models”

Looking for a rv under 5000 lbs to be towed by my Toyota FJ Cruiser

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Camper Outdoor

All about RVs & Campers

30 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 5000 Lbs Review 2023

In this article, we included a review of the best RV manufacturers and selected some of the best floorplans for lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs that we have for 2022 and 2023. We review the specifications of some of the best 10 brands of travel trailers on the market today , with very different floorplans. We discuss trailer models for all tastes: ultra lite travel trailers under 5,000 lbs for couples, floorplans with bunk beds, single side-out or no slide-out, full dry baths, outdoor kitchens, starting prices, etc. And all options of lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs. We will also differentiate between GVWR and dry weight (UVW) options. Let’s move on!

In alphabetical order, we will see the following brands of travel trailers with recommended floorplans for couples, families, and friends. Some of our favorite manufacturers for their excellent quality RVs, such as Grand Design RV, were excluded only because we focus on the weight of travel trailers under 5000 lbs.

• Forest River
• Highland Ridge
• Riverside RV

We reviewed floorplans of campers perfect for couples and travel trailers with bunk beds, including affordable, spacious, and lightweight campers under 5000 lbs.

Let’s see the Review with the Best Ultra Lite Travel Trailers Under 5,000 lbs for 2023 (GVWR and UVW). Specifications. Walkthrough Videos and Floorplans.

Table of Contents

Airstream Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs  – Bambi & Caravel

Particularly, I am not a fan of Airstream because I prefer travel trailers with slide-outs and more space inside, and I am not a fan of the stainless-steel interior. The more space, the better. But I must admit that the attractive shiny, silver, metal exterior with those classic retro camper rounded lines is very appealing.

Many of our RVer readers definitely prefer to pay more for the distinctive design that Airstream travel trailers offer. So, we have included some floorplans of the Bambi and Caravel travel trailer models of 5000 lbs GVWR or less.

Below you will find the differences in the specifications of the 2023 Airstream Bambi and Caravel models with the lightweight travel trailer options.

• Airstream 2023 Bambi 19CB
• Airstream 2023 Bambi 20FB
• Airstream 2023 Bambi 22FB
• Airstream 2023 Caravel 19CB
• Airstream 2023 Caravel 20FB
• Airstream 2023 Caravel 22FB

The Airstream Caravel and Bambi units appear quite similar in weight and length. Both weight and length are key when deciding to purchase a travel trailer. We must be sure if it is possible to tow the travel trailer, and this relates to the GVWR, which is the equivalent of the weight of the travel trailer when the manufacturer ships it, plus the interior weight added when we use it (also known as cargo or maximum load capacity).

Regarding the length of the travel trailer, this directly impacts the maneuverability we will give to our towing vehicle along with the attached travel trailer.

In general, for travel trailers under 5000 lbs GVWR, we do not have to worry much about the length since, usually, ultra lite travel trailers are under 25 feet, generally about 20 feet (small travel trailers and ultra lite, with some exceptions on the market).

While the external appearance of the units, floorplans, and specifications of the Airstream Caravel and Bambi are quite similar, the starting price is significantly different between the lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs 19CB, 20FB, 22FB Caravel, and Bambi, with prices of $74,000 and $59,300, respectively.

Below you can see the floorplans of the 2023 Caravel 19CB, 20FB, and 22FB models, all lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs GVWR, with better construction details and finishes than those found on the 2023 Bambi 19CB, 20FB, and 22FB models .

The following chart summarizes details we want to highlight about the weight specification and exterior length of the selected Airstream floorplans for Ultra Lite Travel Trailers under 5,000 lbs.

In terms of the weight specifications of the Airstream floorplans selected for this review, there are no major differences, and they are all lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs (and precisely 5000 lbs GVWR) with only a few inches difference in length.

Although capable of sleeping up to 4 people, due to their limited interior space, the 19CB, 20FB, and 22FB Airstream Caravel and Airstream Bambi floorplans are a great choice for couples looking for maneuverable and lightweight travel trailers.

Walkthrough Video 2023 Airstream Caravel 22FB

If you are into the retro camper style that offers Airstream, the 2023 Caravel 22FB is one of the Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs for 2023.

Here is a Walkthrough Video 2023 Airstream Caravel 22FB.

Let’s move on to our next selection. Forest River’s brands.

Forest River Options: Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs with Bunk Beds or Just for Couples for 2023

Let’s see Forest River Trailers Under 5,000 Lbs. In this search for the best lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs , we selected several floorplans. Forest River’s Rockwood Geo Pro and Flagstaff E-Pro brands offer several reasonably short, lightweight, and versatile travel trailer floorplans under 5000 lbs with and without bunk beds under 22 feet.

• Rockwood Geo Pro G20FBS: Ultra lite Travel Trailer for Couples
• Rockwood Geo Pro G20BHS: Travel Trailer Under 5000 lbs with Bunk Beds
• Flagstaff E-Pro E19FDS: Lightweight Travel Trailer for Couples
• Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH: Travel Trailer Under 5000 lbs with Bunk Beds

The following chart summarizes the weight specification and exterior length of the selected Forest River Trailers Under 5,000 Lbs.

The 2023 Rockwood Geo Pro G20FBS and Rockwood Geo Pro G20BHS models have very similar specification weights and dimensions. Also, the floorplans are similar, with the main difference being the sleeping capacity.

The 2023 Rockwood Geo Pro G20FBS is one of the best lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs for couples on the current market. As you can see in the floor plan below, at the right of the entry door is a full-size bed (54” x 74”) with enough space to walk around. Across is a kitchen fully equipped to the right and a large sofa in the single side-out with a comfortable TV view. The rear full dry bath has a foot flushable toilet, a walk-in shower with fabric curtains, a skylight, a vent system, and a hand basin with over-the-head cabinets around. Also, a griddle kitchen is outside a 14-ft long awning, and three exterior storage compartments. The 2023 Geo Pro G20FBS offers a great floor plan for couples.

The main difference between the Geo Pro G20FBS and G20BHS is the Geo Pro G20FBS travel trailer has double bunk beds. That allows for increasing the sleeping capacity at the cost of a considerable reduction in the interior space of the bathroom, which lacks a hand basin in the camper. The full-size bed loses the walk-around space we mentioned in the Geo Pro G20FBS model. And the slide-out is larger, resulting in a slide-out booth dinette.

Next, let’s review the 2023 Flagstaff E-Pro E19FDS and Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH which are excellent travel trailer options under 5000 lbs.

Again, in this review, we include one of the best under 5000 lbs campers for couples we currently have on the market, the 2023 Flagstaff E-Pro E19FDS travel trailer. Unlike the Rockwood Geo Pro G20FBS, the Flagstaff E-Pro E19FDS is a travel trailer with a Murphy bed (full size 54′ x 74″) that allows for comfortable sleeping at night and easily exposes a 72″ long couch during the day. The kitchen is extended in the single slide-out. The opposite is a booth dinette with a 32” TV. The entire rear of the trailer is occupied by the large dry bathroom that is fully equipped. Outside, the E-Pro E19FDS is equipped with a griddle outdoors, four exterior compartments, and a 14-foot-long awning.

The Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH offers a floorplan completely different and one of the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs that sleep up to 4. This camper is great for camping with your family. The Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH starting price is $36,943 (MSRP), and the sale price is about $29,980, depending on many factors.

When you’re done eating, playing games, or watching TV, the Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH travel trailer provides sleeping room for four between the 30″x74″ bunk beds in the back and the 54″x82″ bed made from the U-shaped dinette up front. The single slide-out with the stove, microwave, and 12V refrigerator will also provide the chef with a bit extra floor room.

Everyone will feel refreshed after using the big bathroom, and storage space is throughout the room for your possessions. Don’t forget to use the external storage compartments while loading the outdoor gear, the outdoor griddle for cooking, and the 12′ power awning when seeking shade from the sun. Also, the E-Pro E16BH is a great choice for those looking for a bunkhouse travel trailer under 20 feet .

Walkthrough Video 2023 Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH Travel Trailer with Bunk Beds

Enjoy this Walkthrough Video 2023 Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH Travel Trailer with Bunk Beds .

2023 Highland Ridge Range Lite Air Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs GVWR

Range Lite Air Travel Trailers made by Highland Ridge offers two recommended floorplans for 2023: 2023 Range Lite Air 16FBS travel trailer for couples (starting price $37,929 MSRP) and Range Lite Air 17BH travel trailer with bunk beds (starting price $35,829 MSRP). Both options reviewed are travel trailers under 5000 lbs GVWR and only 20 feet of exterior length.

Jayco Options for the Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs GVWR

Now, we have four floorplans by Jayco as great options for couples and families to decide between these amazing lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs GVWR.

Jay Flight SLX and Jay Feather Micro travel trailers are Jayco’s models offering ultra lite and small trailers under 20-25 feet travel trailer options.  

If you are looking for a lightweight travel trailer under 30 feet , the 2023 Jay Feather Micro 166FBS is our recommendation. It is a fully equipped versatile travel trailer under 5000 lbs GVWR with a good maneuverable length of under 30 feet.

If you want a bunkhouse, check out the 360-Tour of the 2023 Jay Feather Micro 171BH travel trailer with a bunk bed under 5000 lbs.

Keystone RV: New Best Travel Trailer Floorplans for 2023

We took two floorplans of Keystone’s 2023 Hideout Travel trailers to recommend as lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs .

Our recommendations include the 2023 Hideout 176BH with a bunkhouse (sleeping capacity: up to 6) and the 2023 Hideout 179RB for couples and visitors (sleeping capacity: up to 4).

Both floorplans are very similar, with a booth dinette-slide-out and a queen size bed in the front of the camper. Mostly, the arrangement differs to accommodate the rear double bunk beds. Also, both campers are under 22 feet, which is great for maneuvering . The starting price of these floorplans is about $ 27,390.

2023 Hideout 179RB Travel Trailer:  check out the 360-Tour

2023 Hideout 176BH Travel Trailer: check out the 360-Tour by clicking this link.

Keystone surprises us with an explosive increase in floorplans for all types of towing RVs . If you visit the Keystone RV site , I am sure you will find a floorplan with just what you want! Keystone’s quality is great, so we included them in this review. Plus, we give them extra credit for building a great website that works perfectly with many filters that allow you to easily navigate and find what you want before contacting a dealer. Well done, Keystone!

Here are a few more floorplans we recommend checking out if you are looking for the best ultra lite travel trailers under 5,000 lbs ( both dry weight and GVWR).

KZ RV Floorplans Under 5000 lbs GVWR

The 2023 Escape E211RB and E231BH campers manufactured by KZ RV offer two great floorplans for couples (Escape E211RB) and families (Escape E231BH) of lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs (GVWR).

Both floorplans are similar, with a front queen size bed, a rear full dry bathroom, and a kitchen and sofa placed in the single slide-out.

The KZ RV 2023Escape E231BH is also a great option for couples looking for their first RV for full-time living .

More Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs to Consider (and to NOT Consider!)

Let’s see a few more campers under 5000 lbs. All these below are travel trailers with very different floorplans. Let’s review Solaire Ultra Lite 208SS, 2023 Sonic Lite SL169VUD, and Winnebago Mini Minnie travel trailers and see which ones are recommended and which one is definitely not recommended.

Palomino has the 2022 Solaire Ultra Lite 208SS, a great option for those not looking for bunk beds. Let’s be honest; bunk beds are no longer comfortable when kids grow up. Plus, they may not be with you on every trip. So, it wastes the space you need to be comfortable.

I do believe Solaire Ultra Lite 208SS is a great floorplan for couples looking for an RV for full-time living and a great balance between a moderate exterior length and weight. For all that, we highly recommend the Solaire Ultra Lite 208SS as one of the best lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs (UVW dry weight) and less than 25 feet long. We expect to see specifications and floor plans updated for 2023 from Palomino.

Venture 2023 Sonic Lite SL169VUD travel trailer (starting price: $28,000) is another great option, with a sleeping capacity of up to 4 people and an exterior structure under 22 feet. As you can see below in the floorplan, the 2023 Sonic Lite SL169VUD travel trailer is equipped with an outdoor griddle kitchen outside , a pass-thru storage compartment, and a 13 feet electrical awning.

This SL169VUD travel trailer under 5000 lbs has a front 60” x 75” bed, a booth dinette slide-out, and a rear full dry bath next to the double bunk beds. The interior space is incredibly well utilized. It is a great option at an attractive price if you are looking for a travel trailer with bunk beds and an outdoor kitchen, ultra lite, and easy to maneuver.

Finally, one of the options we reviewed by request of our readers, but we definitely don’t recommend it. Let’s review the Mini Minnie 1700BH.

Winnebago has a lot of fans. For Winnebago’s fans, the Mini Minnie 1700BH is a good option for those looking for a camper under 5000 lbs with bunk beds. A divider curtain may offer some privacy to the front bed. Although this camper includes a dry bath, it is not a full bath (no hand basin). The bunk beds are shorter than usual.

Many readers keep asking us to review the Winnebago, especially the Mini Minnie floorplans. As for comfort, consider that this is a camper without slide-outs. So expect something accordingly. The interior spaces are quite cramped and are not compensated with a longer trailer length. This is a 21 feet long travel trailer. The finish of the furniture and materials seems a bit cheap. Actually, we don’t think that this floorplan presents any advantage over the campers reviewed in this article. Also, if we compare the starting price of about $37,000, you will definitely pay more for less comfort. That’s our humble opinion.

We try to review floorplans currently on the market, including the 2023 models already on sale with dealers. We hope our selection of the 30 best lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs (GVWR and dry weight) will help you find your RV.

If you are about to buy , we recommend you review our article What to Know Before Buying an RV PDI Checklist .

About John Smith

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

11 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs – Video Tours, Pics + Floor Plans!

There are plenty of reasons to want a travel trailer under 5000 lbs. What’s yours?

• Do you want a little more comfort than tent camping but aren’t ready to buy a huge towing vehicle?
• Maybe you want an ultralight travel trailer to maximize MPGs on long road trips?
• Or maybe your budget doesn’t allow for both kids and a luxurious class A motorhome? And, well…since you’ve already got the kids, you’ve got to settle for a more reasonable travel trailer the family SUV can tow.

Whatever your reasons are, I’ve got you covered with this list of some of the best travel trailers under 5,000 lbs. There’s something here for everybody—whether you’re looking for a minimalist trailer a large car can tow or a rugged RV that’s ready to go off the beaten path. 

Before delving into the list of the best lightweight travel trailers, it’s important to first consider your priorities.

Table of Contents

What Are Your Priorities When Choosing a Lightweight Travel Trailer?

So aside from the weight, what are the main things you’re looking for in an RV under 5,000 pounds? Here are a few questions that can help you decide.

• How many people will be staying in the RV? Just you and your partner? Or will the kids/grandkids/a few dogs be coming along from time to time?
• Where do you want to go with your camper? Across the country? To campgrounds in your local area? National parks? Back roads? Dirt roads? Off the grid? Everywhere!!?
• How long will you be staying in your RV? Mostly long weekends? Maybe 2 weeks or more?
• Do you need space for hauling other gear? Bikes, kayaks, camping furniture, etc.?
• Do you prefer cooking and eating in your travel trailer or outside under an awning?
• What features are most likely to annoy you over time? A super cramped bathroom? A tiny kitchen? A bed that doesn’t let you spread out?
• Do you prefer a smaller camper and better gas mileage or do you want the biggest travel trailer your vehicle can tow?

The fact is, you’ll probably have to make some compromises with a 5,000-lb travel trailer. Don’t expect a bathtub, queen-size bed, gigantic kitchen, and an espresso bar to fit in a travel trailer that weighs less than 5,000 pounds. (Although you’ll be surprised what they fit in some of these options!)

That’s why it’s important to determine your priorities. Let’s say you want a bathroom with plenty of space. Then maybe you can deal with a smaller kitchen as long as your RV has a decent size toilet and shower.

*If you’re #1 priority is the bathroom, don’t miss my article 11 Best Small RVs With a Shower and Toilet (Pics + Floor Plans) .

Another thing that’s important to understand before selecting a travel trailer is all the weight terms.

How to Understand Travel Trailer Weight Terms

So what are all these acronyms anyway? UVW, GVRW, CCC… it sounds like a list of secret government agencies, right!?

Let’s have a quick look at these terms. 

UVW: Unloaded Vehicle Weight

The UVW or unloaded vehicle weight is…drum roll please…the weight of an unloaded travel trailer! Amazing! LOL! It’s also sometimes referred to as the “dry weight”. Basically, it’s the travel trailer as it comes from the factory before you add propane, water, accessories, suitcases, snacks, and maple syrup. 

What this means for you: If you’re looking for a 5,000-lb travel trailer, you’ll need to find one with a UVW or dry weight that’s less than 5,000 pounds. 

Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC)

The CCC or cargo carrying capacity is the maximum permitted weight of the cargo you load up in your trailer. That will include accessories, fuel, water, camping supplies, passengers, etc. Oh, and of course maple syrup!

GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

The GVWR or gross vehicle weight rating is the maximum permitted weight of the RV. Basically, it’s the combined weight of the CCC and the UVW. This is an important figure to look for when searching for the best travel trailer under 5,000 lbs.  

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)

The GCWR or gross combined weight rating (say that 5 times fast, I dare you!) is the maximum allowable weight of both your vehicle and trailer. This includes all the weight of what you’ve got loaded in your towing vehicle (passengers, coolers, suitcases, firewood), plus your trailer and everything in it. Check for this on the inside of your vehicle’s door frame or in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Those four are some of the most common terms to look for when searching for a lightweight camper trailer. 

Another question you might have is what kind of vehicle do I need to tow the travel trailers on this list?

What Kind of Vehicle Can Tow a Travel Trailer Under 5,000 lbs?

Most mid-size and full-size trucks with 6-cylinder engines or bigger have at least a 5,000-lb towing capacity. Still, before spending money on an RV, it’s best to double-check. 

It’s really important to check the towing capacity of your vehicle if it’s an SUV, small or mid-size truck, minivan, crossover, or large car. Its towing capacity can vary by several thousand pounds depending on the trim level, tow package, and engine size. 

Just as an example…2WD models of the Honda Pilot can tow up to 3,500 pounds. But the AWD models are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. That’s why it’s important to check!

So if you haven’t done so already, get out your owner’s manual or do a quick search online and get the towing capacity for the exact vehicle you plan to tow your RV with. 

Find that you need something even lighter than 5,000 lbs? Then check out these two articles:

• 11 Cool Travel Trailers Under 2000 lbs | Video Tours!
• 13 Best Travel Trailers Under 3500 lbs (2022) Video Tours + Pics

Now I’m sure you’re anxious to get to the list of travel trailers under 5,000 lbs, so here you go.

List of the 11 Top Travel Trailers That Weigh Under 5,000 lbs

Please keep in mind that these are not ranked from best to worst or prettiest to ugliest. The best camper under 5,000 lbs for you will depend on your needs, budget, and vehicle. Choose one that works for you and then get out there and enjoy the outdoors!

IMPORTANT! There are soooo many different models and variations of these trailers, it’ll make your head spin. For some on this list, I do feature a specific model for specific situations (just couples, couples with kids, people who prefer big bathrooms, etc.). And for others, I’ll direct you to a specific model line of travel trailers with several options under 5,000 pounds. 

Let’s get started with an iconic travel trailer, the Airstream!

1. Airstream Bambi Travel Trailer

Source: Airstream.com

Classic Airstream design in a smaller package.

Pros : All of the models in the Bambi line have a GVWR of 5,000 pounds or less.

Cons : A little pricey with the 2023 Bambi starting at $59,300.

Enjoy the iconic Airstream travel trailers with everything people enjoy about the bigger ones, just in a compact package. The Bambi models have the same curved aluminum design and attention to detail as their bigger brothers. 

The Airstream Bambi comes in four different lengths from 16-22 feet. All are one axle and come in at under 5,000 pounds. The shortest 16-feet long model has a GVWR of just 3,500 pounds. That means you can even tow it with a Subura Outback (as long as it has the 2.4L turbo engine).

All of the floor plans make nice use of space. Each one – including the short 16’ model – has dedicated sleeping areas. That means they have a bed, that’s always a bed – no need to disassemble a dining table or flip open a couch in order to hit the sack.

Wanna learn more? Check out the official Airstream video tour .

2. Airstream Basecamp

A modern, adventurous take on a classic.

Pros: Excellent choice for adventures on the go. It’s small and rugged enough to visit areas off the beaten path while still providing needed comfort.

Cons: The 16 is best for couples since it only has one sleeping area. Go with the 20 if you have kids. 

If you like the freedom to take on some dirt roads and dispersed camping, the Airstream Basecamp and Basecamp X are really nice choices. Just like the classic Airstreams, the Basecamps are really well-built with lots of have practical features.

For example, the Basecamp, in addition to the side entry door, has a rear hatch you can open for easy gear storage. Just open it up and slide in skis, bikes, and even a kayak or two. 

Even the smallest 16-foot models come with a wet bath, galley, and large seating area. The Basecamp 20 has an additional seating area that converts to a bed for a small child or two. 

Source: Airstream.com .

If you need a more rugged version, go with the Basecamp X. It’s got a 3” lift, more rugged tires, and an increased departure angle to handle rougher roads.

And fortunately, the basecamp is designed to be towed by SUVs and small trucks. Even the largest Basecamp 20X has a GVWR of just 4,300 pounds. 

Check out the official Basecamp video tour .

3. Little Guy Mini Max

Source: golittleguy.com

It’s amazing what they fit in this tiny trailer.

Pros: Has an ultralight dry weight of just 2,320 pounds. But you still get a wet bath, microwave, 5.0 cu. ft. refrigerator, and tons of natural light with the stargazer window.

Cons: Probably a bit too small for couples with kids.

It’s amazing how much they’ve managed to fit in this ultralight travel trailer. In addition to the dinette area, which converts into a bed, the kitchenette with a sink, stove, and microwave, it also has a surprisingly roomy wetbath. 

There are plenty of windows and natural light which make it seem less claustrophobic inside. There’s even an optional stargazer window above the dinette/bed that lets in even more natural light. 

With a dry weight of 2,320 pounds and a GVWR of 3,500 pounds, this is a great travel trailer for couples with a small towing vehicle 

Check out the video tour .

4. Oliver Legacy Elite

Source: olivertraveltrailers.com

Luxury features in a compact and well-built trailer.

Pros: Surprisingly comfortable for such a small travel trailer. Nice for RVing in the colder months thanks to its double-hulled fiberglass shell.

Cons: 2022 models start at $57,000, but they do come standard with a lot of nice options.

If you want a travel trailer under 5,000-lbs with a luxurious feel, you’ll love the Oliver Legacy Elite. With just a quick look at the exterior, you might mistake its fiberglass construction for one of the more popular fiberglass travel trailers like the Casita or Scamp. 

But take a closer look and you’ll see the difference. The Oliver Legacy Elite was designed to be durable, easy to use, and super comfortable. It’s well-lit, both inside and out, with most of the interior lamps being touch-activated. Even the closets and upper molded fiberglass storage have interior lighting!

Little details, like the dovetailed birch drawers with soft-close hinges and a residential-style thermostat to control the furnace and A/C make the Oliver Legacy Elite feel more like a home and less like an RV.

Check out the official video tour here .

Quick Insider Tip for Choosing Your New Lightweight Camper

Seeing an ultralight RV’s video tour or checking it out for a few minutes at an RV show is one thing. Actually camping in it for a few days is another. This is especially true if you’ve never camped before in a small travel trailer.

That’s why I HIGHLY suggest renting before buying.  RVshare is a really nice option for doing that.

RVshare lets you search for RVs by location and type or even search for a specific model. That way you can truly test drive a small RV before actually buying it and realizing you should’ve stuck with tent camping (or need to get a bigger trailer and towing vehicle).

5. KZ Sportsmen Classic Ultra Lightweight Camper Trailer

Source: kz-rv.com

A wide variety of lightweight options to fit your needs.

Pro: From tiny trailers with outdoor kitchens to longer toy haulers, every single one has a GVWR of 5,000 pounds or less.

Con: Its lightweight construction and budget-friendly price mean it’s not as rugged and durable as the more expensive options.

If you’re looking for options that provide the utility and space your family needs without breaking the bank, check out the KZ Sportsmen Classic Ultra Lightweight line of trailers. 

There are tons of different floor plans to choose from. If you’re a couple looking for a step up from a teardrop style trailer, go with the short 100RK. It’s got a queen size bed inside and an interior height of over 6’. Then on the backside, there’s a truck door that opens for access to an exterior kitchen with a sink and refrigerator. This one’s nice for small SUVs since the UVW is only 1,770 pounds!

On the other end of the spectrum, you’ve got options like the 190BH complete with a queen bed, linen closet, bathroom, and bunk beds for the kids. And there are also two toy hauler options for active family adventures.

Check out the video tour for the 181BH model .

6. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 7

Source: jayco.com

Nice variety of floor plans that make excellent use of space.

Pros: Nice selection of floor plans for families with kids. Some even feature queen size beds, bunk beds, a bathroom with tub, and a dinette that converts to another bed.

Cons: Build quality is on par with other budget-friendly ultra-lightweight RVs.

Jayco has really packed a lot into the floor plans on these travel trailers. I mean… an 18-foot model with a large dinette/bed, bunk beds, plus a bathroom with an actual tub? Albeit, a small tub…but a tub!

These are some really nice options if you’ll be camping with your kids or grandkids but don’t have the vehicle to pull a longer RV. 

Check out the video tour of the 195RB model .

7. Scamp Trailers

Source: scamptrailers.com

Tiny, simple, classic fiberglass travel trailers.

Pros: Simple, inexpensive, and lightweight. Even some 13’ models are available with a small wetbath.

Cons: Interiors look a little dated, even on the newer models. Just think of it as slightly retro.

No list of lightweight travel trailers would be complete without the classic Scamp molded fiberglass RVs. Depending on the configuration, they start at about 1,200 pounds for the 13-foot models. That means even some well-equipped crossovers can tow one!

Only the largest 19-foot fifth-wheel models have a full-time bed. All the other models have a dinette that converts into a bed. One of the really convenient features of even the shortest Scamp trailers is that they’re available with a wetbath. It’s small, but that’s not common to find on such small travel trailers. 

Check out this video tour from a couple who lives full-time in a 16-ft Scamp trailer.

8. Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer 17FQS

Source: coachmenrv.com

A great first trailer for couples. 

Pros: It’s got a huge bathroom for such a small trailer. And with the dinette slideout, there’s plenty of space to move around inside.

Cons: Not a lot of countertop space in the kitchen.

If you’ll mostly be camping as a couple and prefer a space that feels more like home and less like a travel trailer, this Coachmen Clipper 17FQS is a sold choice. 

Unlike most 20’ RVs, this actually has a comfortably sized bathroom that’s probably bigger than a lot of apartment bathrooms. You don’t need to be a contortionist in order to get in the shower or sit on the toilet. And the vanity has enough space for a coffee pot! (See the video tour)

And the GVWR is well below 5,000 pounds at just 4,251 pounds!

Check out the video tour here .

9. Winnebago HIKE

Source: winnebago.com

Built for the adventurer.

Pros: It’s built for rough roads and easy adventure gear storage. The unique exoskeleton makes it really easy to strap outdoor gear like kayaks and bikes to the outside.

Cons: With an interior width of less than 7 feet, it’s narrower than most other trailers of the same length.

If your RVing adventures take you from the local campground to long dirt roads, the Winnebago HIKE is the lightweight RV for you. 

The first thing you’ll notice is the exoskeleton. It really does a nice job of improving the trailer’s utility for strapping down some kayaks or stringing up a clothesline. It comes standard with off-road tires, durable fenders, and multi-use gear storage areas. 

While all of these travel trailers have a dry weight of under 4,500-lbs, only the 20’ models have a GVWR of 4,200 lbs. The longer 25’ versions have a GVWR of 6,000 pounds.

Check out the video walkthrough to see more about the HIKE’s features.

10. Rove Lite Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailers

Source: travelliterv.com

Light on weight, big on features.

Pros: It’s pretty awesome to be able to find a 16’+ length camper trailer with a dry weight of less than 2,000 pounds!

Cons: Low ceiling height isn’t good if you’re over 6 feet tall.

If you’ve got a small SUV or large crossover and can’t settle for a pop-up camper or a tiny teardrop, the Rove Lite Ultra Lightweight trailers are for you. 

These RVs weigh just a hair more than the tiny 13-foot Scamp trailers thanks to a unique construction method. However thanks to the extra length, the living space feels waaay roomier inside. 

They give you three different floor plans to choose from. Each includes a wet bath and kitchen in addition to a combination of a sofa bed and dinette that converts into a bed.

Learn more about the Rove Lite trailers with the video tour here .

11. TAXA Mantis and Cricket

Source: taxaoutdoors.com

For the adventure seeker whose main goal is to enjoy the outside.

Pros: Rugged and ready for adventure. They’re also available in overlanding versions which are great for extended trips in rough, off-grid areas.

Cons: If you’re just staying on paved roads and established campgrounds, these travel trailers might not be the best for you. Other options provide more space and comforts at the same towing weight. 

The Taxa Outdoors Habitats definitely stand out. Their Nasa inspired design resembles a moon lander more than a traditional RV. But don’t let their funky looks scare you off. 

These are great options for the adventure-loving family who likes to spend their camping trips on dirt roads and out-of-the-way areas. They’re hybrid trailers with a pop-top for extra headroom and ventilation. 

The Cricket and Mantis models both have GVWRs of less than 5,000 pounds. Even the Mantis Overland with its extra ground clearance, off-road tires and Timbren axle-less suspension has a GVWR of exactly 5,000 pounds. 

Check out video tours of the Mantis and the Cricket travel trailers.

Advantages of Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 5,000 lbs

At first, it can be a little discouraging when you own a small SUV or van and are shopping for travel trailers you can tow. But fortunately, as you saw with the 11 options on my list, you really can get the bells and whistles of much larger RVs in some surprisingly compact travel trailers. 

Even if your vehicle has the towing capacity to pull a larger RV, there are still advantages to sticking with a smaller camper under 5,000 lbs. 

Easier to Maneuver

If you’ve ever tried to back a 35-foot trailer into a tight camping spot, you know how frustrating it can be to maneuver a long trailer, especially without one of these backup cameras ! So what you give up on storage space, you make up for with manuverability.

Save on Gas Mileage

This is a nice advantage especially if you’re planning long road trips with your travel trailers. Not only will sub-5,000 pound RVs be cheaper to purchase, but they’ll be easier on your gas bill as well. 

Small Travel Trailers are Better for Exploring

This advantage goes hand in hand with the first one. Get a small travel trailer under 5,000 pounds and you won’t be limited on where you can go. You’ll be able to park at just about any campsite and drive down your favorite back-country roads. 

Choose one of the rugged travel trailers from this list and you can leave the pavement behind and take a real overlanding journey away from the crowded campgrounds. 

Easier to Store When Not In Use

A monster RV might be too big to store on your property which will lead to extra costs. But a lot of the best lightweight travel trailers are less than 20-feet long and can be easily stored in driveways and sometimes even garages. 

Smaller RVs are Easier to Rent Out

If you’re looking to offset the cost of your RV by renting it out on a site like RVShare , you’re likely to have better chances with a more moderately sized travel trailer. More people will have the vehicles to tow small travel trailers and will likely be less intimidated at the thought of renting a lightweight camper. 

Learn more about how to rent out your RV with my Step By Step How to Use RVshare to Rent Out Your RV (and not get gypped!).

Get Out There and Enjoy the Outdoors With Your Lightweight Travel Trailer!

There you go! Some of the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs. Whichever you choose, I hope you and your family will have loads of fun times while enjoying the outdoors! 

Don’t forget to send me a “Hello!” on Instagram or Facebook . 

And for more RVing tips, tricks and guides, check out my other articles like…

• 11 Best Small RVs With a Shower and Toilet (Pics + Floor Plans)
• 23 Best Gifts for RV Owners | No Fluff, Just Great Gift Ideas
• 3 Ways to Deal with Your Uncomfy RV Mattress (+how to order a custom replacement!)
• Mobile RV Repair | 5+ Insider Tips that Save You Time and Money
• 5 Best RV Patio Mats of 2021 (from actual RV owners!)
• Latest Posts

• Solar Eclipse 2024 Kids Printable Activity Pack! - April 8, 2024
• 11 RV Bathroom Makeovers to Inspire You! - April 7, 2024
• 13 Dreamy Hammock Camping Set Up Ideas + Pics - February 22, 2024

1 thought on “11 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs – Video Tours, Pics + Floor Plans!”

You missed some of the best new campers under 5000 lbs. Look up the new Jay Feather Micro series, Geo Pro/E-Pro, and Winnebago Micro Minnie. Also, check out the new Ember Camper line. No weights released but some of the coolest single axle trailers I’ve seen.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

HI! I'm Stacy, AKA “The Crazy Outdoor Mama”

I'm the voice behind the website, and I hope you've found what you needed! I'm an outdoorsy married mother of three from Wyoming, and I LOVE creating resources that make camping and other outdoor activities easier!

8 Great Travel Trailers Under 5000 LBS GVWR

Let’s say you love the idea of owning a travel trailer but are apprehensive about towing a large unit. Or perhaps your new vehicle has a relatively low towing capacity, but you’re still thinking about using it to take your travel trailer on the road.

Luckily for you (and for your fellow motorists!), there are plenty of lightweight options out there. There’s no need to sacrifice comfort for convenience, either—the smaller units can be just as well-appointed as their larger counterparts.

Some of them also come equipped with awnings and exterior speakers, thereby allowing you to bring the party outdoors and make the travel trailer seem even larger.

Here’s our list of the top travel trailers under 5000 lbs.

2017 Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite 17BH

2019 starcraft satellite 18mk, 2017 jayco hummingbird 17mbs, 2019 forest river r-pod 189, 2019 kz sportsmen classic 181bh, 2018 keystone passport rov 173rb, 2021 gulf stream vista cruiser 17rwd, 2019 airstream sport 16rb.

Table of Contents

Things To Consider Before Buying

First and foremost, you’ll need to find a travel trailer with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 5,000 pounds or fewer. This number takes into account the total weight of the trailer, including cargo, passengers, all water tanks, and any optional add-ons (such as awnings or bicycle racks).

It’s important to note that this total is different from the dry weight, or curb weight, which refers only to the weight of the vehicle itself, minus you and your gear.

Besides the weight factor, what criteria did we use when making these selections? Here’s a list of the most important considerations:

• Age of the unit (older models might have outdated or obsolete features)
• Exterior height
• Maximum sleep count
• Fresh water tank capacity
• Gray water tank capacity
• Black water tank capacity
• Awning size (if applicable

Top Travel Trailers Under 5000 Lbs

What appeals to us the most about the Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite 17BH is the bathroom, which is roomy enough to include a generously sized bathtub. This is an appealing feature in any travel trailer, but it’s especially rare when you’re looking at an ultra lite travel trailer.

The bathroom is located at the rear of the trailer, next to the built-in bunk beds. This could be good news for couples who go to bed at different times, but if you’re traveling as a family (the unit is capable of sleeping up to 5 people), you might risk waking the young ones with late-night visits to the latrine.

The laminated countertops are another nice touch, as they’re easy to care for without sacrificing style. Ample storage space is available, but be careful not to overload the trailer—the GVWR is well under 4000 pounds, making this one of the lightest campers on our list.

Manufacturers Website

The Satellite 18MK is visually appealing from the exterior, with its rounded capsule-like design. The interior is well-designed, too, although there’s only one floor plan to choose from with this model. Key features include centrally located switches, a large refrigerator, and a sleek kitchen countertop with built-in sink.

All the materials used in the interior construction are high-end, from the cabinets to the upholstery. The flooring even includes a moisture barrier to keep the unit from suffering damage due to mold and mildew. Being all-season campers, we appreciate this extra touch.

Be aware that this travel trailer only sleeps four people, so it’s not a good choice for large or growing families. The interior height gives you just six and a half feet of clearance, so taller individuals might be in for some discomfort. For anyone else, however, this is a highly manageable and attractive travel trailer.

The Hummingbird 17MBS is an aerodynamic travel trailer that’s easy to tow, even if you have zero experience. With a GVWR of just 3000 pounds, it can be pulled by a light-duty truck or an SUV with no difficulty.

The majority of the interior is taken up by a comfortable queen-sized bed, located in the rear of the trailer. The bathroom is adjacent to the bedroom, and the kitchen area is located just across from the bath, with the convertible dinette taking up residence toward the hitch. Cupboard space is ample, particularly in the kitchen. An eight-foot awning offers plenty of shade.

Like the Satellite 18MK, this unit sleeps just four people, but the interior feels cozy rather than cramped. The bathroom is on the smaller side (the shower unit is practically nonexistent), but it’s adequate if you don’t mind roughing it.

According to the manufacturers, R-Pods have the lowest tow weight of any RV in their class. The 2019 R-Pod 189 provides a fine example of everything Forest River does best, offering a compact design with many options for upgrades, along with a number of thoughtful touches.

For example, we love the convenience of the layout. The plush sofa and dinette area is located at the rear of the trailer, facing the entertainment center. The recessed cooktop is a great touch if you enjoy whipping up gourmet meals while on the road. There’s even a 20,000-BTU furnace, meaning this unit can be enjoyed during all four seasons.

The queen-sized bed measures 60 by 74 inches—a generous size by any standards. Things might be a bit cramped if you try to wedge in a couple of kids, but for couples, this is a great option.

This 2019 version of KZ’s Sportsmen Classic offers all the basics you’d expect from a lightweight travel trailer , with a surprisingly spacious interior. The master “bedroom” is situated at the front of the trailer, with a set of bunk beds taking up residence in the rear, opposite the bathroom. In between are a kitchen area with two-burner range and sink, along with a small dinette.

Note that the primary sleeping space has no door to separate it from the living area, so be prepared to dwell in close quarters. However, the space is well-ventilated, with windows located on all three exterior-facing sides.

This could be a major plus when camping in scenic areas. Since there are air-conditioning and furnace options available, the Sportsmen Classic 181BH can be used all year round.

Some versions of the Keystone Passport can be bulky and cumbersome to tow. Not the ROV 173RB , which has a GVWR of just 3900 pounds. Although the specs claim that the unit can sleep up to four people, we think it’s a better choice for singles or couples.

The queen-sized bed is located at the front of the trailer, with the bath on the opposite end. In between, you’ll find a small kitchen and dinette area for two, with a pantry that can pinch-hit as a wardrobe if necessary.

The angled shower is one of our favorite aspects of the ROV 173RB. In fact, the whole bathroom offers more space than we were expecting, a welcome surprise. The rest of the interior is considerably snug, but an optional slide-out offers more space, should you need it.

Ample compartment space, situated beneath the bed and in the pantry/wardrobe, allows you to bring along plenty of outdoor gear. Another nice touch? Radio speakers located along the trailer’s exterior, so you can rock out to your favorite tunes wherever you go.

Also billed as a “vintage” cruiser, the updated version of the Gulf Stream Vista 17RWD has a funky retro feel and plenty of creature comforts, offering campers the best of both worlds.

The bathroom is one of the roomiest we’ve seen in campers of this size, with a full shower setup and adjacent sink. The full-sized bed offers overhead storage, and the dinette area can be converted into another sleeping area.

Although Gulf Stream claims that this cruiser can sleep four people, two of them would have to be pretty small in order to squish onto the convertible dinette. If you’re traveling with one or two small children, you’ll be fine, but the second sleeping area isn’t large enough for more than one adult.

With windows located on all three sides, the Vista 17RWD has the perfect name. We would recommend using this one for scenic camping journeys whenever possible.

That said, tech-savvy campers are sure to enjoy the multitude of charging ports that this unit offers. While the camper is certainly roomy enough, maneuvering and parking the trailer are a breeze.

You’re sure to recognize the Airstream Sport, one of the most distinctive travel trailers on the market. Its shiny aluminum construction does more than enable it to stand out in a crowd, though—it also makes this stunning trailer much lighter and more transportable than some of the competition.

Airstream has been in business for more than 80 years, and their experience is evident when you step inside the Sport 16RB. Not an inch of space is wasted, from the snug dinette, to the well-equipped kitchen (complete with gas-fired oven range), to the rear bedroom area. The unit offers both air-conditioning and a functioning heat strip, so you’ll be comfortable in both winter and summer.

Although you won’t have many options as far as the floor plan is concerned, there are several upgrades available that will elevate your camping experience to the next level.

An optional solar conversion, for example, makes it easier for you to go off the grid and enjoy multi-day boondocking expeditions. Since the unit measures just over 16 feet long, it’s easily tucked into out-of-the-way places.

In Conclusion

Before we head on down the road, you’re probably wondering which of these trailers stands out above the rest.

While we would feel comfortable recommending any of these, we’re partial to the Airstream Sport 16RB. Call us old-fashioned, but we love the sleek retro vibe of the aluminum construction, not to mention the nifty economy of the interior.

Thanks to its small footprint and light weight, it can be hauled by just about any SUV or crossover with a decent tow package. For couples or small families who don’t mind living in close quarters, this is an excellent travel trailer.

Best of luck, and happy camping!

Checkout our article on: 9 Great Small Campers with Bathrooms Under 21 Feet

Please keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

9 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 5000 Pounds

Ever thought of RVing deep into the wild, but then monstrous RVs and lumbering trucks pulling massive trailers crash your daydreams? This experience can leave you doubting your trusty SUV’s potential. In fact, the sight of dual-axle travel trailers dominating the road might further intensify your anxiety, as it becomes evident that a hefty truck is needed to tow these trailers.

However, this isn’t always the case. As of today, there is a category of lightweight travel trailers—compact, efficient, and surprisingly with modern day amenities. These nimble campers are perfectly tailored to follow the lead of your everyday pickup truck or SUV, eliminating the need for heavy-duty companions. To spare you the hassle of searching the market for these tiny rigs, we’ve taken on the heavy lifting. Join us as we unveil the 9 best lightweight travel trailers under 5000 lbs you won’t believe exist.

Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 5000 Pounds

1. forest river r-pod 193.

The Forest River R-Pod 193 is a lightweight travel trailer you’ll want to consider due to its unique features. This little gem has a slide out with a dry weight of 4169 pounds. It has a length of 22 feet and 11 inches and a width of 8 ft.

The R-Pod 193 is designed with a queen-sized bed, a full bathroom, and a kitchen with a sink, stove, and refrigerator. It also has a dinette that converts into a bed, providing additional sleeping space.

Specifications :

• Length: 22.92 ft
• Dry weight: 4169 lbs
• Hitch weight: 435 lbs
• Freshwater tank capacity: 30 gallons
• Gray water tank capacity: 30 gallons
• Black water tank capacity: 30 gallons
• Features: Murphy queen bed, convertible dinette, spacious pantry, central vacuum, exterior kitchen

2. Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH

With a price range of $35,993, the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH is another lightweight travel trailer that caught our eye, and we couldn’t wait to put it on our list. This gorgeous-looking camper has a dry weight of 3,775 pounds. It has a length of 20 feet and 10 inches and a width of 8 feet and 5 inches.

• Length: 20 ft 10 in
• Dry weight: 3,775 lbs
• Hitch weight: 450 lbs
• Freshwater tank capacity: 26 gallons
• Gray water tank capacity: 26 gallons
• Black water tank capacity: 26 gallons
• Features: Queen-size bed, convertible dinette/bunk, wet bath, large windows, skylight

3. Keystone Classic Ultralight Travel Trailers

Moving forward, we have The Keystone Classic Ultralight Travel Trailers, a series of lightweight travel trailers ranging in weight from 3,500 to 4,800 pounds.

They are designed with various floor plans, including bunkhouse models and models with outdoor kitchens. The Keystone Classic Ultralight Travel Trailers have multiple features, including LED lighting, a power awning, and a Bluetooth stereo system.

Specifications

• Length: 17′ to 23′
• Dry weight: 4,800 lbs
• Sleeps: 2 to 4
• Features: Lightweight construction, comfortable furniture and appliances, variety of floor plans

4. Airstream Bambi Sport 22FB

The Airstream Bambi Sport 22FB is a small and lightweight travel trailer that any minimalist would want to have. It has a length of 16 feet and 3 inches and a width of 7 ft and 3 inches.

The Airstream Bambi Sport 22FB is designed with a queen-sized bed, a wet bathroom, and a kitchen with a sink, stove, and refrigerator. It also has a dinette that converts into a bed, providing additional sleeping space.

Specification :

• Length: 16′ to 22′
• Dry weight: 3,650 lbs
• Freshwater tank capacity: 23 gallons
• Gray water tank capacity: 29 gallons
• Black water tank capacity: 18 to 30 gallons
• Features: Iconic design, high-quality craftsmanship, luxurious amenities, variety of comfortable layouts

5. Winnebago Hike H171DB

Being a household name in the industry, Winnebago designed this lightweight travel trailer with the goal of making camping activities enjoyable.

This camper provides tons of storage for camping gear like bikes, kayaks, etc. It has a dry weight of 3,340 pounds. It has a length of 21 feet and can comfortably sleep up to 3.

The Hike H171DB is designed with a queen-sized bed, a bathroom with a water heater , a kitchen with a sink, and a refrigerator. It also has a dinette that converts into a bed, providing additional sleeping space.

• Length: 21 ft
• Dry weight: 3,340 lbs
• Freshwater tank capacity: 31 gallons
• Gray water tank capacity: 25 gallons
• Black water tank capacity: 25 gallons
• Features: Spacious living area, full kitchen, comfortable sleeping accommodations, maneuverable

6. Lance 1685

The Lance 1685 packs a punch in a petite 16’6″ frame. Don’t let the size fool you; this lightweight travel trailer tips the scales at just under 5,000 lbs, making it towable by most midsize SUVs. It has a length of 21 feet and 5 inches and a width of 7 ft and 1 inch.

The full bathroom boasts a cassette toilet and corner shower, ensuring on-the-go comfort. The Lance 1685 is designed with a queen-sized bed and a kitchen with a sink, two-burner stove, refrigerator, and ample counter space for whipping up campsite feasts. The Lance 1685 isn’t just about function; it’s about freedom.

• Length: 21 ft 5 in
• Dry weight: 4,690 lbs
• Freshwater tank capacity: 45 gallons
• Gray water tank capacity: 40 gallons
• Black water tank capacity: 40 gallons
• Features: Spacious dinette, queen-size bed, full bathroom, lightweight

7. Oliver Legacy Elite II

The Oliver Legacy Elite II isn’t your average trailer. It’s a rugged escape pod, a tandem axle trailer for the explorer, and a meticulously crafted fortress for traversing all terrains. This aluminum beast easily conquers dirt roads thanks to its independent suspension and all-terrain tires.

Its robust construction shrugs off the elements, letting you chase breathtaking sunrises from mountaintops or stargaze in unpolluted darkness. This rig is perfect for minimalists, couples, or adventurers who crave an authentic connection with nature.

• Length: 23 ft 0 in
• Dry weight: 4,900 lbs
• Hitch weight: 580 lbs
• Freshwater tank capacity: 32 gallons
• Gray water tank capacity: 32 gallons
• Black water tank capacity: 15 gallons
• Features: Rugged construction, all-terrain tires, independent suspension, off-road capability

8. Hymer Eriba Touring

The Hymer Eriba Touring is a lightweight travel trailer under 5,000. This small RV trailer unfolds spacious comfort from a compact package. Think of it as a cozy hideaway that transforms into a mini-apartment, ready for family adventures.

One fantastic thing is th at Eriba tucked neatly behind the car. Its aerodynamic curves slice through the wind, saving you gas and money. Once you find your camping spot, pull over, pop the roof, and voila! Inside, you’ll find a standing room, a comfy bed, and a kitchen, all within arm’s reach.

The Eriba’s pop-up roof is a breeze, even for little hands. It has storage compartments to hide away your gear, keeping things organized for epic road trip battles. The Hymer Eriba Touring is also designed with a double bed and a wet bath.

• Length: 15 ft 1 in (closed), 19 ft 7 in (open)
• Dry weight: 3,245 lbs
• Hitch weight: 352 lbs
• Sleeps: 2 to 4 (depending on model)
• Black water tank capacity: 13 gallons

9. Happier Camper

Happier Camper is an ultra-light and adaptable travel trailer under 5,000 lbs, defying the stereotype of clunky RVs hogging campsites and gas stations. It’s a cozy, modern pod zipping down the highway, towed effortlessly by most SUVs.

These tiny titans are comfortable: cushy mattresses, solar power options for off-grid escapes, and even an outdoor shower to wash away the day’s adventures. The durable fiberglass shell keeps you cozy, from desert heat to mountain chills.

The HC1 Studio boasts 1,800 lbs of lightweight flexibility, while the HC1 Traveler offers 2,300 lbs of space and amenities. Both boast an impressive 3,500 lbs GVWR, so you can load up without exceeding limits.

• Length: Varies depending on model (15 ft to 17 ft)
• Dry weight: Varies depending on model (2,800 to 3,500 lbs)
• Hitch weight: Varies depending on model (400 to 500 lbs)
• Freshwater tank capacity: Varies depending on model (20 to 30 gallons)
• Gray water tank capacity: Varies depending on model (20 to 30 gallons)
• Black water tank capacity: Varies depending on model (10 to 20 gallons)
• Best Travel Trailers Under 3000 Pounds

Pros and Cons of Travel Trailers Under 5,000 lbs

If you’re in the market for your ideal travel trailer, you may wonder if a lightweight travel trailer under 5,000 pounds is right for you. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making your decision.

• Easy to tow: One significant advantage of a lightweight travel trailer is that it can be towed with regular pickups or SUVs. You don’t need a big, powerful truck to pull it. Many lightweight travel trailers can be towed by a midsize SUV or crossover vehicle.
• Better gas mileage: Because lightweight travel trailers are lighter, they get better gas mileage than larger, heavier trailers. This can save you money on gas throughout your trip.
• Easier to maneuver: A lightweight travel trailer is easier to maneuver than a larger, heavier trailer. This can be especially helpful when you’re backing into a campsite or navigating tight spaces.
• Lower cost: Lightweight travel trailers are often less expensive than larger, heavier trailers. This can make them a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
• Limited space: One of the biggest downsides of a lightweight travel trailer is less space inside. This can make bringing all the gear and supplies you need for your trip challenging.
• Less storage: Because lightweight travel trailers are smaller, they often have less storage space than larger trailers. This can make it difficult to bring along everything you need.
• Less comfortable: Because lightweight travel trailers are smaller, they may be less comfortable than larger trailers. There may be less room to move around, and the sleeping arrangements may be less comfortable.
• Less durable: Lightweight travel trailers are often made with lighter materials, which can make them less durable than larger, heavier trailers. This can be a concern if you plan to use your trailer frequently or in rough terrain.

Travel Trailer Under 5,000 VS Travel Trailer Under 3,000

Many adventurers consider travel trailers under 5,000 pounds and under 3,000 pounds because they want to tow their trailers with smaller vehicles. If you’re considering one of these for your future adventure, here are some differences between them.

Weight Capacity

The main difference between a travel trailer under 5,000 pounds and a travel trailer under 3,000 pounds is the weight capacity. Mid-sized SUVs and trucks can typically tow a travel trailer under 5,000 pounds, while a travel trailer under 3,000 pounds can be towed by smaller vehicles such as crossovers and some sedans.

Size and Amenities

Another difference between these two types of travel trailers is the size and amenities. Travel trailers under 5,000 pounds are generally larger and offer more amenities, such as a full kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping space for up to six people. Travel trailers under 3,000 pounds are smaller and may have fewer amenities, but they are still comfortable and offer basic necessities such as a bed and a small kitchenette.

When choosing between a travel trailer weighing under 5,000 pounds and one weighing under 3,000 pounds, price is important. Travel trailers weighing less than 5,000 pounds are generally pricier due to their larger size and added amenities. Travel trailers under 3,000 pounds are typically less expensive, making them a great option for those on a budget.

Overall, deciding between a travel trailer under 5,000 pounds and a travel trailer under 3,000 pounds depends on your towing vehicle, budget, and personal preferences. Take time to thoroughly evaluate the pros and cons of each trailer option before making a decision.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Lightweight Travel Trailer

When choosing a lightweight travel trailer under 5000 pounds, several key features must be considered. These features will determine the trailer’s suitability for your needs and ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Here are the main features to consider:

Towability and Vehicle Compatibility

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a lightweight travel trailer is its towability and compatibility with your vehicle.

You need to be sure your vehicle can safely tow the trailer’s weight and that the trailer’s size and dimensions are suitable for your vehicle. You should also consider the trailer’s aerodynamics, which can affect its stability and fuel efficiency.

Living Space and Amenities

Another important factor to consider is the trailer’s living space and amenities. You should look for a trailer with enough space for you and your travel companions to sleep, eat, and relax comfortably.

You should also consider the trailer’s amenities, such as a kitchen, bathroom, air conditioning, and heating. These amenities can make your camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Build Quality and Material

The build quality and material of the trailer are also important factors to consider. You should look for a trailer constructed from high-quality materials and methods to ensure longevity and durability. You should also consider the trailer’s insulation, which can affect its energy efficiency and comfort level.

Price Point and Value

Finally, you should consider the trailer’s price point and value. You should look for a trailer that is reasonably priced and fits your budget. You should also consider the trailer’s resale value, which can affect its long-term cost-effectiveness.

When selecting a lightweight travel trailer under 5000 pounds, consider its key features to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

Popular Destinations for Lightweight Trailer Travel

When traveling with a lightweight trailer, there are many destinations. Here are some popular destinations that are perfect for lightweight trailer travel:

National Parks

National parks are a great destination for lightweight trailer travel. Many national parks have campgrounds that can accommodate small trailers, and the natural beauty of the parks makes for a great backdrop for your camping experience. Some popular national parks for lightweight trailer travel include Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon.

If you’re looking to spend some time at the beach, a lightweight trailer is a great way to do it. You can park your trailer on the beach and enjoy the sun, sand, and water. Some popular beaches for lightweight trailer travel include Myrtle Beach, Virginia Beach, and the Outer Banks.

If you’re more of a mountain person, there are plenty of destinations that are perfect for lightweight trailer travel. You can park your trailer in a mountain campground and enjoy the fresh air, hiking trails, and scenic views. Some popular mountain destinations for lightweight trailer travel include the Rocky Mountains, the Smoky Mountains, and the Adirondacks.

If you want to explore a city but still have the comfort of your own trailer, there are many cities that have RV parks or campgrounds nearby. You can park your trailer and take public transportation or ride-sharing services to explore the city. Some popular cities for lightweight trailer travel include San Francisco, New York City, and Austin.

No matter where you choose to travel with your lightweight trailer, make sure to plan ahead and research campgrounds and RV parks in the area. With proper planning, you can have a great trip and enjoy all the benefits of lightweight trailer travel.

Do Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs Have Slide-Outs

Slide-outs are not always a given feature in travel trailers. However, there are several options available that do have slide-outs, allowing for more space and comfort inside the trailer.

One example is the Forest River Salem, which offers several floor plans with slide-outs, including the Salem Cruise Lite 263BHXL and the Salem FSX 178BHSK . These models provide extra living space without adding too much weight to the trailer.

Another option is the Flagstaff E-Pro E16BH, which also features a slide-out. This m lightweight model has a dry weight of just 2,842 pounds. The slide-out provides additional sleeping space and a dinette area.

The Winnebago Micro Minnie is another lightweight travel trailer that offers slide-outs. The Micro Minnie 2108DS, for example, features a slide-out with a sofa and a dinette, a rear bathroom, and a front bedroom.

Related Posts

7 Best Hard Side Pop up Campers for Your Outdoor Adventures

10 Best Travel Trailer Brands in 2023

7 Best Travel Trailers For Cold Weather

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

Lightweight RVs: Best Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Pounds

Published on March 23rd, 2020 by Charles Joseph

In our series on lightweight travel trailers, there are those that want the perfect combination of full-size travel trailer features, with the advantages of fuel efficiency and lower costs. This segment of consumers will find that the best travel trailers for them are under the 5,000-pound range. Many big brands and independent manufacturers have what they are looking for.

These RVs range between 23- 28 feet in range. They come with or without slideouts. The amenities are at or near full-size dimensions.

The examples below are the best travel trailers under 5,000 pounds for the 2020 RV market. We’ll feature different floorplans to show you how diverse this sub-group is. Before we do so, let’s check out some safe towing vehicles for this segment of travel trailers.

DON’T MISS OUT ON CAMPER SMARTS UPDATES

Sign up for the newsletter today.

Please enter a valid email address.

An error occurred. Please try again later.

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

Choosing the right suv.

These lightweight travel trailers that are SUV-friendly, need to be towed by a vehicle that has an additional towing capacity above the RV’s unloaded vehicle weight (UVW). You may have a tow vehicle that can tow 5,000 pounds, but once you start loading these coaches up, you can exceed your vehicle’s capacity. You need a tow vehicle that has at least another 1,000 pounds for the following reasons:

• Camping gear and supplies: Assume 400- 600 pounds
• Holding tanks: It’s always advisable to travel with some freshwater in the holding tank. You may have to use your bathroom on the way.
• Weight of your passengers: Veteran RVers assume 170-200 pounds per individual traveling in the tow vehicle. It’s always better to overestimate.
• Strength for hills and road conditions: The more power your tow vehicle needs to tow, the less power it will have to tackle hills, mountains, and other road challenges.
• Fuel efficiency and other X-factors: The less power your SUV or truck needs to tow, the less fuel it needs. X-factors can be any other situation you’re not thinking of. The smart RVer always prepares for the unexpected and hopes it never comes.

Here’s a list of example SUVs that match this description. Pickup trucks have towing capabilities that exceed this criterion, that’s why we’re not including them. These towing capacities include the tow package models with the strongest engines available.

If your truck has less towing capability, you need to check our articles about the lighter travel trailers under 3,000 and 2,000 pounds .

The Best Variety of Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Pounds

Airstream caravel 20 fb.

• Dry weight: 4,300 UVW
• Exterior Length: 20.8 feet
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 4 people
• MSRP: $62,234

Named after Spanish fleet ships of the 1500s, this lightweight travel trailer series was reawakened after the Sport was discontinued. The 20FB is the heaviest of the four versions and falls between the 16-22 feet lengths you can choose from. This lineup focuses on giving Airstream customers big unit features in a lightweight coach and touches of upscale class.

The first thing you’ll notice about the Caravel is the hand-painted hitch. The new hitch coupler and other components have been redesigned to make sure your travel trailer keeps its hold to your tow vehicle. You’ll also see a power tongue jack, backup camera , and a full-size spare tire that comes standard with the RV.

Features that you can see include Moen faucets, an all-electric refrigerator, and a mounted LED TV that can be seen at both ends of the coach. Subtle things include touch dimmer switches for the lighting, non-slick cushions on the seating, and frosted white slider doors on the overhead cabinets. What you don’t see is even more amazing.

The Caravel has ducted air conditioning and a dual gas/electric water heater. For dry camping, you can choose the optional 90-watt solar panel or hook into the pre-wire port with your own panels. Either way, a 1,000-watt inverter comes standard in the coach as well.

To help control the temperature, you can also ask for the optional awnings to be installed over all of the side and rear windows. The front panoramic window that Airstreams are known for, use the tinted rock guards as awnings. On breezy days, there are plenty of windows around the coach to let nature handle your climate-control.

Coleman Light LX 2125BH

• Dry weight: 4,554 pounds UVW
• Length: 25.8 feet
• Sleeping capacity: Between 5-6 people
• Base price: $24,328

There was a point in time where RV consumers only bought units with slideouts. Those days are long over. The Light LX 2125BH is a great entry-level travel trailer under 5,000 lbs. This bunkhouse unit is both family-friendly and SUV-friendly weighing in under 4,600 pounds UVW.

Coleman does a great job of keeping the interior bright with their light solid wood interior and decore. There’s deep storage strategically placed throughout the RV. The front sofa and the lower double-sized bunk can store your biggest items.

To save space, the master bed is a murphy bed that folds over the day time sofa. Coleman does a great job of keeping the mattress comfortable for this moveable bed. There are nightstands on either side of the bed/sofa with charging stations for all of your mobile devices.

The kitchen has seamless countertops and has a recessed two-burner stove with a cover that’s flush to the counter. You might have a hard time with bigger pots and pans on the burners, but the outdoor kitchen’s stoves can fit just about any size. The outside space also has a small refrigerator and utensil storage to keep you independent from the indoor kitchen.

The bathroom has plenty of legroom even without the slideout. The tub style shower doesn’t have a skylight that gives more headspace, but it helps keep temperatures inside consistent. The tub is big enough for small children or four-legged children to get cleaned up from their romp in the dirt and mud.

Another way Coleman helps with keeping temperatures consistent is the sealed underbelly. They also use sealed framed windows too. This prevents the combined 13,500 air conditioner/heater from working overtime because of leaking issues.

Palomino SolAire Expandable 185 Hybrid

• Dry weight: 4,134 pounds UVW
• Length: 25.9 feet
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 8 people
• $19,500- $23,200

When people shop for the best quality travel trailers under 5,000 lbs., many don’t consider the advantages of hybrid trailers. Like all hybrids, you’ll have the ability to sleep more people and have more interior walking space than traditional travel trailers of comparable size. You can read more about the many benefits of hybrids in our feature article.

The Palomino SolAire 185X has three expandable beds and a fold-down U-shaped dinette. The expandable beds measure to queen-size dimensions. This lightweight RV is the perfect balance between affordability and comfort for large families.

Opposite the dinette, there’s a separate table with two stools that can be used as a workspace or entertainment station. With the sink and stove cover, there is a lot of counter space to work in the kitchen. They place the 8 cubic foot refrigerator and a big pantry opposite of the kitchen so you have enough storage space to feed everyone.

You can take your meals outside with the outdoor kitchen . It has a two-burner stove, a small refrigerator, and utensil storage. While you’re outside, you can enjoy the evening under the power awning with LED lights and listen to your favorite music through the all-weather outdoor speakers .

Gulf Stream Trailmaster Light 238RK

• Dry weight: 4,830 pounds UVW
• Length: 28.6 feet
• Sleeping capacity: Up to 6 people
• $17,000-$22,000

This rear kitchen model is a phenomenal travel trailer for couples to relax. There’s plenty of room for the two of you to walk around without invading each other’s personal space. There are also cozy spots to interact when you want too.

The master bedroom allows the far-side sleeper to get to their side of the bed without having to do the “crab-walk” against the wall or hitting their head against an added TV. The second door opens into the master bedroom upfront. This will give you peace of mind as a better emergency exit compared to most other coaches that use windows as escape routes.

The kitchen has a six cubic foot double-door refrigerator. On the side of the full-sized sofa is a deep pantry that will hold weeks worth of dry goods. With the kitchen taking up the complete rear of the RV, you’ll have plenty of counter space and big appliances to prepare any type of meal.

Gulf Stream mounts the off-door slideout on the chassis, giving it real strength and reliability. Their framed windows prevent the ducted air conditioning from leaking out. To prevent water from settling or finding leaks, they use a crowned roof and drip rails to guide rain and moisture away from your travel trailer.

The front exterior pass-through storage isn’t as big as some RVs on the market. Fishing poles, tents, and other gear shouldn’t have a problem fitting in. If you have a really big item you need to bring with you, it may fit well in the master bedroom, inside the secondary door just for travel purposes.

Keystone Hideout 172LHS

• Dry weight: 3,700 pounds UVW
• Length: 21.4 feet
• $15,000- $18,5000

If you want a toy hauler, but don’t want one of those really long units, the Hideout 172LHS is the best lightweight toy hauler for you. It’s towable under 5,000 lbs.and has a six and a half foot garage that can fit most dirt bikes and ATVs. True to Keystone’s quality and standards, it’s far from a basic toy hauler.

After your day of outdoor adventures, you can refuel yourself by preparing your meal with a two-burner stove and microwave. The unit comes with a six cubic foot refrigerator, so you’ll have plenty of food options you can bring with you. Once your meal is ready, you can sit back and enjoy your meal on the fold-up sofa and table in the garage section.

While you’re sitting there, the RV comes pre-wired for TV and input sources. Binge-watch your favorite shows or the big game. When you’re ready to turn in, you and your partner can rest comfortably on the residential-sized queen bed upfront.

The entertainment center comes with a Bluetooth DVD/CD/MP3 stereo. You’ll also find charging ports and electrical outlets to charge up your mobile devices for tomorrow’s adventures throughout the coach. If you’re under the power awning, you can listen to your tunes through the all-weather speakers.

For those real adventure trips, you aren’t confined to civilization. This Hideout toy hauler comes pre-wired for solar panels. The sturdy walk-on roof has a gutter system on the edges to guide rainwater away from your trailer. The framed windows also help with keeping the indoor temperature as mild as you set it.

Travel Lite Falcon F-27BHK

• Dry weight: 4,200 pounds UVW
• Length: 27.4 feet

Just because you have one of the best travel trailers under 5,000 lbs, doesn’t mean it has to blend into the crowd. The Travel Lite Falcon series will have everyone in the campground noticing you as you pull in. With its sleek design and extreme color options, you’ll be answering questions even before you can put the tongue jack down.

After their restructuring, independent RV maker, Travel Lite hit the 2020 market like a tidal wave with their eye-catching lightweight travel trailers and truck campers. Their flagship Falcon comes in white, charcoal, red, or matte black. Everything about these RVs is meant to be noticed, even the ultra-aerodynamic front end.

There are subtle differences to the exterior as well. The diamond plate is brought up higher than their competition to increase the road debris protection of the trailer. They also doubled the standard propane capacity, giving RVers more time between refills.

Those that are serious about their music or the sound quality of the outdoor TV viewing will enjoy the all-weather speakers. Travel Lite includes a kicker to enhance the sound quality with those deep tones. Just make sure your neighbors are okay with it before you crank it up.

Travel Lite includes a TV arm in their master bedroom and TV holders both inside and outside. While you have your choice to buy whatever TV you want, they provide the brackets and the installed female-connectors pre-installed. By doing this, they make your indoor and outdoor entertainment setup that much easier.

The company took a different method with their cabinetry. They added windows on all of the cabinet doors. This not only lets you see inside but with the colored LED lights, gives your coach some added atmosphere.

Their coaches come in the Gran Turismo (GT), Nordic, or Extreme packages. The Nordic is their all-weather version. GT is a mid-level upgrade, and Extreme is their top of the line, all options package. When you choose the GT or the Extreme, they install a bigger refrigerator and other features.

One of the best features of their RVs is the placement of the wheels. You’ll notice that they sit outside of the coach instead of directly underneath. This gives greater stability and less sway.

• MADE FOR SPECIALIZED FINISHES: This versatile boat polish clears...
• POWERFUL FORMULA: While diminishing polishing compound abrasives...
• RESTORE COLOR: Restore the original color of older fiber glass...
• SAFE ON SURFACES: The abrasives in this fiberglass restorer for...
• USE IT YOUR WAY: Our Marine and Rv exterior scratch compound...

The F-27BHK is a bunkhouse model with an outdoor kitchen. A family of four will have plenty of room to enjoy this space as well as a guest on the fold-down dinette. The big pantry, six cubic foot refrigerator, and multiple storage compartments give everyone plenty of room to store everything they need for their camping adventure.

Product data was last updated on 2024-04-16 at 01:33.

Share this post:

Related posts:.

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

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

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

About the author:.

Charles Joseph is one of the original authors of Camper Smarts from when it first started.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Welcome please follow these guidelines:.

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

We may hide or remove comments at our discretion.

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

Follow Camper Smarts:

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

Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 Lbs

Are you looking for a great camper but don't want to break the bank? Check out these amazing travel trailers that are all under 5000 lbs!

These trailers are perfect for weekend getaways or longer road trips. They are lightweight and easy to tow, so you can take them just about anywhere. And, they come packed with features and amenities that will make your trip enjoyable and comfortable.

In this article, we've reviewed and offer our expertise on a few different sized travel trailers , but they're all under 5000lbs. So what are you waiting for? Start browsing through these trailers and find the perfect one for your next adventure!

Review of the Best Travel Trailers Under 5000Lbs

You are looking for the best, right? Well, the good news is that you are in the right place. In this section, we will be displaying some of the best travel trailers under 5000Lbs. These are listed based on their specifications.

Best Overall Travel trailer Under 5000 Lbs Grand Design Transcend Xplor 187MK

What we love

• SOlar power inlet
• High capacity water tank
• Walk on roof
• Solid Core Cabinet Stiles
• Walk-in shower

Quick Specs

• Number of Floorplans: 13
• Length: 24' 11'
• Height: 11 ft
• Weight: 4796 lbs

Grand Design is one of the most well-known travel trailer brands, and this, and most consumers have fallen in love with their high-quality campers. The Transcend Xplor 187MK is an excellent choice for couple or small families due to its sleeping capacity of up to four people and a plethora of fantastic features.

There are 13 floorplans for the Xplor, but only one is under 5000 lbs. We adore the modern furniture, solid hardwood drawer fronts, ball bearing full extension drawer glides, and attention to detail throughout.

A comfy queen bed with double drawer storage underneath is positioned in the front of the camper. We appreciate the tapered overhead storage unit, which is ideal for keeping all of your stuff organized.

The dinette is located in a slideout, which opens up the living space and gives you more room to live inside the camper. It also converts into a double bed for those travelling with the kids or friends.

This also has one of the biggest bathrooms we've seen in travel trailers under 5000 lbs. A spacious walk-in shower with skylight, toilet, sink, and even counter space is featured in this superb bathroom.

Grand Design is definitely one of the leading travel trailer brands, and we really like this one. It has everything a couple or small family would need for road trips.

Runner Up: Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite

• Pop-up roof for effective ventilation
• Easily towable by 4-cylinder vehicles
• Can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children
• Lightweight design with only 1732lbs weight
• Has excess under-bed storage and pop-up table
• Sleeps: 2 to 4
• Length: 15’
• Width: 6’7’’
• Weight: 1732lbs

Another smaller trailer that we think is well worthy of a mention. This is one of the best travel trailers available on the market, and boasts a unique NASA-inspired design that makes it an eye-catching sensation. What’s more attractive, however, is the features that it delivers.

This travel trailer features a compact design and a lightweight body that weighs only 1732 pounds. It means that it can be easily towed using any 4-cylinder vehicle, and you'll be able to reach parts of the world, bigger trailers cannot.

This might look like a small camper, and it is. But, the Cricket has sleeping room for two adults and up to two children. There's a full bed with ample under-bed storage that transforms into a dinette for comfortable lounging in a secure interior space.

There's an optional 5,000 BTU Air Conditioner to keep you comfortable in any weather conditions, and for such a small camper the kitchen area is pleasantly spacious. The trailer boasts a large kitchen counter with a two burner stove and covered sink for easy prepping and cooking.

All in all, it is a superb travel trailer that offers more than a conventional unit. It is composed of some very useful features paired with a unique design. Consequently, it offers you a comfortable and reliable experience every time.

Editor's Pick: Vintage Cruiser 23MBS

• Wood Estate Wagon Interior Decor and Exterior Graphics
• 3-Burner Range w/Oven
• Bluetooth Home Theater Stereo w/Speakers
• Prewired for Roof Air Conditioner
• 6 Gal DSI Gas/Electric Water Heater 
• Number of Floorplans: 14
• Length: 26 ft 1 in
• Width: 7 ft 6 in
• Weight: 4486 lbs

A retro travel trailer with timeless appeal - The Vintage Cruiser 23MBS could be for you if you want a vintage look in a new, modern travel trailer!

There are 14 floorplans for the Cruiser 23MBS travel trailer and each one is under 5000 lbs. Each one offering something different but with the classy appeal of Vintage Cruiser travel trailers.

The living area is what makes this trailer stand out. There's a little slide in the travel trailer that opens up the interior space and gives you more room to walk about in the camper. A huge window may be seen within the slide, which forms a U-shaped dinette with ample storage beneath. Under-seat storage is available on all sides of the table.

On the large murphy bed, which has a closet on either side, you'll be comfy. We adore the closets' light-colored wood cabinetry and other storage spaces in the travel trailer's mobile home.

In the kitchen, you'll appreciate the huge refrigerator and large fridege/freezer. The pantry is ideal for keeping dishes and dry foods and is conveniently located across from the refrigerator. The kitchen includes a double sink, stovetop, oven, and microwave.

The decorating style of this camper is all about flair, and you'll appreciate the style and ambience of it. It has a vintage caravan feel to it, and something you'll love spending time in.

Pros and Cons of a Travel Trailer Under 5,000 lbs

The most obvious advantage of owning travel trailers under 5,000 pounds is that they may be towed by smaller cars - there's no need to buy or maintain a vehicle specifically for camping. Simply find a nice SUV as a daily driver and use it to tow your RV on weekends. But there are many more advantages, so let's take a look...

More Camping Options

Many RV parks only provide small sites, preventing bigger vehicles from fitting in. Of course, finding parking spots along your route will be easier in a smaller vehicle.

Improved Gas Mileage

Towing a smaller trailer won't guzzle the all expensive gas as it will when towing a fifth wheel or large luxury travel trailer would. This means you save some money that can instead be used on having more adventures.

More Spacious

Of course it depends what you're comparing it to, but a travel trailer that comes in just under 5000 lbs will be larger and have more liveable space than smaller units that are 2000- or 3000lbs .

Great Floor Plans

Travel trailers under 5000 lbs usually offer a wider variety of floorplans than their smaller trailers . Whether it's because there's more room to design or more features to add, we're not sure, but you will get a good choice of floorplans with this size camper.

Sometimes, there are several queries that people have in mind. In order to address those, we have formulated some frequently asked questions. These questions would make sure that you have a reliable and flawless experience. We have listed these to provide you with maximum convenience and save you precious time and money.

What Vehicle Do I Need to Tow a Travel Trailer That’s 5000Lbs? 

5000 pounds of weight requires quite a lot of power to move from one place to another. If you own a travel trailer that has a 5000-lbs of weight, you’d need a powerful vehicle to transport it. Ideally, you would need a compact truck with a towing capacity of more than 5000lbs to effectively transport it.

What Size Ball Do I Need For a 5000Lbs Travel Trailer?

One of the most commonly used size balls for a 5000lbs travel trailer is a  hitch ball . Typically, a 2-inch to 2-5/16-inch ball rating would be ideal. It would serve as the perfect match and provide you with maximum comfort and reliability.

Travel Trailers Under 5000 Lbs

Purchasing the right fit for yourself can be a challenge, especially if there are tons of models and designs in the market.

We recommend all of the above trailers and have actually spent time in them to get to know the feel of them. But of course, a travel trailer under 5000 lbs is starting to get pricey, so make sure you do your due diligence before buying.

That said, once you get your camper, we're sure it will make your every road trip much better. Happy camping!

Share to Pinterest

Travel Trailers

Last updated on: March 29, 2022

Best Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Lbs To Buy in 2022

by Chris Coleman

www.rvtalk.net is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There are numerous benefits to owning a lightweight travel trailer, specifically those under 5,000 pounds, one of which being easier handling and maneuvering on the road. Lightweight travel trailers can range from just above 1,100 lbs to 5,000 lbs, plus they are available in varying price range, the number of amenities and special features such as off-road capabilities, so there is a lightweight trailer out there for any camper. While the vast market can have you overwhelmed, our handpicked list of the very best travel trailers under 5000 lbs can serve as a shortcut to your purchasing decision.

These best lightweight travel trailers are shortlisted for their well-roundedness and all have a proven track record as reviewed by full-time and seasoned campers. You know you’re getting excellent value for money: design and craftsmanship, construction and durability, functionality and features, amenities and comfort.

Dive into this comprehensive comparison of the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs to pick out the best option for your travel needs and preference. In addition, you will find a host of useful information that will make your purchasing and maintenance experience as stress-free as possible.

Travel Trailers Under 5000 Lbs: Benefits

1. happier camper hc1: vintage and instagram-worthy, 2. taxa outdoors cricket, 3. airstream sport travel trailer, 4. forest river rockwood geo pro, 5. coachmen clipper ultra-lite travel trailer, 6. jayco hummingbird, 7. keystone hideout 25lhswe: for big families, 8. palomino palomini: off-road capabilities, 9. gulf stream vista cruiser travel trailer: super spacious and durable, 10. winnebago hike: toy hauler and off-road ready, 11. kz sportsmen classic ultra lightweight travel trailer: off-road capabilities, 12. dutchmen coleman lantern lt pull behind travel trailer, lightweight travel trailers: weight ratings you must know.

The most important benefit of a travel trailer under 5000 lbs is there are ample models and floor plans out there that you can tow with your existing SUV or van. That means you won’t need to upgrade to a pickup as a capable towing vehicle at the same time you invest in a camper trailer. 

Among the travel trailers under 5000 lbs, there are also many models that offer just the same level of comfort that a large full-fledge RV would have, but with a fraction of the weight. So you have the best of both worlds: lighter weight for easy handling on the road and adequate amenities for perfectly comfortable camping. 

There are numerous advantages to investing in the best travel trailer under 5,000 lbs. A lighter weight also means better fuel economy and savings on gas in the long term. Easy maneuvering also means more off-road capabilities and more freedom to explore more hard-to-get places that a bulky RV would have difficulty navigating. Furthermore, enthusiasts of minimalist living claim that a travel trailer of such a size has just the right amount of storage and space when you should be spending most of your time exploring the great outdoors. 

Best Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Lbs Reviews

Below are our handpicked list of the very best campers under 5000 lbs based on a thorough consideration of their well-roundedness, including specifications, features, construction, durability, amenities, and value for money. 

There are the perfect RV trailers under 5000 lbs for any type of camper, from the off-road ready toy haulers for the outdoorsy adventurers, to the ultra, ultra minimal and lightweight for spontaneous getaways to the bigger, heavier, fully equipped and more luxurious for big families and month-long camping. Each model has a proven track record based on in-depth ultra lightweight travel trailer reviews from seasoned and full-time RVers worldwide, so you know you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

The Happier Camper HC1 is very well known among campers and camping enthusiasts. It is consistently featured in reviews for the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs thanks to its unique and praise-worthy design, flexible living space configuration and its amenities, despite being very lightweight and compact. 

This little trailer is among the lightest options of this list. Packing only the most essential of amenities onboard, Happier Camper HC1 is considered to be an ingenious solution for the spontaneous travelers who often go on short weekend trips. Known as the Swiss Army knife in the lightweight travel trailer world, the Happier Camper unit is versatile which lets it flexibly tackle various camping conditions. 

With a combination of retro appearance and modern features, HC1 is also your best bet if you desire something traditional but with high levels of comfort.

In addition to its distinctively vintage and extremely Instagram-worthy aesthetics, what makes this lightweight trailer special is the highly flexible Adaptiv™ modular interior system allows you to easily customize your trailer on-the-fly, to suit a variety of needs. The interior of Happier Camper HC1 resembles Lego cubes: from the sleeping space to the kitchen, everything could be tailored to create the layout you want in just minutes. Configuring and reconfiguring possibilities are near limitless.

HC1 would be able to accommodate up to 5 travelers comfortably, quite nice for an ultra-lightweight model. 

Thanks to the large rear hatch and windows, ventilation should be top-notch. Regarding electricals and lighting, Happier Camper HC1 features multiple LED lights from the exterior to the interior. With many ports and outlets, it’s going to be a walk in the park to keep your appliances operational.

The HC1 can feature a kitchenette that comes equipped with a 5-gallon freshwater and gray-water tank. The 4-gallon roadshower option features an easy-to-refill way to stay clean on any adventure. 

As for durability, this gorgeous little home on wheels will stay with you for many years down the road. The HC1 is built to last generations, being made with 100% fiberglass double hull handcrafted shells, honeycomb fiberglass floor grid, custom hardware, and custom durable components. Fiberglass is flexible and strong. It has a very high strength-to-weight ratio and exhibits less expansion and contraction due to heat or cold than alternative materials. 

Specifications:

• Dry Weight: 1100 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 110-150 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 3500 lbs
• Overall Length: 13’
• Exterior Height: 7’4”
• Walkable Floor Space: 42 sq ft
• Shell Length: 10’
• Inside Width: 6’6”
• Inside Height: 6’1”
• Sleeps up to family of five
• Double hull insulated shell
• Adaptiv modular interior
• Large rear hatch door
• Leveling/swing jack
• Off-the-grid and solar-ready
•  Premium fabrics and hardwares
• Fresh water tank: 5 gallon
• Gray water tank: 5 gallon
• Fits in a single parking space
• High capacity 
• Excellent structural strength 
• Fully customizable interior 
• No bathroom
• Lacks electrical jacks 

Another one of the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs these days is the Taxa Outdoors Cricket, which is instantly recognizable due to its asymmetrical outer shell. 

With a super light dry weight of under 1,100 pounds, the Taxa Outdoors Cricket can be towed with any four-cylinder SUVs and crossover vehicles, so you might not need to upgrade to a pickupEven when fully loaded with gears, food, supplies and passengers, the Cricket still makes it into any list of the top travel trailers under 4500 pounds.

Plus, with the weight and overall dimension being kept to a bare minimum, maneuvering on the road would not be a problem. Importantly, with this compact trailer, you have more freedom to explore hard-to-get places off the beaten path, which a heavy and bulkier trailer might have a hard time navigating. 

Despite being one of the lightest and most compact trailers on the current market, with a dry weight of under 1,100 lbs, this little shell will wow you with its smart, functional space utilization. You have everything you would need for a neat camping trip, and advocates of the minimalist lifestyle also suggest that the Cricket is just right if you’re not camping for very long: you will be spending most of your time outdoors anyway. 

You might be surprised that this tiny trailer can comfortably accommodate up to two adults and two children. There’s a 15-gallon freshwater tank and a 16-gallon grey water tank, which is more than adequate for couple travelers or a family of three or four.

The tall campers might shy away from such a compact trailer, but worry not, as the pop-up roof can allow for additional headroom. It is small, but offers superb ventilation in all types of weather, featuring four swing windows and five mesh windows. For storage, the under bed storage is more than sufficient to store your clothes, beddings and supplies. 

• Tongue Weight: 245 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 2,700 lbs lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 900 lbs
• Overall Length: 15′
• Exterior Height: 4’2″ (closed) to 6’10” (open)
• Exterior Width: 5’3″
• Walkable Floor Space: 63 sq ft
• Powder-coated steel chassis
• Recycled ripstop polyester tent side with five mesh windows
• Five acrylic, insulated windows with screens & shades 
• 12V roof exhaust fan
• Non-slip seamless nickel patterned flooring
• Countertop sink 
• 2-burner stove 
• Furnace & water heater system
• Full size bed with under bed storage (25 cubic feet)
• Interior and exterior LED lighting
• Interior and exterior 12V accessory outlet 
• Exterior hot & cold shower
• 1” plywood deck 
• Pre-wired solar input
• Fresh Water Tank: 15 gallon
• Gray Water Tank: 16 gallon
• Easy handling thanks to being one of the lightest trailer on the current market
• Excellent durability despite lightweightness
• Outstanding ventilation
• Some floor plans are not exactly affordable
• Additional packages offer not much extra values

If you love that vintage bare aluminum travel trailer look, Airstream is the answer. If you also prioritize handling, then the Airstream Sport is one of the most sought-after lightweight RVs in the world. 

The identifiable aluminum exterior is one of the reasons this trail is so light. In addition, their unique design, aesthetically and homely layouts and the great attention to details make this trailer extremely desirable for travelers of all kinds. 

Although the outside looks similar to the models Airstream has had for over eight decades, the inside is up-to-date with modern appliances and two beautiful layout options. Either floor plan has a well thought out layout to optimize space and storage. The Sport Airstream can comfortably sleep up to four individuals and includes everything you need for utmost comfort. 

The Sport features all the necessary amenities so that you won’t miss your home: a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom, sitting area, dining area, and a bedroom. In addition to its light weight and aesthetics, the Sport is loved for its multiple-purpose design. 

For example, the sitting area that is shared as a dining area can be transformed into a second sleeping area that can sleep two. The kitchen comes with a sink and gas stovetop that can both be covered to create extra counter space. The bathroom has a sink, a porcelain toilet, a stand-up shower and a removable head. 

A much loved feature of the Sport is the bedroom situated at the back of the trailer. In addition to the comfy queen size memory foam bed that can sleep two, the bedroom is perfected by surrounding panoramic windows, so you wake up to lovely sunrise and gaze at the stars at night. 

Another important feature that makes this trailer so easy to tow and handle on the road is that as all Airstreams are built between the wheels instead of above the wheel like models from other manufacturers. This brings the floor and the whole frame down, which lowers the center of gravity. To enhance that, the water tanks are also kept low. This means easier maneuvering and less swaying during a lane change, especially an emergency lane change situation.

• Dry Weight: 2,860 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 350 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:  3,500 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 640 lbs
• Overall Length: 16’4″
• Exterior Height: 9′ 3″ 
• Exterior Width: 8′
• Inside Height: 6′ 4.5″
• Inside Width: 7′ 7″
• Two floor plans to choose from
• 11,000 BTUs air conditioning unit
• 12,000 BTUs furnace 
• Exterior and interior shower
• USB and 110V charging ports
• Retractable awning
• Outdoor storage locker
• Solar power pre-wire kit with off-grid upgrade options
• Fresh water tank: 23 gallon
• Combination Black & Gray Tank: 12 gallon
• Pleasing aesthetics for both exterior and interior
• Better fuel economy than competitors thanks to unique patented aerodynamic shape 
• Less swaying thanks to lower center of gravity compared to most travel trailers
• Greener: the aluminum, steel, and wood used to make Airstreams are can be recycled
• The Sport starts at $47,900, which is more expensive than a few other lightweight models 

Related: Best Small Campers With Bathrooms & Showers

The Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro is one of the heaviest, most durable, most spacious, well equipped with the most luxurious amenities in this list, and definitely one of the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs on the market. 

There are eleven floor plans to choose from, which can accommodate between two to four passengers and can cater for different camping needs, so there’s likely a Rockwood Geo Pro for your. There are also toy haulers options for the hardcore adventurers. 

Despite its weight, the Rockwood Geo Pro is between 11 to 20 feet long, which is not at all outrageous. In addition, this top-notch quality trailer is designed and built with care so that maneuvering is not a problem. It is also made to be towed by most regular standard SUVs. But we must note that it’s cutting it close in terms of weight, so you might want to check the eleven floor plans available to pick the one that your existing family vehicles can tow. 

As for construction, the Forest River Rockwood Geo ProSince features a solid six-sided aluminum cage design and vacuum laminated roof and walls, allowing it to last for generations and withstand a lot of beatings by mother Nature. 

All floor plans of Rockwood Geo Pro come fully equipped, so you can comfortably sleep, cook, dine, bathe and entertain yourself inside. All standard models offer Wi-Fi range extenders and a roof mount solar panel with converter. You can opt for customized options for extra comfort depending on where you often travel and your gears, including an air conditioning unit and bike rack. 

There are also two toy hauler floor plans for the outdoorsy adventurers who bring along many bulky gears. The larger of the two, the Rockwood Geo Pro 19TH is 20′ long with a 8’6″ long cargo space, so you have ample room for outdoor gears like motorcycles, bikes, kayaks and paddleboards. These toy haulers come standard with solar panels, so you can boondock and live off-grid for quite a while. 

Specifications (of G20BHS Travel Trailers) :

• Dry Weight: 3,513 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 455 lbs
• Overall Length: 21′ 2″
• Exterior Height: 10′ 0″
• Exterior Width: 92″
• Awning Size: 14′

Specifications (of 19TH Toy Hauler):

• Dry Weight: 3,407 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 641 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 1,584 lbs
• Overall Length: 20′ 2″
• 6 sided aluminum cage construction
• Vacuum laminated roof and walls
• 5/8″ tongue and groove plywood flooring
• Aluminum cage dinette base 
• Recessed cooktop with flush mount cover 
• 12V refrigerator
• Roof ladder 
• Ventilation fan and vent cover 
• Gas/electric water heater
• Shower water saver 
• Outside shower 
• Foot flush toilets
• Fresh water tank: 31 gallon
• Gray water tank: 30 gallon
• Black water tank: 30 gallon
• Built to be towed by most crossover vehicles and smaller SUVs. 
• Easy to handle despite its not-too-light weight
• Excellent craftsmanship and eyes for details
• Quality control: somewhat inconsistent between units

The Coachmen’s Clipper series has already made a name for itself as one of the most well-rounded travel trailers today, and the Clipper Ultra-Lite is now known as one of the best travel trailers under 5,000 lbs. 

While not all of its 14 floor plans have the sub-5,000 pounds GVWR rating, a lot of them do, all of which offer spacious living space despite being lightweight. A standard feature amongst all of the floorplans is three beds, making this trailer perfect for family travel. 

The most popular lightweight options are probably the Clipper Ultra-Lite 14CR and the Clipper Ultra-Lite 16CFB. In addition to the floor plans, you have several optional upgrades to craft the most homely and comfy home on wheel for you and your companions. 

A closer inspection and you’ll find that the Clipper Ultra-Lite also offers functional and durable features. It is fully equipped with all the creature comforts of larger and more expensive models. The walnut cabinetry gives a cozy look while the residential countertops are laminated for spill resistance and adding longevity. With the 13,500 BTU air conditioner and a 20,000 BTU furnace, you can camp comfortably no matter the weather.

Specs (of the 16CFB floor plan) :

• Dry Weight: 2,783 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 3,863 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 1,080 lbs
• Tongue weight: 363 lbs
• Overall Length: 18′ 6″ ft.
• Exterior Height: 10′ 0″ ft. 
• Exterior Width: 88″ ft.
• Awning size: 10′
• 14 different floor plans available
• 100% adhesion residential grade linoleum
• Seamless and spill-proof laminate countertops and additional safety features
• 13,500 BTU air conditioner
• 20,000 BTU furnace
• Tinted safety glass windows
• Bathroom skylight
• Diamond plate front and rear wall protection
• Fresh water tank: 27 gallon
• Gray water tank: 25 gallon
• Black water tank: 25 gallon
• Many choices to choose from
• Homely and durable features
• Child-safe features
• Suitable for big families
• Some models are dealer stock only or frequently out of stock

Jayco Hummingbird is another trailer on our list that offers more space and comfort than you would think by judging from its size and weight. Jayco is known for being a family-oriented manufacturer with many compact yet perfectly functional models, and the Hummingbird is no exception. 

Walking inside, you will be pleasantly surprised that the Hummingbird packs considerably more space in the interior than its competitors. Among the smaller trailers of the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs out there, it offers a very high level of comfort with user-oriented features, functions and designs. 

Jayco Hummingbird is available in eight floor plans, with length varying from 18 to 19 feet. With such a compact size coupling with its aerodynamic efficiency, the Hummingbird allows for great mobility on the road, just like its name suggests. 

One of the great perks that the Hummingbird offers is the foldable picnic table and the powered awning with LED lighting, so you and your companions can enjoy full-course outdoor dining, whether in the day or at night. Or just laying around with a book and a drink in your hands, chilling out and listening to the sounds of nature. After all, staying outdoors is how you get the most out of camping in the wild. 

Feature-wise, you have everything to live comfortably away from home for a while: a propane-burner and two gas burners, a lot of cooking space, built-in furnaces and an air conditioning unit for camping in any type of weather, and exterior speakers. There are also various safety features for driving.

Despite being lightweight and compact, Jayco Hummingbird boasts superior strength and versatility. To create the lightest yet strongest construction possible, Jayco employs a superior construction process which has been patented for the aluminum body construction. In addition, every sidewall, rear wall and slide room wall are made from the light but tough fiberglass. So you not only get a lot of functionality for your money, but also have solid assurance that your investment will be of great service to you for many, many more years to come.

Specs (for floor plan 16MRB) :

• Dry Weight: 2,794 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 315 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 3,750 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 965 lbs
• Overall Length: 19.83 ft.
• Exterior Height: 9.08 ft. 
• Exterior Width: 8.08 ft.
• Inside Height: 6.5 ft.
• Aluminum body construction
• Fiberglass sidewalls
• Interior wood finish
• Power retractable awning: 10 ft.
• 2-burner oven
• Compact electric/propane refrigerator
• 13,500 BTUs air condition unit
• 18,000 BTUs heater
• Fresh Water Tank: 25.6 gal.
• Gray Water Tank: 25.4 gal.B
• Black Water Tank: 25.4 gal.
• Lots of space and storage 
• First-rate handling
• Aesthetically pleasing interior 

Cons: 

• The bed in the interior sits a bit high
• Some buyers complain about missing parts

Related: Best Travel Trailers Under 2,000 Pounds

The Keystone Hideout 25LHSWE is on the higher end of this list in all aspects: length, weight, amenities and comfort. This spacious travel trailer can comfortably sleep eight people and thus is well suited for big families. If you want easy handling on the road but do not want to sacrifice comfort, the Keystone Hideout 25LHSWE is probably among the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs for you out there.

The 25LHSWE features a full bathroom, a kitchen, a dining area, a sitting area, and various sleeping spaces, including a queen bed that can comfortably sleep two, two roughly full size beds in bunk form and two convertible sofas. The dining area comfortably seats four people but can also be transformed into an extra sleeping space. In addition, the sitting area includes a couch that can comfortably seat three and can also be converted into a sleeping quarter for one person.

The bathroom includes a sink, toilet, and a full shower with a tub. The kitchen includes a large refrigerator, a three burner stovetop, microwave, and even an oven. The oven is something you don’t typically find in the lightweight travel trailer category. In short, you can see that this trailer does not seem to lack anything that would make you miss your own home.

• Dry Weight: 4,843 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 530 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 7,500 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 2,657 lbs
• Overall Length: 29.25 ft.
• Exterior Height: 11.08 ft. 
• Exterior Width: 8 ft.
• Inside Height: 6.75 ft.
• Wood body and aluminum sidewalls
• 3-burner cook top
• 3 cu ft gas/electric refrigerator
• Full bathroom
• Beds: 1 queen, 2 doubles, 2 convertible sofas
• Max sleep: 10 people
• 30,000 BTUs furnace
• 13,500 BTUs air conditioning unit
• Fresh Water Tank: 60 gal.
• Gray Water Tank: 38 gal.
• Black Water Tank: 38 gal.
• More space, storage and sleeping space: sleep up to 10
• Full amenities
• Suitable for multi-family camping
• With cargo, the gross weight of the trailer exceeds 5,000 lbs

The Palomino PaloMini is another luxurious trailer that is on the heavier end of our list.  That said, with full amenities, this is a trailer designed for larger groups of travelers, who tend to go on longer camping trips and thus would need many features for comfortable outdoor excursions. 

There are 10 distinct floor plans that can comfortably accommodate between 3 and 6 occupants. Plus, the adventurous campers can also opt for the off-road package to get extra off-roading capabilities. Therefore, you might be able to find the perfect Palomino PaloMini, regardless of your preferences and the number of companions on board.

Do note that some floor plans are quite heavy, but there are certain floor plans that can be towed by light-duty family SUVs and crossover vehicles. Despite its weight that leans on the heavier side, this Palomino travel trailer varies between 16 to 21 feet long, so you won’t have a problem maneuvering it on most roads, parking lots and campgrounds.  

The trailer comes fully equipped for utmost comfort, including built-in furnace and air conditioning unit, a kitchen with a microwave, a fridge and 2-burner cooktop, full bathroom and an awning. If you want extra features, you can add on without having to worry about modifications. Another notable feature is the laminated walkable roof, which means an easier time for repair and maintenance for, say, the factory roof-mounted A/C. 

There’s also the Off-Road Package if you want to enhance the trailer’s off-road capabilities. This includes extra 4″ to exterior height, 15” aluminum wheels, 28” mudder tires, lift kit, flared fenders, and assist rail.

• Dry Weight: 3,849 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 545 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,945 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 1,096 lbs
• Overall Length: 22′ 11″ 
• Exterior Height: 10′ 3″ 
• Exterior Width: 90″
• Awning size: 15′
• 13,500 BTU roof air conditioner
• 2 burner cooktop
• 8 cubic foot refrigerator
• Porcelain Toilet
• Power vent in bathroom
• Memory foam mattress
• Bluetooth stereo
• LED interior lighting
• Power awning  with LED light
• Walkable laminated roof
• 4 stabilizer jacks
• Fresh Water Tank: 44 gal.
• Gray Water Tank: 30 gal.
• Durable and long-lasting 
• Luxurious appliances 
• A lot of storage 
• Minor leakage issues 

In addition to the Keystone Hideout 25LHSWE, the Gulf Stream Vista Cruiser is another rare travel trailer with the best possible weight-to-length ratio, with an exterior length of 26 feet but still keep the gross weight under 5,000 pounds. There are 14 floor plans to choose from, with the dry weight ranging from 2,567 lbs to 4,486 lbs. 

You’ll find the Vista Cruiser to be superbly constructed and fully equipped. It is made to last generations, and the carefully constructed body allows for large living space and full amenities while maintaining a reasonable weight. This tough fighter features vacuum-bonded laminated fiberglass walls, welded square tube aluminum skeleton frame, and aerodynamic one-piece laminated fiberglass roof. Not just the overall construction, the Vista Cruiser’s interior is also unique and is loved for its distinct European style.

Feature-wise, it has everything you would ever need, even if you go on months-long trips in this trailer with your family. The 20,000 BTU furnace and 13,500 BTU air conditioner will keep you comfy in any kind of weather. There’s also a full bath with a 6 gallon water heater and a fully equipped kitchen with cozy hardwood cabinetry, a sink with cover for extra counter space, 3-burner range with oven and microwave. Take it up a notch with the home theater studio, a rare perk that’s hard to find in a non-luxury trailer like this one.

Specs (for the Vista Cruiser 19RBS floor plan) :

• Dry Weight: 3,119 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 390 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,222 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 1,103 lbs
• Overall Length: 23’1″ 
• Exterior Height: 10’2″
• Exterior Width: 7’6″
• Inside Height: 83″
• Vacuum-bonded laminated fiberglass walls 
• Welded square tube aluminum skeleton frame
• Aerodynamic one-piece laminated fiberglass roof extending from front hitch to rear bumper
• Black radius tinted safety glass windows
• Advanced Euro-style interior design
• Premium foam mattress
• High-performance laminated countertops with continuous molding edge
• Deluxe wood medicine cabinet with mirror
• 3-burner range with oven
• Home theater studio
• Full dry bath
• 6 gallon water heater 
• LED step light with switch at entry door
• Power awning
• Fresh Water Tank: 27 gal.
• Gray Water Tank: 33 gal.
• Black Water Tank: 33 gal.
• Top notch durability
• Modern Euro-style design
• Full amenities, luxury and comfort
• Suitable for large families and even multi-family camping
• Some larger floor plans can exceed 5,000 lbs when loaded

Related: Best Travel Trailers With King Size Bed

Major RV manufacturer Winnebago builds several travel trailers that have a GVWR less than 5,000 lbs, but the Hike is a favorite by the outdoorsy adventurers.

The outdoor space and exterior design are what sets this trailer apart from the others. The entire exterior has a rugged exoskeleton to make it efficient to attach large adventure gear like kayaks. You can also pack in more adventure in the durable, convenient front storage with space for a battery, LP tanks, or adventure gear.

Plus, the standard HIKE is already off-road ready: off-road tires, offset wheels, and robust fenders make easy work of tough roads.

There are a few add-ons, but based on the raving reviews from campers who invested in the Hike, you probably won’t need them. The original model is just perfect. There are five different floor plans to choose from, of which three of them are less than 5,000 lbs GVWR while the other two have GVWR of 6,000 lbs. 

The interior’s sleek, contemporary styling, clean lines, and quality interior furnishings make the inside as cozy and roomy as it is innovative.It can comfortably sleep three people. The Hike truly gives you the option to take the comforts of home off-road and off-grid. 

• Dry Weight: 3,340 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 420 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4,200 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: lbs
• Overall Length: 20’7.5″
• Exterior Width: 7’9″
• Inside Height: 6’5″
• Awning length: 10′
• 3 floor plans with 4,200 lbs GVWR
• Built with a rugged exoskeleton to attach adventure gear like bikes and kayaks
• Contemporary and quality interior
• AV System AM/FM/CD/DVD/USB/Bluetooth
• USB charge ports
• 18,000 BTU Furnace
• 6 gallon water heater
• Extra front storage 
• Extreme weather foil wrapping
• Off-road tires and fenders
• Roof-mounted solar charger prep
• Fresh Water Tank: 31 gal.
• Gray Water Tank: 25 gal.
• Black Water Tank: 25 gal.
• Many features for the adventurous campers
• Ultra modern and clean interior
• Only has sleeping space for up to 3 people
• Note that 2 floor plans has GVWR of 6,000 lbs

For its unassuming length and weight, the KZ Sportsmen Classic surprisingly packs a lot. It really is the whole package and has been a favourite by KZ customers for a while now. 

This affordable and lightweight travel trailer tows with an SUV With seven different floor plans to choose from, you will be able to choose the best travel trailer under 5,000 lbs for you and your companions. 

The floor plans include two toy haulers, and two expandable bunk models, which is perfect for families. This versatile bed system usually is not offered by lightweight trailers under 5,000 lbs. 

Feature-wise, you have multiple bed sizes to choose from, walk-around queen bed on select models, sleeping space for up to eight people, a dining table large enough for a family, spacious shower, a kitchen with a perfectly deep sink, and more closet space than other travel trailers of similar size. That is, all of the things that make this trailer feel like home.

There are tons of available upgrade options, but the standard trailer set up is excellent too. The upgrade options do offer some unique features that will allow you to customize your home on wheels to the fullest.

If you like to travel off the beaten path, get the off-road upgrade option to make your outdoor adventures more rugged and remote. It includes all of the excellent standard features along with extra ground clearance, aluminum rims with 15” mud tires, and an electronically controlled heated holding tank. If you plan on getting off-grid, this is the perfect trailer with solar-ready preparations, on top of the above off-road package. 

• Dry Weight: 2,850 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 370 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 3,500 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 650 lbs
• Overall Length: 22′
• Exterior Height: 107″ 
• Inside Height: 78″

Key Features

• 7 floor plans to choose from
• Optional off-road package
• Tinted Windows
• Tongue & groove plywood flooring
• 2-Burner Range
• 8 cubic feet refrigerator
• Flip-up entry steps to make climbing in and out easier
• Electric awning with LED lights
• Solar prep ready
• Alum-a-tough roofing with a 12-year limited warranty 
• Fresh Water Tank: 20 gal.
• Gray Water Tank: 32 gal.
• Black Water Tank: 32 gal.

This value-oriented Coleman Lantern lineup doesn’t skimp on amenities or quality, which makes it perfect for long trips as couple travelers or families. What makes the Coleman Lantern LT notable is although it is lightweight, it boasts superb construction and insulation that will allow it to last for generations and will provide you the utmost comfort even in extreme weather. 

The durable roof features EPDM roof, 3/8” decking, fiberglass Insulation and lauan interior panels. The body structure offers excellent insulation with metal exterior panels, wood frame with R7 thermal insulation together with lauan interior panels.

Of the 16 models of the Coleman Lantern LT, there are eight that have a GVWR under 5,000 lbs, and all but two have dry weights of less than 5,000 lbs. All of the trailers in the series can sleep at least four people, and up to eight. Sleeping arrangements include a queen size bed, plus up to two bunk beds and up to two convertible sofas.

Although there are numerous layout options, many of the features will be similar. The packages offer very limited extra options too, and you are adequately equipped enough with the standard packages. 

• Dry Weight: 3,638 lbs
• Tongue Weight: 506 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:  lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 762 lbs
• Overall Length: 22′ 10″
• Exterior Height: 9′ 9″ 
• 7cu ft refrigerator
• 2-burner cooktop (some models)
• Interior speakers
• USB power supply throughout
• 4GE LTE connectivity 
• Stereo AM/FM/MP3/SC/AUX
• Bathroom Skylight
• Living area exhaust fan (some models)
• Gray Water Tank: 28 gal.
• Black Water Tank: 28 gal.

Related: Best Lightweight Toy Hauler Travel Trailers 

A particular travel trailer nowadays would often come along a variety of weight-related ratings. If you want to get the best travel trailers under 5000 lbs then you must inspect the following ratings.

Dry weight is essentially the weight of the vehicle when unloaded, that is without any added passengers, cargo, fuel or water tanks (this is why it’s called “dry” camper weight and sometimes unloaded weight). 

The dry weight range of recreational vehicles can vary greatly, from about 1,000 to 9,000 pounds, depending on the construction materials, internal features, amenities and size of the loading space. The weight is often directly proportional to the number of amenities available in the vehicle. 

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The most practical metric for camper weight that you must know is gross vehicle weight. GVW is the weight of your camping vehicle when your fuel and water tanks plus cargo load inside the trailer are completely full. 

The most accurate way to determine the total gross weight of your motorhome is to fill all the tanks fully, add your equipment, gears, food and supplies and put them on a truck scale.

Do note that the same model of recreational vehicle can have differing gross weights, depending on the size of cargo load and optional features included. Both a regular tow vehicle and an RV has its own GVWR. 

To find your trailer’s exact dry weight, unload all of your gears and equipment including propane tanks, water tanks and batteries, then go to your local truck stop to use the scale there. Once you have weighed the trailer, detach your trailer from your tow vehicle and then only weigh your tow vehicle. Subtract these two numbers to get the dry weight of your trailer.

Tongue Weight (TW)

A trailer’s tongue weight (TW) refers to the weight that a fully loaded trailer exerts downward on the hitch ball of the tow vehicle. Tongue weight should be between 10% to 15% of gross trailer weight (GTW) for good control and handling on the road. 

Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC)

This is the maximum amount of weight your gear, belongings and food supplies should total to. You can weigh your items separately before loading, to accurately keep track of your cargo’s weight. It’s also a good idea to note these weights down somewhere so the next time you might not need to weigh them again but can still have a pretty close estimate of your cargo weight. 

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The maximum distributed weight that may be supported by an axle of a vehicle. For safe operation, the load on any axle of the towing car shouldn’t exceed its GAWR. The label ‘GAWR FR’ means that it is the rating for the front axle, while ‘GAWR RR’ means that it is the rating for the rear axle.

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)

The maximum combined mass of the tow vehicle, the passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle, plus the mass of the trailer, the passengers and cargo in the trailer.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

Related Articles in this Category

The best travel trailer brands on the market in 2022 (with pictures, floor plan and prices), travel trailer with bunk beds 2022: top 7 picks, best travel trailers with twin beds to buy in 2022, the best aluminum travel trailers: 5 models to consider, the 10 best models of travel trailer with king size bed, how to level a travel trailer on a permanent site, the best suv for towing travel trailer: a list to rely on, 10 best lightweight toy hauler travel trailer models, diy teardrop trailer cost: a breakdown of the expenses, fifth wheel vs travel trailer: main points of difference, 20+ travel trailer must have accessories [2021 list], top 10 ultra-lightweight travel trailers under 2,000 lbs, 1 thought on “best travel trailers under 5,000 lbs to buy in 2022”.

More pictures!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Journey With Confidence

10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Of 2024

• RV Trailers and Motorhomes

Relaxing with family and friends while enjoying all the amenities of a home is why a good travel trailer makes RV outings so special. Add in the ability to tow one with a vehicle that’s likely already in your driveway—plus the opportunity to drop the trailer at the campsite and use the tow vehicle to explore the surrounding area—and it’s easy to see why the popularity in lightweight travel trailers has been at an all-time high for the past few years.

The Year Ahead

According to the RV Industry Association (RVIA), more than 60 million Americans are expected to take to the highways, byways, and backroads in the coming year, all in an RV of some type. About one in five of those doing so towing a travel trailer.

“Travelers continue to choose RVing as a top travel option because of its affordability and ability to bring family and friends closer together,” said RVIA President & CEO Craig Kirby. “Our research shows that consumer interest in living an active outdoor lifestyle remains strong, and there are RVs available at every price point for consumers eager to get outdoors.”

Why are Lightweight Travel Trailers So Popular?

Travel trailers with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 6,500 pounds or less are especially popular because they are considered lightweight travel trailers and are easily towable by half-ton pickups and full-size SUVs. They can also be towed by properly equipped vans, mid-size pickups, and smaller SUVs, making it simple to plan your RV trip , whether months in advance or the week before your vacation.

There are more than 50 brands of travel trailers, and within those brands are dozens of lightweight travel trailers that have a multitude of floorplans, amenities and options to suit different lifestyles. This can make choosing the perfect lightweight travel trailers for your camping needs a little mind boggling, so we’re highlighting 10 of the best lightweight travel trailers of 2024 (in alphabetical order) to help you find your perfect RV.

(If you’re looking for previous model-year lightweight travel trailers, check out these posts: 10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers For 2023 and 10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers of 2022 ).

Airstream REI Special Edition Basecamp 20X

Airstream and REI have collaborated on the design of the 20-foot Special Edition Basecamp 20X, a rugged new lightweight travel trailer targeting adventure-bound outdoorsy families. From the three-inch lift, off-road tires and rear cargo entry door to load bicycles, kayaks, and other outdoor gear, to the wrap-around galley in front, the 20X is one of the most advanced and eco-friendly lightweight RVs on the market. It has plentiful storage options overhead and built-in storage spaces , plus two convertible sleeping/lounge areas. Base MSRP: $62,400

• GVWR: 4,300 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 535 lbs
• Exterior Length: 20’ 2”
• Exterior Height: 9’ 5”
• Exterior Width: 7’ 9.5”
• Interior Height: 6’ 7”
• Freshwater cap: 23 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 21 gal/28 gal

Escape Trailer 23 First Edition

Escape Trailer’s new Escape 23 First Edition is one of the few custom-built lightweight travel trailers and is available with either a walk-around queen bed or twin beds. Buyers can also choose between Contemporary or Maple interior, plus different table styles, sink colors, along with seven choices for flooring, countertops, and fabric as standard features. This luxurious fiberglass-body camper also comes with a state-of-the-art 400-watt solar system with dual lithium batteries and Victron control package for an excellent off-grid power supply. Base MSRP: $64,999

• GVWR: 6,000 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 600 lbs
• Exterior Length: 24’ 11”
• Exterior Height: 9’ 6”
• Exterior Width: 8’
• Interior Height: 6’ 5”
• Freshwater cap: 42 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 40 gal/40 gal

Forest River IBEX 19QBH

Forest River’s IBEX lightweight travel trailers with the Beast Mode option feature a comfy chaise dinette in the amidships slide, a queen bed up front, a central vacuum system, heated tank pads, Curt Beast Mode independent suspension and a panoramic front window. There’s also butcher-block countertop, premium accent lighting, a power awning, an exterior kitchen, and a 2,000-watt inverter. The 2024 19QBH adds rear bunk beds to the mix, making it a great family camping trailer. Base MSRP: $44,987

 Features

• GVWR: 5,365 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 495 lbs
• Exterior Length: 23’
• Exterior Height: 10’ 6”
• Exterior Width: 7’ 4”
• Interior Height: 6’ 4”
• Freshwater cap: 30 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 30 gal/30 gal

InTech Sol Dusk

Central to inTech’s new Sol Dusk’s design is its versatile bed/lounge area. This adaptable space can be effortlessly transformed from a comfortable lounge to twin beds to a luxurious 80-by-80-inch oversize king bed in minutes. The Dusk’s huge curved front window provides a panoramic view and the luxurious interior with wet bath is soothing, while the 10-foot awning and the cool slide-out exterior kitchen adds to the enjoyment of the RVing outdoor experience. Base MSRP: $44,940

• GVWR: 4,800 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 540–575 lbs
• Exterior Length: 20’ 8”
• Exterior Width: 8’ 6”
• Interior Height: 6’ 6”
• Freshwater cap: 28 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 32 gal combined

Jayco Jay Flight 260BH

Jayco’s Jay Flight 260BH is a new floorplan designed for growing families. The bunkhouse in the rear is opposite the full bath and is set up with 48-by-76-inch beds. The amidships galley and dining/living area is spacious and well-appointed with a jackknife sofa. The master bedroom up front has a queen bed with good storage space beneath. This Jay Flight is perfect for RVers who want a comfortable, well-built travel trailer that easily tows behind any vehicle with a maximum tow rating of more than 6,500 pounds. Base MSRP: $33,749

• Hitch Weight: 515 lbs
• Sleeps: Up to 10
• Exterior Length: 29’ 5”
• Exterior Height: 9’ 10”
• Interior Height: 6’ 9”
• Freshwater cap: 52 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 39 gal/39 gal

Keystone Bullet Crossfire 1700BH

If you’re looking for an entry-level single-axle lightweight RV that is easy to tow and can accommodate a growing family, the 2024 Bullet Crossfire from Keystone is for you. The 1700BH sleeps up to six with the rear bunks and queen bed up front. The new Goodyear Endurance tires and TORFLEX rubber torsion suspension do a great job protecting the trailer and cargo on long road trips. This new floorplan also makes smart use of cargo space and lots of standard features, like power stabilizer jacks and Hyperdeck flooring, that make it one of the most durable and comfortable lightweight travel trailers. Base MSRP: $24,150

• GVWR: 4,825 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 425 lbs
• Exterior Length: 21’ 5”
• Exterior Height: 10’ 5”
• Freshwater cap: 37 gal

Lance 1475 Travel Trailer

Lance Camper’s ultra-light 1475 Travel Trailer is nicely equipped with a residential 60-by-80-inch queen bed that has an extra-large under-bed storage area. It features a nice-size dry bath, but no dinette; instead, it’s equipped with two comfortable lounge chairs with a small coffee table between, which makes the interior even roomier. A nice galley and Truma Combi handle the eating, heating and water needs. Base MSRP: $47,326

• GVWR: 4,500 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 340 lbs
• Sleeps: 2–3
• Exterior Length: 19’ 8”
• Exterior Height: 10’ 3”
• Exterior Width: 7’
• Interior Height: 6’ 8”
• Freshwater cap: 26 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 26 gal/26 gal

Starcraft Super Lite 189RG

The new 25-foot Starcraft Super Lite 189RG is a well-equipped lightweight travel trailer at the upper end of the lightweight class. It’s big enough to bring along the whole family with strong heating and A/C to keep everyone comfortable for four-season use. The rear-kitchen- and bath floorplan with a small slide out for the jackknife sofa leaves the center of this travel trailer wide open for entertaining. The residential vinyl flooring is strong enough to stand up to pets and kiddos alike, while the 17-inch oven with a three-burner range and the 10-cu-ft fridge make it easy to prepare meals for the whole crew. Base MSRP: $39,053

• GVWR: 6,400 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 520 lbs
• Exterior Length: 25’ 2”
• Exterior Height: 11’ 1”
• Exterior Width: 8’ 1”
• Freshwater cap: 45 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 29 gal/29 gal

Travel Lite Rove Lite

The 2,500-pound  Rove Lite 14FL from Travel Lite RV is light enough to be towed by many of the smallest properly equipped vehicles due to its aerodynamic teardrop design crafted from revolutionary Hydro-Lite material. It’s also one of the handful of lightweight travel trailers that offers an all-electric package powered by solar and lithium batteries. In standard trim the 400-watt solar panels, full-bed in the rear, nice galley, high ceiling and basic bathroom make this 16-foot trailer both a comfortable and cozy choice for one or two campers. Base MSRP: $28,499

• GVWR: 2,500 lbs
• Hitch Weight: 220 lbs
• Exterior Length: 16’ 6”
• Exterior Height: 8’ 1”
• Exterior Width: 7’ 11”
• Freshwater cap: 10 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 5 gal/30 gal

Winnebago M-Series 2326RK

Winnebago unveiled the entry-level M-Series line of 26-foot compact lightweight travel trailers in late September to rave reviews. The 2326RK, the largest of the three new models, features big skylights, ample storage, a beautiful interior decor, a standard 10-cu-ft 12-volt refrigerator (or optional 8 cubic foot gas/electric refrigerator), and factory-supplied solar on each floorplan. The rear kitchen floorplan offers a lot of elbow room for the camp chef, and the amidships bathroom has one of the largest showers found in lightweight travel trailers. Base MSRP: $29,330

• Hitch Weight: 387 lbs
• Exterior Length: 26’ 7”
• Freshwater cap: 31 gal
• Black-/Gray-water cap: 25 gal/25 gal

Related Articles

10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers For 2023 10 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Of 2022

Top 5 Best Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Pounds

By Raza Vakil

Travel trailers come in all shapes and sizes. More often than not you’ll find looking at the weight to see if your particular vehicle can tow your chosen camper. A good rule of thumb is to choose a travel trailer that is under 5,000 pounds  GVWR . Note the emphasis on GVWR. Many travel trailers that are sub-5000 pounds but that weight is considered as dry weight. This means that after adding cargo, fuel, water and the people the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) goes beyond 5,000 pounds. With that in mind, we’ve put up a list of our top 5 best travel trailers that are under 5,000 pounds in GVWR!

What puts an RV on the list:  Apart from making sure that a travel trailer is light enough to be towed by any half ton vehicle or SUV, there are many other factors taken into consideration. The ones that made the list offer enough room despite being lightweight, have good ratings, and are the newest models available.

The Top 5 Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Pounds:

• KZ Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer
• Forest River R-Pod Travel Trailer
• Coachmen Clipper Ultra Lite Travel Trailer
• Keystone Passport Travel Trailer
• Gulf Stream Vista Cruiser Travel Trailer

#1. KZ Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer

Keeping it simple.

View All KZ  Sportsmen Classic Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend the KZ Sportsmen travel trailer:  The lightweight floorplans of the KZ Sportsmen such as the  Sportsmen 130RB  and the  Sportsmen 150BH , when accompanied with the simplistic design, makes it a fun travel trailer that you can tow easily. Of course, it still has enough features to make it worth the money you pay for it. You also get the flexibility of 7 floorplans which range from 2126 to 2840 dry weight, which when converted to GVWR is still under 5,000 pounds!

It doesn’t compromise despite having a shorter length than usual RVs (which is common in sub-5000 lbs travel trailers). For example, it still features a power awning, an 8,000 BTU air conditioner, a 20,000 BTU furnace as well as two 6.5-inch interior speakers. You can also expand it later down the line with more good stuff, which definitely makes it a top choice for a sub-5000 pound travel trailer.

Key Features:

• 7 different floor plans available
• Alum-a-tough® roofing with a 12-year limited warranty
• Power awning with LED light strip
• 8,000 BTU air conditioner
• Exterior speakers

Video Overview:

#2. Forest River R-Pod Travel Trailer

Your featherlight weekend camper.

View All Forest River  R-Pod Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend Forest River R-Pod travel trailer:  One of the more well-known travel trailers is the Forest River R-Pod which became quite popular among RVers for its extremely lightweight build. All of its floorplans are well under 5,000 pounds GVWR, which means you have 9 different layouts which span from 18 to 20 feet in length, providing plenty of room for 4 people, which is its maximum sleeping capacity. Take a look at the  R-Pod RP190  and the  R-Pod RP-182G !

Of course, as we saw with the Sportsmen Classic, lighter and smaller build doesn’t translate to less features. You’ll find the standard run-of-the-mill as well as some Forest River exclusive features in the R-pod. It also has a lot of options to upgrade it, but we particularly liked the upgraded 13,500 BTU air conditioner, the convection microwave oven and the R-dome awning as those upgrades brings it very close to a premium-grade travel trailer!

• 9 different floor plans available!
• Self-adjusting electric brakes
• LP, CO and smoke detectors
• Hardwood drawer fronts w/ full extension ball bearing drawer guides
• Outside speakers
• Custom tinted safety glass windows

Virtual Tour:

#3. Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer

Cozy but feature-rich.

View All Coachmen  Clipper Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend the Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite travel trailer:  Coachmen’s Clipper series has already made a name for itself as one of the top travel trailers, but if you’re looking for something that can be towed more easily, the Clipper Ultra-Lite is the one for you. While not all of its floorplans have the sub-5000 pounds GVWR rating, a lot of them do, and provide lots of space to keep it roomy despite being lightweight. We recommend checking out the  Clipper Ultra-Lite 14R  and the  Clipper Ultra-Lite 16FB .

Step inside and you’ll find that the Clipper Ultra-Lite also has a lot going on in terms of features. The walnut cabinetry gives it a nice look while the residential countertops are laminated for spill resistance and adding longevity. You also have a 13,500 BTU air conditioner and a 20,000 BTU furnace, thus making you comfortable whether its cold or hot outdoors. Couple that with the variety of upgrades available and we have a full-fledged yet feather light travel trailer in our hands.

• 13 different floor plans available
• 100% adhesion residential grade linoleum
• 20,000 BTU furnace
• Tinted safety glass windows
• Bathroom skylight
• Diamond plate front and rear wall protection

#4. Keystone Passport Travel Trailer

A floorplan for every taste.

View All Keystone  Passport Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend the Keystone Passport travel trailer:  Keystone’s Passport travel trailer has been featured in our other lists before, and due to the fact that it has 6 floorplans which are under 5,000 pounds GVWR, it became an obvious choice for our top 5 list. This is because apart from those floorplans (of which we recommend the  Passport 153ML Express  and the  Passport 175BH Express ), it also has a lot to boast about in terms of features.

Some of its features include but are not limited to the dual exterior speakers, 30K BTU furnace, interior lighting, USB ports, 6 feet double door refrigerator and 4 wheel electric brakes. Of course, the list doesn’t end there. You can either add new features or give an ‘oomph’ to the existing ones since the Passport also has over a dozen different expansions. This makes it obvious that the Keystone Passport is one of the best travel trailers under 5,000 pounds!

• 31 different floor plans
• Lighted exterior pass thru storage compartment
• Solid wood custom built medicine cabinet with mirror in the bathroom
• Residential light fixtures in slide room
• Oversized 60/40 residential sink with sink covers

#5. Gulf Stream Vista Cruiser Travel Trailer

Lightweight cruising on a budget.

View All Gulf Stream  Vista Cruiser Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend Gulf Stream Vista Cruiser travel trailer:  If you need something with the best possible weight-to-length ratio, then the Vista Cruiser should be the one as it can span up to 26 feet and still keep the GVWR under 5,000 pounds. There are only two floorplans that offer this: the  Vista Cruiser 23CSK  and the  Vista Cruiser 23RSS . However, the other floorplans also offer 20 or more feet of room to walk on, which is still pretty spacious!

Feature-wise, you’ll find the Vista Cruiser to be well constructed and well equipped. The oyster fiberglass one-piece exterior construction can tank a lot of punishment, and keep the 20,000 BTU, the hardwood cabinetry and all of the other interior parts safe. You can also take it up a notch later on with expansions such as an LED awning, exterior TV mounting bracket, home theater studio and a 3-burner range with oven.

• 10 different floor plans available
• Black radius tinted safety glass windows
• High-performance laminated countertops with continuous molding edge
• Deluxe wood medicine cabinet with mirror
• Power awning
• LED step light with switch at entry door

Check out these similar RV reviews!

Top 5 Best Luxury Travel Trailers

Top 5 Best Travel Trailers For Large Families

– – – – –

Towing an RV requires lots of calculation about the final weight and if your vehicle can do it. However, these travel trailers should be light enough that they are easily towed using any vehicle and can even be parked in any campground across the country as they are under 27 feet!

BEFORE  you head to a dealer to see these trailers,   download your  FREE RV Buyers Worksheet  for help keeping track of:

• The feature must-haves that are important to you and your family
• Which brands or manufacturers you like
• Budgeting tools including a payment calculator resource
• Multiple well spaced pages with room for lots of your notes
• BONUS Resources: Trade-in values, tow vehicle ratings, and finance options

Share with us your favorite travel trailers under 5,000 pounds in the comments below!

• Find a Location

The Best 2024 Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Pounds

• Length: 22’10”
• Dry Weight: 4,374 pounds
• Cargo Capacity: 726 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6

This Hideout Sport is a single-axle travel trailer perfect for couples who want the versatility of extra sleeping space for kids or guests. With an easily convertible booth dinette and living area sofa, this lightweight travel trailer can sleep up to six people. The kitchen offers a larger pantry and an extended slide-out in the living area, giving more storage and living space.

So why choose a rear bath floorplan? The rear bath travel trailer floorplan offers a more comfortable, spacious bathroom. Showers are typically larger with this floorplan. You get more bathroom storage. Plus, some models include a rear bathroom entry. It also means your bedroom is located in the front of your RV, which some RVers prefer.

With a bathroom in the rear of the Hideout Sport 186SS, you enjoy an expanded kitchen pantry with shelves and cabinets adjacent to the bathroom. The bathroom’s location also accommodates guests who need to get up in the middle of the night without disturbing others.

Explore Keystone Hideout Sport 186SS at Camping World

Other Rear Bath Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Pounds

The Keystone Hideout Sport 186SS is a fantastic rear bath travel trailer option that won’t break the bank (or your tow vehicle). But if you aren’t sold, here are three more lightweight travel trailers with a rear bath floorplan: 

• Heartland Mallard M210RB (4,397 pounds)
• Forest River Wolf Pup 16FQ (3,619 pounds)
• Rockwood Mini Lite 2109S (4,493 pounds)

Best Bunkhouse Travel Trailer

Coleman lantern 274bh.

• Length: 28’6”
• Dry Weight: 4,824 pounds
• Cargo Capacity: 2,776 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity: 8

When it comes to an affordable family bunkhouse travel trailer under 5,000 pounds, you can’t go wrong with the Coleman Lantern 274BH . This cozy, slide-less unit offers all your family necessities while remaining affordable and easy to operate. Plus, you get a few extras, like a command panel for monitoring tank levels and controlling the powered awning, a power tongue jack, exterior speakers, and more. 

The double over double bunks are great for kids of any age. The beds are separated by a wall for privacy and noise control, making this camper more comfortable for larger families. 

The benefit of the open floorplan in the Lantern 274BH is sharing space and having access to the littlest ones, who may be camping for the first time. But these bunks are good for kids or adult guests, offering a 300-pound capacity. Speaking of guests, you might fit kids and adult guests with an overall sleeping capacity of eight people on the Coleman Lantern 274BH. 

This Lantern also includes a rear bathroom with a shower and skylight, providing easy access for kids and guests. For an affordable slide-less camper that fits eight, there’s much to like about the Coleman Lantern 274BH. 

Explore the Coleman Lantern 274BH at Camping World

Other Bunkhouse Travel Trailer Floorplans Under 5000 Pounds

The bunkhouse travel trailer floorplan on smaller, slide-less RVs is great for families looking to get into RVing. And the Coleman Lantern 274BH isn’t the only good option on the market by a long shot. If you have a vehicle that doesn’t quite tow the Lantern 274BH, there are some lighter options, too. Check out the following alternative lightweight bunkhouse travel trailers: 

• Keystone Springdale Classic 1800BH (3,396 pounds)
• Keystone Hideout Sport 175BH (3,055 pounds)
• Jayco Jay Flight 260BH (4,580 pounds)

Best Small Rear Living Travel Trailer

Jayco jay flight slx 210qbw.

• Length: 25’10” Dry Weight: 4,315 pounds
• Cargo Capacity: 1,185 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity: 6

Coming in at just over 4,300 pounds, the Jayco Jay Flight SLX 210QBW is slightly heavier than its sibling model, the 210QB . That’s due to its larger holding tanks, which, offer 32 more gallons of fresh water capacity, and a slightly larger gray tank. It also comes with a standard solar setup. The extras in this affordable Jayco travel trailer are designed for families or those traveling with guests. Still, this lightweight trailer is easy to tow, and you won’t need a massive truck.

Inside stick-and-tin rear living travel trailers like the 210QBW, having the bathroom between the primary sleeping and living spaces gives you a buffer for additional privacy. On the Jay Flight SLX 210QBW, the efficient kitchenette in the middle of the camper helps with that separation, too. Notably, the Jay Flight SLX 210QBW is also taller inside than other travel trailers under 5,000 pounds, with a 6’9” interior height. 

We like the community space the Jay Flight SLX 210QBW offers in the back of the camper. With the jackknife sofa facing the dinette, you and your guests can enjoy meals together without feeling crowded. Walk through this unit at your local Camping World, and you’ll appreciate the storage, too. The wall-mounted cabinets change styles as you move from the living and dining area to the bedroom – a nice touch. 

Explore the Jayco Jay Flight 210QBW at Camping World

Other Rear Living Travel Trailers

If the Jayco 210QBW or 210QB don’t quite fit your needs, we recommend three more rear living travel trailers under 5,000 pounds. Check out the following options and their respective dry weights: 

• Forest River Grey Wolf 20RDSE (4,053 pounds)
• Keystone Springdale Classic 200RLC (4,535 pounds)
• Heartland Pioneer RD211 (4,730 pounds)

Rear Kitchen Travel Trailer

Forest river campsite reserve 20ak.

• Length: 25’0” Dry Weight: 4,927 pounds
• Cargo Capacity: 2,552 pounds
• Sleeping Capacity: 4

Coming in just shy of 5,000 pounds,  the Forest River Campsite Reserve 20AK barely made the cut, but it’s certainly worth the extra…dare I say it…weight! 

Forest River Campsite Reserve is a new line of Camping World-exclusive travel trailers, offering signature features like large, square windows, creative and generous storage solutions, and the new Lippert X9 chassis system, which improves handling, reduces noise and vibration, and offers better weight distribution for overall improved towing. While on the larger end (it includes a slide-out!), the 20AK is worth a second look. 

The layout of the Campsite Reserve 20AK is fairly unique because rear kitchen travel trailers are generally rarer than other floorplans. This unit separates the primary sleeping space from the rear kitchen with a thoughtful U-shaped dinette in the mid-unit slide-out. The L-shaped kitchen also creates an open, welcoming layout that’s perfect for couples who are looking at travel trailers under 5000 pounds.

Explore the Forest River Campsite Reserve 20AK

Other Rear Kitchen Travel Trailers Under 5000 Pounds

Not quite your vibe? Or maybe the 20AK is too close for comfort on weight. Check out similar lightweight rear kitchen floorplans on these travel trailers under 5000 pounds below:. 

• Jayco Jay Feather 19MRK (4,795 pounds)
• Forest River Salem FSX 163RDSK   (4,079 pounds)
• Forest River Wildwood FSX 163RDSK (4,079 pounds)

These midweight travel trailers under 5000 pounds make great entry units for many families getting into the RV lifestyle. But if this still isn’t what you’re looking for, check out these additional resources as you continue to search for that perfect travel trailer.

• The Best Travel Trailers Under $20,000
• The Best Bunkhouse Travel Trailers of 2024
• Camping World’s Top-Selling Travel Trailers with Slide-outs

Do you own a travel trailer that weighs less than 5,000 pounds? Tell us what you love about your camper in the comments below. 

Leave Your Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Shop By RV Type

Your Adventure Awaits

Copyright © 2023 cwi, llc all rights reserved.

• RV Glossary |
• Privacy Policy |
• California Privacy Rights |
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information |
• Targeted Advertising Opt Out |
• Terms of Use

The Savvy Campers

The 6 Best Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Pounds

What are the best lightweight trailers is a question that is always asked when you start trailer shopping. We have gathered a list of the 6 best travel trailers that can be towed by a midsize vehicle weighing under 5,000 pounds. We also have a list of Top Travel Trailers under 3,000 Pounds .

Depending on your vehicle’s towing capacity, these should tow well if you have a tow rating of 5,000 pounds or more. Many midsize suv’s have a 5,000 capacity such as the Acura MDX, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse,  Honda Pilot and Ridgeline, Nissan Pathfinder, Kia Sorento AWD, Subaru Ascent, Toyota 4Runner and Highlander, Volkswagen Atlis, Volvo XC90 AWD, and many other popular midsize vehicles if properly equipped. Look into your towing capacity at TrailerLife.com . Learn more about towing your trailer and about the average weights by reading our Average Trailer Weight article .

We found the most desirable livable floor plans that would work great if you are traveling alone, or have some kiddos that tag along. We picked units with a full bathroom, meaning not a wet bath as those can be a bit difficult and uncomfortable when using. Wet baths have a purpose, but we prefer not to have a bathroom like a shaggy wet dog was in there. All of these units can take you on a weekend getaway or on a cross country trip with ease.

Let’s get down to business and show you which units are the best!

Jayco Jay Feather X17Z

The Jayco Jay Feather X17Z is the only expandable travel trailer on our list. An expandable travel trailer can be a huge benefit when it comes to its size as the beds stick outside of the main livable and dining area. Meaning, that you get 17’ of actual living area and the beds expand another 9.5’ total out of the front and the rear. This is cheating in the travel trailer world, basically you get a 26.5’ trailer that sleeps 6-7 people for the weight and towing difficulty of a 17’.

Jayco travel trailers include an industry leading 2 year Limited Warranty vs the typical 1 year warranty included with other trailer manufacturers. The tent material has a 5 year warranty and the tent shelves are very capable with a weight rating of 1,050 pounds each.

The awning covers about 60% of the length of the trailer or 10’. The x17z  has two RV queen beds that sit in the expandable sections, a dinette, sofa, full bathroom with separate shower, 3 burner range, microwave, and a large 5 cubic foot refrigerator.

This Jayco is equipped with dual 20 pound propane bottles, a 13,500 BTU air conditioner, Goodyear radial tires, power awning, power tongue, solar prep, enclosed underbelly, outside shower, exterior tv bracket, aluminum rims, and much more. The enclosed underbelly is important if you plan on taking this trailer out in the winter, but may not be needed as this is a tent model and how often will you want to sleep in a tent in the winter.

From the factory this is a very capable RV in its stock form, there are little factory upgrades you would need to buy to have a nice RV.

This RV is perfect for the person needing to sleep four adults, and 2-3 kids while enjoying all of the comforts of home. This trailer is for use mostly in the summertime due to the tent material not having as good as insulating properties as a fully hard sided unit. An expandable trailer would not meet our criteria as we like to camp in cold weather and the reason we bought a trailer is to keep warm. However, with the heater, it is better than sleeping in a tent. It just won’t retain its heat as good as a hard sided unit.

Also you will want to check camping restrictions in your area, some campsites do not allow tent trailers as they allow food smells out, and the tent material makes it easy for animals to get in.

• Has front and rear expanding tents for 2 beds
• Enclosed Underbelly
• Will not retain heat as well as a hard sided unit
• Have to wait for tent material to dry before storing
• Extra setup time to set up and take down beds

Winnebago Micro Minnie 1706FB

The Winnebago Micro Minnie 1706FB made it on our list as it is a very comfortable sized trailer to tow with a midsize SUV with a nice sized bed, dinette, as well as full bathroom. The entrance into the trailer is in the rear of the unit with the bathroom across the trailer from the entrance door. The kitchen has a 3 burner stove, large RV refrigerator/freezer, and microwave. The Winnebago is equipped with a 6 gallon gas, electric water heater, dual 20# propane tanks, heated and enclosed holding tanks, LP quick connect for addition of an exterior bbq, solar prep, battery disconnect, dual 3,700 pound axles, black tank flush, power jack, led lighting throughout, LED TV included, 10’ awning, 18,000 BTU furnace, a bathroom skylight and separate vent, and many more features.

We have a Winnebago and can vouch for its quality. The cabinets are sturdy, there is about 2” thick foam for insulation in the walls, the shell is fiberglass making it easy to buff as you would a boat or automobile, the heated undercarriage and enclosed dump valves make it good in the cooler months, slam latches and friction door are some of the top features to make this unit above the rest.

The 1706FB has a 60”x74” bed with a divider curtain for privacy from the rest of the trailer. This is the only unit on this list that has dual axles. Dual axles are important on a travel trailer in case of a blow out on the road, you will still have a tire left to not cause a dangerous situation. This dual axle feature is also shown in the cargo carrying capacity leading the other mentioned trailers at 4,020 pounds.

One of the best features is the huge wardrobe and pantry at the rear of the unit. There are also drawers for under bed storage. This unit has some of the most storage out of all of the trailers recommended.

This RV is geared more towards two campers, but is available to sleep two adults with a few kids or three adults utilizing the bed and dinette. This unit will do great in colder weather as it has a heated and enclosed underbelly as well as a heat strip on the a/c unit as well as the propane gas furnace. A drawback of this unit is it is only 7’ in width. This can be thought of as a benefit as it can easily be seen behind with normal mirrors and easier towing creating less wind resistance.

• Cargo Carrying Capacity of 4,020 pounds
• Large Refrigerator/ Freezer
• Electric Heat
• Can be a bit narrow
• Only sleeps 3
• Smaller Bathroom

Flagstaff E-Pro 19BH

The Flagstaff E-Pro E19BH is a perfect model if you have kids and for the techy gadget side of you. The trailer comes with a full bed in the front, a dinette, as well as two single bunks in the back which can be folded up when traveling for bike storage. The 19BH has a tub in the bathroom, but does not have enough space for a separate sink. A bathroom user will have to use the kitchen sink.

This unit has a smaller fridge/microwave combo as well as a 3 burner stove. You will find a 13’ awning with gas grill as well as a separate door to access the bike storage when the bunks are folded up.

The Flagstaff comes with a gas/electric water heater, 100w roof-mounted solar panel with 1,000 watt inverter, WIFI Ranger WIFI Booster, 20,000 BTU Furnace, dual 20# LP bottles, alloy wheels, heated mattress, MaxxAir vent fan and vent cover, recessed cook top, black tank flush, and water filtration system.

The solar panel, inverter, WIFI booster, MaxxAir Vent Fan are typical additions many travel trailer users end up adding at a later time. The fact that these are pre installed will save you time and can run upwards of $1,000 if bought after the fact.

This model is for the person who has a few kids and wants all the extras on their RV to be included and not have to be installed later down the road.

• Includes Solar
• Preinstalled WIFI Range Extender
• Includes MaxxAir Vent Fan
• Heated Mattress
• Larger 20,000 Furnace
• No Sink in Bathroom

R Pod RP 190

I would say the RPod has one of the largest followings in the trailer world. There are many forum articles and topics about these units as well as aftermarket support. The Rpod RP-190 is the lightest trailer on our list of favorites at 2,785 pounds. This specific unit has a slide which extends the kitchen area. Along with the lighter weight, the Rpod has a standard 2 burner stove, smaller form refrigerator, and has no oven. There is no lack of living space as the unit has a 60”x74” queen bed as well as a 44”x74” dinette and a full bathroom. There is a lot of trailer packed in the size of this R-Pod. Standard features include LED tail lights, aluminum wheels, dual battery rack, 6 gallon gas/electric hot water heater, 3.7 cubic foot 3 way refrigerator (gas, electric, 12v) 20,000 BTU furnace, 4 speed MaxxAir fan, 6’6” interior height, hardwood drawer fronts assembled with screws, single 20# LP tank, outside shower, black tank flush, and solar charging port.

The R Pod has more of an aerodynamic shape than the rest to ease towing wind resistance. The R Pod awning is optional on this unit, along with a power tongue jack and bike racks.

This unit would be best for the couple traveling as well as a couple with kids as the dinette folds into a bed. Overall, the RP-190 holds a lot of features in a small lightweight package.

• Aerodynamic Shape
• Larger 20,000 BTU Furnace
• MaxxAir Fan
• Lightest Unit at 2,785 pounds
• Single Propane Tank
• No Power Awning
• Small Refrigerator

Coleman Lantern 17FQWE

The Coleman Lantern LT 17FQWE is another great unit that has a large sleeping capacity that can accommodate 6 adults thanks to the single over double bunk beds in the rear. In the front of the trailer, you have a queen RV bed, dinette which folds down for sleeping, and the mentioned bunks in the rear. This unit does have a good-sized bathroom but is lacking a sink due to the larger bunk sizes. This unit has an overhead microwave, 2 burner stove, and smaller 3.3 cubic foot refrigerator.

Standard features are a 6 gallon gas water heater, backup camera prep, skylight in bath, single 20# LP bottle, solar charging connected, tinted safety glass.The Coleman has the option of a  power front tongue jack, and is the only unit on our list to include power stabilizer jacks as an option as well. This trailer is the shortest on our list, so if you have a garage you are trying to fit a trailer in, this unit is only 8’8” and is about 1’1” less than comparable units due to its side mounted a/c unit. This unit seems to have the least amount of features out of any on the list, but it seems as many may not be listed on the website. We find that many manufacturers do not have the best descriptions or information available on their websites which is a negative for consumers as they have to search to compare trailers. This unit is good for the budget minded user. It has an ac unit that hangs off the side and does not have an enclosed underbelly. It is about $2,000 cheaper than the next cheapest model, so if you are looking for a basic unit that can be had for less, this is your unit.

• Lower Height at 8’8
• Large Sleeping Capacity
• Large Bathroom
• Less Features than the others
• More “budget friendly”

Minnie Drop 190BH

The new for this year Winnebago 190BH gives you a large teardrop trailer that can sleep many thanks to the dual bunk beds and huge dinette all in a tight package. This Winnebago is comparable to the RPod on this list as it is a teardrop style single axle trailer . The bathroom is one of the best features of this model with a full walk-in bath with shower, sink, and toilet. The trailer has a dual burner stove, as well as a refrigerator microwave combo. Outdoors, you will find an outdoor kitchen with a pull out cooktop and sink. Out of all the units on this list, this is the only one with an outdoor kitchen. If it is a rainy day and you have 4 adults and two kids, you can hang out in the comfort of your trailer with ease.

The 190BH includes a 6-gallon water heater, 18,000 BTU furnace, convection microwave in place of an oven, full ball bearing glides on drawers, tinted safety glass windows, one-piece fiberglass roof, outdoor shower, power tongue jack, solar charger prep, single 20# propane bottle as well as black tank flush.

The slide extends the kitchen out to create more space between the kitchen and bathroom. The awning is just large enough to cover a picnic table at 7’, but is one of the smallest on our list.

This teardrop trailer can take a family cross country and sleep 6 without the need for a huge travel trailer or an expandable tent trailer.

• Convection Microwave Doubles as Oven
• Outdoor Kitchen
• Single Propane Bottle
• Small Awning

*CCC= Cargo Carrying Capacity

Overall, any of these trailers would be great to have as each serves its purpose to get you out in the world traveling and learning about what is out there. Read about what may be important to you from our article on What to Look for when Buying a Travel Trailer . Sizes and weights of these trailers are very similar. We do not have a favorite out of these, as a favorite for us may be different with a small family as a favorite with you which may have a larger family, or just a single user. These units should be able to take you to your local camping spot as well as cross country on your once in a lifetime journey from national park to national park with the comforts of home.

Each one of these units should give you a 20% buffer on your towing capacity if your rating is 5,000 pounds. Make sure to check the stats for your specific vehicle and if you have the proper accessories needed such as upgraded transmission cooler, etc. These units are not the only units that can be towed with a mid sized vehicle, but have been our top due to their better floor plans as well as bathroom and kitchen advantages.

Another thing to keep in mind with these vehicles is pricing, one may be considerably more than another. You will need to determine if the higher cost justifies the added features. From what we have seen from touring these RV’s the Winnebago, Jayco, RPod, and Flagstaff are higher quality than the Coleman, but there is a bit of price difference.

The best bang for your buck on this list is the Winnebago 1706FB as it comes with a full size fridge, dual axles, heated and enclosed underbelly, lots of storage, the most CCC, integrated roof ladder, TV, and outdoor shower. This unit is only good for a couple with the possibility of a child on the dinette.

We can go on and on telling you what we like in a trailer or our favorite features, but the moral of the story of this article is to get out and look at these units for yourself. Look at the door orientation, awning size, bathroom size, storage options and find the right trailer for you.

Be the first to be notified about FREE tips, hints, coupon codes, and email-exclusive information. All for FREE!

Related Posts:

Similar Posts

How Long Should a RV Water Heater Run and be left on?

Many RV owners treat their water heaters the same as they would their home water heaters, and for the most part, it is okay to do so. RV water heaters work the same as the ones at home, but there are a few small factors you should consider if you want to leave it on…

Should a Travel Trailer be Level when Towing

We have seen many trailers going down the road that are very unlevel, have undercarriage damage, and are unsafe. Here is a guide on why you need to tow your travel trailer level as well as how to do it. Should a travel trailer be level when towing? Yes, it is highly recommended your travel…

5 Easy Ways to Shave Time off of your Next Camping Trip

Being more efficient with planning your next camping trip can save you time when towing your travel trailer or driving your RV. From pre planning to better equipment, you can shave 2+ hours on your drive, setup, and mealtime. Andersen Levelers with Levelmate Pro If you utilize the Andersen Leveling System which is one of…

How To Jack Up a Travel Trailer or 5th Wheel to Change a Tire

There is only one situation more annoying and frustrating than realizing you have a flat tire on your travel trailer, and that is realizing you have a flat tire on your travel trailer and not knowing how to change it. Travel trailers, which are commonly towed along on long road trips around the country, are…

Can you put vinyl siding on a travel trailer?

No matter if you are buying a renovated older trailer that needs some extra help or you have an older trailer that you have had for years and needs some extra love, knowing what to put in place of your old siding is important. Many people look for different options to replace their siding based…

How to know if you can walk on your travel trailer roof?

As you travel in your RV, fifth wheel or trailer there will come a time that you may need to inspect or perform repairs on your roof. Oftentimes many people recommend inspecting your trailer roof throughout the year to get ahead of any issues that will cause damage in the future. There are certain circumstances…

Join our Newsletter to stay up to date on the latest RV topics and receive our FREE RV Inspection Cheat Sheet Today. Use this tool to inspect new or used campers you are looking at purchasing.

No thanks, I’m not interested!

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

8 Best Bunkhouse Travel Trailers under 5000 lbs: Top RVs in 2024

• Last Updated: March 16, 2024
• 15 minutes read

Choosing the best bunkhouse travel trailers for your family’s adventures can feel overwhelming with so many options available.

I understand the importance of finding a travel trailer that not only fits your travel needs but also provides comfort and functionality for the whole family.

Having personally tested over 21 models from leading brands like Jayco, Keystone, and Coachmen, I’ve gained valuable insights into what makes a bunkhouse stand out.

Among these, the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH emerged as the best overall for its exceptional balance of weight, space, and amenities.

This model is ideal for those seeking a light and versatile travel trailer without sacrificing quality or comfort.

Whether you’re planning to explore national parks or simply enjoy a weekend away, finding the right bunkhouse travel trailer can significantly enhance your RV experience.

Based on my experience, the top bunkhouse travel trailers are:

• Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH: Best overall for its lightweight design under 5000 lbs and feature-rich small bunkhouse.
• Lance TT 2185: Great for larger families with its spacious interior and comfort features.
• Palomino PaloMini 189BHS: Excellent choice for easy towing, thanks to its lightest bunkhouse travel trailer classification.
• K-Z Escape E191BHK: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts with its exterior kitchen feature and smart storage solutions.
• Keystone Hideout 176BH: Perfect for first-time RVers looking for an easy-to-manage and well-equipped small bunkhouse.
• Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite 17BHS: A top pick for those seeking a balance of comfort and mobility in a lightweight design.

The Difference Between Dry Weight, GVWR & Towing Capacity

It helps to know a few important terms before we dive deep into the review process. Especially when it comes to the difference between Dry Weight, GVWR, and your tow vehicle’s maximum towing capacity. 

This is the weight of the unladen trailer when it is completely empty and devoid of camping gear. 

Stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, and this is the maximum weight that the travel trailer can be, based on the frame, suspension, axle, and other structural considerations.

Payload Capacity

This is the weight or “Cargo” camping equipment and personal items that the manufacturer estimates can be safely loaded into the trailer. When you add dry weight and maximum payload capacity together you get the maximum GVWR for the travel trailer. 

Taken in this light it is possible for a travel trailer with a dry weight of less than 5,000-pounds can be overloaded with cargo to the point where it has a real-world gross weight of over 5,000-pounds. 

Maximum Towing Capacity

This is the maximum amount that the tow vehicle’s manufacturer estimates that the vehicle can tow. It is calculated based on the frame & chassis tolerances, as well as the strength of the suspension system, the power of the engine, and the gearing of the transmission. 

When it comes to determining if your intended tow vehicle can safely pull your preferred travel trailer, you need to compare the rated maximum towing capacity for your make, model, and trim level to the real-world gross weight of the travel trailer.

This is the dry weight plus the weight of the camping gear and equipment you load into it. 

6 Great Bunkhouse Travel Trailers Under 5,000 Pounds You Need to See in 2024

While reviewing the best bunkhouse travel trailers under 5,000 pounds, we made sure to keep build quality and long-term value as top priorities.

We also tried to factor in models to meet different family sizes and travel styles, all while keeping niche interests on our radar. 

1. Jayco Jay Feather Micro 171BH

• Length of 20.25 ft.
• Dry Weight of 3,930 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,065 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,995 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 425 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 55.0 gallons 
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 30.5 gallons 
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30.5 gallons
• Sleeps up to 6 people

The Jay Feather is one of Jayco’s most popular travel trailer platforms. Though most of its traditional floorplans still weigh 5,000 pounds or more.

So, they went back to the drawing board to create the Jayco – Jay Feather Micro 171BH, which has a dry weight of just 3,930 pounds, which is well within the towing capacity of most midsize SUVs like the popular Ford Explorer. 

Though there is still a potential weight problem with the Jayco – Jay Feather Micro 171BH in that it has a payload capacity of up to 1,065 pounds.

This means if you absolutely stuff this travel trailer to the gills it can carry a gross weight of up to 4,995-pounds, which pushes the limits of what a vehicle with a 5,000-pound towing capacity can safely pull.

Though in the real world, unless you have an obsessive hoarding problem, I think you would be challenged to come up with over a thousand pounds worth of “Essential” camping gear. 

Assuming you can keep your packing within reason and you are willing to travel most of the journey to your campground with dry water storage tanks, you will be treated to a bunkhouse travel trailer for a family that wants to travel light.

It has a queen bed in the front, a pair of bunk beds in the back, and a midship kitchen with everything you need to cook a family meal. There is even a complete bathroom in the back with a shower basin that is deep enough to bathe a small child. 

2. Lance TT 2185

• Length of 26.67 ft.
• Dry Weight of 4,565 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 2,435 lbs.
• GVWR of 7,000 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 755 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 45.0 gallons 
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 45 gallons 
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 45 gallons

Here again, the Lance – TT 2185 is another bunkhouse travel trailer that pushes the limits of what it means to tow a 5,000-pound RV. It has a dry weight of 4,565-pounds, which is still in the range of most robust midsize SUVs.

Though the staggeringly high 2,435 pounds of payload capacity invite an almost abusive amount of cargo, that can push the real-world gross weight way over 5,000 pounds. 

Ultimately, it means that if you need to stay under 5,000-pounds of gross weight to meet the safe towing capacity of your intended tow vehicle, then you need to load the Lance – TT 2185 sparingly.

Then make it a point to travel with the fresh and wastewaters storage tanks empty. 

Assuming you can keep the Lance – TT 2185 within a reasonable towing range, you will be treated to a premium bunkhouse travel trailer. The interior decor feels more like what you would expect to see in a destination travel trailer of a large motorhome.

There’s a master bed in the front and bunk beds in the back. Each sleeping area has its own wardrobe closet space to keep everyone’s things separates, which is a big deal when you are traveling with the whole family. 

One of the things that drives up the dry weight of the Lance – TT 2185 is the mechanical components of the power slide-out section. Though it houses a U-shaped dinette with enough room to let two parents and two children all eat together at the same time. 

3. Palomino PaloMini 189BHS

• Length of 22.92 ft.
• Dry Weight of 3,830 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,096 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,945 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 545 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 44.0 gallons 
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 30 gallons 
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 38 gallons

If the Palomino – PaloMini 189BHS is another one of the models we reviewed with a gross vehicle weight rating that pushes right up to the 5,000-pound mark without going over it. This is even taking into account the relatively large capacity water storage tanks and the bodacious 1,096-pound cargo capacity.

This means that with some reasonable packing, and traveling with the fresh and wastewater storage tanks empty, you could easily tow this with a lot of midsize SUVs. A case in point is the popular Ford Explorer, which has a 5,000-pound towing capacity with the manufacturer’s tow package equipped. 

The interior of the Palomino – PaloMini 189BHS does a great job of maximizing the available living space in a bunkhouse travel trailer under 5,000 pounds.

This starts with a murphy bed in the front that is a comfortable couch by day and a queen size bed at night.

The single power slide-out section houses a large dinette that is big enough to let the whole family dine together. The rear of the travel trailer pairs two bunk beds with a complete dry bath. 

4. K-Z Escape E191BHK

• Length of 22 ft.
• Dry Weight of 3,350 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 895 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,245 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 430 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 20.0 gallons 
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 32 gallons 
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 32 gallons

If you are looking for lightweight towing statistics and the kind of conveniences you expect in a large travel trailer, all in one compact package, then you are going to love the K-Z – Escape E191BHK.

For starters, you get a 22 foot-long bunkhouse travel trailer that has an impressively light dry weight of just 3,350 pounds. Yet is still has a maximum payload capacity of nearly 900 pounds.

This means you can bring tons of camping gear and personal items for the whole family, yet still end up with a gross vehicle weight rating of just 4,245-pounds.

This is comfortably within the range of a lot of popular midsize SUVs and most full-size SUVs. What you are treated to is a bunkhouse travel trailer under 5,000 pounds with a lot of the creature comforts of home.

The queen-size bed, power slide-out dinette that converts into a bed, and the bunk beds in the rear mean you can comfortably sleep 5 to 6 people.

All while still being able to enjoy a complete kitchen with a microwave and a fully functional dry bath. You’ll also find a lot to love about the exterior of the K-Z – Escape E191BHK.

The front pass-thru storage compartment lets you keep a lot of gear and helps keep the weight of the bunkhouse travel trailer biased toward the tongue, which is where you want it when towing at highway speeds or reversing into a tight camping spot. There’s also a 10-foot awning to give the family a place to sit in the shade.

Though the “Grill Master” in your family is sure to love the exterior kitchen with a refrigerator and a pullout gas griddle in the rear hatch compartment.

All this in a bunkhouse travel trailer under 5,000 pounds and an MSRP of less than $30,000.

5. Keystone Hideout 176BH

• Length of 21.42 ft.
• Dry Weight of 3,706 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 794 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,500 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 520 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 27 gallons 
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30 gallons

The Keystone – Hideout 176BH is one of the more popular bunkhouse travel trailers on the road today.

It has everything a family needs to travel comfortably, while still only tipping the scales with a dry weight of 3,706 pounds, and modest water storage tanks. 

When you add the 3,706-pound dry weight of the Keystone – Hideout 176BH and the 794-pound payload capacity together, you end up with a comfortable GVWR of just 4,500-pounds.

It also has a hitch weight of up to 520-pounds. These numbers push on the maximum towing capacity of some popular midsize SUVs like the Ford Explorer but are still in the range of more robust midsize SUVs like the Dodge Durango. One could complain that the Keystone – Hideout 176BH doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles.

It has the front pass-thru storage compartment, front queen bed, and the bunk beds that you find with a lot of competitor models, and not a lot of other fancy features.

Though, you also see that reflected in the incredibly friendly MSRP of just $20,000, which makes it one of the best budget bunkhouse travel trailers under 5,000 pounds. 

6. Coachmen Clipper Ultra-Lite 17BHS

• Length of 20.42 ft.
• Dry Weight of 3,437 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 988 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,425 lbs.
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 25 gallons 
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 25 gallons

The Coachmen – Clipper Ultra-Lite 17BHS is a lightweight bunkhouse travel trailer that is geared to let families travel in comfort. The 3,437-pound dry weight is comfortably within the range of what most midsize SUVs with a towing package can pull at highway speeds.

Yet even when you load the 988 -pound payload capacity to the max, it still only tips the scales at 4,425 pounds. The high payload capacity of this bunkhouse travel trailer is thanks in part to a large cargo storage bay in the front.

When you are about to hit the road, you can load it up with your essential camping gear, which will help keep the weight biased toward the front, which is what you want for a nimble, secure relationship between the travel trailers tongue and the tow vehicle’s hitch.

When you get to camp, you can set up and then use the exterior cargo hatch to keep shoes and other dirty outdoor items, which helps keep the interior of your camper clean. 

There is a minor tradeoff to the lightweight characteristics of the Coachmen – Clipper Ultra-Lite 17BHS, in that the fresh and wastewater storage tanks are a little on the small side.

If you are camping off the grid with your family, they won’t be able to support you for more than perhaps a day or two. Though if you are the type of family that prefers to stay connected to an RV park’s resources, this is a non-factor. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can i safely tow.

The prevailing wisdom is that you should not tow more than 80% of your vehicle’s rated maximum towing capacity.

Let’s say that you have a 2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD which has a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds. 80% of this is 5,440-pounds.

Keeping the real-world gross weight of your bunkhouse travel trailer under 5,000 pounds will give you plenty of power in reserve for doing things like accelerating up to highway speed, towing the travel trailer over loose surfaces, or pulling it up a steep incline. 

How Much Weight Does A Slide-Out Section Add To A Travel Trailer?

A power slide-out section can add 300 to 600-pounds to an RV under 25-feet long. Though they are a great way to add the kind of interior living space that a lot of families prioritize.

A lot of RV manufacturers offer their popular models with nearly identical floorplans. Except one floor plan will have a slide-out section and another won’t, just to save some weight.

If you are concerned about the gross weight then, you might want to look for a bunkhouse travel trailer that weighs under 5,000 pounds without a slide-out. 

There are a lot of great bunkhouse travel trailers under 5,000-pounds. Ultimately, the one that is best for your family will come down to your travel style.

It can also be influenced by the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle, as well as how heavily you want to pack it with camping gear. 

If you are looking for a truly lightweight model that is impossible to overpack, then the K-Z – Escape E191BHK might be the best bunkhouse travel trailer under 5,000-pounds. Not only does it have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,245 when fully loaded, but it even comes with an exterior kitchen and grill station!

If you are looking for the best budget bunkhouse travel trailer under 5,000-pounds, then you might want to move the Keystone – Hideout 176BH up your list. It has the bunks you want to sleep the whole family and a tidy real-world gross weight at an MSRP that will be easy on your budget.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

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

Do You Need A Weight Distribution Hitch When Towing A Travel Trailer?

Teardrop trailers are more popular than ever, but should you buy it.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You Might Also Like

6 Best Four Season Fifth Wheel RVs for Full-Time Living in 2024

8 Great Fifth Wheel Floor Plans With Front Living Rooms

Teardrop Camper Prices: How Much Does A Teardrop Trailer Cost

Start typing and press Enter to search